King and Queen's visit to Samoa tops list of most expensive royal trips
There are 43 separate journeys by royal family members listed in the official report for 2024/25 where travel costs were at least £17,000, up from 27 in 2023/24.
Some 13 of these involved the King, an increase from eight in the previous year.
These included the most expensive trip during the period, the 11-day visit by Charles and the Queen to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa in October 2024, which included engagements in Australia, and which had travel costs totalling £400,535.
Charles is King of Australia and the country's government funded half of the flight costs during this major overseas trip.
After attending the Commonwealth leaders' summit the King and Queen made a much reported trip to a luxury wellness retreat in Bengaluru in India, which was paid for privately.
The King was also involved in the second most expensive trip on the list, a three-day visit with the Queen to Northern Ireland in March 2025 (£80,139).
The third most expensive trip was a visit by the Prince of Wales to Estonia in March 2025, the cost of which included two earlier journeys by staff for planning purposes, and which added up to £55,846 in total.
Completing the top five are a two-day trip by the King on the royal train in February 2025 to Staffordshire, to visit the JCB factory in Rocester and the Tower Brewery in Burton upon Trent, which cost £44,822; and a two-day trip by the Duke of Edinburgh to Estonia in January 2025 to visit the Royal Dragoon Guards while on a military operation, which cost £39,791.
Of the 13 trips involving the King that appear on the list, eight were undertaken with the Queen and five by himself.
In addition to the trips already mentioned, the King's other costs were:
– A charter flight with the Queen between royal residences in April 2024 (£21,184);
– A two-day trip on the royal train to Crewe in May 2024 (£33,147);
– A two-day visit with the Queen to northern France in June 2024 for the D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations (£29,890);
– A two-day visit with the Queen to the Channel Islands in July 2024 (£28,872);
– A charter flight between royal residences in July 2024 (£22,529);
– A charter flight with the Queen between royal residences in September 2024 (£20,113);
– A second charter flight with the Queen between royal residences in September 2024 (£19,956);
– A charter flight between royal residences in October 2024 (£20,619);
– A one-day visit to Poland in January 2025 to attend events marking the 80th anniversary of the Holocaust, including a separate visit by staff in December 2024 for planning purposes (£30,232);
– And a one-day visit by plane with the Queen to Middlesbrough in February 2025 (£18,394).
There are no solo visits by the Queen on the list.
Aside from the royal visits to Samoa/Australia, Estonia, Poland and northern France, the only other journeys outside the UK to feature on the list are:
– A two-day trip by the Duchess of Edinburgh to Italy in May 2024 to attend military remembrance events (£32,380);
– A one-day visit by the Prince of Wales to northern France in June 2024 as part of the D-Day commemorations (£25,696);
– A two-day visit by the Princess Royal to the Netherlands in September 2024 for events commemorating the Second World War (£17,327);
– A nine-day visit to Nepal by the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh in February 2025 (£26,028);
– A three-day visit to Dresden by the Duke of Kent in February 2025 (£22,332);
– And a return flight by the Princess Royal from a meeting of the International Olympics Committee in Kalamata in Greece in March 2025 (£21,440).
Aside from the 13 trips on the list that involved either the King or the King and the Queen, 11 were undertaken by the Princess Royal; five by the Duke of Edinburgh; four by the Prince of Wales; three by the Duchess of Edinburgh; three by both the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh; two by the Duke of Kent; one by the Duchess of Gloucester; and one by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
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North Wales Live
11 hours ago
- North Wales Live
Reviewer visits popular North Wales town and describes it as 'ridiculous'
Conwy, with its majestic medieval fortifications, venerable castle, and bustling harbour, stands as one of the most ridiculously picturesque towns in Wales. Not only is it a favourite among tourists, but it has also earned a spot on the Sunday Times list of the top 72 places to live in the UK, a testament to its irresistible charm. "Every kind of natural adventure is within easy reach of the brooding towers and tumbledown castle walls that cast an enchanting spell over this coastal hotspot," they penned about Conwy. "Those lucky enough to live in the town can pick up groceries and grab a coffee in impeccably historic surroundings, while enjoying the reassurance of regular trains and a fast road." The quayside in Conwy is an idyllic starting point for exploration, adorned with lobster pots, knotted fishing nets, and the quintessential maritime miscellany one would expect. Adjacent to The Liverpool Arms, which is quite the spot for a sneaky pint, you'll find an information board detailing current rates for mooring in the harbour, should you be inclined to dock your boat there. For those whose seafaring dreams are as fictional as my own yacht supposedly anchored in Monaco, the family-operated Queen Victoria cruise boat offers a delightful alternative. It promises scenic voyages up the Conwy Valley or out towards the estuary, granting passengers panoramic views of Anglesey, Puffin Island, and the Irish Sea, all without the need for a captain's license, reports Wales Online. Buy a beverage on board and look for Herons, Oystercatchers, Curlews, Cormorants, Eagrets, and Swans as you cruise past the medieval town. Along the harbour, you'll also find one of Conway's most endearing quirks: The Smallest House in Great Britain. Recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records, the tiny red-fronted abode measures just 72 inches wide and 122 inches high and was occupied until May 1900. It's been passed down through the same family for more than 130 years. Its last known occupant was, rather improbably, a 6ft 3in fisherman called Robert Jones. Today, it serves as a curious attraction and twee backdrop for many Conwy snaps. If you're after a pint with a view, duck into The Liverpool Arms, the oldest traditional pub in Conwy town. It's perched right on the waterfront, just across the road from the quay and beaches and is super popular on a balmy day with patrons spilling out into the streets. History, harbour views and a proper decent pint, what more could you possibly want? Along with the harbour, Conwy's biggest draw is the Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle) and its Walls. Part of one of Wales' UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle) features a concentric design with eight towers. It forms part of King Edward I's "Iron Ring", a series of imposing fortresses built in Wales during the late 13th century to solidify English control after the conquest of Wales. Here, you can investigate the inner and outer wards, which have many rooms, and explore the castle walls, which have 21 towers and completely enclose Conwy town. This famous fortress is exceptionally well preserved and contains the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales. The high curtain wall and eight lofty towers rise almost as impressively as when they were built more than 700 years ago. Known for its beauty and historical significance, the castle was named one of the 'most beautiful' in Europe by the influential magazine Condé Nast Traveller. Condé Nast Traveller writes: "Aside from getting us one step closer to living out our fairytale fantasies, the staggering structures showcase some of the world's best architecture, most stunning landscapes, and maybe even a ghost story or two. There's perhaps no better place on earth to find awe-inspiring castles than in Europe, where it seems like you can't visit a city or take a road trip without stumbling upon some sort of royal dwelling." They go on to describe Conwy as 'gorgeous' and its preserved state as 'impressive.' Well, it was built a little over 700 years ago. Equally astonishing is the fact that it took King Ed and his architect, Master James of St George, just four years, between 1283 and 1287, to build the castle and walls, for a cost of £15,000 in that time, which equals around £12m today. Like many ancient buildings in Wales, Conwy Castle is reputedly haunted, delighting ghost chasers and paranormal lovers. Creepy sightings have included various silhouettes and dark figures watching the town below from the battlements and windows. In the 16th century, King Henry VIII used the castle as a prison, so many of the sightings are believed to be past inmates. In 2016, a team of paranormal investigators claimed they recorded the voice of a little girl spirit saying 'don't tell them'. Which is exactly what you don't want to hear in a dark, echoey fortress. Shudder. In 2020, a man took a picture outside Conwy Castle, which he believes shows a line of phantoms led by a male ghost holding a sword, as reported by North Wales Live. After you've had your fill of castles and ghosts, it's time to treat yourself, and Dylan's Restaurant is just the ticket. Founded in 2012, Dylan's set out to celebrate the produce, character, and natural beauty of North Wales, and honestly, they've nailed it at this latest venture. The menu is a love letter to local ingredients, sourced from all over the region, and served up in a building that's as gorgeous as the food. From the upper floors, you get sweeping views of the 13th-century St Mary's Church and Conwy Castle. One end of the room features a slick little bar, serving local pours like Gwinllan Conwy wines and Wild Horse Brewery beers. The standout here, though, is the seafood. Dylan's is especially famous for its Moules Marinière, made with Menai Strait mussels that are so fresh that they occasionally arrive with a pearl (probably). Steamed in white wine, shallots, garlic, and cream, they are a knockout dish. Accommodation-wise, opt for a swish stay at the Quay Hotel and Spa. This destination spa hotel has striking views of the majestic Conwy Castle and estuary and is conveniently located near the Welsh towns of Conwy and Llandudno. Over £1 million has been invested in revamping and updating the Quay Hotel and Spa, which focuses on guest experience and well-being. Nearby in Deganwy, you'll find bracing coastal walks, tea shops, a shingle and sand beach and the ruins of a stone-built fortress. The hotel's 77 bedrooms, from classic rooms to suites, feature coastal colours and hints of maritime design. Several rooms offer balconies and private outdoor space for additional luxury and space. Extensive leisure facilities are available for guests, and the on-site Marina Spa offers luxurious pampering. Their ambient relaxation rooms overlook the pretty Deganwy Marina, and ESPA products are used in various treatments and seasonal packages. Indulge in a full-body salt and oil scrub, personalised facial, or revitalising back, neck, and shoulder medieval town by the sea with an epic castle and pubs right on the water.
Metro
13 hours ago
- Metro
I stayed in one of Europe's grandest hotels — a time warp of Old World glamour
Sitting on the narrow bench of a funicular, backpack perched on my knees, my stomach churns with anxiety I hadn't felt since my first day of school. Will I embarrass myself? Will I fit in? Today, there are no GCSEs ahead of me, but a turreted fairytale castle of a hotel, overlooking Switzerland's largest city. I've been invited to spend a night at the Dolder Grand, a lavish time warp of Old World glamour where Europe's well-heeled elites have lived the high life since 1899, deep in the forest on the Adlisberg mountain. Affectionately known as the grand dame of Zurich, this place rolls out the red carpet for its A-list guests. I mean this literally: a red carpet leads to the hotel's front entrance. Elton John has laid his head here, as has King Charles III, back when he was still a bachelor prince. Now, the Lionesses have checked in as they defend their title at the 2025 UEFA Women's Euros in the semi-final tonight. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. England has stepped up its game for Sarina Wiegman's squad this year in a major way. The trappings of the Dolder are a far cry from the four-star Lensbury in Teddington, which was their base when England hosted the tournament in 2022. Having travelled relatively extensively only by filtering for the cheapest accommodation (friends will remember the pod hostel in Tel Aviv and the hut with a hole in the ground in the Philippines), the idea of staying somewhere so ultra-luxurious is strange, even a little uncomfortable. But after just a few hours floating above Zurich, soaking up Swiss Alpine views from the spa's infinity jacuzzi, I realise I could get used to the lifestyle of the rich and famous much faster than I thought. Good thing I'll never be able to afford it. The Dolder Grand is not somewhere you walk to. On a hill that boasts the best view in Zurich, guests arrive to this imposing palace by car (typically the Maserati or Rolls Royce variety), hotel shuttle or funicular. Even if you're slumming it like I was, using my trusty Zurich travel card on Switzerland's well-oiled public transport network instead of a £100,000 supercar, the journey from the centre of the city takes less than 20 minutes. Somehow, the hotel still manages to feel remote, like you're entering another stratosphere. In many ways, you are. I had steeled myself for airs, graces and a gaggle of influencers, but in the grandiose lobby, complete with a crystal chandelier and double wraparound staircase, I found a young American family, middle-aged couples and business travellers checking in with friendly staff, most of them locals from Zurich and the surrounding canton. The atmosphere is relaxed and, while I clock at least two Hermès bags that cost more than what I have saved for a house deposit, it's clear that here, every guest is treated like a VIP. On the go since 1899, the Dolder has seen some things. You can feel it, as you move between the original castle building (extensively renovated in 2008) and the modern, sleek wings that carry it into the 21st century. I close my eyes as I climb one flight to my room, imagining the people who went before me wearing drop-waist dresses in the 1920s, fur coats and miniskirts in the '60s. Anyone who comes to the Dolder Grand without visiting the spa has not really been to the Dolder Grand. Sprawled over 4,000sqm, this cavernous space is more of a wellness centre, with everything you can imagine to help you live a longer and healthier life. It's also the perfect place to rest and reset after a tough time on the pitch. The Lionesses will have use of the saunas and steam baths, plunge pools and whirlpools, hot tubs and aroma baths, plus a menu of beauty treatments I never knew existed. I could have spent half a day lounging on the sun terrace, taking in the view. The only thing that raised an eyebrow was the solarium I spotted in an alcove in the relaxation area. Hasn't science ruled that sunbeds are bad for us? The hotel also offers yoga, Pilates (including reformer) and even ballet lessons in the belly of the wellness centre. It may be of little interest to the England team, but in certain circles, the Dolder is best known for its multimillion-dollar art collection. Scattered throughout the corridors is a unique kind of gallery, containing 100-plus pieces by 90 artists from different eras. All are disruptive creations that challenge our perception of culture and the status quo, and most are displayed in public spaces. (There is a Dali on-site, but that's locked away in the private dining room. I did ask.) I came away thinking about the work of Jani Leinonen, a 47-year-old Finnish visual artist who subverts logos and corporate branding to criticise capitalism. Everything you'd expect from a five-star establishment where Di Caprio and the Rolling Stones have stayed. Divided between the historic castle and the modern wings, all of the suites (and most of the standard rooms) come with sunken whirlpool bathtubs, rainfall showers and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the bedroom with morning sunlight. If you're lucky enough to get a room at the front of the hotel, the main event is the south-facing balcony, which captures views of Lake Zurich and the sugar-dusted Alps in the distance. My favourite touch of how the other half live was the TV subtly embedded in the bathroom mirror. Much has been made of the Dolder's location and art collection, but it's culinary offerings deserve more attention than they get. The hotel's four restaurants have two Michelin stars and 65 Gault & Millau points between them, and the breakfast – best enjoyed on the terrace – is the most preposterously lavish spread I've ever seen. Frequent pop-ups keep things fresh; during my stay, guests were treated to a Lebanese mezze feast of fattoush, falalfel and Riz 'a Djej. The Lionesses will be travelling with two chefs and a nutritionist, who will work with the hotel's catering team to create meals of champions. I hope they can indulge in the Dolder's usual fare after the final. Prices vary depending on rooms and season. In summer, standard rooms start at £750 (CHF 819) per night, including breakfast. More Trending Luxury suites will set you back a whole lot more. The Golf Suite, for example, runs from £3,753 (CHF 4,100). For that, you'll get a sprawling living room and bedroom, and a terrace with a 270-degree panoramic view that surrounds the entire thing. Oh, and a private butler. Time: Switzerland is one hour ahead of the UK. Weather: The average daily maximum temperature in July is around 25°C. Adaptors: UK to EU travel adapter. Currency: The local currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Visas: You do not need a visa to visit any part of Switzerland, and can stay for periods of up to 90 days. Check in/check out: You can check in from 3pm, and you'll need to check out before 12pm, but you can enjoy the spa until you need to leave. Disability access? Yes. The hotel has a wheelchair-accessible spa, restaurants and check-in desk. Standout feature: The location, the spa and the breakfast. Perfect for: Couples and business travellers. Not right for: Anyone on a budget. This article was originally published on 2 July 2025 and has been updated. MORE: Sarina Wiegman drops hint on major Jess Carter decision and slams racist trolls MORE: Euro 2025 odds: Lauren James can fire reigning champions England to semi-final victory over Italy MORE: Lionesses to stop taking the knee as England's Jess Carter reveals 'vile' racist abuse
Time Out
a day ago
- Time Out
12 best Southern Suburb green trails not on the mountain
Alphen Trail Lazy hike rating: 3/5 Probably one of the most popular trails in Contantia, the Alphen Trail links up many of the greenbelts in the valley and follows the Diep River. While you can hike the whole length of it for a proper but easy hike, most people just do sections of it, with many entrances between its starting point, Alphen Drive, and sort-of end point in Brommersvlei. Its scenery is lush with forests and water points, and you'll also pass a few horses on the way. It's important to note that it can become one of the busiest walks during peak times, especially with dogs and children, but also means it's one of the safest as well. Klaasenbosch Trail Lazy hike rating: 5/5 Next to one of the Alphen entrances is the shady Klaasenbosch trail, covered almost entirely by a forest canopy. While dogs and people are allowed, the trail has high horse traffic with very uneven ground to walk, so your furry friends will have to be on a leash at all times. Luckily, there are more human-friendly roads on the side of the main horse trail, and it has wide easy parking access that's off the main road. You might even be lucky enough to catch the tune of the mysterious Knysna Warbler! Constantia Cemetery Lazy hike rating: 5/5 If you're looking for a different kind of walk with many discoveries, take a short meander through the Constantia Cemetery on Parish Road. Across from a play park, the old cemetery starts off with a cluster of old graves hailing from the early 1900s, including a few Commonwealth war graves, and slowly starts becoming more dispersed the further down you walk. New burials aren't allowed there, so you won't be running into any funerals, though it's more suited for the more historically-minded rather than the nature lover. Keurboom Park Lazy hike rating: 5/5 There are a hundred different ways to take a walk through the expansive Keurboom Park in Rondebosch, filled with play parks, a variety of trees and well-placed benches for when you want to stare off into the distance. As dog and kid-friendly as it can get (though certain children's sections are marked off for canines), the park's ponds are also home to the Froggy Five, where you can help researchers track the populations by uploading photos of them to iNaturalist. Diep River Greenbelt Lazy Hike Rating 3/5 Across from another Alphen Trail entrance is the Diep River Greenbelt, an extension of the main trail as it follows the river to its end. A less popular section as people opt for the Alphen side, this is more of a sun-walk with little covering and more grass fields and reedy wetlands on the side. It also has stunning views of the mountains as you eventually end up (depending on which side you start) at the entrance of the Cecelia Forest Walk, which is a more demanding mountain walk with a rewarding waterfall if the Southern Suburb trails are too easy for you. Tokai Forest Lazy hike rating: 4/5 On the edge of the Southern Suburbs and part of the Table Mountain National Park, the famous Tokai Forest is an incredibly popular loop with a few trail options and entrances. The middle is covered by fynbos and there's still a large pine tree section that survived the past devastating fires. However, there are sporadic controlled fires needed for maintenance, so there will be burnt spots on your walk. As part of SANParks, they might be stricter with dogs as you are only allowed two per person. The best part about a morning Tokai Forest walk though, is grabbing a coffee and a bite from the Secret Forest Café near the trees, but the lines can get long quickly. In winter, the trails also become a muddy mess, so remember to bring your messy-friendly shoes. Silverhurst Trail Lazy hike rating: 5/5 In the heart of the Constantia Valley is the short Silverhurst Trail, which you can easily walk the full length of in under 40 minutes. It meanders next to the small Keysers River, grassy patches perfect for running and forested sections that offer shade. It's also right across from the Sillery Walk entrance/exit, and offers a quieter walk with the doggos if you're not keen on the crowds of Alphen. Maynardville Park Lazy hike rating: 5/5 For most Capetonians, Shakespeare and theatre are the first things that come to mind when you mention Maynardville Park in Wynberg. However, outside of the drama, the park also offers short, easy walks with a great birdwatching spot by the big pond. It is important to note that the park always has community events going on and is popular for wedding photos, so if you like to avoid people while out in nature, perhaps choose one of the other trails. Rondebosch Commons Lazy Hiker rating: 3/4 If running for fitness is what gets you up in the mornings, the most popular daily run spot is the Rondebosch Commons - a perfectly flat loop with ample parking options. It's less ideal for dogs off the leash as the park is surrounded by major roadways where traffic can be problematic. Not only is the Commons a great running spot, but the area also holds a lot of historical and natural value, maintained as a preservation site for Cape Flats lowland fynbos vegetation. It's also an important archaeological site. Doordrift Walk Lazy Hiker rating: 5/5 A lesser-known greenbelt, the Doordrift Walk is more geared towards local residents with limited parking, but still has a surprising educational feature. The wetland section is filled with information boards that tell you more about the area's vegetation, and forms an important wildlife walkway or conservation corridor for animals. There's also an interesting fishy art display for art fans. However, the walk is quite an isolating jaunt, so best advised to avoid doing it solo.
