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Daily Mirror
02-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Most beautiful' village with 'medieval' stone cottages that tourists love
Castle Combe in Wiltshire, England, is a popular tourist destination thanks to its stunning medieval stone cottages, winding streets and surrounding natural beauty With summer upon us, many are planning their getaways, yet there's no need to jet off abroad when the UK boasts some truly stunning destinations. Castle Combe in Wiltshire is often lauded as one of the prettiest villages not only in Britain but across the globe, making it an ideal spot for those exploring the Cotswolds. Visitors to this picturesque village might feel as though they've wandered into a storybook, with its ancient stone cottages and charming, twisty lanes remaining untouched by modernity – a dream for anyone keen on sightseeing. But Castle Combe's allure isn't just architectural; it's also cradled by the natural splendour of the Cotswolds. Travellers will find themselves amidst enchanting woodlands, undulating hills, and verdant countryside, all contributing to the village's magical vibe. Described by Country Living as having houses "so pretty they should be on a postcard" due to its "ancient, honey-hued" cottages, Castle Combe has also earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveller's list of "most beautiful villages in the world". CN Traveller praised the village, saying: "Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village located in the southwest county of Wiltshire. No new houses have been built here since the 1600s, so the town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches." This idyllic village is the ultimate destination for photography enthusiasts, with the historic village bridge crossing the River Bybrook being a particularly picturesque spot to capture. History buffs will be drawn to Castle Combe for its plethora of medieval structures, including the stunning St Andrew's church, established in the 13th century, reports the Express. The church houses the tomb of Sir Walter de Dunstanville, Baron of Castle Combe and a crusader who passed away in 1270. It also boasts a quaint shop renowned for its charming postcards. Film aficionados will find Castle Combe intriguing as it has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films, from the 1960s Doctor Dolittle to the more recent Stardust in 2007 and Steven Spielberg's War Horse in 2011. Castle Combe offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a leisurely holiday, providing opportunities for nature walks, historical exploration, and cosy evenings at the local pub. For those embarking on a nature walk, the village's famed Little Picnic Shop provides everything needed for a delightful summer picnic. However, for an authentic English countryside experience, a visit to The Old Rectory Pop-up Tearoom is a must. Here, guests can indulge in a traditional afternoon tea complete with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and a cuppa served in fine china. The Old Stables offers a more laid-back yet snug setting for a coffee shop in the village, where patrons can indulge in a bacon sarnie or their hot drink of choice. Castle Combe's residences often feature quaint stalls outside, vending local and homemade delights like jams, bakes, or sweets – ideal for picking up as you wander through the village. Travel aficionado Jamie, the brains behind Explore with Ed, suggests that those keen on visiting Castle Combe should do so promptly, especially as the village is at its most charming in midsummer. He commented: "The prettiness of Castle Combe is perhaps at its peak in the height of summer when the honey-coloured cottages are graced with colourful climbing plants and overflowing window baskets."
Daily Mirror
05-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Most beautiful' place to visit in the UK named due to its fairytale charm
Castle Combe is picture postcard perfect (Image: Getty Images) With summer upon us, Brits are eagerly scratching that holiday itch, and you don't even need a passport for a slice of the extraordinary within our isles. Hailed as one of the most picturesque spots on the globe, let alone Britain, Castle Combe in Wiltshire is an essential stop for anyone venturing into the Cotswolds. This storybook village, with its medieval stone cottages and timeless lanes, remains untouched by the march of time, offering sightseers an authentically charming experience. Encircled by the sublime Cotswold scenery, visitors to Castle Combe are treated to nearby woodlands, undulating hills, and verdant landscapes that accentuate the village's alluring ambience. READ MORE: Teeth whitening solution 'removes stains' quickly in time for summer holidays Described by Country Living as houses "so pretty they should be on a postcard" due to their "ancient, honey-hued" charm, it's no wonder it's counted among the world's loveliest villages by travel experts. CN Traveller said: "Castle Combe is a quintessentially English village located in the southwest county of Wiltshire. No new houses have been built here since the 1600s, so the town is a well-preserved stretch of Cotswold stone cottages and old pubs and churches." This idyllic village is a dream destination for photography enthusiasts, with the old bridge crossing the River Bybrook being the most iconic spot to capture due to its breathtaking location. History buffs will be drawn to Castle Combe for its plethora of medieval structures, including the stunning St Andrew's church, established in the 13th century, reports the Express. Early morning in Castle Combe village centre (Image: Getty Images) The church houses the tomb of Sir Walter de Dunstanville, Baron of Castle Combe, a crusader who passed away in 1270, and also boasts a quaint shop renowned for its charming postcards. Film aficionados will find it an exciting visit as Castle Combe has been featured in numerous iconic films such as the 1960s Doctor Dolittle, and more recently, the 2007 fantasy blockbuster Stardust and Steven Spielberg's 2011 film War Horse. Castle Combe is perfect for those seeking a leisurely holiday, offering opportunities for nature walks, historical site visits, and relaxing evenings at the local pub. For those planning a nature walk, the village's famous Little Picnic Shop provides everything needed for a delightful summer picnic. However, for a quintessential English countryside experience, a visit to The Old Rectory Pop-up Tearoom is a must, where guests can enjoy afternoon tea complete with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and a cuppa served in traditional china. The quaint village also boasts The Old Stables, a snug and informal coffee shop ideal for enjoying a bacon sarnie or your favourite hot drink. As you wander through Castle Combe, you'll find charming homes adorned with little stalls offering a delightful selection of local and homemade treats like jams, cakes, or sweets. Travel aficionado Jamie, the mastermind behind 'Explore with Ed,' reckons now is the prime time to visit Castle Combe, citing mid-summer as the period when the village's charm truly flourishes. He commented: "The prettiness of Castle Combe is perhaps at its peak in the height of summer when the honey-coloured cottages are graced with colourful climbing plants and overflowing window baskets."
Economic Times
04-06-2025
- General
- Economic Times
What international travellers should know amidst rising Covid-19 cases
Travellers heading abroad this summer are being urged to exercise caution as COVID-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia. Countries such as Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and India have reported a fresh uptick in infections, driven largely by new Omicron to a report by Conde Nast Traveller, despite the rise in numbers, travel remains unaffected. Flights are operating on schedule and there are no quarantine or testing requirements for domestic or international travellers. However, health authorities continue to monitor the travellers, the advice is to stay cautious, especially if elderly, immunocompromised, or dealing with chronic conditions. Doctors recommend that these groups assess the need for travel and consider postponing non-essential travellers are advised to wear masks in crowded places, carry hand sanitiser, and avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms. Vaccination remains the best defence. While India has not recommended a fresh booster, Singapore and Hong Kong are advising additional doses for high-risk groups. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) As per the CN Traveller report, Singapore's Ministry of Health reported over 14,000 cases in the second week of May. In Hong Kong, respiratory sample positivity rates jumped from 1.7% in March to over 11% this month. Thailand has reported localised clusters in Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Samut Prakan, especially following April's Songkran festivities. India has also seen a modest increase, crossing the 1,000-case mark earlier this week. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, the surge is linked to four fast-spreading sub-variants—JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG. The first three are currently the most the World Health Organization has not issued any travel warnings, it has classified NB.1.8 and LF.7 as "Variants Under Monitoring." No country in the region has reinstated border restrictions or Health Ministry confirmed 753 active cases nationwide as of May 26, 2025, with Kerala reporting the highest number at 430 cases. Maharashtra and Delhi follow with 210 and 104 cases, respectively. Officials maintain that most cases remain mild and manageable.
Time of India
04-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What international travellers should know amidst rising Covid-19 cases
COVID-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia, including Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and India, driven by new Omicron sub-variants. While travel remains unaffected with no new restrictions, health authorities advise caution, especially for vulnerable individuals. Wearing masks, sanitizing hands, and vaccination are recommended, as some regions advise additional doses for high-risk groups amidst the increase in cases. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Also Read: Rising Covid cases push experts to seek sewage surveillance Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Travellers heading abroad this summer are being urged to exercise caution as COVID-19 cases are rising again in parts of Asia . Countries such as Singapore , Thailand, Hong Kong, and India have reported a fresh uptick in infections, driven largely by new Omicron sub-variants According to a report by Conde Nast Traveller, despite the rise in numbers, travel remains unaffected. Flights are operating on schedule and there are no quarantine or testing requirements for domestic or international travellers. However, health authorities continue to monitor the travellers, the advice is to stay cautious, especially if elderly, immunocompromised, or dealing with chronic conditions. Doctors recommend that these groups assess the need for travel and consider postponing non-essential travellers are advised to wear masks in crowded places, carry hand sanitiser, and avoid contact with individuals showing symptoms. Vaccination remains the best defence. While India has not recommended a fresh booster, Singapore and Hong Kong are advising additional doses for high-risk per the CN Traveller report, Singapore's Ministry of Health reported over 14,000 cases in the second week of May. In Hong Kong, respiratory sample positivity rates jumped from 1.7% in March to over 11% this month. Thailand has reported localised clusters in Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Samut Prakan, especially following April's Songkran has also seen a modest increase, crossing the 1,000-case mark earlier this week. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, the surge is linked to four fast-spreading sub-variants—JN.1, NB.1.8.1, LF.7, and XFG. The first three are currently the most the World Health Organization has not issued any travel warnings, it has classified NB.1.8 and LF.7 as "Variants Under Monitoring." No country in the region has reinstated border restrictions or Health Ministry confirmed 753 active cases nationwide as of May 26, 2025, with Kerala reporting the highest number at 430 cases. Maharashtra and Delhi follow with 210 and 104 cases, respectively. Officials maintain that most cases remain mild and manageable.
Daily Mirror
21-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Gorgeous seaside town with 'incredible views' is 'top UK holiday destination'
Scarborough, a charming seaside town located in North Yorkshire, has been named one of the top destinations in the UK to visit and is known for its stunning coastline and rich history With summer on the horizon, holidaymakers are busy planning their getaways, and for those favouring a staycation, there's no need to look further than a delightful beach escape right on your doorstep. Scarborough, a charming coastal gem in North Yorkshire, is famed for its breathtaking shoreline that offers spectacular views of the North Sea. The area is a haven for nature lovers, boasting proximity to the North York Moors National Park, dramatic cliffs, shimmering sandy beaches, and the majestic Scarborough Castle perched high above the sea. The town has been lauded as one of the top UK destinations to visit by Time Out magazine in 2023, and CN Traveller hailed it as the "most beautiful seaside resort in England" for its historical charm. They remarked: "The dramatic castle occupies the headland which separates the two main bays steep cliffs stretching away in both directions. The old town ascends the slope to the castle in a maze of crooked streets, with buildings dating back to Tudor times." Scarborough's allure is heightened by the promise of a fresh adventure with each visit. A perfect start to any trip could be the colourful Scarborough Fair Collection, home to Europe's most extensive collection of classic fairground rides and historic vehicles. This museum provides a unique historical lens, complete with bumper cars, penny arcades, a merry-go-round and the opportunity to enjoy afternoon tea whilst watching a stage show. Another must-visit is the Scarborough Rotunda Museum, a Jurassic geology museum that delves into 65 million years of history, showcasing thousands of fossils, dinosaur footprints and even a Speeton Plesiosaur skeleton. Entry is free for under 18s, and adults can explore the Rotunda Museum for just £5, which also includes admission to the Scarborough Art Gallery. But no seaside getaway would be complete without a trip to the beach, and Scarborough boasts two stunning beaches: North and South Bay. South Bay Beach is ideal for a family day out, having been a hit during the Victorian era, it still offers similar attractions like donkey rides and a lively promenade brimming with activities. North Bay Beach, on the other hand, is much quieter and the perfect spot for relaxation or a leisurely stroll with a camera in hand. With numerous rock pools and charming vintage beach huts set against a backdrop of stunning hills and cliffs, there's plenty to explore. The two beaches are divided by the remnants of the grand Scarborough Castle, a 12th-century fortress that has withstood Viking invasions and served as a significant royalist stronghold during the Civil War. After a day of sightseeing, it's essential to visit the Scarborough Castle Great Tea Room, which offers stunning views of both beaches and an array of homemade cakes, jams, and other comforting treats. No matter your itinerary, Scarborough is the perfect spot for a peaceful beach getaway, offering magnificent views, a rich history, and a host of entertaining attractions at one of England's most beautiful seaside resorts.
