Delays on A55 and key routes as holidaymakers flood to Wales
It's meant that there is heavy congestion on the roads - especially the A55 westbound.
Google's live traffic maps show the current congestion on the A55/A494 westbound (Image: Google Maps) Traffic Wales has warned of delays on the Nant-y-dugoed, Welshpool westbound, A494 Llyn Tegid, Bala & surrounding routes due to limited parking and A494 Drome Corner westbound (Cheshire to Flintshire).
People are urged to allow extra time for their journeys today.
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Daily Record
3 hours ago
- Daily Record
The Scottish caravan park 'just a short walk' from one of country's best beaches
One visitor described the views as "second to none". As we enter the middle of July, the summer season is officially halfway over. That means time is running out to book a family holiday before autumn rolls around. When it comes to staycations in Scotland, the only limit is your imagination. Whether you are looking for a quiet woodlands retreat or a fun coastal getaway, you have plenty of options. However, sometimes nothing beats a good old-fashioned caravan park. One new park that has already earned positive reviews from visitors is Melvich Bay Caravan Park. The 25-acre caravan and campervan park is located along the north coast of Sutherland, on the popular North Coast 500 scenic driving route. According to staff, the site is approaching 70 per cent occupancy. Director and local farmer Angus Forbes, who launched the business in March with two co-directors, commented: "Demand from visitors has been exceptional. Customer satisfaction has been overwhelming and we're heading towards 66 per cent occupancy on the site. "We were only expecting 25 per cent occupancy in the first three months. We've even had an enquiry from a couple interested in coming up from the central belt to get married on our park—which is unexpected—but flattering!" Melvich Bay Caravan Park benefits from panoramic views of Orkney and the North Atlantic Ocean. It lies on the outskirts of the village of Melvich, "a short walk away" from the sandy Melvich Beach. As reported by the Daily Record, Melvich Beach was recently named among the best beaches in Scotland by The Times. The newspaper praised the bay for being well-suited to campervans and described it as a "wide curve of ochre sand". Melvich Bay Caravan Park owners launched the business to address a shortage of facilities for travellers on the increasingly popular North Coast 500 route. They hope to grow bookings month by month on reputation, recommendations, and the appeal of its pitches. The park features 30 pitches of 12 square metres for camper vans, motorhomes, and other visitors. It charges £35 for an overnight stay, with amenities including modern toilet and shower facilities and chemical waste disposal. Among the happy visitors to Melvich Bay Caravan Park are Kelvin Pitt, whose Google review describes the outlook of the beach as "second to none". The holidaymaker adds that he would "recommend this site all day long". With demand well ahead of expectations, the directors are increasing their focus on sustainable tourism. In a letter sent to local stakeholders, including Highland and Islands Enterprise and Highland Council, Melvich Bay Caravan Park director Malcolm Morrison calls for the Leave No Trace campaign—which urges North Coast 500 holidaymakers to take their litter home—to be "beefed-up". Morrison wrote: "The North Coast 500's Leave No Trace policy already makes it clear on its website that illegal disposal of waste is unacceptable, but it is the belief of my co-directors and I that a substantially beefed-up campaigning should be developed and broadcast widely throughout the region ahead of this year's busy tourist season." He added: "While thousands of annual visitors to our Highland communities have been an economic boon, the environmental disruption of litter and, worse, recklessly discarded biological waste, has been a rightful source of local complaint."
Time Out
4 hours ago
- Time Out
The best lido in Britain is in south London
After enduring the sweltering heat that has descended upon London this summer, there's only two places that anyone wants to be: in an air-conditioned room, or in the water. Nothing is better on a sunny day than lathering on your suncream and cooling off in a pool – even better if it's outdoors. Luckily, there are dozens of brilliant lidos in the capital so that you can get that beach-feel in the city centre, and without leaving sand in your socks for months to come. Lidos often require pre-booking (unless you fancy an hours-long queue – or getting turned away entirely), so you want to make sure you're going to the best of the best. That's why the AA has decided to do some serious research to figure out the best lidos in the country. The good news? The best lido in Britain is right here in London. The AA was pretty thorough in its search for the nation's favourite outdoor pool. The company combined data from Google searches, Google review scores, amount of Instagram hashtags used, entry and parking fees, average temperature, and hours of sunlight in summer. All that info was then combined to give each lido an average score out of 100. So where should you be heading next time a heatwave strikes? According to the AA, Brockwell Lido, which achieved an overall score of 82.9/100. We're not surprised – it's only been a couple of weeks since we at Time Out reached the exact same conclusion, saying Brockwell is the city's top pool. So what's the fuss about? Regulars love that the lido doubles up as a great spot to sunbathe, and that it features a Grade II-listed art deco building, dating back to the 1930s. It's also home to a cute café you can pop into once you've done enough swimming in the bright blue 50m long pool, and boasts a sauna. The next London lido on the AA's chart was also south of the river: Tooting Bec Lido got a score of 76.4 and placed second overall. Coming in at a whopping 91m, TBL is the UK's longest freshwater outdoor swimming pool, and it's set against a wall of gorgeous colourful changing huts. You will also need to book ahead here to get a swimming slot. Securing fourth best in the country, and third in the capital, was London Fields Lido. Its score of 71.3 was largely due to being one of the warmest in the country, due to it being one of the few heated outdoor pools in the city. Although that may not be necessary at present, it makes for a very pleasant swim most of the time. Hampstead Heath ponds and Hampton pool also made it into the nation's top 10 at sixth and eighth place respectively. Clearly, we're spoiled for choice for great lidos here in the capital.
Scottish Sun
5 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
I'm a money-saving mum who cleared £225k worth of debt – here's my summer savers guide from free meals to cheap days out
Gemma's 'No Spend Days' went viral and helped families save a fortune. Now, she's on a mission for YOU to save even more cash with her destination dupes, Google accommodation trick and party cupboard tip HOLI-YAY! I'm a money-saving mum who cleared £225k worth of debt – here's my summer savers guide from free meals to cheap days out Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AT the age of 42, Gemma Bird became mortgage-free after successfully paying off £225k, and now she's on a mission to help YOU save money this summer. The mum-of-two managed to climb out of debt using clever money-saving strategies, despite never earning more than £25k per year. 7 Gemma Bird has shared all her tips for families to save this summer Credit: NEWSUK 7 Gemma launched her Instagram page in 2019 Credit: Gemma Bird - Instagram Thanks to her savvy scrimping, she's now able to enjoy holidays to destinations like Mexico, Lapland, and Dubai. In 2019, Gemma launched her Instagram page, @Moneymumofficial, to share her tips on saving and making money, which quickly gained traction. Now 43, Gemma has amassed an impressive following of 474k on Instagram, where her followers regularly tune in for her expert advice. Reflecting on her journey, she says: 'I was just a working-class girl who loved a bargain. I'm able to afford everything I have today because of the way I saved and my obsession with deals. It doesn't matter how much money you have, everyone loves a bargain.' I was just a working-class girl who loved a bargain In 2020, Gemma introduced her popular 'Gemma's No Spend Days' on social media, which became a huge hit. Building on this success, she landed a book deal, and her Sunday Times bestseller, Money Mum Official: Save Yourself Happy, was published in January 2022. Now living near Billericay, Essex with her husband Adam and their two children, Brody and Bronte, Gemma shares her top tips for having a fun summer - without having to break the bank. No spend days Rev up your savings with no-spend days. Pausing your spending just one day a week can truly make a significant impact on your finances. I've made no-spend days a habit for years - during my toughest saving periods, I'd go three or four days a week without spending a penny. Not only does it save money, but it also highlights how much we often waste on non-essentials. Summer holidays with the kids don't have to break the bank either. Instead of splurging on pricey outings, why not host playdates at home? You can keep the little ones entertained with fun DIY activities like setting up a game of bowls in the garden or creating simple homemade crafts. There are plenty of free attractions that make for a fantastic day out It's all about making small swaps: meeting friends at the park instead of a café, painting your own nails, or whipping up a creative meal with what you've got in the freezer. These little changes can go a long way – and trust me, it's worth it. There are also plenty of free attractions that make for a fantastic day out, like the Science Museum or the Natural History Museum in London. Pack your own food to avoid unnecessary expenses, and plan your visits around free parking times to save even more. With a little planning, you can enjoy quality family time without spending a fortune. Checking in for your dream holiday Dreaming of a getaway without the hefty price tag? There are plenty of creative ways to enjoy a break while keeping your spending in check. 7 Gemma recommends searching 'holiday dupes' for bargain getaways Credit: Instagram Why not skip the trending hotspots like Dubai or Santorini and opt for hidden gems that offer similar vibes at a fraction of the cost? Simply search for 'holiday dupes' online to find destinations that deliver the experience you want without the premium price tag. Always book hotels with free cancellation as well. Monitor price drops and rebook if the price decreases - this simple trick can save you hundreds. I often book months in advance and keep checking for deals right up to the day before check-in. Most people don't bother, but trust me, it's worth it. Make the most of air miles and credit card points as well. Pay for expenses using a credit card that earns air miles, but be sure to pay it off in full each month. Companion flights and air miles have saved us a fortune – we've flown to America for under £1,000 return for a family of four. Using points, we even managed to fly first class one way and economy back for just £1,800 – a deal that would normally cost £24,000. Look out for last-minute deals and make use of vouchers like Tesco Clubcard or The Sun Superdays. These can help you bag bargain breaks without cutting corners. Top Hacks for Holidaying with Kids IF you've got plans to go on holiday with your little ones this summer, here's some advice to take on board. Plan Ahead: Book accommodations with family-friendly amenities. Research kid-friendly attractions and activities. Make travel arrangements that accommodate your children's schedules. Pack Smart: Create a packing checklist to ensure you don't forget essentials. Pack a mix of familiar and new toys to keep kids entertained. Bring snacks, extra clothes, and emergency supplies in your carry-on. Travel Comfort: Use neck pillows and blankets for a more comfortable journey. Download movies, games, and music on tablets or phones. Schedule travel during nap times or overnight to maximise sleep. Stay Organized: Use packing cubes to keep clothes and items sorted. Keep important documents, like passports and tickets, in a dedicated folder. Utilise apps for itinerary management and navigation. Engage and Entertain: Plan interactive activities like scavenger hunts or travel journals. Explore local parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly museums. Involve kids in trip planning to get them excited and engaged. Maintain Routine: Stick to regular meal and sleep times as much as possible. Bring along comfort items, like favorite blankets or stuffed animals. Allow for downtime to avoid overstimulation. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust plans based on your children's needs and moods. Embrace the unexpected and make the most of impromptu moments. Keep a positive attitude to set the tone for a fun and memorable trip. These hacks can help make your holiday with kids smoother, more enjoyable, and will ensure that you return home with wonderful memories! And don't be afraid or ashamed to email a hotel for a cheeky upgrade. A polite email ahead of your stay mentioning special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries could land you free perks or room upgrades. You might be surprised by how accommodating hotels can be. Get savvy with price comparisons When booking hotels or Airbnbs, I always screenshot the property and use Google Photos to search for it on other websites. More often than not, I find the same property listed for less – this simple trick has saved me hundreds of pounds. When it comes to flights, tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner are invaluable for comparing prices. Don't be afraid to experiment with dates, times, and even nearby airports to uncover the best deals. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Heading away for next to nothing Looking for ways to save big on your holidays? Staying with friends or doing house swaps can be a brilliant option. 7 Gemma recommends renting out a spare room for a few weeks to help pay the bills Credit: The Sun On one trip, we stayed with friends in Scotland – we split the food bill, enjoyed home-cooked meals, and had an amazing time for next to nothing. If you're comfortable with it, renting out your home on Airbnb while you're away could be a game-changer, covering the cost of your holiday entirely. If it works for you, letting your home can bring in serious money. I know people who let their homes while they're on holiday, effectively paying for their trips, and even someone who lets her flat one week a month while staying with her mum. Whether you live in a tourist hotspot or a quieter area, there's often demand for short-term stays – from business travellers to those visiting family. If you're thinking about it, take some time to prepare. Great photos make all the difference, so show off clean kitchens, freshly made beds, cosy living spaces, and any views you might have. A little effort before uploading pictures can really boost bookings. Alternatively if you have a spare room in your house, you could rent it out to a trainee teacher. We rented out a room to a trainees teacher from France on work experience at the local secondary school, and enjoyed having them stay. You could also open your home to touring performers or language students visiting your area for short periods – they're often out and about most of the time anyway. To get started, contact local theatres, schools, or language schools to see how to join their accommodation lists. Alternatively, you can use a trusted platform like to guide you through the process safely and securely. This could really bring in the extra cash. Camping out For nature lovers, free camping is another brilliant budget-friendly idea. A quick search for free campsites near you can uncover hidden gems where you can enjoy the great outdoors without spending a penny. 7 Opt for independent camping and caravan sites to save on your next staycation Credit: Getty If you're looking for affordable caravan holidays? Independent caravan sites can often provide great value compared to big-name chains. While they may not have all the extras, they're perfect for a budget-friendly break. I remember visiting one in Canby when I was younger, and while it wasn't anything fancy, it was clean, tidy, and served its purpose. We had a brilliant time despite the simplicity! Sometimes the smaller, independent sites offer a more personal and cosy experience, so they're definitely worth checking out. If you're considering a caravan holiday, don't overlook these lesser-known spots – they might just be the perfect option for a fun and affordable getaway. Eating out for free Eating out during the school holidays doesn't have to cost a fortune – there are plenty of ways to save if you plan ahead. I always avoid overpriced food at attractions by either packing snacks from home or grabbing a supermarket meal deal on the way. Even if I forget, I'll stop at a shop before heading into a venue – it's so much cheaper than paying their inflated prices. I took my daughter to the theatre recently, and she wanted some sweets. The price for a small bag of fruit pastilles was £5! Whether I can afford it or not, I just couldn't justify it – it felt like daylight robbery. I told her she'd have to wait until we left, and honestly, it's these little choices that help keep costs down. There are also great perks to take advantage of. For example, Octopus Energy customers can use the OctiPlus app to claim a free coffee each week from Caffè Nero or Greggs. If you've never downloaded the Greggs app before, you'll get a free drink just for signing up – I've definitely made the most of that. When it comes to dining out, lots of places offer deals where kids eat free. Some great options include Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, Comptoir Libanais, Bill's, Yo! Sushi, Morrisons, Tesco, Bella Italia, ASDA, and Ikea. It's always worth checking what's available before heading out. Swimming on a budget Keeping the kids entertained during term time doesn't have to cost a fortune – with a bit of planning and creativity, there are plenty of affordable activities to enjoy. 7 Why not see if a local homeowner with a pool is renting it out for a day? Credit: Getty Local swimming pools are often very affordable, so start by checking out smaller pools near you. For something a little different, some private homes rent out their pools by the hour. We've got one near us, and it's around £30–£40 for an hour, which you can split with other families. It works out really cheap and gives you the pool all to yourselves. We did this last year, and it was brilliant – the kids loved it, and it's perfect if you're not a fan of crowded pools. Splash parks are another fantastic option – often free or inexpensive, they're great for outdoor water fun without the cost of entry fees. Cinema and bowling deals Take advantage of early morning cinema screenings like Mini Mornings, offered by Cineworld, Vue, and other cinema chains. These sessions are heavily discounted and perfect for a family outing without spending loads. They may be called different things depending on the cinema, but they're all great value. Bowling can be another fun and affordable activity if you plan ahead. Always check online for vouchers or discounts before booking – many venues offer deals that can make a big difference to the cost of a family trip. But before heading out anywhere, always do a quick search online for vouchers or discounts. Kids pass and discounts When it comes to keeping costs down on days out and activities, I'm always on the lookout for ways to save. Kids Pass is a fantastic option – it's great for discounts on theme parks, cinemas, and other activities. Kellogg's also regularly runs promotions for free or discounted days out, and I've used their vouchers loads of times in the past. Tesco Clubcard points are another lifesaver – they can get you brilliant deals for places like Legoland, Alton Towers, and other big attractions. I never go to theme parks without a deal; whether it's two-for-one offers or discounts where kids go free, there are always vouchers if you keep an eye out. I've found that Tesco Clubcard points, in particular, are brilliant for these kinds of trips. That said, memberships can be a good idea too, but only if you'll use them enough to make them worthwhile. For instance, if it costs £50 per visit and you know you'll go three times a year, then a membership might save you money. But if you're not going to use it regularly, it's just not worth it. You've got to weigh up how far you live, how often you'll go, and whether perks like discounts on food and drink will actually benefit you. I personally always bring my own food and drink, so those extras don't save me much. Check with your energy provider Another great tip is to check if your energy provider offers perks. For example, Octopus Energy has deals on activities, and even free passes for things like cinema tickets. There are also deals like Meerkat Movies, which can save you a lot. For quieter days at home, free trial subscriptions can be a lifesaver. Services like Prime Movies often offer free trials, and you can use them during the holidays for movie nights with the kids. Just make sure you set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged. Having a party cupboard When it comes to buying toys for my kids or gifts for others, I've always been smart about finding bargains. I've never been shy about buying second-hand toys – charity shops, boot sales, and school fairs are absolute goldmines. My daughter Bronte genuinely thinks the toy shop is the charity shop or Poundland, and she couldn't care less. Kids don't mind about fancy packaging or where things come from – they just love the excitement of having something 'new' to play with. I also do toy rotation at home. 7 Have your kids' toys on a rotation, it will stop them getting bored playing with the same ones Credit: Getty I'll keep some toys hidden away and swap them out every few days. It keeps things fresh, and they feel like they're getting something new without spending a penny. Whenever I see toys on offer – whether it's in shops like B&M or online on Amazon - I'll grab them and put them away for later, especially for birthdays or Christmas. Amazon is brilliant for deals on kids' toys, and I'm always checking for price drops. Just the other day, I found a toy reduced from £40 to £7.99. I shared it with friends, and loads of people started buying it to put away for Christmas. It's such a good feeling to be prepared and save money at the same time. I also stick to a budget of around £10 per present. If I can grab a deal like two toys for £10 that would normally cost £17 each, then the child is still getting a really nice gift, but I'm not overspending. For older kids, I'll often just put money in a card – it's practical and lets them save for something they really want. Being savvy with toys and gifts has saved me so much over the years, and it's a great way to always have something ready without breaking the bank. Saving and making money There are so many clever ways to save money when it comes to driving and parking. For starters, to maximise your car's mileage, try only half-filling your fuel tank each time. A full tank adds extra weight, which causes your car to burn more fuel. Renting out your parking space could earn you around £50 a month You can also save by removing roof racks when they're not in use and clearing out your boot to avoid driving around with unnecessary weight. These small changes can make a big difference to your fuel efficiency over time. If you've got a parking space or driveway you're not using, you could easily turn it into a little extra cash. In areas where parking is expensive and hard to find, commuters or train travellers are often on the lookout for more affordable options. Renting out your space could earn you around £50 a month, and apps like JustPark make it really simple to get started. Plus, having an extra car parked on your drive can even act as a burglar deterrent. On the flip side, if you regularly drive to work or a specific destination, it's worth exploring whether you can rent a parking space instead of paying extortionate daily fees.
