Latest news with #SophieSwietochowski
Scottish Sun
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
It's official: This is the UK's best ice cream shop – we visited to see if it's worth the hype
Plus, The Sun's Sophie Swietochowski tried the new viral Dubai chocolate ice cream served at a top London attraction FIRST SCOOP It's official: This is the UK's best ice cream shop – we visited to see if it's worth the hype Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) COMING from Devon and growing up on a seaside diet, I like to think I'm somewhat of an ice cream connoisseur. And last year, after I discovered Anya Hindmarch's quirky ice cream pop up in London - and it has beaten even my favourite beach spots from my childhood. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 A London ice cream parlour has just been named the best by The Times Credit: Cyann Fielding 5 Located on Pavilion Road in Chelsea, London, I headed there to see if it is worth the hype Credit: Alamy Ice Cream Union in Chelsea, London, was named the UK's best ice cream parlour by The Times. It is known for creating some of the best ice creams in the country and supplying them to top chefs and restaurants all over the UK. But nothing quite beats going into an ice cream parlour to test them straight from the tub. Located on Pavilion Road, just off of Sloane Square, the parlour boasts a wide variety of flavours that change each day (and sometimes more than once during the day) - so don't go with your heart set on a flavour to try! As the menu rotates, you could keep going back and be greeted with a whole array of new flavours to explore. I tried three different flavours on my visit and first up was one of Ice Cream Union's seasonal offerings - yoghurt and berries. Speaking with staff at the parlour, they said this was quickly becoming a customer favorite - so of course I had to try it. Whilst I personally find yoghurt and berries a bit boring, it was interesting to try as an ice cream. Certainly the most refreshing of the three, unlike cream, the yoghurt gave a more sour bite which helped to make it less decadent than your usual clotted cream-style flavours. The ice cream has actual berries in it too, which honestly made it feel as if it has just been made. Dubai Ice Cream Whilst not my favourite, I was pleasantly surprised. 7/10. Next up was Monmouth Coffee. For coffee fans (and especially Londoners) Monmouth Coffee is one of the most popular coffee places in the city. Each time I walk past their shop in Seven Dials, there is a long queue out the door. This ice cream had the exact taste of Monmouth Coffee - which pleasantly surprised me. It is stronger and a bit more bitter than the usual coffee taste you get with other coffee ice creams, cakes or even frappes - so deffo a good choice for those wanting a cool caffeine hit. A solid 8/10. The final flavour I tried was Cornflakes. 5 I tested three flavours: yoghurt and berries, Monmouth coffee and cornflakes Credit: Instagram / @icecreamunion Growing up, cornflakes were always the cereal that stayed in the back of the cupboard and that you would reach for when all other breakfast options had run dry. To me, it was a boring thing for breakfast and I often enjoy the slightly sweet cereal milk after eating the cornflakes more than the actual cornflakes. This was this ice cream - a scoop of childhood memories in a cup. This was by far my favourite of the three and I could easily see why this flavour is loved by so many - it is a real comfort flavour. Easily a 10/10 for me and most likely my favourite ice cream to date. Admittedly it isn't cheap - costing £5.50 per small cup or cone, or £7 per cone or cup. I opted for the small cups, which was plenty of ice cream in my opinion, and I did think each were worth it, as you can tell quality ingredients have been used. The menu has a whole array of other flavours too, including chestnut (another seasonal flavour), blood orange sorbet, chocolate and brownies and coconut choc chip. 5 The ice cream isn't cheap though at £5.50 for a small cone or cup Credit: Cyann Fielding Sadly when I visited, some quirky flavours I really wanted a taste of weren't on the menu for that day, such as Pimm's and Aperol Spritz. But I will certainly be back to try. Ice Cream Union also has a factory in Bermondsey that is open on Saturdays between 10am and 4pm. If heading to the Chelsea ice cream parlour, make sure to also explore Pavilion Road. Hidden behind Sloane Square and just steps away from the bustling King's Road, Pavilion Road is very pretty and full of cute independent shops. In particular, make sure to head to the London Cheesemongers and Papersmiths stationery shop. New viral Dubai chocolate ice cream served at a top London attraction THE Sun's Sophie Swietochowski tried out the new viral Dubai chocolate ice cream served at a top London attraction - here's what she thought. So many foods have hopped on the viral Dubai chocolate trend in the past few months - and I tried out the most recent one. This time at London's Borough Market, served in ice cream form. After clocking the gelato treat on social media - several chocolate-y scoops dripping in lashings of pistachio sauce and served in a pistachio-rimmed cone - I couldn't resist giving it a try. The treat hails from a small cafe, Gelateria 3Bis, at the edge of the market, which also sells flakey pastries and baked goods. Behind the counter were neat slices of apple and almond tart, slathered in a shiny glaze (£3.50); wedges of a crumbly looking walnut tart (also £3.50); and stacks of cannolis with thick ricotta filling oozing out of each case (£2). I practically drooled as the lady leaned into the metal tub to scoop the chocolate-y mixture into my cone, waiting for the pistachio magic to happen. But then, nothing. That was it - and a rather naked-looking gelato was handed over to me. Where was my pistachio sauce? Where were the sprinkles I'd seen decadently splashed over the top? And, more importantly, where was the pistachio and filo filling that makes Dubai chocolate what it is? After shelling out a staggering £6.50, I walked away realising that this was a classic case of Insta vs reality trickery. A Sun reporter also tried the UK's wackiest ice cream flavours from pickled onion to Bisto. Plus, the affordable British seaside town with one of the UK's best ice cream parlours.
The Irish Sun
11-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Is the Med too hot for you now? Our favourite sunny European holiday destinations with temperatures under 30C in summer
WHILE some sunseekers love basking in 30C and over heat, for some it is just too much. So, where should you head instead of the usual Costas? Advertisement 6 If you love the Algarve in Portugal then the Costa Verde will be right up your street Credit: Alamy The Sun's Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of top coolcations for this summer where you can find some beautiful alternatives to your favourite holiday destinations, but the temperature is under 30C. Swap Algarve for Costa Verde, Portugal If you love the Algarve in It's at the northern end of the country where the climate is cooler and with a higher rainfall that makes the landscapes feel somewhat lush and tropical. You can take the whole family to the eight-person Casa do Alto which is carved into the mountainside and offers epic views of the tumbling landscape and sea in the distance. Advertisement Read more on travel inspo If you're not content enough lounging by the large swimming pool , a sandy beach sits a fifteen minute drive away while the boozy city of Seven nights' self-catering costs from £237.25pp, based on eight sharing and for arrival on August 29 with Flights from London to Porto cost from £52 return with Ryanair. Swap Cannes for The Alps, France Travelling with energetic little 'uns that need a little more than just a book on the Advertisement Most read in News Travel steam . Once the snow melts, the mountains are littered with cyclists and adrenaline-junkies hurling themselves off the cliff-edge on a paraglider or navigating down a canyon. The Irish cable car that's only one that crosses open sea in Europe with incredible views, stone walls & €10 tickets Better still, temperatures peak in the mid 20Cs in this region meaning you'll have more energy to get stuck in. Although if it does heat up, there's plenty of watersports at the nearby lake. Advertisement The easiest way to book is through Responsible Travel which rolls your accommodation and activities into one - although flights cost extra. You can pick from camping accommodation, self-catered apartments, traditional B&Bs and hotels. A seven-night trip costs from £447pp. 6 Once the snow melts in The Alps, the mountains are littered with cyclists and adrenaline-junkies Credit: Alamy Advertisement Swap Spain's Madrid for the Netherlands The Netherlands offers a different kind of getaway to a beachside fly and flop in Spain – but it's no less fun, especially when you're staying at one of Eurocamp's top holiday parks: Marvilla Parks Kaatsheuvel. The weather tends to be mild in the region of North-Brabant during summer, but temperatures can hit 23C in August, so there'll still be opportunity to flop by the pool which has a play area for kids, along with some twisty slides. If you're up for adventure, the But kids and teens will likely prefer a visit to Advertisement Seven nights' self-catering is from £146.18pp, based on six sharing a Premium three bedroom holiday home and arriving on July 4. 6 The Netherlands offers a different kind of getaway to a beachside fly and flop in Spain - especially when you're staying at one of Eurocamp's top holiday parks Credit: Roan Swap Budapest for Zemplen Mountains, Hungary It's not just France and Italy that boast glorious mountain regions, Hungary is home to the striking Zemplén Mountains, a rugged stretch of landscape that's part of the inner volcanic belt of the Carpathian Mountains. The area may have once been home to a Advertisement With very little signal, travellers can take the opportunity to switch off from the outside world with a digital detox. There's ancient oaks to stroll among, boating on silent lakes, and cycle routes along quiet To ensure you're truly immersed in nature, check into the Kőkapu Vadászkastély és Hotel & Apartments, which is several kilometres from the nearest village. One night's room-only is from £65. See Advertisement Wizz Air flies from Luton to 6 Hungary is home to the striking Zemplén Mountains, a rugged stretch of landscape that's part of the inner volcanic belt of the Carpathian Mountains Credit: Alamy Swap the Costa del Sol for Costa Verde, Spain Things are heating up in southern Spain already, but the tranquil Advertisement Don't worry if you're a novice, that's what the Ris Surf School is for. On site there's a family pool, children's pool and a jacuzzi as well as a free kids club for those aged five to 12 (during high season). Plus, there's tennis , football , badminton and boules, all available to guests. Refuel afterwards with some cracking local grub at the on site restaurant – you won't regret it. Advertisement Seven nights' self-catering is from around £268pp, based on a family of four sharing a Comfort XL two bedroom holiday home, for arrival on August 20. See 6 Costa Verde, on the northern coast, stays at around 25C in summer, which means you can still take advantage of those gorgeous sandy beaches Credit: Alamy Swap the Rhine for the Baltic Sea, Germany Not just sandy beaches await on Germany's northern coast. Advertisement The region is flooded with charming This includes Travemünde, a former fishing town turned port that attracts a number of wellness enthusiasts who come for yoga on the beach and natural swimming pools. Kids, on the other hand, will love Beach Bay Adventure Promenade, home to a water playground, adventure golf , climbing wall and sailing school. Check into the Landal Travemünde which has modern and airy apartments and bungalows overlooking the harbour. Advertisement They come with kitchens, but if you don't fancy cooking , head to Ahoi by Steffen Henssler, up the road, which does a cracking fish and chips as well as a classic schnitzel and a currywurst. A seven-night break costs from £321.25pp with Nine cheap and free hacks to stay cool WITH temperatures soaring to 30C across parts of the UK this weekend, here are nine simple, budget-friendly tips to help you stay cool, reports The Sun's Summer Maerason. Keep blinds and curtains closed: Drawing your curtains, especially lighter-colored ones, from 9am to 9pm can significantly prevent sunlight from heating your home. Employ the tin foil hack: Placing tin foil on windows (inside or out) or car windscreens can reflect sunlight and stop heat absorption. Optimise ceiling fan direction: Ensure your ceiling fan blades rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down and create a refreshing breeze. Use night-time ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home in the evening to create a 'night-flush ventilation' cross-breeze, allowing cooler air in and trapped heat out. Create a DIY 'Ice Fan': Position a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan to generate a cool, misty breeze, especially effective in smaller rooms. Minimise heat-generating appliances: Avoid using ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines during peak heat. Opt for outdoor cooking, cold meals, or line-drying laundry. Hang damp sheets: Drape damp sheets or towels in front of open windows or a fan. As the water evaporates, it draws heat from the air, creating a cooling effect. Seal gaps and cracks: Block draughts around windows and doors with weather stripping, caulk, or even a rolled-up towel to keep hot air out and cool air in. Stay low: Hot air rises, so spend time on lower floors of your home. For a cooler night's sleep, consider placing your mattress directly on the floor. There are also Plus, pick your dream destination from our Advertisement 6 The Baltic region in Germany, is flooded with charming historic towns, backed by lush trees and dotted with colourful houses Credit: Alamy
Scottish Sun
11-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Is the Med too hot for you now? Our favourite sunny European holiday destinations with temperatures under 30C in summer
Plus, nine cheap and free hacks to stay cool in hot weather including bedtime habit to avoid having fan on overnight COOL OFF Is the Med too hot for you now? Our favourite sunny European holiday destinations with temperatures under 30C in summer Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WHILE some sunseekers love basking in 30C and over heat, for some it is just too much. So, where should you head instead of the usual Costas? Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 If you love the Algarve in Portugal then the Costa Verde will be right up your street Credit: Alamy The Sun's Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of top coolcations for this summer where you can find some beautiful alternatives to your favourite holiday destinations, but the temperature is under 30C. Swap Algarve for Costa Verde, Portugal If you love the Algarve in Portugal then the Costa Verde will be right up your street. It's at the northern end of the country where the climate is cooler and with a higher rainfall that makes the landscapes feel somewhat lush and tropical. You can take the whole family to the eight-person Casa do Alto which is carved into the mountainside and offers epic views of the tumbling landscape and sea in the distance. If you're not content enough lounging by the large swimming pool, a sandy beach sits a fifteen minute drive away while the boozy city of Porto is a short train ride from the villa. Seven nights' self-catering costs from £237.25pp, based on eight sharing and for arrival on August 29 with Flights from London to Porto cost from £52 return with Ryanair. Swap Cannes for The Alps, France Travelling with energetic little 'uns that need a little more than just a book on the beach? The French Alps during summer time make for an excellent escape where you can burn off endless steam. Once the snow melts, the mountains are littered with cyclists and adrenaline-junkies hurling themselves off the cliff-edge on a paraglider or navigating down a canyon. The Irish cable car that's only one that crosses open sea in Europe with incredible views, stone walls & €10 tickets Better still, temperatures peak in the mid 20Cs in this region meaning you'll have more energy to get stuck in. Although if it does heat up, there's plenty of watersports at the nearby lake. The easiest way to book is through Responsible Travel which rolls your accommodation and activities into one - although flights cost extra. You can pick from camping accommodation, self-catered apartments, traditional B&Bs and hotels. A seven-night trip costs from £447pp. 6 Once the snow melts in The Alps, the mountains are littered with cyclists and adrenaline-junkies Credit: Alamy Swap Spain's Madrid for the Netherlands The Netherlands offers a different kind of getaway to a beachside fly and flop in Spain – but it's no less fun, especially when you're staying at one of Eurocamp's top holiday parks: Marvilla Parks Kaatsheuvel. The weather tends to be mild in the region of North-Brabant during summer, but temperatures can hit 23C in August, so there'll still be opportunity to flop by the pool which has a play area for kids, along with some twisty slides. If you're up for adventure, the sand dunes of Loon National Park border the resort. But kids and teens will likely prefer a visit to Efteling, a fairytale-inspired theme park just a ten-minute drive away. Seven nights' self-catering is from £146.18pp, based on six sharing a Premium three bedroom holiday home and arriving on July 4. 6 The Netherlands offers a different kind of getaway to a beachside fly and flop in Spain - especially when you're staying at one of Eurocamp's top holiday parks Credit: Roan Swap Budapest for Zemplen Mountains, Hungary It's not just France and Italy that boast glorious mountain regions, Hungary is home to the striking Zemplén Mountains, a rugged stretch of landscape that's part of the inner volcanic belt of the Carpathian Mountains. The area may have once been home to a lava-spilling volcano, but things are much cooler nowadays - around 21C in summer to be exact. With very little signal, travellers can take the opportunity to switch off from the outside world with a digital detox. There's ancient oaks to stroll among, boating on silent lakes, and cycle routes along quiet mountain trails. To ensure you're truly immersed in nature, check into the Kőkapu Vadászkastély és Hotel & Apartments, which is several kilometres from the nearest village. One night's room-only is from £65. See Wizz Air flies from Luton to Budapest from £25.09 each way with Wizz Air. 6 Hungary is home to the striking Zemplén Mountains, a rugged stretch of landscape that's part of the inner volcanic belt of the Carpathian Mountains Credit: Alamy Swap the Costa del Sol for Costa Verde, Spain Things are heating up in southern Spain already, but the tranquil Costa Verde, on the northern coast, stays at around 25C in summer, which means you can still take advantage of those gorgeous sandy beaches. Eurocamp's Playa Joyel has direct access to the shores where holidaymakers can get stuck into paddleboarding, kayaking or even surfing. Don't worry if you're a novice, that's what the Ris Surf School is for. On site there's a family pool, children's pool and a jacuzzi as well as a free kids club for those aged five to 12 (during high season). Plus, there's tennis, football, badminton and boules, all available to guests. Refuel afterwards with some cracking local grub at the on site restaurant – you won't regret it. Seven nights' self-catering is from around £268pp, based on a family of four sharing a Comfort XL two bedroom holiday home, for arrival on August 20. See 6 Costa Verde, on the northern coast, stays at around 25C in summer, which means you can still take advantage of those gorgeous sandy beaches Credit: Alamy Swap the Rhine for the Baltic Sea, Germany Not just sandy beaches await on Germany's northern coast. The region is flooded with charming historic towns, backed by lush trees and dotted with colourful houses. This includes Travemünde, a former fishing town turned port that attracts a number of wellness enthusiasts who come for yoga on the beach and natural swimming pools. Kids, on the other hand, will love Beach Bay Adventure Promenade, home to a water playground, adventure golf, climbing wall and sailing school. Check into the Landal Travemünde which has modern and airy apartments and bungalows overlooking the harbour. They come with kitchens, but if you don't fancy cooking, head to Ahoi by Steffen Henssler, up the road, which does a cracking fish and chips as well as a classic schnitzel and a currywurst. A seven-night break costs from £321.25pp with Nine cheap and free hacks to stay cool WITH temperatures soaring to 30C across parts of the UK this weekend, here are nine simple, budget-friendly tips to help you stay cool, reports The Sun's Summer Maerason. Keep blinds and curtains closed: Drawing your curtains, especially lighter-colored ones, from 9am to 9pm can significantly prevent sunlight from heating your home. Drawing your curtains, especially lighter-colored ones, from 9am to 9pm can significantly prevent sunlight from heating your home. Employ the tin foil hack: Placing tin foil on windows (inside or out) or car windscreens can reflect sunlight and stop heat absorption. Placing tin foil on windows (inside or out) or car windscreens can reflect sunlight and stop heat absorption. Optimise ceiling fan direction: Ensure your ceiling fan blades rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down and create a refreshing breeze. Ensure your ceiling fan blades rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down and create a refreshing breeze. Use night-time ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home in the evening to create a 'night-flush ventilation' cross-breeze, allowing cooler air in and trapped heat out. Open windows on opposite sides of your home in the evening to create a 'night-flush ventilation' cross-breeze, allowing cooler air in and trapped heat out. Create a DIY 'Ice Fan': Position a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan to generate a cool, misty breeze, especially effective in smaller rooms. Position a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan to generate a cool, misty breeze, especially effective in smaller rooms. Minimise heat-generating appliances: Avoid using ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines during peak heat. Opt for outdoor cooking, cold meals, or line-drying laundry. Avoid using ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines during peak heat. Opt for outdoor cooking, cold meals, or line-drying laundry. Hang damp sheets: Drape damp sheets or towels in front of open windows or a fan. As the water evaporates, it draws heat from the air, creating a cooling effect. Drape damp sheets or towels in front of open windows or a fan. As the water evaporates, it draws heat from the air, creating a cooling effect. Seal gaps and cracks: Block draughts around windows and doors with weather stripping, caulk, or even a rolled-up towel to keep hot air out and cool air in. Block draughts around windows and doors with weather stripping, caulk, or even a rolled-up towel to keep hot air out and cool air in. Stay low: Hot air rises, so spend time on lower floors of your home. For a cooler night's sleep, consider placing your mattress directly on the floor. There are also seven top 'holiday destinations to watch' this year including little known Spanish city and quiet islands. Plus, pick your dream destination from our 2025 travel hot list.
The Sun
11-07-2025
- The Sun
Is the Med too hot for you now? Our favourite sunny European holiday destinations with temperatures under 30C in summer
WHILE some sunseekers love basking in 30C and over heat, for some it is just too much. So, where should you head instead of the usual Costas? 6 The Sun's Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of top coolcations for this summer where you can find some beautiful alternatives to your favourite holiday destinations, but the temperature is under 30C. Swap Algarve for Costa Verde, Portugal If you love the Algarve in Portugal then the Costa Verde will be right up your street. It's at the northern end of the country where the climate is cooler and with a higher rainfall that makes the landscapes feel somewhat lush and tropical. You can take the whole family to the eight-person Casa do Alto which is carved into the mountainside and offers epic views of the tumbling landscape and sea in the distance. If you're not content enough lounging by the large swimming pool, a sandy beach sits a fifteen minute drive away while the boozy city of Porto is a short train ride from the villa. Seven nights' self-catering costs from £237.25pp, based on eight sharing and for arrival on August 29 with Flights from London to Porto cost from £52 return with Ryanair. Swap Cannes for The Alps, France The French Alps during summer time make for an excellent escape where you can burn off endless steam. Once the snow melts, the mountains are littered with cyclists and adrenaline-junkies hurling themselves off the cliff-edge on a paraglider or navigating down a canyon. The Irish cable car that's only one that crosses open sea in Europe with incredible views, stone walls & €10 tickets Better still, temperatures peak in the mid 20Cs in this region meaning you'll have more energy to get stuck in. Although if it does heat up, there's plenty of watersports at the nearby lake. The easiest way to book is through Responsible Travel which rolls your accommodation and activities into one - although flights cost extra. You can pick from camping accommodation, self-catered apartments, traditional B&Bs and hotels. A seven-night trip costs from £447pp. 6 Swap Spain's Madrid for the Netherlands The Netherlands offers a different kind of getaway to a beachside fly and flop in Spain – but it's no less fun, especially when you're staying at one of Eurocamp's top holiday parks: Marvilla Parks Kaatsheuvel. The weather tends to be mild in the region of North-Brabant during summer, but temperatures can hit 23C in August, so there'll still be opportunity to flop by the pool which has a play area for kids, along with some twisty slides. If you're up for adventure, the sand dunes of Loon National Park border the resort. But kids and teens will likely prefer a visit to Efteling, a fairytale-inspired theme park just a ten-minute drive away. Seven nights' self-catering is from £146.18pp, based on six sharing a Premium three bedroom holiday home and arriving on July 4. 6 Swap Budapest for Zemplen Mountains, Hungary It's not just France and Italy that boast glorious mountain regions, Hungary is home to the striking Zemplén Mountains, a rugged stretch of landscape that's part of the inner volcanic belt of the Carpathian Mountains. The area may have once been home to a lava-spilling volcano, but things are much cooler nowadays - around 21C in summer to be exact. With very little signal, travellers can take the opportunity to switch off from the outside world with a digital detox. There's ancient oaks to stroll among, boating on silent lakes, and cycle routes along quiet mountain trails. To ensure you're truly immersed in nature, check into the Kőkapu Vadászkastély és Hotel & Apartments, which is several kilometres from the nearest village. One night's room-only is from £65. See Wizz Air flies from Luton to Budapest from £25.09 each way with Wizz Air. 6 Swap the Costa del Sol for Costa Verde, Spain Things are heating up in southern Spain already, but the tranquil Costa Verde, on the northern coast, stays at around 25C in summer, which means you can still take advantage of those gorgeous sandy beaches. Eurocamp's Playa Joyel has direct access to the shores where holidaymakers can get stuck into paddleboarding, kayaking or even surfing. Don't worry if you're a novice, that's what the Ris Surf School is for. On site there's a family pool, children's pool and a jacuzzi as well as a free kids club for those aged five to 12 (during high season). Plus, there's tennis, football, badminton and boules, all available to guests. Refuel afterwards with some cracking local grub at the on site restaurant – you won't regret it. Seven nights' self-catering is from around £268pp, based on a family of four sharing a Comfort XL two bedroom holiday home, for arrival on August 20. See 6 Swap the Rhine for the Baltic Sea, Germany Not just sandy beaches await on Germany's northern coast. The region is flooded with charming historic towns, backed by lush trees and dotted with colourful houses. This includes Travemünde, a former fishing town turned port that attracts a number of wellness enthusiasts who come for yoga on the beach and natural swimming pools. Kids, on the other hand, will love Beach Bay Adventure Promenade, home to a water playground, adventure golf, climbing wall and sailing school. Check into the Landal Travemünde which has modern and airy apartments and bungalows overlooking the harbour. They come with kitchens, but if you don't fancy cooking, head to Ahoi by Steffen Henssler, up the road, which does a cracking fish and chips as well as a classic schnitzel and a currywurst. A seven-night break costs from £321.25pp with Nine cheap and free hacks to stay cool WITH temperatures soaring to 30C across parts of the UK this weekend, here are nine simple, budget-friendly tips to help you stay cool, reports The Sun's Summer Maerason. Keep blinds and curtains closed: Drawing your curtains, especially lighter-colored ones, from 9am to 9pm can significantly prevent sunlight from heating your home. Employ the tin foil hack: Placing tin foil on windows (inside or out) or car windscreens can reflect sunlight and stop heat absorption. Optimise ceiling fan direction: Ensure your ceiling fan blades rotate counter-clockwise to push cool air down and create a refreshing breeze. Use night-time ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home in the evening to create a 'night-flush ventilation' cross-breeze, allowing cooler air in and trapped heat out. Create a DIY 'Ice Fan': Position a bowl of ice cubes in front of a fan to generate a cool, misty breeze, especially effective in smaller rooms. Minimise heat-generating appliances: Avoid using ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines during peak heat. Opt for outdoor cooking, cold meals, or line-drying laundry. Hang damp sheets: Drape damp sheets or towels in front of open windows or a fan. As the water evaporates, it draws heat from the air, creating a cooling effect. Seal gaps and cracks: Block draughts around windows and doors with weather stripping, caulk, or even a rolled-up towel to keep hot air out and cool air in. Stay low: Hot air rises, so spend time on lower floors of your home. For a cooler night's sleep, consider placing your mattress directly on the floor. There are also seven top 'holiday destinations to watch' this year including little known Spanish city and quiet islands. Plus, pick your dream destination from our 2025 travel hot list. 6
Scottish Sun
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Universal's UK theme park plans have dropped – here's what you can expect including nightclubs and film studios
Plus, The Sun's Sophie Swietochowski spent three days at Universal's huge new £7bn theme park PARK UP Universal's UK theme park plans have dropped – here's what you can expect including nightclubs and film studios PLANS have been dropped for the new Universal theme park coming to Bedfordshire. The attraction will be divided into four main land areas known as the Core Zone, Lake Zone, West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone. 5 Plans have been dropped for the new Universal theme park coming to Bedfordshire Within these zones will be the theme park; retail and entertainment destinations; visitor accommodation including hotels, camping and caravanning; sport, recreation, leisure and spa facilities and conference and convention spaces. The plans state: "[Guests will ]experience blockbuster attractions, adrenaline-pumping coasters, and mind-blowing spectaculars. "They'll come face-to-face with incredible creatures, heroes, and villains. "They'll discover great food, new laughs, new ways to play, and step into immersive worlds they've only ever dreamed of." The application also expresses that in the first year, 8.5million visitors are expected to the Core Zone. Then, in future years, 12.5million visitors are expected annually. The split between domestic and international visitors is expected to be 70 per cent and 30 per cent respectively in the first year. Then 52 per cent and 48 per cent respectively in future years. The attraction is also due to be open each day between 9am and 9pm, with visitors starting to arrive at 7am and depart up until 10pm. Hotel arrivals would take place later, at 3pm, to coincide with check-in times. Inside Universal Epic Universe with incredible thrill rides and amazing food The Universal UK theme park is expected to open in 2031. Rides, experiences and attractions Many parts of the application reference what will be included in the theme park. This includes indoor and outdoor rides, attractions, games and pools. There is also set to be events spaces for parades, shows and displays. Entertainment venues are set to include theatres and cinemas and sport, recreation, leisure and spa facilities are also planned. Other entertainment venues suggested are music and dance venues, nightclubs and even tattoo parlours. Planned indoor and outdoor cultural spaces include exhibition spaces, art galleries and museums. Under the accessibility section, the proposal also includes ride examples such as a Men in Black experience, One Fish Two Fish fairground ride and a Jurassic Park water-based ride. 5 The attraction will be divided into four main land areas known as the Core Zone, Lake Zone, West Gateway Zone and the East Gateway Zone Credit: Universal Destinations & Experiences Interestingly, the document also reveals that the site could have media and film production facilities, stating: "For instance a building may be used as a sound stage, film studio, event space or hosting a Universal Destinations & Experiences show or even a mixture of these uses." The application goes on to explain how the use of some buildings at the site may vary seasonally, "for instance during events such as Halloween Horror Nights". There will also be a maximum height of anything in the theme park of 115metres. Core Zone The Core Zone will be the central part of the attraction and is set "to contain the theme park, amusement park and/or water park". The plans also show that it could have an entry plaza, car and coach parking, a 500-room hotel, valet parking service and a transport hub. Lake Zone The Lake Zone will be the northernmost part of the attraction. In this zone, the proposed plans include business hotels with 2000 rooms, further hotels and accommodation with 3370 bedrooms and entertainment complex support. This zone is also set to include the Convention Centre, which will span across 55,000square-metres. 5 Within these zones will be the theme park; retail and entertainment destinations; visitor accommodation including hotels, camping and caravanning; sport, recreation, leisure and spa facilities and conference and convention spaces Credit: Universal Any shops in this zone will have a maximum size of 1,100square-metres. In addition, this zone would have a new wetland habitat. East Gateway Zone The East Gateway Zone will be located in the eastern area of the Bedfordshire site, located near the village of Wixams. The East Gateway Zone would also adjoin the planned site of the new Wixams Rail Station. West Gateway Zone The westernmost area of the site will feature the West Gateway Zone. This zone is set to include a petrol station with 16 pumps, restaurants up to 5,866square-metres, a 200-bedroom hotel and entertainment resort complex support. Any shops in this zone will have a maximum size of 1,100square-metres. Accessibility and inclusion Universal is also committed to "creating a theme park experience that's inclusive and accessible to everyone, ensuring that all our guests can embark on unforgettable journeys regardless of their abilities". 5 The plans state: "[Guests will ]experience blockbuster attractions, adrenaline-pumping coasters, and mind-blowing spectaculars" Credit: Universal Destinations & Experiences For the UK park this means that there will be wide and smooth pathways for wheelchairs, ramps and lifts, accessible toilets in each toilet block and accessible hotel accommodation. Rides would each have one row or seat that can accommodate wheelchair users or visitors with walking impairments. Assistive technology would also be available throughout the park such as captioning, audio description, tactile maps and a phone app. Transport The overall site also plans to include a new junction on the A421, an expanded railway station on the Thameslink/Midland Main Line at Wixams, improvements to roads and potential land for a new railway station on the proposed EWR Bletchley to Bedford line (if this were to happen in the future). The vision includes a four-platform, four-track station at Wixams with a new station building. The application also reveals that the Core Zone could have a transport hub, where a "rail-related development may be provided". Pedestrian and cycle routes are set to be added to the park too. In the mean time The Sun's Sophie Swietochowski spent three days at Universal's huge new £7bn theme park and has shared all the things worth doing… and the bits to skip.
