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Travelling with MRT in the coming months

last updated on 04/04/22

All our tours and events within the UK have resumed, and as restrictions on international travel ease, our overseas programme is following suit.

Entering the uk.

The UK government’s guidance on entering the UK is available in full  here . From 4am on 18th March no-one entering the UK will need to take tests or complete a passenger locator form.

Travel within the UK

Measures have lifted but mask-wearing is encouraged, and in some cases remains a requirement. We ask participants to respect the guidance where issued.

International travel

Rules on entry requirements are changing as the situation improves, as are the Covid measures individual countries or regions have in place. We  send  you the latest information at two key points:  10 weeks before departure  with a request for your balance payment,  and 3 weeks before departure . It is likely the rules and/or measures in place 10 weeks before your tour or festival will ease as we get closer to the departure date . It is unlikely, though not impossible, that measures will tighten.    

Please bear this in mind  as you need to be comfortable with both eventualities.   

We follow the guidance for travellers from the UK, Australia, New Zealand,  USA  and Canada. We encourage those of you travelling from elsewhere to   contact us .

Our programme for 2022

You can see our programme of tours, festivals, chamber music breaks and symposia  here . You can book immediately.

Please note that the ‘spaces remaining’ indication on our tour pages cannot be relied upon at the moment as clients currently booked may not travel. For up-to-date information on availability please  contact us . 

When we cancel a tour

Although this is happening less and less, if we cancel a tour you are entitled to a cash refund,  as long as  you are still booked on it at the time of cancellation. However, we are asking clients to consider transferring to a future event instead. This will help to secure Martin Randall Travel’s future more than any other intervention.  

If you wish to cancel a booking on a tour that is due to run later this year, we ask you to  contact us  to discuss your concerns. We would welcome the opportunity to talk through the options and explain our position on cancellation charges.

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Martin Lewis: How to get the best travel insurance on the market

As many of us set upon our annual summer holidays, we all want the best currency deal. But where do we find it? Martin Lewis gives us the lowdown - plus the best cards, their rates and how to avoid the dreaded pitfalls of holiday currency.

THE VALUE OF THE POUND: A few years ago, before the EU referendum vote, a pound bought €1.43 – since it's dropped significantly and hasn’t recovered much. Last summer it bought €1.14, and today it’s hovering around the €1.12 mark. Against the dollar, the rate is just $1.32 – about a decade ago it bought roughly $2. It’s similar with most other currencies.This has hit imports and the cost of living. Yet that’s an indirect cost to most. The most obvious effect is more expensive holidays.

APPLY FOR A SPENDING CARD: Apply now for a cheap overseas spending card. The easiest and cheapest way to spend abroad is on the right card, but they can take a couple of weeks to arrive, so early planning helps. Normally spend abroad on cards and it adds a 'non sterling exchange fee' of 3% ish, meaning £100 of euros costs you £103. Plus there are cash withdrawal fees on top. Yet specialist cards don't do that. These cards give you near-perfect rates every time you spend, on every trip to every country.

MARTIN’S TOP TRAVEL CARDS:

Top for cheap spending, reliability and a free £20.

The Halifax Clarity card gives near-perfect rates on spending everywhere, plus apply before 31 August, and spend abroad on it by the end of September and you get £20 cashback. The card’s been around a long time, and has very good feedback. It's better to spend on the card than withdraw cash, and of course, as it’s a credit card repay in full so there's no 18.9% rep APR interest. If you do withdraw cash, there's interest even if you repay in full (about £1.50 per £100 per month), but even that's usually better than bureaux de change.

2. Cheap spending & cash withdrawals, plus no credit check.

The debit card from app-only Starling Bank has no charge for spending abroad and no cash withdrawal fee. Plus unlike a credit card there’s no credit check, (unless you want an overdraft) so anyone can get it - though it does do ID checks) Technically it's a current account, but you can just add cash to it for spending abroad as you needn't switch to it or make a min pay-in.

3. Top card if you want it for spending abroad and at home.

The Tandem credit card also gives near-perfect exchange rates on spending worldwide, plus 0.5% cashback on spending in the UK and abroad. So if you want to trouser just one card to pay off IN FULL and spend everywhere, this is a good option. Like the Halifax Clarity, its 18.9% rep APR for spending and cash withdrawals, but it's app-only (though has some poor reviews) and a new deal, so I don't know how long it will last.

BEWARE OF OVERSEAS DEBIT CARDS: Beware of the overseas debit cards from hell. Not only do these debit cards add around 3% to the exchange rate and an ATM fee, they also add charges every time you use them overseas. They are the standard card from:

- Bank of Scotland (50p fee per transaction)

- Halifax (50p fee per transaction)

- Lloyds (50p fee per transaction)

- Santander (£1.25 fee per transaction)

- TSB (£1 fee per transaction)

- Clydesdale/Yorkshire (no spending fee but minimum £1.50 exchange fee per transaction) - NatWest/RBS (no spending fee but minimum £1 exchange fee per transaction, though waived till Sep for most customers) Any other card, including a credit card (if repaid in full), is cheaper to spend on than these.

DON’T EXCHANGE MONEY AT THE AIRPORT: Want travel cash – think about it sooner and don’t leave it until the airport. Never wait until you get to the airport or ferry station to get cash, rates there are hideous. For example it can cost you nearly £1,050 to get €1,000 at the airport (not pre-ordered) compared to £900 via the cheapest online bureau and less if you spend on the cheapest overseas card. Ignore such marketing spiel as ‘commission free’ that just means they load the cost into the exchange rate. Instead just compare by simply asking how many dollars, euros or whatever you’ll get for your cash after all fees. Use an online travel money comparison site to do it for you is the easiest way.

WILL BREXIT AFFECT MY EUROS? Many who are going away later in the summer are asking “with the Brexit discussions should I buy euros now or wait?” Currency moves are unpredictable. If you're worried, buy half now (either via cash or a prepaid card - both of which effectively lock you in at today’s rate – the top rates tend to come from Revolut though it charges £5 to get direct, though search online and you can find it for free) and the rest using the best specialist credit cards once there (as they give you the rate on the day you spend).

DON’T BUY CASH OR LOAD A PREPAID CARD: Don't buy cash or load a prepaid card with a credit card. Most credit card providers count buying foreign currency as a cash withdrawal - and they usually charge a fee for those, and interest even if you repay in full. Some (including Santander and Virgin Money) do the same when loading up prepaid cards. So it's better to pay on a debit card, as they can't charge fees for it.

DON’T PAY IN POUNDS: Opt to pay in the foreign currency not pounds if they ask. If you’re paying on plastic and they ask you whether you want to pay in pounds or euros (or the local currency of where you are). Pay in euros. Then your card does the exchange rate, if not they do it, it’s usually worse.

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Doc Martin Tour - 1 Day

Embark on an Enchanting Exploration of Cornwall's Doc Martin Tour

Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary adventure with Travel England Tours as we delve into the mesmerizing realm of the 'Doc Martin' tour set against Cornwall's picturesque landscapes. With ten enthralling seasons under its belt, this tour is a must for fervent 'Doc Martin' enthusiasts.

Furthermore, we'll take you on an enchanting journey to Port Isaac, the real-life inspiration behind the fictional Port Wenn, answering the question: "Where is Port Wenn in Doc Martin?". It's none other than Port Isaac nestled in the heart of Cornwall. As we traverse the stunning countryside, much like the beloved doctor, you'll witness the natural beauty that surrounds Bodmin, Truro, and other iconic filming locations. Customize your experience and consider adding Poldark locations or other Cornwall highlights to create a day of unforgettable memories.

Exploring the Doc Martin Tour in Picturesque Port Wenn

Embark on a captivating journey with Travel England Tours, where we unveil the enchanting world of the beloved ‘Doc Martin’ series, set against the stunning backdrop of Cornwall’s breath-taking landscapes. With ten remarkable seasons completed,  this tour is a dream come true for Doc Martin enthusiasts.

Port Wenn, Where Fiction Meets Reality

Our odyssey begins in the charming village of Port Isaac, transformed into the fictional Portwenn in the series. As we traverse the village, the question arises: “Where is Portwenn in Doc Martin?” The answer is simple—Port Isaac in Cornwall. Immerse yourself in the world of Dr. Ellingham and his endearing yet tactless encounters.

A Glimpse of Cornwall’s Beauty

While retracing Doc Martin’s steps “up country” towards Bodmin or Truro, marvel at Cornwall’s natural wonders. The picturesque landscapes unfold before your eyes, providing a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Creating Your Perfect Day

Why not combine your Doc Martin tour with a tailored exploration of other captivating places within Cornwall? Craft your ideal day of adventure and discovery.

Your Cornwall Doc Martin Tour Begins

Our journey through Cornwall takes you on the same path as Doc Martin. As you traverse the picturesque countryside, envision the stunning vistas that surrounded the good doctor on his eventful journeys to Bodmin or Truro.

Port Wenn Unveiled

Port Isaac, the real-life counterpart of Portwenn, will captivate you. Step inside Mrs. Tishall’s chemist, a sweet shop in reality, and approach Dr. Ellingham’s Surgery, perched on a hill overlooking the village. Discover Portwenn School, today transformed into a hotel, and Bert’s Restaurant, a prominent location from the earlier series. A short walk reveals Aunt Ruth’s home, an integral part of Doc Martin’s life.

Unveiling Doc Martin’s Past

Leaving Port Isaac behind, we venture to the location where Doc Martin and Louisa tied the knot, a place that witnessed Louisa initially jilting Doc Martin. Pass by the converted barn, the setting for many internal scenes in the series.

An Exclusive Insider’s View

Our tour offers a unique opportunity as it takes you to the very location where Doc Martin underwent therapy for his blood phobia—a site that happens to be our chauffeur guide’s home.

Expand Your Horizons with Poldark

Extend your Cornwall experience by adding iconic Poldark locations or exploring other must-see spots in the region. Customize your tour for a day filled with adventures.

Why Choose Our Chauffeur-Driven Doc Martin Tour?

Our chauffeur guides possess extensive local knowledge, sharing tales of Doc Martin’s filming experiences, including moments filmed at the guide’s own home. Travel in comfort aboard one of our Mercedes vehicles, enjoying the flexibility to explore hidden gems and scenic routes unavailable to standard tour coaches. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing you to instantly share your memorable experiences on social media.

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The experts: travel agents on 20 ways to book a sustainable and sensational summer holiday

Keen to get away? Here is how to find a great deal, pick the perfect destination and support the local community

A holiday should be relaxing, but booking one can be a fraught experience, with days lost to endless scrolling, comparing reviews and prices. How can you be sure you are getting a good deal? Travel agents share their tips for the most affordable, sustainable and memorable trips.

1. Book like an agent

“Everybody views themselves as a travel agent and they can be up to a point,” says Paul Sharp from Newcastle upon Tyne, who operates as part of the Travel Counsellors network and has 30 years’ experience in the industry. He says the rise of budget airlines and online booking have led to people feeling confident about organising trips themselves. What is the one thing we should know when doing so? “It is a false economy to book things separately because you have no protection,” Sharp says. He gives the example of someone planning a trip to South Africa to watch rugby, who booked flights with the airline and hotels directly and rugby tickets elsewhere. The game was cancelled but the flights and hotel were non-refundable. If they had been booked together, the trip would have been covered under package travel regulations. “Book with a company you trust and know – there are a lot of sites that crop up and you don’t really know their provenance,” he says.

2. Be an early bird

“Planning in advance is always going to be better value,” says Helen Youngman , an independent travel agent and partner at 360 Private Travel , based near Norwich. “Late deals do exist, but a lot of hotels use ‘dynamic pricing’, which means prices increase as availability goes down. Flights are only going to increase in price the closer you get to the departure date because the fuller the flight gets, the more expensive it will be.” Sharp adds: “Don’t hang on for a last-minute deal because you could end up disappointed. Scheduled flights tend to be available about 11 months in advance, so that is the best time to book. Also, at that stage, a lot of hotels and accommodation providers will have early-bird specials.”

3. If you do book late, be flexible

Jessica Bollinger, who works in the Bristol branch of Danish travel agent Kilroy , which specialises in youth and adventure holidays, agrees that late deals are now something of a myth. “They are not unheard of, but with a last-minute deal there are certain things you’re not going to get. So you have to be really open-minded as to where you’re going to go,” she says.

4. Avoid peak season

The cheapest time to travel is always outside the school holidays, says Youngman, with Christmas and new year the most expensive times. Can you get a good deal if you fly on Christmas or New Year’s Day itself? Sometimes, she says, “but a lot of people are catching on to that trick”. If you have to go in the school holidays, be open to going somewhere off the beaten track. “Being clever about destinations is a good plan,” says Youngman. “In Europe, look farther east at places such as Montenegro, Albania and Georgia. And Morocco is a good summer destination for families.”

5. Midweek can be more affordable

“Midweek can be cheaper, it just depends on availability,” says Youngman. “A Thursday to Monday trip is going to be slightly more expensive than Monday to Friday, but all travel fares are based on availability, so the further in advance you can book, the better.”

6. Take out travel insurance when you book

A lot of people sort out their insurance at the airport, says Sharp, but it is best to do it as soon as you have booked your trip. He says: “Travel insurance doesn’t just cover you if you lose a bag or are poorly while you are away. It also covers you should you need to cancel for an insurable reason before you travel.” This includes illness or a bereavement.

7. On solo trips, consider a group tour

If you are travelling alone, “pretty much anywhere is possible”, says Youngman. “Embarking on your first solo trip can be daunting, which is why small group tours are an amazing way to travel with like-minded people. Some companies I work with are doing specialist female-only tours with visits to female entrepreneurs, co-operatives, makers and bakers. Small group tours are great because they handle all the logistics, include really immersive experiences and are safe. They pick you up from the airport, and from that point onwards, you’re travelling with other people and you’ve got an expert guide.”

8. Have a daily budget

“We advise setting a daily limit for yourself while travelling and then multiplying that number by the days you are away to get the amount to save for your spending money,” says Bollinger. “When you work it out like this, it makes a lot more sense in people’s minds, especially young people who don’t have much budgeting experience. It also keeps you accountable to yourself, so you don’t blow everything right at the beginning and then have nothing left for the end.” To stick to a tight budget, she says: “Cook food as you go along and use public transport instead of tourist buses – this will really help you save money.”

9. Consider all-inclusive options

“If you are going to spend a lot of time eating and drinking in the hotel, I recommend upgrading to an all-inclusive option if possible,” says Youngman, “especially if you’d like a cocktail or two and you’re grazing throughout the day. Otherwise it can all add up and when you check out it costs a fortune.” With active holidays such as skiing or safaris, she adds: “If you have the option to choose an all-inclusive package that includes the activities, food and drink, that is usually a more cost-effective way of travelling. Because sometimes they will really sting you on the extras and it will be more expensive.”

10. Work your way around the world

“A working holiday is a great way to fund your trip,” says Bollinger, who helps people book travel to Australia, New Zealand and Canada by organising working holidays so they can extend their stay. “A lot of jobs will be hospitality-related, but if you go to a more rural spot you can do farm work, and if you have qualifications already, sometimes those can be used. Working holidays in Canada are often at ski resorts near Vancouver, so you get the added benefit of being in a beautiful place to take advantage of the winter sports.”

11. Travel as sustainably as possible

“You can get to most places in Europe by train , so if you are open to slowing down and having a more relaxed itinerary, not only are you travelling more sustainably, but you have more time to absorb the culture surrounding you,” says Youngman. “Be good to the environment you are travelling to see.” She stresses the importance of limiting flights as much as possible, especially internally, and avoiding indirect long-haul options. “We highly recommend ‘open-jaw flights’, which means you fly into one destination and out of another, to limit the number of flights,” says Bollinger. “We also promote travelling for longer in one destination as opposed to trying to go to many in a short time, and travelling overland when possible, instead of taking multiple flights.”

12. Offset carbon emissions with a reputable company

When considering carbon from flights, says Thomas Power of Pura Aventura , a B Corp sustainable travel company in Brighton: “Don’t believe the airline schemes, or anyone else who promises you absolution for a few quid. While 85% of offset schemes may be worthless, there are high-quality carbon credits starting at about £20 a tonne.” These can be bought to compensate for CO 2 emissions. Companies such as “ C Level ​ ​help you at least take positive action to balance your impact”, says Power.

13. Think of responsible travel as a ‘fair exchange’

When travelling, says Power, consider: “What are we giving and what are we receiving? Is it a fair exchange? Is somebody getting something in return for what I am receiving in this transaction?” This applies to everything from “taking a cruise to Venice and not giving anything to the city, to going camping in Sussex and getting a supermarket delivery to your tent instead of going to the village shop or buying eggs from the house down the road”. This concept of “fair exchange” can be beneficial for everyone, he says, by giving you access to unique experiences. “In terms of the economy, the less money that leaves the village, town or city, the better,” he says.

14. Embrace the great outdoors

If you camp out “you are closer to nature than any other accommodation option”, says Brodie Farrow, of the online camping and touring travel agent Pitchup . There are many benefits to this, she says: “It is really good for mental health. It is also a much more sustainable option: the carbon footprints of outdoor holidays tend to be much lower than hotel stays, as people travel by car rather than flying and it promotes local produce and low-impact activities such as hiking in the surrounding area. The accommodation or pitches are much less carbon intensive than hotels, too. And you have a positive impact on the community that you are visiting: camping attracts a higher number of customers at a lower cost than hotels do, which can help to underpin the viability of local facilities such as the shop, the bar and takeaway, and that benefits the wider community.”

15. If you are camping-phobic, glamp

“There really is something for everyone,” says Farrow. “You can get glamping accommodation with four-poster beds if you prefer camping in luxury, or you can go really wild and remote, with no facilities, out on your own and back to nature. I think you would be hard-pressed to say that there is nothing that appeals.” Although glamping has become a fairly pricey option, she says: “Some types are much cheaper than others. You can get some ‘pod-only’ camping accommodation, where you bring your own bedding, starting from £15 a night.”

16. If the weather is terrible …

… And you are under canvas, “try to keep your bedroom a wet-gear-free zone”, says Farrow. “Store and dry wet stuff in your porch area rather than in your bedroom compartment. Protect your equipment by putting it in plastic bags or dry bags. Don’t let anything touch your tent walls or you will have soggy socks.” For activities, she suggests, “swimming in the sea, because you are wet already, or going to the pub”. If you are disappointed by the weather on a non-camping holiday, “as annoying as it is, try to embrace it”, says Sharp. Many people come back from their holidays exhausted because they try to see and do everything when they’re away. Instead, he says: “Have a lie-in, ask local people which is the best restaurant for a long, lazy lunch and, most of all, relax and recharge your batteries – it’s a holiday after all.”

17. For best value destinations, try …

“Go for Belgrade over Berlin,” says Youngman. “It has an underground culture scene very similar to Berlin 20 years ago.” For backpackers, Bollinger suggests: “Some places in Central America can be really affordable. Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala are good options for someone wanting to think outside the box.” Sharp says there are more affordable options in “Cyprus, Bulgaria, Turkey and Egypt, compared with Spain and the Balearics, which are becoming increasingly expensive due to cost of living increases”. If you are looking for a staycation, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Cornwall are some of the most popular UK locations on Pitchup, says Farrow, which can inflate the price. Locations such as Pembrokeshire and the Isle of Wight are cheaper.

18. For a trip of a lifetime that doesn’t cost the earth …

“North Macedonia is just amazing,” says Youngman. “Ohrid has beautiful cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture , fantastic food and wine and you can visit the most biodiverse lake in Europe.” Farrow says: “I camped at the foot of Ben Nevis last year before hiking up it. The weather was terrible but it was worth it for the unreal views.” While Bollinger’s most memorable trip was “Interrailing in Europe and finding a way to do things on my own. It was before smartphones, so it was a very interesting experience and built up my confidence in travelling.”

19. If in doubt, follow local people

“Live like a local person by taking local buses and eating in local spots,” says Bollinger. “It is going to save you money, and will also let you experience life in a different way.” Power adds: “People want to go to Peru but they never come back talking about Machu Picchu, they come back talking about the people they met. Buy local and connections will happen for you. In the absence of interaction with your host community, the things you see are just wallpaper.”

20. And remember: you get what you pay for

“If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is,” says Sharp.

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10 UK beaches that look like they’re abroad

W hen most us think of holidays, what immediately springs to mind is flying abroad to find tropical beaches, historic cities or countryside retreats.

While many Brits look to foreign climes for their taste of sun, sand, sea or city break, they’re missing out on what’s right under their noses. The UK is blessed with an enviable number of picturesque destinations, whether you’re looking to explore a new town, take a stroll in a National Park or spend a day by the seaside.

And, with the cost of living crisis having closely followed the “end” of the Covid-19 pandemic, not to mention a desire for sustainable travel options, plenty of travellers are reconsidering their holiday habits and looking within the UK for their next trip.

If you’re one of millions of Brits planning a holiday closer to home this spring or summer, take a look at our list of UK beaches so idyllic they look like they belong on the Med.

Durdle Door, Dorset

In 2001, the Jurassic Coast became the UK’s first Unesco World Heritage site. The 96-mile section of coastline stretches from Exmouth to Studland Bay in Dorset , and Durdle Door is the jewel in the coastal crown.

The famous limestone arch (pictured) was forged through waves eroding a hole in the rock and is one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks, as well as being one of the most popular beaches on this list (and a dog-friendly one too).

Achmelvich Beach, Scotland

Located in the north-west of Scotland , Achmelvich Beach offers the kind of white sand usually reserved for tropical climes – but is just three miles away from Lochinver.

The beach is a great place for wildlife spotting, with a range of birds, porpoises, dolphins and even minke whales sometimes visible from the shore. It’s also popular for those enamoured of water sports such as fishing, windsurfing, kayaking and water skiing.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Visit Cornwall reckons that Kynance Cove is “ probably the most photographed and painted location in Cornwall ”, and for good reason.

Famous for the dark red and green serpentinite rock that makes up its cliffs – and which tempted Queen Victoria once upon a time to install a fireplace made of it – the beach sits on part of the Lizard coastal walk. Nevertheless, it’s the white sand and turquoise sea that really attract thousands of visitors per year.

Pentle Bay, Tresco, Isles of Scilly

To be fair to other UK beaches, Pentle Bay’s sub-tropical climate gives it the edge on the rest of the British Isles.

Found on the island of Tresco within the Isles of Scilly, Pentle Bay has previously been named as one of the best beaches in the UK and has even made it onto a Wall Street Journal list of “ Under-the-Radar Beaches” .

Praised by the publication for “bone-white beaches” and “turquiose if chilly sea”, Pentle Bay is one of numerous excellent beaches on the Isles but shines due to its wild, untouched appearance and the fact that it can often be found empty, even in high season.

Great Bay, St Martin’s, Isles of Scilly

Staying within the temperate Isles of Scilly , the island of St Martin’s is home to another superb UK beach that could have any visitor thinking they were in the Azores .

Back by green hills, the rugged, rocky coastline of Great Bay gives the impression of an Atlantic destination only reachable by multiple hours of flying, rather than one just a short distance from the Cornish coast.

Great Bay has been widely praised as one of the Isles’ best beaches, but the islands offer plenty of choice, as well as laying claim to being the UK’s warmest location.

Fistral Beach, Cornwall

Fistral Beach has become famous within the UK as a popular beach for surfers. The Cribbar – a nearby reef – can generate waves up to 12m high and attracts experienced surfers from all over the world.

Its popularity as a water sports destination has led to it being overlooked by the non-surfers among us. As a result, few have given this famous beach the credit its aesthetics deserve. The high cliffs, headlands and sand dunes provide a dramatic backdrop, while long stretches of golden sand and blue sea await both surfers and onlookers.

Read more on  UK travel :

• The best UK holiday destinations for families
• 12 places you won’t believe are in England
• The best wild swimming spots for quick dips, short stays or a week-long holiday

Barafundle Bay, Wales

Wales may not be the place that springs to mind when it comes to golden sand dunes, pine trees and crystal-clear water, but Barafundle offers them all.

Look out towards the sea if you want to feel like you’re in the Caribbean , or look back towards land to feel like you’re on an Atlantic island.

What’s more, the isolated location (half a mile from the town of Stackpole) and the subsequent lack of facilities mean that this Pembrokeshire beach remains untouched, so visitors can enjoy a less crowded experience than at many other UK hotspots.

Holkham Beach, Norfolk

Another beach that has been saved from commercialisation, Norfolk ’s Holkham Beach boasts a seemingly endless expanse of sand and sea. Backed by forest to shelter you from those days when the sun is too much, the sheer size of this unspoilt landscape will have you feeling like you’re abroad.

Here, the attraction is the natural setting, with the grassy knolls and pine woods that sit behind the beach similar to some beaches in the US.

Portmeirion Beach, Wales

If charming, Italian-style Portmeirion village itself wasn’t enough of an attraction, Portmeirion is also home to an impressive beach. It may not have the white sands or turquoise waters you’ll find at some of other entries on this list, but the scenic backdrop – and it’s uniqueness within the UK – make this a worthwhile visit.

Located in northern Wales, the beach here is one that benefits from its setting: the pastel buildings and classical architecture of the village are intertwined with classic British woodland to give the entire location a UK-meets-Italy feel .

Luskentyre Sands, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

Named as one of the 34 best beaches in the world by Condé Nast Traveller , Luskentyre isn’t as easy to reach as some beaches in this list, but it’s more than worth the extra effort to get there.

With golden sand and almost incredibly blue water, this is a UK beach where the scenery and geography lend themselves equally to sunny relaxation days or stormy hiking ones.

That said, visit on a warm summer’s day if you want to try and convince yourself that you’re somewhere in the Indian Ocean rather than in Scotland (but best to pack a waterproof, just in case).

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Seven of the UK’s best secret beaches

These under-the-radar spots in cornwall, anglesey, the highlands and more are big on headspace and low on tourists.

W e all love a beach on a sunny day but no one wants to be cheek by jowl, towel by towel or stuck queueing for an overpriced car park. But if you’re prepared to work a bit harder, there’s a chance you’ll still be able to find a spot where it’s just you and the sand, sea and sky. Come prepared with a picnic — the downside to these secluded spots is that there are no cafés or lavatories — and check the tides as most of these beaches are better when the water’s low.

1. White Park Bay Beach, Ballycastle, Co Antrim

The cows know about White Park — they wander down regularly to nibble the seaweed and stare ruminatively out to sea. Few people do, though, owing to the pulling power of Giant’s Causeway a couple of miles west along the Antrim coastal route, and the popular tourist town of Portstewart beyond that. At low tide you can walk east along the white sand to Ballintoy Harbour, a pretty inlet that played a role in Game of Thrones . It’s a similar distance to Ballycastle, home of the Salthouse Hotel, with outdoor hot tubs and striking sea views. Details B&B doubles from £204 (thesalthousehotel.com)

2. Vault Beach, St Austell, Cornwall

The village of Gorran Haven has a tiny jetty and a slice of easy-access sand, but Vault beach lies a 20-minute walk beyond it, around gorse-topped headlands to a 1,000m-long crescent cradled by an amphitheatre of cliffs. The whimsical Richard Curtis film About Time was filmed here, and its star Bill Nighy spent hours skimming its sea-smoothed stones. Stay inland at the Cornwall, a spa hotel perfectly placed beside Kings Wood and a couple of miles from the Eden Project. Details B&B doubles from £150 (thecornwall.com)

• 21 best coastal and beach hotels in the UK for your next break • 14 of the best walking holidays in the UK

3. Penbryn, Llangrannog, Ceredigion

There’s little to mark this Ceredigion wonder, so look out for the telltale trickle of cars filling a farmer’s field. The beach is exhilarating, with great sunsets and crashing surf when the wind is strong. Penbryn is a National Trust property, so there are no facilities besides the brilliantly named Plwmp Tart café by the road. Stay in the Pentre Arms, a popular little seafront hotel in the village of Llangrannog, which has another busier but equally lovely beach that’s popular with families. Details B&B doubles from £120 (pentrearms.co.uk)

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4. camusdarach, mallaig, highland.

A straightforward walk through shrubs and dunes brings you to a beach that looks like Scotland’s take on the Caribbean, with bone-white sand, turquoise water and fabulous views across to Rhum, Eigg and Muck. Camusdarach had its moment of fame in the film Local Hero , when its purity and beauty brought a brash corporate American (played by Burt Lancaster) to his senses. A campsite nearby might mean that others are sharing the sunset, so head a couple of miles south to the spectacular inlet at Arisaig, where you can rent a kayak (ask at the Arisaig Hotel) and have a soulful experience of your own. Details B&B doubles from £97 (arisaighotel.co.uk)

5. Broadsands Beach, Combe Martin, Devon

This is a beach for the brave-hearted: it involves a dramatic descent via steps through heavily wooded cliffs, with occasional railings to cling on to, but the reward is worth it. The sheltered cove of coarse, gunmetal grey sand is best at low tide, with views north across Combe Martin Bay to where Little Hangman rears up, further along the rollercoaster ride that is the South West Coast Path. Beyond Hangman the cliffs are fierce, broken only at Heddon’s Mouth, where a bucolic stream runs through the landscaped gardens of the National Trust-owned Hunter’s Inn hotel, the perfect place for hearty pub meals after a day on the beach. Details B&B doubles from £105 (bespokehotels.com)

6. Covehithe, Southwold, Suffolk

Rapid erosion has shaped the Suffolk coast and on the beach at Covehithe the remains of trees stick out of the sand — a reminder of the constant invasion of the North Sea. There’s a huge stretch of sand to amble along; park at the medieval church of St Andrew and trace the water’s edge towards Southwold’s Victorian pier. Stay at the Swan, a 17th-century hotel where rooms come with a bottle of gin on the house. A 20-minute drive away is Dunwich beach, where some say at low tide you can hear the bells of a church lost to the sea. Details B&B doubles from £213 (theswansouthwold.co.uk)

7. Llanddwyn/Newborough Beach, Menai Bridge, Anglesey

The giant sweeping curve of Llanddwyn, at the bottom of a mile-long track through Newborough Forest, faces south with magnificent views towards Snowdon. It is sheltered from the prevailing wind by the tiny Llanddwyn promontory at its western end, where the water is so calm and clear it can barely summon up the energy for a wave. The promontory with lighthouse and ruin is said to have been home to St Dwynwen, the Welsh equivalent of St Valentine. Stay beside Menai Bridge in the massive Victorian folly Château Rhianfa, built by a baronet for his wife, who loved the Loire Valley’s châteaux. Details B&B doubles from £165 (chateaurhianfa.co.uk)

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eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025

Millions are being invited to switch from physical immigration documents to an eVisa – a key step in creating a modernised and digital border.

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The next stage in the government’s plan to modernise the border and introduce a digital immigration system is under way, as the Home Office moves closer to the implementation of eVisas for nearly all visa holders living in the UK by 2025.

From today (17 April 2024), the Home Office will begin to send emails to all those with physical immigration documents, called biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) account to access their eVisa, a digital proof of their immigration status.

Invitations will be issued in phases before the process opens to all BRP holders in summer 2024.

eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security, and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. This will pave the way for increased automation to deliver the government’s vision for a contactless border.

It is free and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.

Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, said:  

We’ve already taken really significant steps to digitally transform the border and immigration system, and this wider rollout of eVisas is a key part of that process.  Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost savings for UK taxpayers.

eVisas bring substantial benefits to the UK public and to visa customers. They are secure, and, unlike a physical document, cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with. They can be accessed anywhere and in real time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details.

An eVisa is securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information in the same way as a BRP or BRC , to protect against identity fraud.

People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system to system checks.

eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of customers already using them across routes including the EU Settlement Scheme ( EUSS ). Most physical documents, such as biometric residence permits or cards (BRPs or BRCs), are being gradually phased out, with most BRPs expiring at the end of 2024.

This move to eVisas is in line with other countries which have replaced, or are planning to replace, their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status.

Customers who already have an eVisa do not need to do anything as we make this change, but should continue to update their UKVI account with any changes to personal information, such as a new passport or contact details. Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally, until they expire.

Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as we transition to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers. 

Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when travelling.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

James Martin reveals update on operations after sharing ‘stressful’ cancer ordeal

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James Martin has shared a rare update on his health during a live TV interview, saying that he has stitches that are ‘falling out’ after undergoing multiple operations.

On Monday morning, the TV chef appeared on Lorraine Kelly ’s ITV programme to discuss what he has going on at the moment, including his 18-year run as host of Saturday Kitchen .

As the interview neared its end, Lorraine, 64, said to James, 51: ‘Things are good, everything is good right now, isn’t it? You’re doing really well, the show just gets better and better, you’ve got this tour to look forward to.’

Having opened up last year about being diagnosed with facial cancer in 2018 , he responded to the host: ‘Yeah, the stitches are falling out.

‘As you know, last time you were on, that was in the middle of operations. But as we speak, the stitches are falling out of my body at the moment.

‘So yeah, that’s all clear – onwards and upwards!’

In July 2023, James revealed that five years previously, he had undergone surgery after receiving a facial cancer diagnosis, before it returned on ‘several occasions’.

‘I was then diagnosed with cancer on my face and I had to have surgery, which I couldn’t do until two days before Christmas when we had finished filming,’ he said at the time.

‘Since then it has returned on several occasions and I have to have regular treatments.’

In November, the chef said that he was ‘taking a break’ from work , stating during a stop on his tour that he would ‘be back fighting at the end of February’.

‘I’m going on a little bit of a break to get that sorted,’ he said.

‘I just wanted to say thank you for all your support and all your messages.’

James opened up about his cancer diagnosis while issuing an apology over an incident that occurred with his crew during filming.

‘After all this stress I was in a very emotional state, and when after filming in early January 2018 I discovered my home had been flooded while filming, I was extremely upset,’ he said at the time.

‘I can only say I am human and following a build-up of personal life pressure, I admit that I overreacted regarding the damage to my home.’

Lorraine airs weekdays from 9am on ITV.

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James Martin shares health update after cancer diagnosis: ‘Onwards and upwards!’

‘james martin’s saturday morning’ host recently underwent surgery for facial cancer, article bookmarked.

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TV chef James Martin has shared an update on his health after undergoing surgery for cancer .

The former Saturday Kitchen host, 51, had surgery to remove facial cancer after his first diagnosis in 2018 .

Appearing on ITV’s Lorraine on Monday morning (16 April), Martin was asked how he was feeling following the surgery.

“Yes, the stitches have fallen out. As you know, the last time I was on, I was in the middle of operations,” he said. “As we speak, the stitches have fallen out of my body at the moment and that’s all clear. Onwards and upwards!”

In response, host Lorraine Kelly said: “I’m really pleased, it’s great, great news!”

Martin first went public with his diagnosis last year when he apologised for a leaked audio tape that captured him swearing at his TV crew during a recording of James Martin’s Saturday Morning .

As Martin issued an apology for the tape, he revealed that his behaviour followed a culmination of emotional events in his life, including the death of his grandfather and his own cancer diagnosis.

He said he was sorry for “any offence or upset caused” after it emerged he was reportedly spoken to by bosses at the channel following a complaint in May from an employee.

Apologising to the crew, he told The Sun : “The end of 2017 was one of the most fraught and difficult periods of my life. I was dealing with the death of my last living grandparent, my grandfather, and on account of work commitments, I could not attend his funeral.

“Later that month I was burgled at night by a team of masked men, who entered my house while my partner Louise was at home alone and I was away working. I was devastated that she had to go through that alone.”

He explained that he had undergone surgery after being diagnosed with cancer on his face, which he “couldn’t do until two days before Christmas when we had finished filming”.

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Martin continued: “Since then [the cancer] has returned on several occasions and I have to have regular treatments.

“After all this stress, I was in a very emotional state, and when after filming in early January 2018 I discovered my home had been flooded while filming, I was extremely upset. I can only say I am human and following a build-up of personal life pressure, I admit that I overreacted regarding the damage to my home.”

In November, Martin gave an update on his health while on tour at Liverpool’s Philharmonic Hall, telling the crowd he had been through “a lot of s****” with cancer”.

“I will be back fighting at the end of February but I’m going on a little bit of a break to get that sorted,” he said.

The TV chef is currently filming his weekend programme James Martin’s Saturday Morning , which he records every week at his Hampshire home with celebrity guests.

“I feel like I’ve found my home. Well I guess I have, it is in my home. I love that we get guests coming back,” he told Kelly.

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