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The Irish Sun
a day ago
- The Irish Sun
The pretty English train station on the edge of a Victorian seaside town pier which has reopened after 10 months
A UNIQUE floating train ride to the end of the UK's oldest pier is once again welcoming passengers aboard. On the edge of Ryde Pier is a train station that is used to pick up passengers from ferries, which is why it 'floats' over the sea, and it's Advertisement 6 The Ryde Pier Head train station is literally over the sea Credit: Alamy 6 The station connects ferry passengers to the mainland who want to avoid the long walk Credit: Alamy Ryde's The tramway was at first horse-drawn, but it was electrified in 1886, making it one of the first electric tramways in the world and later it was developed into a In October 2024, the train station on the pier was closed in order to undergo renovation work. Upgrades were undertaken to ensure the structure could hold new trains that would be added onto the route - for the first time in 30 years. Advertisement Read More on UK Breaks Lots of the track was replaced, steel barriers were installed, weather screens were put in, and it was freshened up with new paint. The station was due to reopen in May 2025, but was delayed until The station is a stop on the Island Line train service that operates between Ryde and Shanklin. The journey offers incredible views, and doesn't cost much either - the one-stop trip from Ryde Esplanade to Ryde Pier costs £1.70 and takes two minutes. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Exclusive Tickets from Ryde to the neighbouring town of Shanklin cost £3.90. A pier train station isn't all the town has to offer - the seaside town is so charming that it was even the inspiration behind the Beatles song, The Mykonos-like beach restaurants in the Isle of Wight 6 Appley Beach is one of the most popular stretches of coastline in Ryde Credit: Alamy 6 The town has charming shops and markets too Credit: Alamy Advertisement said the title referred to "a British Railways ticket to the town of Ryde on the Isle of Wight ." One of the most popular spots is Appley Beach - the coastline has long stretches of soft sand, a cafe and playground. Visitors say that the beach gets even bigger at low tide making it ideal for kids and families. And the stretch of beach nearest the village of Seaview is dog-friendly too. Advertisement One beachgoer wrote on On Appley Beach is a historic watchtower that used to be part of a sprawling family estate. 6 The remains of Appley Towers sit just off the beach Credit: Alamy The tower is right on the beach and formed part of the home of the Hutt family, who owned the Appley House in the late 1800s. Advertisement Ryde is great for shopping, with Union Street lined with boutiques, gift and souvenir shops. If you continue walking, you'll reach The town has, on average, the most The beach at Shanklin is one of the better-regarded stretches of shoreline on the , with its traditional English seafront promenade adding to the seaside resort experience. Advertisement Here's more on why visitors say heading to the And where to find the 6 Ryde is home to a unique Victorian pier and 'floating' train station Credit: Alamy
The Irish Sun
a day ago
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Brits face new £185 visa fee when visiting the US under new rules
VISITORS heading to America could face a 'Visa Integrity Fee' under new rules. The new fee falls under President Donald Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill' and could see Brits paying a substantial fee to visit Advertisement 3 Brits could have to pay a new fee to visit the US Credit: Getty 3 Under a new bill, any traveller that needs a 'nonimmigrant visa' will have to pay $250 Credit: Getty The fee will apply to anyone who needs a 'non-immigrant visa' - which includes people travelling for business , study and temporary work for more than three months. It will cost around $250 (£185.80) and is expected to be introduced before the end of 2025. The cost will also be on top of all existing visa application fees. Individuals will pay the fee once a visa is issued and if an application is denied, then you won't be charged the fee. Advertisement Read more on travel inspo The fee will also be reimbursed if travellers stick to their visa conditions such as not working illegally and not overstaying their visa by more than five days. The reimbursement will be given after your visa expires - although, the process is not clear yet. Once the fee is implemented, the money will go to the US treasury Department's general fund and is estimated to bring in $28.9billion (£21.3billion) over the next decade. There will also be an increase in the fee for the I-94 form, which records arrival and departure dates. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Exclusive The fee will rise from $6 (£4.46) to $24 (£17.84). According to immigration system." Big Changes Coming to Airport Security: TSA Liquid Rule May Be Axed Soon However, under the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) - which the UK is part of - most Brits travelling to the US for tourism or short business trips, do not need a visa. Instead, they will need to apply for an Advertisement As a result, Brits eligible for and using an ESTA, will not need to pay the new Visa Integrity Fee. Brits that will be impacted by the new fee include those travelling for a purpose not covered by the VWP such as long-term study or certain types of employment or those not eligible for VWP due to their travel history , like travel to restricted countries. According to the Though travellers may be unable to apply for an ESTA visa waiver if they have been arrested, have a criminal record, have been refused admission into or have been deported from the US or have previously overstayed an ESTA visa waiver. Advertisement An ESTA application costs $21 (£15.60) and can take up to 72 hours to be approved. Tourist visa waiver for US holidays to cost more THE fee for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is expected to rise in the future. Thanks to a new bill being passed, the price of an ESTA is set to double from $21 (£15.38) to $40 (£29.30). Before entering the US, Brits are required to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The fee is currently $21 (£15.38) to apply for an ESTA - a price which was introduced in May 2022. Prior to this date, the fee was $14 (£10.25) and will now rise to $40 (£29.30) although an official start date is yet to be confirmed. The rise in fees is part of US President Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill". The current rules require every visitor from the UK to apply for an ESTA to be allowed access into the United States. An ESTA is generally valid for two years from the date of approval, or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first. If your passport expires before the two-year period, your ESTA will be valid only until the passport's expiration date. These are the latest travel rules for Brits heading to America after European tourists have been stopped at the border. Plus, 3 However, Brits can avoid the fee under the Visa Waiver Programme Credit: Getty Advertisement
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Irish Sun
Massive new floating yacht hotel to open in the UK with affordable rooms, rooftop bar and onboard spa
A MASSIVE new yacht hotel will open in London - and rooms will be unexpectedly affordable. The Sunborn yacht hotel has been located at Royal Docks in Advertisement 2 A new Sunborn floating yacht hotel will be coming to London Credit: SUNBORN INTERNATIONAL The new boat will boast 225 rooms over six floors. In addition, facilities on board will be open to both guests and the public, including a There will be an à la carte restaurant on board too, seating up to 200 people and featuring an Sunborn is also making the new hotel more sustainable with energy efficient materials being used and "floating biodiversity areas". Advertisement Read more on travel inspo The new 134-metre yacht is currently under construction and plans to open in 2026. The yacht hotel that is currently in place at the Royal Docks features 138 rooms and will be refurbished and relocated to outside of the UK. At the moment, the Sunborn in London has a wealth of things to explore and do, including Sunday roasts where children under 10 can dine for free. There are a range of different rooms and suites to choose from too, which are affordable starting from £115 per night. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Exclusive While the new hotel room prices are yet to be confirmed, they are likely to be similar. Sunborn currently has only one other yacht hotel and that is located in Gibraltar. Futuristic luxury yacht dubbed the 'Sea Spaceship' revealed - offering a 'refined escape' with seven-figure price tag And the Gibraltar Sunborn already has a spa onboard, called the Infinity Spa with a number of different treatments. The company does have plans to open more floating hotels in the future too, including in Vancouver, Canada and Advertisement The yacht hotel in Over in Spain , the company is in the final stages of securing a license to build a yacht hotel on the waterfront. If plans go ahead, in addition to the floating hotel there would also be a new What's it like to stay on the Sunborn? THE Sun's I was lucky enough to spend the night on the yacht - which is docked at Royal Victoria Dock, so don't worry if you get seasick either as you won't even feel it moving. This includes 138 rooms and suites as well as a restaurant, bar, outdoor terrace and event space - a lot to fit into the 142m boat. As I arrived, I was whisked up a tiny lift from outside, and was plonked into the middle of a huge grand lobby, with spiral staircase and very outlandish glass chandelier. Feeling just as glam as a cruise ship, I was shown to my room down the narrow corridor, but opened up into my suite with some of the most stunning views across the river. But the star of the yacht is its restaurant Land's End. I was certainly underdressed - one guest came in a floor-length sequin dress, compared to my trousers-and-shirt combo - although there is no dress code and the staff didn't even seem to notice. With views of London's Docklands to watch the sunset, the three-course dinner was some of the finest I've had in London. Before I knew it, I was waking up in my cabin with a peaceful start to the morning overlooking the water, followed by a very leisurely buffet breakfast at the same restaurant. Hans Niemi, CEO of Sunborn International, said: "We also have an important environmental goal – to build the world's most environmentally friendly floating hotel." Advertisement Karen Thomson , UK Director at Sunborn International, added: "We have a wonderful hotel location at Royal Victoria Dock, and I must also credit our excellent hotel team, local suppliers and partners." A Plus, plans have been revealed for a 2 The floating hotel will feature an onboard spa, rooftop bar and restaurant Credit: SUNBORN INTERNATIONAL Advertisement
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Major Legoland theme park to launch new space-themed land next year with rollercoaster and ‘cosmic' rides
LEGOLAND is set to launch an out-of-this-world new attraction — with a space-themed land opening next year . The major new expansion promises to take visitors on an intergalactic adventure, as the family-favourite theme park gears up for a stellar 2026 launch. Advertisement 2 LEGOLAND is set to launch a space-themed land opening next year in California Credit: Legoland Packed full of rollercoasters and cosmic rides for thrill-seekers of all ages, a brand-new space-themed land set to launch at its California resort in early 2026. The out-of-this-world expansion will blast families off on an interstellar What rides will it have? A groundbreaking indoor 'This isn't just a coaster – it's a full-on Lego galaxy," said Advertisement more on theme parks 'We're mixing the creativity of Lego with the wonder of space to bring families a totally new kind of adventure.' Visitors can look forward to two additional cosmic rides, offering wannabe Younger guests can get in on the action too, with a Junior Astronaut Training Zone designed especially for little space cadets to enjoy imaginative play. There'll also be out-of-this-world food and drink options to refuel between missions, along with a galactic gift shop selling space-themed gear and souvenirs to remember the adventure. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Exclusive The new area is being built opposite Fun Town's Driving School and will be included in general park admission and So, whether you're training your toddler for launch or hunting for alien bricks, this brick-built universe is set to be Legoland's most stellar expansion yet. Popular Legoland ride returns following year-long closure LEGOLAND Windsor is gearing up for summer Meanwhile, The popular theme park promises a season packed with rides, live entertainment and hands-on adventures, including a brand-new Lego City live show guaranteed to keep kids buzzing all day long. Advertisement Ramesh Ganeson, vice president of Legoland Windsor Resort, said: 'This summer, we're cranking up the fun at Legoland Windsor. "With thrilling rides, splashing adventures, and the new Lego Insiders Clubhouse, there's something to spark every imagination. "We can't wait to welcome families for a season bursting with laughter, excitement, and unforgettable brick-tastic memories.' The Lego Insiders Clubhouse invites guests to become official play testers, completing four interactive challenges to earn exclusive access to the Lego Vault — where they'll get a sneak peek at upcoming Lego sets and behind-the-scenes content. Advertisement To cool off, families can head to Drench Towers and Splash Safari, where giant tipping bricks and water slides promise a refreshing break from the action. Younger visitors can enjoy the Duplo-themed water play zones featuring animal figures made just for them. Thrill-seekers can take on the Minifigure Speedway, the world's first Lego duelling rollercoaster, or dive into adventure on the Lego City Day tickets start at £39 and must be booked in advance online. Advertisement Kids under 0.9m tall go free — making it the perfect time to plan a summer day out full of bricks, splashes and smiles. Where is the world's biggest LEGOLAND? Spread across a whopping 318,000 square metres in Shanghai's Jinshan district, the mega resort features a theme park, hotel, and a mind-blowing 85 million Lego bricks bringing the place to life. The park is split into eight themed lands, including favourites like Ninjago, Lego Friends, and Monkie Kid, with over 75 rides, shows and attractions on offer for families. Advertisement At the heart of the park is the stunning Miniland — a brick-built replica of It took 168,000 hours and over 20 million Lego bricks to build. Leogland Shanghai will also boast several world firsts — including the Big Lego Coaster, the park's biggest-ever thrill ride, and a 60-metre-tall Legoland Observation Tower offering stunning views of the sprawling brick paradise. The Legoland Hotel also includes 250 Lego-themed rooms. Advertisement 2 The new attraction will be packed full of rollercoasters and cosmic rides for thrill-seekers of all ages Credit: Legoland Use these tips on your next theme park trip Next time you visit a theme park, you may want to use our top tips to make the most of your adrenaline-inducing day out. Go to the back of the theme park first. Rides at the front will have the longest queues as soon as it opens. Go on water rides in the middle of the day in the summer - this will cool you off when the sun is at its hottest. Download the park's app to track which rides have the shortest queues. Visit on your birthday, as some parks give out "birthday badges" that can get you freebies. If it rains, contact the park. Depending on how much it rained, you may get a free ticket to return.
The Irish Sun
12-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
14 last minute summer holiday deals from UK holiday parks to European islands
THE kids are breaking up in a matter of weeks but don't worry if you haven't yet booked a family getaway. There are still plenty of late deals for all budgets at home and abroad – from a holiday park lodge near Mablethorpe to a luxury hotel in the Maldives. Advertisement 4 Take a seaplane to the tropical paradise of the Maldives Credit: Supplied Here, Trisha Harbord has the low-down on 14 fabulous summer offers. GOING GREEK YOUNGSTERS staying at Crete's Giannoulis Santa Marina Beach have their own pool, mini-club with entertainment and crafts, playground and special menus. The 214-room hotel, near Chania, takes care of adults too. There's sports, restaurants, bars and fantastic views of Thodorou, an island and national park across from Agia Marina. Advertisement Read More on Travel GO: Seven nights' half-board in a family room, from Newcastle on July 28, starts at £876pp. See DON'T MISS A TRICK TELLY favourite Watch his tricks, illusions and games during a break at Bognor Regis resort. Advertisement Most read in News Travel Exclusive Or choose a stay to see There are pools with slides and flumes, unlimited fairground rides and the £1.8million Skyline Gang soft play. Discover UK's Best Beaches: Hidden Gems Revealed GO: Four nights' self-catering for a family of four in a two-bedroom Comfort room from July 21, costs from £458 in total. See Advertisement LUXE FOR LESS ENJOY Caribbean luxury on Families booking a suite at the five-star Blue Waters get 25 per cent off and two kids under 12 go all-inclusive for free. The beachfront resort has a new kids' activity programme until August 31, including boat trips, yoga, tennis and cooking. There are movie nights, barbecues, discos and fire dancing. Advertisement GO: Seven nights' all-inclusive for a family of four from Gatwick on August 14, costs from £9,450 (saving £2,000). See LOVE A LODGE SAVE nearly a third on a Lincolnshire lodge break. Landal Kenwick Woods resort is in the beautiful Wolds and close to the seaside towns of Advertisement Kids' activities include archery, basketball, pottery painting and workshops and adults can unwind in the pool and spa. GO: Three nights' self-catering in a two-bedroom lodge for four people, is from £549 in total, arriving July 25. See MALDIVIAN MAGIC THIS is a bucket-list family holiday for a bargain price. Advertisement Staying all-inclusive on the idyllic Vilu Reef in a jacuzzi deluxe villa, the children can kick back on the powder-white sands or snorkel the house reef, home to turtles, just a few minutes from the beach. Enjoy pools, sports, kids' club, spa, dive centre, bars and restaurants. GO: Seven nights' all-inclusive, (two kids under 12 stay free) from See Advertisement 4 Enjoy a Caribbean delight at Antigua's Blue Water resort Credit: Supplied HORSING AROUND SLEEP in the Haybarn — now converted into a lodge on a working equestrian farm in Surrey. The two-bed property has all mod-cons and free welcome hamper. Kids will love romping around paddocks and if you've got your own horse, you can take it too. Advertisement Frensham Great Pond beach, Leith Hill's woodland trails and Box Hill's kite-flying fields are nearby. GO: Three nights' self-catering from August 1, is from £714 in total. See FUN FOR ALL JUST what mixed-age families need — a hotel for tinies and teens. Advertisement The H10 The Teenclub has games, watersports, films and outdoor entertainment. The four-star hotel has lots of dining options, a spa, beauty centre and gym. GO: Seven nights' B&B from Gatwick on select August dates is from £744pp. Advertisement Book by July 25 at 4 The infinity pool at Anemoni Villa in Lefkas Credit: Supplied GO NOR-FOLK Some luxury lodges, sleeping two to eight, have hot tubs and you are just 350 yards from the sands. Advertisement Great Yarmouth, Norwich and the Norfolk Broads are a short trip away. GO: Three nights' self-catering for a family of four costs from £415 (was £519) in August. See ITALIAN JOB SAVE 30 per cent on a three-bedroom villa in the hills above Advertisement Villa Caruso has all mod cons and a terrace and balconies to soak up the superb views. The town of Luino is three miles away. GO: The villa, sleeping six, from £140 a night between August 18 and September 3. See Advertisement Return flights from Gatwick from £73 return. See CRUISE CONTROL BOOK a mini-cruise and let the ship's crew do the rest. Food and entertainment are included so all the family can have a ball aboard Advertisement There's super dining, kids' clubs, theatre shows, a 4D cinema, aqua park with slides, sports and more. You'll sail from Southampton and spend two nights on the France Escape cruise, calling at Cherbourg in GO: Two nights for a family of four, departing August 21 costs from £756 in total. See Advertisement DREAMS COME TRUE SAVE up to £1,500 on a family stay at the Dreams Calvia Resort on There are pools with slides, ten restaurants, plus kids' clubs for all ages. Adults can indulge in spa treatments and yoga classes. The four-star hotel is close to the bustling resort of Advertisement GO: Seven nights' B&B from Gatwick on August 26, costs from £839pp (was £1,214). See 4 Trick 'n treat with Stephen Mulhern at Butlin's Credit: Butlins PARK LIFE EUROCAMP has summer discounts on trips to its Netherlands parks this summer. Advertisement Ideal for those who prefer cooler temperatures with all the fun. The four-star Marvilla Parks Kaatsheuvel in North Brabant has pools, sports galore, a zipwire and soft play areas. The Dunes of Loon National Park is next door and GO: Seven nights' self-catering in a three-bed holiday home for six from July 26, costs from £785 in total (saving 20 per cent) or including Dover-Calais return ferry from £985. Advertisement See SUN EXCLUSIVE GET three nights for the price of two with Cotswold Farm Park Holidays' deal for a camping or motorhome pitch. The farm, near Cheltenham, also has lodges, glamping tents and safari tents. Families can see and interact with 50 rare animal breeds. Advertisement There are play areas, a restaurant, food stalls and shop. GO: Pitches from £25.95 a night. For the offer, use the ONEFREENIGHTSUN by July 31. See Advertisement GREEK TREAT THERE'S a 20 per cent discount and free car hire with a villa booking on Lefkas. The isle is reached by a causeway from mainland Greece. Anemoni Villa, sleeping four people, has wifi, infinity pool and sea and mountain views. It's in the seaside village of Nidri which has restaurants, bars, watersports and boat trips. Advertisement GO: Seven nights' self-catering, including Stansted flights on August 6 and car hire, costs from £890pp. See
