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Scottish Sun
07-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Four Scottish coastal spots named among UK's top hidden gems
Read on to find out the full ranking GO SEA IT Four Scottish coastal spots named among UK's top hidden gems FOUR Scottish seaside spots have been named in a list of the UK's top hidden gems. With the weather warming up, millions of us are choosing to enjoy holidays closer to home. 3 Collieston in Aberdeenshire was named in a list of the best hidden gems Credit: Alamy 3 Ellenabeich in Argyll and Bute boasts a unique slate beach Credit: Alamy 3 Kilchattan Bay lies on the edge of a picturesque bay Credit: Getty And Scotland boasts a range of stunning options, from quaint harbour towns to secluded bays. Researchers at Insure4Boats analysed online search volumes of over 250 coastal towns, cities, villages and resorts to determine must-visit spots across the country. The data was then shortlisted to 15 locations with less than 5,000 monthly searches. Each location was scored on its attractiveness to visitors from the number of local attractions, social media engagements, Blue Flag status and even the chance of sun and rain. Four Scottish locations were named among the top coastal hidden gems. Collieston in Aberdeenshire came in at number nine in the ranking. The small, former fishing village is situated along the North Sea coast. Collieston Beach is described as being "perfect for families and children", with the nearby Smugglers Cone shop serving delicious ice cream, drinks and snacks. At number 13, Scourie in Sutherland boasts a "peaceful, sheltered" beach. According to Visit Scotland, the location is a haven for wildlife spotting. UK beach named one of the top 100 in the world Tourists can also enjoy a walk out to the cliff point with "spectacular" views of Handa Island. Kilchattan Bay on the Isle of Bute ranked 14th in the list, lying on the edge of a picturesque bay. The coastal spot is home to a number of wading birds and can be easily accessed by both car and public transport. Ellenabeich in Argyll and Bute came in at number 15 on Insure4Boats list. The small village on the Isle of Seil boasts a unique slate beach and is connected to the mainland by The Bridge Over the Atlantic. Visitors can enjoy cute white workers' cottages, set at the foot of dramatic black cliffs on the westernmost tip of the island. Alan Thomas, CEO of Insure4Boats, said: "With so many of us looking to escape the crowds and discover something new this summer, our research shines a light on the UK's most overlooked coastal spots. "Whether it's a peaceful harbour town, a sun-soaked bay, or a wildlife-rich cove, these destinations offer a quieter, more authentic alternative to the usual seaside haunts."
Daily Record
06-05-2025
- Daily Record
Scotland's top four 'hidden coastal gems' named ahead of summer
The picturesque seaside villages are dotted all over the country. Scotland's top "hidden coastal gems" have been named. Four secluded seaside destinations have been singled out on a new expert list. With summer just around the corner, people across Scotland and beyond will be on the hunt for scenic staycation destinations. If you are wanting to avoid the crowds, there are little-known coastal villages dotted around the country worth a visit. As the weather continues to warm up, new data from Insure4Boats has unveiled the UK's top hidden coastal gems to visit. Four locations in Scotland are featured in the UK-wide top 15. The highest-placing Scottish destination is Collieston in Aberdeenshire, coming in at number nine on the overall list. It is a small former fishing village along the North Sea coast. Collieston is home to fishermen's houses that overlook a picturesque pier and harbour. Meanwhile, the Forvie National Nature Reserve that is popular amongst hikers and birdwatchers alike borders the village and is open around the year. The most popular feature of Collieston is Collieston Beach, which is sheltered from the North Sea by the village's pier. As a result, the water is very calm—making it ideal for families and children. Elsewhere, following behind as the second-best coastal hidden gem in Scotland is Scourie in Sutherland. Historically spelled 'Scoury', the village placed at number 13 on Insure4Boats' list. Formerly a Clan Mackay stronghold, Scourie is renowned for its unspoilt and rugged beauty. It is also home to a number of popular hotels and bed and breakfasts, such as the four-star Scourie Hotel and the Scourie Guest House. Like Collieston, the main feature of Scourie is its spectacular beach. Scourie Beach features wide sand divided by rocks and is a popular location to spot seabirds. Following behind in third place for Scotland on the experts' list is Kilchattan Bay on the Isle of Bute. The small island village placed at number 14 on the UK-wide roundup. Situated in the south of Bute in the Firth of Clyde, Kilchattan Bay is easily accessible by both car and public transport. Known for its Victorian villas, the village is nestled along the edge of a picturesque bay. Sharing its name with the village, the mostly east-facing bay offers sweeping views out to the island of Great Cumbrae. At low tide, there is a sandy beach to explore and even some rock pools to investigate. Finally, Ellenabeich in Argyll and Bute is the final Scottish destination to feature on Insure4Boats' list of the UK's top coastal hidden gems. The small village, situated on the isle of Seil, placed at number 15. Ellenabeich is the biggest settlement on Seil, and is linked to the mainland by a small bridge humorously known as 'The Bridge Over the Atlantic'. The village features a unique beach covered in shards of slate, while there are regular boat rides out to the tiny island of Easdale just off of the shore. CEO of Insure4Boats Alan Thomas commented: "With so many of us looking to escape the crowds and discover something new this summer, our research shines a light on the UK's most overlooked coastal spots. Whether it's a peaceful harbour town, a sun-soaked bay, or a wildlife-rich cove, these destinations offer a quieter, more authentic alternative to the usual seaside haunts." To put together their list, the experts analysed online search volumes of more than 250 UK coastal towns, cities, villages, and resorts. The data was then shortlisted to 15 locations with less than 5,000 monthly searches. Each location was then scored on its attractiveness to visitors. Factors considered included the number of local attractions, social media engagements, Blue Flag status, and even the chance of sun and rain. See below for the full list of the UK's top coastal hidden gems. More information can be found on the Insure4Boats website. The UK's top coastal hidden gems Trearddur, Anglesey Salcombe Regis and Goodrington, Devon Lydd-on-Sea, Kent and Mwnt in Ceredigion Crimdon, County Durham Ynyslas, Ceredigion Port Erin, Isle of Man Whitepark Bay, County Antrim Ferryside, Carmarthenshire Collieston, Aberdeenshire Llanddona, Anglesey Llandanwg, Gwynedd Trebarwith Strand, Cornwall Scourie, Sutherland Kilchattan Bay, Isle of Bute Ellenabeich, Argyll and Bute
Daily Mirror
30-04-2025
- Daily Mirror
Holidaymakers warned of 10 food items you can no longer bring back from France
It's that time of year when we are getting ready for our summer hols. There's always a lot of planning and organisation involved but this year there is a new ban holidaymakers must be aware of when they are packing. As of April 25 2025, the UK government has placed a temporary ban on Brits bringing back certain EU products to try to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease. And travellers to France will need to know what they can and can't bring back into the UK from their time holidaying across the Channel - so they can declare the products accurately. The border forces will be able to seize and destroy the products accordingly. However if holidaymakers don't declare the banned products on their return, they risk being prosecuted. The Mirror looks at what travellers can and can't bring back to the UK and what you can plan to bring into the EU, according to Ripe Motorhouse Insurance who has collated a handy guide. What can you bring back from the EU into the UK? Some types of poultry, specifically goose, duck chicken or any products containing these meats. Products from these animals - such as eggs. What can't you bring to the UK? Since April 12th 2025, Brits have not been allowed to bring back the following EU products: Beef, Pork, Goat, Lamb, Mutton, Venison and any product containing these meats. Pet food or food not for consumption that contains any of these meats. Dairy products - such as cheese, yoghurt and butter. What food can I take to France in my motorhome? You can bring any fruit and vegetables into France that are grown originally within the EU, provided they are free from disease or any pest. You can also bring in chocolates or other confectionery and processed foods,, but they must not have any dairy or meat ingredients. Fruit and vegetables. However if they were grown in the UK or outside the EU you must be able to show a relevant plant health certificate. Exceptions include coconuts, dates, bananas, and pineapples. Fish and seafood such as lobsters, prawns, mussels, and snails. Please note that the mussels and snails must be dead. 'Our handy guide for holiday goers on what to not bring back from France will save unnecessary delays in returning home in you r motorhome," says Alan Thomas, CEO of Ripe Motorhome Insurance. "As the bans are only temporary, travellers should check before setting off what they can bring back to ensure the UK isn't currently affected by foot and mouth disease in the EU.'
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Insurtech company Ripe finalises GJW Direct purchase from Munich Re
UK-based insurtech company Ripe has completed its acquisition of boat insurance specialist GJW Direct from Munich Re Specialty. Financial details of the deal, initially announced in October 2024, remain undisclosed. Set up in 1826, GJW Direct is known for its non-commercial marine insurance offerings covering an array of boats. Ripe believes that its technological capabilities and marketing expertise will help GJW Direct, paving the way to 'future growth'. GJW Direct's insurance products have been integrated into Ripe's proprietary technology platform, Juice. Ripe CEO Alan Thomas said: 'Our proprietary platform will enhance the customer experience for GJW Direct policyholders while preserving the brand's trusted reputation. We are thrilled to welcome GJW Direct policyholders to Ripe.' Munich Re Specialty – global markets UK managing director Danielle Champion said: 'GJW Direct has been a valued part of Munich Re Specialty for over two decades. This is a great next step for the brand, and we wish Ripe every success as they move forward in driving the future growth of GJW Direct. I would like to thank the customers of GJW Direct for their trust and continuous support during Munich Re Specialty's ownership of this prestigious brand. 'Munich Re Specialty's decision to sell GJW Direct was driven by a reflection on our strategic goals and plans for the next stage of our own growth. Our Specialty strategy in the UK regional market will continue to advance in the coming years and we are excited to progress our offering of specialty solutions for today's dynamic challenges.' The deal is set to boost Ripe's boat insurance market share, adding to its existing portfolio that includes Insure4Boats and Craftinsure, the latter having been acquired by Ripe in 2023. "Insurtech company Ripe finalises GJW Direct purchase from Munich Re " was originally created and published by Life Insurance International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
