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The Irish Sun
18 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
I stayed at the English seaside caravan park with private lido, Vegas-like cabanas and cosy pub
THE West Sussex town of Selsey famously has just one road in and out of it – but the seaside spot is so fun-packed, the exit lane should be scrapped. My family and I had just spent a long weekend at the Advertisement 5 Selsey is a coastal gem and perfect for the whole family Credit: Supplied 5 Some of the lodges at Seal Bay are just steps from the shore Credit: Supplied We were staying in Green Lawns, the most rural of the site's four themed sections, which lives up to its name with a pond and trees that my sons were constantly scaling. Our classic lodge was filled with mod cons, including a deep bath, huge shower, washing machine, dishwasher and classy electric fire. For nearby food, this zone is also home to the giant Viking Bar which, despite looking like an imposing cowboy saloon from outside, is like a warm and welcoming local pub. A little farther away, the burgers, beers and ice creams at Cafe Lido are of bafflingly good quality — yet the 'double burger' is just £9.99 and the classic hotdog not even a fiver. Advertisement Read More on Travel We have holidayed on caravan sites for almost 40 years and having affordable restaurants and action-packed activites within walking distance of your home is a huge perk. But only now, after all those years, do I recognise how vital holiday parks might be for little ones with special educational needs, or even younger kids who tire more easily. When long flights, unfamiliar surroundings or sensory overloads might be too much for someone, places like Seal Bay are so important. You can choose to have the most secluded and private break or throw yourself into eight hours of non-stop activities and entertainment. Advertisement Most read in Beach holidays Competition A short stroll from our lodge was the White Horse area, offering lots of sporting action. Then there's the Dockyard, which has a stunning lido, with a splash area and swimming pools surrounded by bright-orange cabanas that wouldn't look amiss in Vegas — these come at an extra charge. Martin Lewis gives travel advice about checking your passport Indoors there is a nine-hole crazy- golf course, state-of-the-art climbing wall and a death-defying bounce- playground above your heads. And around the corner is the vast and lush sports field where the Seal Bay Soccer Academy is run by brilliant staff with grade-A equipment — Mitre balls, goals, bibs, cones, hurdles and slalom poles. Advertisement We had a family match against new friends Taylor, Sarah, Mick and Archie, who made the hour fly by. The largest zone in the holiday complex is West Sands, which sits right on the beach. It even has a wave simulator, Wave Rider, open May to September. We had blistering weather so spent as much time as possible on the beach or in the ocean, but the indoor Oasis Bay pool is ideal for wetter weather. We ventured down to this area on Saturday and found a giant TV screen, on the beach rocks, showing the FA Cup Final. Advertisement 5 Surf's up at the wave simulator at the resort Credit: Supplied 5 Have fun ten-pin bowling Credit: Supplied My boys split their time between watching Then we headed for a BBQ dinner at Smokey's Ocean Bar. Advertisement There, the lads demolished the Pitmaster's Feast of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, buffalo wings, sausage, chilli and sides and somehow had room for ice-cream sundaes. A family of three were stuffed for just over £50. We used our stroll back to base camp to walk off the meat sweats but there is a courtesy bus — that loops around the park, stopping at all the key areas — plus electric bikes and pedal go-karts to hire. On Sunday we finished off with the brilliant Zorbing experience — you strap your child into a giant bubble and let them play crash-test dummies — then another swim and an archery session, before my kids slept the whole way home. Advertisement And I would love to tell you we partied all weekend into the early hours but we were shattered and asleep by 8pm every day, dreaming of the next day's adventure. 5 There's entertainment galore on site Credit: Supplied GO: SELSEY STAYING THERE: A three-night weekend stay in two bed classic holiday caravan sleeping up to six is from £419 in total, arriving June 27. See
Scottish Sun
18 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
I stayed at the English seaside caravan park with private lido, Vegas-like cabanas and cosy pub
You can choose to have the most secluded and private break or throw yourself into eight hours of non-stop activities and entertainment HAVE TO SEA IT I stayed at the English seaside caravan park with private lido, Vegas-like cabanas and cosy pub THE West Sussex town of Selsey famously has just one road in and out of it – but the seaside spot is so fun-packed, the exit lane should be scrapped. My family and I had just spent a long weekend at the Cove's Seal Bay resort, where every lodge, caravan and holiday home sits just a short stroll from the ocean. Advertisement 5 Selsey is a coastal gem and perfect for the whole family Credit: Supplied 5 Some of the lodges at Seal Bay are just steps from the shore Credit: Supplied We were staying in Green Lawns, the most rural of the site's four themed sections, which lives up to its name with a pond and trees that my sons were constantly scaling. Our classic lodge was filled with mod cons, including a deep bath, huge shower, washing machine, dishwasher and classy electric fire. For nearby food, this zone is also home to the giant Viking Bar which, despite looking like an imposing cowboy saloon from outside, is like a warm and welcoming local pub. A little farther away, the burgers, beers and ice creams at Cafe Lido are of bafflingly good quality — yet the 'double burger' is just £9.99 and the classic hotdog not even a fiver. Advertisement We have holidayed on caravan sites for almost 40 years and having affordable restaurants and action-packed activites within walking distance of your home is a huge perk. But only now, after all those years, do I recognise how vital holiday parks might be for little ones with special educational needs, or even younger kids who tire more easily. When long flights, unfamiliar surroundings or sensory overloads might be too much for someone, places like Seal Bay are so important. You can choose to have the most secluded and private break or throw yourself into eight hours of non-stop activities and entertainment. Advertisement A short stroll from our lodge was the White Horse area, offering lots of sporting action. Then there's the Dockyard, which has a stunning lido, with a splash area and swimming pools surrounded by bright-orange cabanas that wouldn't look amiss in Vegas — these come at an extra charge. Martin Lewis gives travel advice about checking your passport Indoors there is a nine-hole crazy- golf course, state-of-the-art climbing wall and a death-defying bounce- playground above your heads. And around the corner is the vast and lush sports field where the Seal Bay Soccer Academy is run by brilliant staff with grade-A equipment — Mitre balls, goals, bibs, cones, hurdles and slalom poles. Advertisement We had a family match against new friends Taylor, Sarah, Mick and Archie, who made the hour fly by. The largest zone in the holiday complex is West Sands, which sits right on the beach. It even has a wave simulator, Wave Rider, open May to September. We had blistering weather so spent as much time as possible on the beach or in the ocean, but the indoor Oasis Bay pool is ideal for wetter weather. We ventured down to this area on Saturday and found a giant TV screen, on the beach rocks, showing the FA Cup Final. Advertisement 5 Surf's up at the wave simulator at the resort Credit: Supplied 5 Have fun ten-pin bowling Credit: Supplied My boys split their time between watching Crystal Palace spring a brilliant upset over Man City and diving into the waves. Then we headed for a BBQ dinner at Smokey's Ocean Bar. Advertisement There, the lads demolished the Pitmaster's Feast of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, buffalo wings, sausage, chilli and sides and somehow had room for ice-cream sundaes. A family of three were stuffed for just over £50. We used our stroll back to base camp to walk off the meat sweats but there is a courtesy bus — that loops around the park, stopping at all the key areas — plus electric bikes and pedal go-karts to hire. On Sunday we finished off with the brilliant Zorbing experience — you strap your child into a giant bubble and let them play crash-test dummies — then another swim and an archery session, before my kids slept the whole way home. Advertisement And I would love to tell you we partied all weekend into the early hours but we were shattered and asleep by 8pm every day, dreaming of the next day's adventure. 5 There's entertainment galore on site Credit: Supplied
Western Telegraph
a day ago
- Business
- Western Telegraph
Martin Lewis reveals free £310 'reward of the year'
New TSB customers can get up to £310 in total value by simply moving their current account. The deal includes £190 in direct free cash, plus a £120 reward. MoneySavingExpert called it the "biggest bank switching reward of the year". If you pay for childcare, whether just for the summer or all year round, watch this quick video briefing on the help that's available. Huge numbers are missing out. Courtesy of ITV The Martin Lewis Money Show, watch the full summer special back at — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) May 23, 2025 It stated: "New. FREE £100 upfront, £15/month cashback for six months, plus choice of an extra reward in January 2026. To max the reward on the TSB Spend & Save you'll need to use the debit card for spending each month. You get the upfront £100 for switching. "But if you then spend on its debit card 20+ times in each of the first six months, you'll qualify for the £15 a month cashback. Then, if you also make 20+ debit card payments in December, you'll earn an extra reward – choose from a £120 credit towards a hotel booking via Expedia's Travel Credits website or 12 months of activity tickets with the National Activities Network. "The account also gives access to a regular saver, offering 5% interest on up to £250 a month, fixed for 12 months. Maxed out, that's £71 interest." You can't have had a switch bonus from TSB since 1 October 2022. To be eligible for the triple cashback, you must first complete all of the £100 switch incentive conditions. Recommended reading: What do TSB say? TSB said: "If you make 20 or more payments (of any value) per month using your debit card in the first six calendar months your Spend & Save account or Spend & Save Plus account is open (including the month your account is opened) and subject to meeting our cashback terms and conditions, we'll give you £15 cashback per month instead of £5. "This will appear as two payments on your transactions (£5 and £10) and may occur on different dates. We'll count your 20 payments based on the date the money is taken from your account. "This is usually within 5 working days from the day you make the debit card transaction, but sometimes can be longer. You can tell when money is taken from your account by looking at your transactions online or on your statement."
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
The European city with one of the world's most scenic train rides and Viking-themed bars
Head to the top of Mount Ulriken for the Skyskraperen restaurant, which serves up traditional Nordic food surrounded by nature BAG A BERGEN The European city with one of the world's most scenic train rides and Viking-themed bars Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) KNOWN as the 'Gateway to the Fjords', the Norwegian city of Bergen is the ideal starting point for exploring these natural wonders. But stunning landscapes are just one of the many things Norway's second biggest city has to offer. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 The stunning waterfall at Flamsbana Credit: Supplied 5 The picturesque Bryggen Harbour With almost 1,000 years of history to discover, a picturesque harbour and a thriving cultural scene, it's a great spot for an active city break. WHY SHOULD I GO? Surrounded by seven mountains and tucked between two fjords, breathtaking views wait around every corner in Bergen. There are dozens of hiking trails to suit all abilities taking you to remote woodlands or vantage points which offer panoramic views of the city. For those wanting a more relaxed ride, a cable car can take you to the top of Mount Ulriken — the tallest in the area, at 2,110ft above sea level — in five minutes, while Mount Fløyen can be reached by funicular railway. As the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg, Bergen is also a hit with music lovers. His former home at Troldhaugen is now a living museum, with a concert hall hosting regular classical performances. STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Absolutely. At the centre of Bergen is its historic wharf and UNESCO World Heritage Site Bryggen, a series of colourful wooden buildings that were once the most important trade centre in Northern Europe for exporting dried fish. Now, if you take a stroll around the cobbled streets you will find an array of quirky gift shops, cafes and bars, as well as the vibrant Bryggen Nightclub. But the city still embraces its roots with its famous outdoor fish market, as well as an indoor site selling seafood, fish and vegetables all year round. Don't tire your legs out until you've visited the KODE Art Museum showcasing the Nordic region's finest crafts. Martin Lewis gives travel advice about checking your passport ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? The one-day Norway In A Nutshell tour is a must (£183pp, see showcasing the best of this country's breathtaking nature. The carefully curated experience begins early, taking you straight from the city centre through more than 60 miles of wild mountain terrain on the Bergen Railway. 5 Visit the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg Credit: Supplied You will change at Myrdal station to ride on the Flåm railway — one of the most scenic routes in the world, with views of deep ravines, tumbling waterfalls and green valleys from the carriage windows. Then, the icing on the cake is hopping on board a relaxing two-hour electric fjord cruise — exploring the beautiful Nærøyfjord with its towering peaks, small hamlets and hanging valleys. WHERE SHOULD I EAT? At the top of Mount Ulriken is the Skyskraperen restaurant, which serves up traditional Nordic food surrounded by nature. Inspired by the changing weather, the reservations-only restaurant offers seasonal lunch and dinner menus showcasing local produce. 5 Skyskraperen dishes are inspired by the elements Credit: Supplied A three-course lunch menu costs from £73pp featuring dishes like grilled trout and cauliflower or duo of beef with potato gnocchi. Hungry hikers can also stop by the drop-in cafe for a more affordable light bite. Or for holidaymakers wanting a taste of the city's past, Bryggen Tracteursted offers a traditional Norwegian dining experience — including its famous stockfish — in one of the oldest and best-preserved wooden structures in the harbour district. FANCY A DRINK? Bergen is home to a mix of stylish, modern bars and old pubs. But those wanting a more unique experience should be sure to grab a pint of locally brewed lager from Ægir at the Flåmsbrygga Hotel. 5 The Sun's Emily-Jane at the top of Mount Ulriken Credit: Supplied The micro-brewery serves around 40 different beers and it also has a small distillery on site that produces its own aquavit, gin, vodka and mead. The interior of the pub is inspired by Norse mythology, with a nine-metre high fireplace surrounded by dragons' heads and driftwood walls, while the outside is reminiscent of a stave church. WHERE SHOULD I STAY? For good value accommodation right in the centre of the city, look no further than the 3H Magic Hotel Korskirken. Situated close to the harbour, you can stroll to Bryggen in just minutes. The funky rooms have a space-like look to them with curved furniture and pops of neon-yellow.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
The European city with one of the world's most scenic train rides and Viking-themed bars
KNOWN as the 'Gateway to the Fjords', the Norwegian city of Bergen is the ideal starting point for exploring these natural wonders. But stunning landscapes are just one of the many things Norway's second biggest city has to offer. Advertisement 5 The stunning waterfall at Flamsbana Credit: Supplied 5 The picturesque Bryggen Harbour With almost 1,000 years of history to discover, a picturesque harbour and a thriving cultural scene, it's a great spot for an active city break. WHY SHOULD I GO? Surrounded by seven mountains and tucked between two fjords, breathtaking views wait around every corner in There are dozens of hiking trails to suit all abilities taking you to remote woodlands or vantage points which offer panoramic views of the city. For those wanting a more relaxed ride, a cable car can take you to the top of Mount Ulriken — the tallest in the area, at 2,110ft above sea level — in five minutes, while Mount Fløyen can be reached by funicular railway. Advertisement READ MORE ON TRAVEL As the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg, Bergen is also a hit with music lovers. His former home at Troldhaugen is now a living museum, with a concert hall hosting regular classical performances. STREETS MADE FOR WALKING? Absolutely. At the centre of Now, if you take a stroll around the cobbled streets you will find an array of quirky gift shops, cafes and bars, as well as the vibrant Bryggen Nightclub. Advertisement Most read in News Travel But the city still embraces its roots with its famous outdoor fish market, as well as an indoor site selling seafood, fish and vegetables all year round. Don't tire your legs out until you've visited the KODE Art Museum showcasing the Nordic region's finest crafts. Martin Lewis gives travel advice about checking your passport ANYTHING FOR THE BUCKET LIST? The one-day Norway In A Nutshell tour is a must (£183pp, see The carefully curated experience begins early, taking you straight from the city centre through more than 60 miles of wild mountain terrain on the Bergen Railway. Advertisement 5 Visit the birthplace of composer Edvard Grieg Credit: Supplied You will change at Myrdal station to ride on the Flåm railway — one of the most scenic routes in the world, with views of deep ravines, tumbling waterfalls and green valleys from the carriage windows. Then, the icing on the cake is hopping on board a relaxing two-hour electric fjord cruise — exploring the beautiful Nærøyfjord with its towering peaks, small hamlets and hanging valleys. WHERE SHOULD I EAT? At the top of Mount Ulriken is the Skyskraperen restaurant, which serves up traditional Nordic food surrounded by nature. Advertisement Inspired by the changing weather, the reservations-only restaurant offers seasonal lunch and dinner menus showcasing local produce. 5 Skyskraperen dishes are inspired by the elements Credit: Supplied A three-course lunch menu costs from £73pp featuring dishes like grilled trout and cauliflower or duo of beef with potato gnocchi. Hungry hikers can also stop by the drop-in cafe for a more affordable light bite. Advertisement Or for holidaymakers wanting a taste of the city's past, Bryggen Tracteursted offers a traditional Norwegian dining experience — including its famous stockfish — in one of the oldest and best-preserved wooden structures in the harbour district. FANCY A DRINK? Bergen is home to a mix of stylish, modern bars and old pubs. But those wanting a more unique experience should be sure to grab a pint of locally brewed lager from Ægir at the Flåmsbrygga Hotel. 5 The Sun's Emily-Jane at the top of Mount Ulriken Credit: Supplied Advertisement The micro-brewery serves around 40 different beers and it also has a small distillery on site that produces its own aquavit, gin, vodka and mead. The interior of the pub is inspired by Norse mythology, with a nine-metre high fireplace surrounded by dragons' heads and driftwood walls, while the outside is reminiscent of a stave church. WHERE SHOULD I STAY? For good value accommodation right in the centre of the city, look no further than the 3H Magic Hotel Korskirken. Situated close to the harbour, you can stroll to Bryggen in just minutes. Advertisement The funky rooms have a space-like look to them with curved furniture and pops of neon-yellow. GO: Bergen GETTING/STAYING THERE: Three nights' B&B at the 3H Magic Hotel Korskirken is from £569pp including flights from Manchester on April 24. Price includes 22kg baggage allowance. See
