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Tiny northern pub where swearing and mobile phones are banned – as well as large groups

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The Blue Bell pub in York is the smallest in the city - its size as influenced its strict set of rules

ONE of the smallest pubs in a pretty UK city has some of the strictest house rules you’ll ever read.

The Blue Bell pub, in York, not only bans mobile phones and swearing, but also large groups.

The Blue Bell pub in York is the smallest in the city - its size as influenced its strict set of rules

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The Blue Bell pub in York is the smallest in the city – its size as influenced its strict set of rulesCredit: Instagram
No mobile phone noise is allowed in the pub as it could ruin the enjoyment for other customers

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No mobile phone noise is allowed in the pub as it could ruin the enjoyment for other customersCredit: Getty

The Blue Bell pub is in easy walking distance of York’s famous Shambles so it a great place for a pint.

But you had better wash your mouth out before you arrive – the pub’s website dedicates a whole page to its ‘House Rules’, which include no swearing.

There’s similar thinking behind the pub’s ‘no mobile phone noise’ rule.

The pub states: “Just as with swearing, loud chatting on mobile phones and the playing of music or videos ruins the enjoyment of the pub for those around you.

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“We kindly ask that all mobile phone conversations take place outside of our public rooms in order for everyone to enjoy their pint in peace.

“We know that your grand daughter’s choir performance means a lot to you but please trust us – no one else wants to hear it.”

Groups are also banned from the pub – for the simple reason it’s too small to accommodate them.

Groups may be allowed in with prior agreement, but it asks you don’t take it to heart if your group is turned away.

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The Blue Bell’s final house rule is ‘no under 18s’, for the obvious reason under 18s can’t be served alcohol, but to also to allow teachers somewhere to escape.

Why it has these rules is apparently one of its most-asked questions. 

I visited the best pub in Britain – and there’s one thing you’ve got to order

It explains: “The answer takes us all the way back to 1902 where the manager, Harry Hayes was dismissed by the pub’s owners for landing himself in court three times in one month for bad behaviour, drunkenness and non-payment of rent. 

“The owners – CJ Melrose & Co – installed a new landlord and landlady called George and Annie Robinson in January 1903 who, along with their daughter Edith, ran the pub until 1992.”

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George was apparently chosen due to his regimental, strict and non-nonsense approach to running a small pub. 

He and Annie were aware that in such a small space manners are paramount to everyone enjoying a friendly drink.

The rules were put in place at the pub in 1903, when the pub was taken over by George and Annie Robinson

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The rules were put in place at the pub in 1903, when the pub was taken over by George and Annie RobinsonCredit: Instagram

So they insisted that swearing and uncouth behaviour not be allowed.

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Edith went on to take over her parents’ lease of the pub and kept the House Rules in place.

She retired in 1992 after 89 years at the pub, but every landlord and landlady since has recognised the value of her father’s wisdom.

Despite the strict rules – previous punters have raved about the pub.

One person said it: “It feels like stepping back in time.”

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Another agreed: “That was such an amazing experience to have a beer in a smaller and coziest pub in York.”

A third said: “No fuss, no phones, no television. Just a proper old fashion pub. I loved it.”

If you’re planning a trip to York, we’ve revealed how to do 24 hours in the city.

And one expert has revealed some of the best things to do there.

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The most beautiful pubs in Britain

Three pubs came out top in Campaign for Real Ale’s (CAMRA) annual pub design awards…

The Vines in Liverpool

The Grade II listed pub has recently undergone a full conservation and refurbishment of the interior.

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It has a V-shaped plan and a flamboyant baroque style, featuring lovely wood panelling and log fires.

One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “What a fantastic pub. Deceptive from the outside but well worth a visit.

“Huge selection of cask ales, reasonably priced, friendly staff, and the building is amazing. Huge dome roof and great architecture.”

bod Alsagar in Cheshire

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The former solicitor’s office has been taken over by Titanic Brewery and turned into their latest café bar.

CAMRA liked its use of recycled and re-purposed materials, which including converting the original internal doors into the frontage of a bespoke bar and a chandelier, made from Titanic beer bottles.

They added: “Judges also praised the new light and airy conservatory which supplies a ‘wow’ factor to the bar.”

King’s Arms in Elham

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The pub has undergone a makeover, which judges claim improves the building’s ambience.

CAMRA said: “This ancient inn, which has been part of the social life of the village for centuries, has undertaken a creative makeover which has enhanced the atmosphere of the building.

“The total internal and external renovation and remodelling has resulted a warm, welcoming and contemporary environment.”

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Celeb-loved English hotel on its own island that you can only visit at certain times of day

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Burgh Island Hotel is the largest structure on Burgh Island, featuring a Mermaid Pool and stunning views

A TINY English island has a hotel that you can only visit at certain times of the day.

Located on a tidal island, Burgh Island Hotel is cut off twice a day by the tide – although the times can vary. 

Burgh Island Hotel is the largest structure on Burgh Island, featuring a Mermaid Pool and stunning views

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Burgh Island Hotel is the largest structure on Burgh Island, featuring a Mermaid Pool and stunning viewsCredit: Alamy
Burgh Island is a tidal island, meaning access by foot to the island is cut off during high tide

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Burgh Island is a tidal island, meaning access by foot to the island is cut off during high tideCredit: Alamy

Tides at Burgh Island change daily and can vary based on the weather conditions and tide height. 

But the tide meets and parts roughly every six hours. 

For example, on Friday 13th September, high tide was at 1:02 am and 13:53 pm, while low tide was at 7:27am and 8:34pm.

You can check the tide times on the Devon Tides website.

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When it’s low tide, visitors can reach the island by foot. During high tide, there’s the Burgh Island Sea Tractor – a hydraulics tractor that’s able to drive through the sea. 

Members of the public can catch a ride on the tractor to the island from Bigbury-on-Sea and it costs £2 each way. 

Hotel guests, who the sea tractor is primarily used for, do not have to pay to ride it. 

The tractor operates 24 hours a day, Monday through to Saturday and Sunday, so hotel guests who don’t fancy walking during low tide can still hitch a ride. 

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Despite the unusual way of getting there, some very famous people are said to have stayed there.

Noel Coward, Winston Churchill, and The Beatles have all enjoyed a stay at the 3* star hotel in times gone by. 

I left iconic UK seaside town to live on tiny Scottish island with just 60 people

Burgh Island itself is a popular destination for tourists who want to enjoy its views and wildlife, as well as its golden sand beach for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. 

Day visitors are welcome, with a visit to the Pilchard Inn pub recommended for lunch or dinner (reservations are required). 

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There are also vineyards on Burgh Island, such as Sandridge Barton, which offers tours, tasting and wine shopping. 

The island also plays host to regular events, including murder mysteries, island artist experiences, a Christmas and New Year party and a summer ball. 

Burgh Island Hotel is an Art Deco-inspired hotel and the location for one of Agatha Christie's popular crime stories

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Burgh Island Hotel is an Art Deco-inspired hotel and the location for one of Agatha Christie’s popular crime storiesCredit: Alamy
The Burgh Island Sea Tractor helps hotel guests get across to the island during high tide

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The Burgh Island Sea Tractor helps hotel guests get across to the island during high tideCredit: Alamy

‘I stayed at Burgh Island Hotel…this is what I thought’

Ryan Sabey stayed at the hotel in 2018 and shared everything the island and hotel has to offer guests and visitors

We had arrived following a comfortable three-hour train trip from London to Totnes then a taxi to Bigbury-on-Sea, where we first clapped eyes on the imposing hotel.

The only way to reach the Grade II listed building was by sea tractor.

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After loading our suitcases, tuxedo and evening gown on board, we took the five-minute ride to the island.

Walking into the hotel for the first time is like stepping back 100 years.

There is also the rest of the 26-acre island to enjoy. We explored it via several trails in the bracing sea air.

The end of the walk coincided with hitting upon the island’s 14th-century pub, The Pilchard Inn.

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Dressing for dinner in The Ballroom at the hotel is compulsory at this stunning Art Deco hotel on its small island 200 yards off the South Devon coast.

The hotel advises — and I wholeheartedly agree — to head to the bar for a “snifter” at around 7pm before dinner.

And twice a week, on Wednesday and Saturday nights, the house band will tempt you on to the dance floor.

The surroundings were on a par with the three-course dinner of ­lobster ravioli, pork loin and coffee macaroons.

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The hotel is probably best suited for adults and older teenage kids.

The cost to stay at Burgh Island Hotel varies depending on the dates and offers available. 

A one-night stay for two adults on October 10, 2024, starts at £427.99, including taxes and fees. 

Events take place all year round at the hotel, including murder mysteries and Christmas and New Year parties

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Events take place all year round at the hotel, including murder mysteries and Christmas and New Year partiesCredit: Alamy

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Lost Property, St Paul’s, London, review

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The hotel is round the corner from St Paul’s cathedral

Lost Property, part of Hilton’s fancy Curio Collection, has a very specific theme: the lost history of London.

Read on to find out more about the plush bedrooms and tasty grub.

The hotel is round the corner from St Paul’s cathedral

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The hotel is round the corner from St Paul’s cathedralCredit: Lost Property
The restaurant is a calm oasis away from the chaos of Ludgate Hill

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The restaurant is a calm oasis away from the chaos of Ludgate HillCredit: Lost Property

Where is Lost Property hotel?

Round the corner from St Paul’s cathedral and on the busy street of Ludgate Hill, Lost Property is in a central spot in London.

City Thameslink train station is a two-minute stroll away and St. Paul’s underground station is a five-minute walk away.

What is Lost Property hotel like?

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You may not even notice the image of Winston Churchill or the inspiring quotes subtly emblazoned on the wall in reception, but take a closer look at and you’ll find little treasures hidden all over this 145-bedroom hotel.

Check your drinks coaster in the bar – each one is printed with the definition of a lost word which has been removed from the English dictionary.

If you haven’t visited the capital before, ask for a room with views of the impressive St. Paul’s cathedral, an historic London landmark.

What is there to do at Lost Property hotel?

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For those that fancy a workout, there’s a very nice gym with Peloton bikes and treadmills which sit under large windows in the ceiling so you can soak up the natural light while you cycle.

Make sure to pick up a coffee before you head out for the day as you’ll struggle to find a better one in London – it’s the only hotel to have partnered with Monmouth coffee, a high-quality London roaster.

The hotel is a short stroll from some top tourist attractions like the Tate Modern (15-minutes walk), the London Eye (30-minutes walk) and Somerset House (18-minutes walk).

What is there to eat and drink at Lost Property hotel?

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The restaurant is a calm oasis away from the chaos of Ludgate Hill on its doorstep and the talented mixologists behind the bar can whip you up any tipple, even if it’s not on the menu.

I requested “something tequila-based” and was handed an elegant coupe filled with a delicious citrus-y, sour cocktail that packed a punch.

The food is much like the rest of the hotel: decent-quality, with added elegance.

My buttery pan-fried fillet of sea bass, for example, came with leeks and potatoes, as well as a Champagne velouté and caviar for that extra pizazz.

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What are the rooms like at Lost Property hotel?

Rooms have been created with busy travellers in mind, although glamour hasn’t been forgotten about.

USB ports by the bed and wardrobes with enough space and hangers are convenient, while the sleek furnishings and marble-top surfaces elevate rooms to a luxury level.

The only major difference between rooms is the size, so if you aren’t staying long, go for the standard Queen Guest Room.

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How much is Lost Property hotel?

Rooms cost from £209 per night.

Click here to book.

Is Lost Property hotel family friendly?

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Although kids would be well looked after here, there may be some other hotels more suited to families.

Is there access for guests with disabilities?

Yes, there are spacious accessible rooms with roll-in showers.

The restaurant is on the ground floor and there are toilets for wheelchair users.

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Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.

The only major difference between rooms is the size

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The only major difference between rooms is the sizeCredit: Lost Property

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Seven items to always take to a UK holiday park – according to an expert

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Robbie Lane is the face behind the Holiday Park Guru, a specialist website dedicated to holiday parks

A HOLIDAY park guru who has visited dozens of sites across the UK has revealed the seven items he always packs.

Travel expert Robbie Lane writes in-depth reviews about holiday parks across the UK and he recently told Sun Online Travel the seven items he always has on hand.

Robbie Lane is the face behind the Holiday Park Guru, a specialist website dedicated to holiday parks

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Robbie Lane is the face behind the Holiday Park Guru, a specialist website dedicated to holiday parks

Robbie Lane is the face behind the specialist website, Holiday Park Guru and on his specialist website, the former BBC journalist writes detailed reviews of holiday parks in both the UK and Europe.

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From adults-only trips to ski holidays and popular chains like Center Parcs and Butlin’s to little-known independent sites and budget-friendly breaks, it seems Robbie has covered it all.

He told Sun Online Travel: “Swimming trunks are essential, especially if there’s a pool.

“Even those holidaymakers who think they won’t swim, will quickly find that it’s a great to fill the time.

Read More on Holiday Parks

“Personally, I also like to take a changing towel and a pair of Crocs so I can waddle back to the accommodation rather than getting changed at the pool – although you may be more concerned about your style than me!”

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Robbie also makes sure to pack a bottle of wine – or two – when he heads on his holiday park vacays.

This is because “onsite shops and restaurants at holiday parks tend to be expensive”.

To help keep holidays budget-friendly, Robbie recommends bringing food and drink with you, or ordering an online shop to coincide with your arrival.

He added: “If you are staying at a large holiday park then bikes or scooters are useful.

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“Although, be sure to lock them up as they may go missing, unfortunately.”

Best of British: The Sun’s Travel Editor Lisa Minot reveals her favourite caravan cooking tips

To keep energy levels high for all those family bike rides, the Holiday Park Guru also recommends packing something to black out the windows in the children’s bedroom.

There are plenty of other miscellaneous items that always find their way into Robbie’s car, with the expert adding: “My wife laughs at me, but I always pack a few practical things to make the holiday easier, including a multi-socket extension – just in case we end up in a caravan without enough plugs.

“If it’s hot, then we bring a fan or two. Some caravans can get quite hot and stuffy as they aren’t particularly well insulated.”

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Robbie’s final holiday park essential may seem a little unusual but it’s actually pretty useful.

He added: “Finally – and this is very peculiar – I always bring a can of WD40.

“You are living in quite close proximity in a caravan and I can’t bear it when a door squeaks and wakes everyone up so the first thing I do is oil the doors.”

The best holiday parks in the UK 2024

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HERE is the list of Which?’s best UK holiday parks 2024.

  1. Potters Resorts
  2. Forest Holidays
  3. Bluestone Wales
  4. John Fowler Holiday Parks
  5. Hoburne Holidays
  6. Hoseasons
  7. Waterside Holiday Group
  8. Warner Leisure Villages
  9. Centerparcs
  10. Haven Holiday Parks
  11. Parkdean Resorts
  12. Butlins
  13. Park Holidays UK
  14. Away Resorts
  15. Largo Leisure Parks
  16. Pontins

Last week, Robbie revealed England’s top three underrated holiday parks – with private beaches, indoor water parks and jet skis for kids.

And here are the other lesser-known holiday parks named among the best in the UK.

A holiday park expert has revealed the seven items he always makes sure to pack

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A holiday park expert has revealed the seven items he always makes sure to packCredit: Alamy

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Delta to launch Salt Lake City-Seoul Incheon route

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Delta to launch Salt Lake City-Seoul Incheon route

This will be the airline’s fifth service from South Korea to the USA

Continue reading Delta to launch Salt Lake City-Seoul Incheon route at Business Traveller.

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I stayed at one of the world’s best hotels with chocolate rooms and helipads – and there’s one like it in the UK

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The Peninsula was named one of the best hotels in the world

THE best hotels in the world have been revealed, from beachfront resorts to towering city skyscrapers.

And I was lucky enough to visit one during my trip to Hong Kong, when I stayed in The Peninsula.

The Peninsula was named one of the best hotels in the world

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The Peninsula was named one of the best hotels in the worldCredit: kara godfrey
The main lobby is famous for its afternoon tea

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The main lobby is famous for its afternoon teaCredit: kara godfrey
I visited the hotel during a trip to Hong Kong - and was blown away by the amenities and staff

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I visited the hotel during a trip to Hong Kong – and was blown away by the amenities and staffCredit: kara godfrey

The Telegraph recently named the prestigious hotel as one of of the world’s best, after looking at everything from in-room perks, personal reviews and staff-to-guest ratios.

The Peninsula, which came in fourth, is the oldest in Hong Kong having opened in 1928, and nicknamed the “Grande Dame of the Far East.”

They certainly show you on arrival why they are the creme de la creme.

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All guests get picked up from the airport in their own branded Rolls-Royce cars in Peninsula green, as well as a complimentary newspaper inside.

It’s not always faster, what with Hong Kong traffic sometimes making the public transport a quicker option.

But it’s certainly one in style.

The grand Art Deco lobby is rather breathtaking too, with huge marble columns and glass chandeliers lining the corridors,

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I was stunned that all of the staff seemed to know my name by day two of staying (and not because of any bad behaviour).

The rooms

With 300 rooms, the best ones are the suites overlooking the river.

My room had its own lounge, bedroom and two bathrooms (one for ‘guests’) with the main one having a corner bath overlooking the city.

Britain’s best hotel according to TripAdvisor

My bedroom even had its own telescope for looking out to the waterfront.

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One very exciting element I had never seen were drawers that had their own chargers in, as well as wireless chargers.

The food and drink

There is enough to explore in Hong Kong but the hotel does its best to keep you there.

There is its own on-site chocolate shop, where you can watch as they make everything in house.

I was greeted by a different chocolate work of art in my room most days, from planes to passports… all handcrafted.

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You won’t get hungry with the huge number of restaurants on-site either.

There is the one Michelin-star Gaddi’s, serving French cuisine, as well as the Michelin-starred Spring Moon serving traditional Cantonese.

The bathtub definitely had some amazing views

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The bathtub definitely had some amazing viewsCredit: kara godfrey
Their suites overlooking the waterfront are some of the best at the hotel

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Their suites overlooking the waterfront are some of the best at the hotelCredit: kara godfrey
The breakfast buffet highlight was the cold noodles and congee

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The breakfast buffet highlight was the cold noodles and congeeCredit: kara godfrey

A Swiss-themed restaurant will take you straight to the Alps, or you can go to the Japanese restaurant Imasa.

The rooftop bar Felix is a must too with even more amazing views, abd tge miost deliciously fresh melon yuzu cocktails.

I dined with their nine course menu with all of the decadent dishes you can think of – by that I mean truffle gnocchi and juicy scallops.

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What we didn’t realise was there is often an evening light show, which was an amazing surprise as we finished off our drinks.

I also tried the hotels’ amazing breakfast buffet in the Verandah restaurant, which blew me away with the choice.

Already a dim-sum obsessive, every morning i gorged on juicy prawn dumplings, refreshing cold noodle soups and my favourite – congee (think a savoury rice porridge).

Of course there were also Western options if you don’t fancy the local cuisine.

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The only sad thing was not being able to sit outside, but there was nothing tempting me to be in the humidity.

What is it like to go to Hong Kong?

The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey visited Hong Kong – and found amazing food and stunning beaches.

Hong Kong is the perfect stopover destination between trips to Australia and New Zealand, and is easier to get around that London.

The Metro is simpler than the London Underground and you can even hop on a “ding ding,” one of the many double-decker trams.

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But exploring by foot, a food tour let me explore everything from mango tofu puddings, egg waffles and milk teas.

If you fancy a quieter hike, less than an hour from the city centre is Sai Kung, known as the “back garden of Hong Kong”.

The region’s bright-blue waters and hiking trails, as well as the golden sandy beaches surrounded by huge green slopes, made me feel like I was in Hawaii.

Its bar scene is unmatched too, from the Early Grey Caviar Martinis at Quinary named one of Asia’s best bars, or Ozone, the highest rooftop bar in the world.

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The amenities

The Peninsula has is its own shopping arcade, albeit with expensive designer brands such as Chanel and Prada.

And the extremely beautiful swimming pool on the ground floor comes with ornate water fountains and sun loungers.

Make sure to check out the spa with massages also overlooking the Hong Kong skyline.

You can even tour its helicopter pads on the roof which only the elite guests use.

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Even if you can’t stretch to a stay at the hotel, you can book its famous Afternoon Tea, loved by the locals and with live music.

Can’t quite swing to Hong Kong? The Peninsula London opened last year, becoming the city’s first billion-pound hotel.

Otherwise here’s a hotel in Greece that was named the best in the world by TUI.

And this hotel has one of the best views in the world.

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Full list of Telegraph’s World Best Hotels

  1. Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok – Bangkok, Thailand
  2. Ballyfin – County Laois, Ireland
  3. Ellerman House – Cape Town, South Africa
  4. The Peninsula Hong Kong – Hong Kong
  5. Les Prés d’Eugénie – Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
  6. Awasi Patagonia – Chile
  7. Hotel Santa Caterina – Amalfi Coast, Italy
  8. Southern Ocean Lodge – Kangaroo Island, Australia
  9. The Maybourne Riviera – Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
  10. Palace Hotel Tokyo – Tokyo, Japan
  11. Sterrekopje – Franschhoek, South Africa
  12. Belmond Hotel Cipriani – Venice, Italy
  13. Son Blanc Farmhouse – Menorca, Spain
  14. Al Moudira Hotel – Luxor, Egypt
  15. Nay Palad Hideaway – Siargao, Philippines
  16. Borgo Santo Pietro – Tuscany, Italy
  17. Estelle Manor – Oxfordshire, England
  18. La Casa del Califa – Cadiz, Spain
  19. Banyan Tree Buahan – Bali, Indonesia
  20. Kisawa Sanctuary – Mozambique
  21. Six Senses Yao Noi – Thailand
  22. Lundies House – Highlands, Scotland
  23. The Hotel Britomart – Auckland, New Zealand
  24. Asaba – Izu Peninsula, Japan
  25. Soneva Fushi – Maldives
  26. Singita Kruger National Park – South Africa
  27. Amangalla – Galle, Sri Lanka
  28. Four Seasons Astir Palace – Athens, Greece
  29. Hampton Manor – West Midlands, England
  30. Riad Mena – Marrakech, Morocco
  31. Hotel Endsleigh – Devon, England
  32. Palácio Príncipe Real – Lisbon, Portugal
  33. Susafa – Sicily, Italy
  34. Hotel Esencia – Mayan Riviera, Mexico
  35. The Goring – London, England
  36. Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California, United States
  37. Shinta Mani Wild – Cambodia
  38. Castle Hot Springs – Arizona, United States
  39. The Calile Hotel – Brisbane, Australia
  40. The Brando – French Polynesia
  41. Qualia – Hamilton Island, Australia
  42. Chicago Athletic Association – Chicago, United States
  43. Nooishof – Sinclair Nature Reserve, Namibia
  44. Zannier Bãi San Hô – Phu Yen, Vietnam
  45. Hôtel Grand Powers – Paris, France
  46. Hotel César Lanzarote – Lanzarote, Spain
  47. The Shinmonzen – Kyoto, Japan
  48. Jamaica Inn – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
  49. Kahani Paradise – Gokarna, India
  50. Fogo Island Inn – Newfoundland, Canada

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LNER unveils new first class menu for autumn

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LNER unveils new first class menu for autumn

LNER has updated its first class catering offering with comforting dishes for the autumn months

Continue reading LNER unveils new first class menu for autumn at Business Traveller.

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