THERE’S a Christmas market in the West Midlands that leaves visitors feeling like they’ve stepped into festive Victorian England.

At the Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre, stallholders dress in traditional period clothing like bonnets, lace blouses, full-length black skirts, shawls, and top hats, transporting visitors back 150 years.

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The Christmas market has been a staple part of the city’s festivities ever since it first opened in 1992.

It’s home to over 200 stalls where traders sell handmade gifts and festive treats.

While the themed traders form the bulk of the market, there are other period attractions too.

One of those is a performer dressed as Scrooge who moans his way through the crowds, daring brave Brits to approach.

Arthur Conan Doyle‘s characters Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson will be solving crimes on stilts.

The Temperance lady is another one of the characters at the market, trying to get visitors to denounce the demon drink.

Gin Lane is another attraction at the market, with performances from local actors taking place in the alleyway.

Located between New Street and The Shambles, Gin Lane will be open for visitors at set times over the weekend.

Live music and entertainment will also take place at the Cardinal’s Hat on Friar Street.

Dating back to the 14th century, the Cardinal’s Hat is Worcester’s oldest inn.

The boozer serves a range of pub snacks and real ales and also functions as a boutique hotel.

There’s also Dancefest, a pop-up dance festival, where a host of other yuletide characters, including the Temperance Lady and Mr Scrooge, will be putting on a performance or two.

Last year, funfair rides were also at the market – although it is not yet known whether they’ll be returning for 2024.

Visitors will have to plan their break carefully, because the market is only open for four days from November 28, 2024, until December 1, 2024.

The Victorian market spans several streets in Worcester, including New Street, Friar Street, Pump Street, High Street, the Cornmarket, and Cathedral Square.

Worcester Victorian Fayre announced its return earlier this year, with fans taking to Facebook to share their excitement.

One person wrote: “I’m really looking forward to the Christmas market”.

Another added: “Wouldn’t miss it”.

And last year, one couple from Stourbridge told local newspaper Worcester News: “It’s chilled out and family-friendly. There are lots of independent retailers and they are selling products for a good a price too.

“I think it is much better than Birmingham and reminiscent of the European markets.”

Worcester is a 50-minute drive from Birmingham and is a three-hour drive from London.

Visitors who drive to the market are encouraged to use the city’s park-and-ride scheme at Worcester Crowngate Bus Station to help avoid overcrowding.

Worcester’s train stations also have direct links to Birmingham Moor Street and London Paddington.

Meanwhile, this travel writer thinks their hometown has the best Christmas attraction in the UK.

A city in Germany has been dubbed “Christmas city” because it has one of the world’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets.

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FOR the first time in its history, tourists will be invited to enter Buckingham Palace through its front gates.

Previously, only those lucky few who’ve attended garden parties and royal receptions at the Palace have entered via the gates.

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This is set to change when paying holidaymakers are invited to enter through the front gates of the royal residence in a historic first.

The news comes after the East Wing opened to visitors for the first time in its history earlier this year.

Traditionally, the public could only tour The State Rooms.

However, access to the palace has changed in recent months, with fans able to explore more royal rooms than ever before.

Following a successful summer, the East Wing will open for an extra five months next year from January to May.

It is on these tours that visitors will be allowed to enter through the palace gates.

The East Wing was added to the palace in 1849, for Queen Victoria and her family.

Queen Victoria moved into the lavish estate after the death of her uncle, William IV.

It was the first time Buckingham Palace had been used as a monarch’s residence.

The East Wing started out as a courtyard, with rooms and pieces of artwork being added over time.

Nowadays, visitors can explore the Yellow Drawing Room, the Principal Corridor, the Centre Room and a balcony.

Fans can also see the masterpieces from the Royal Collection and the Centre Room.

Guided tours of the East Wing will last 90 minutes.

The tours will run from January to May and will cost £90 per person.

Further details, including dates for ticket sales, will be announced soon.

The news comes as King Charles is allowing visitors inside Balmoral Castle near Ballater, Aberdeenshire, for the first time – costing £150 with afternoon tea.

It is the first time fans have been allowed into rooms used by the Royals, as guests were only allowed in Balmoral‘s ballroom previously.

Balmoral announced guests ‘can see a selection of rooms within the Castle that are used by Their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the Royal Family‘.

And Visit England has named the country’s best hidden gem attractions from a brewery where you can make your own beer to a fighter jet museum.

Meanwhile, this town in the Lake District has been labelled a “party capital” because of its calendar of festivals.

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Visit Park City

Park City, Utah, delivers stunning mountain scenery, endless outdoor adventures, and an unforgettable après-ski culture. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring Main Street’s charm, here are the top hotels in Park City for luxury, convenience, and unique amenities.

YOTEL Pads

Located in the heart of Canyons Village, YOTEL Pads Park City offers a tech-savvy, minimalist approach to mountain lodging. This unique hotel concept features modular “Pads,” complete with kitchenettes, smart storage, and Murphy beds to maximize space. Communal spaces like the lounge, heated outdoor pool, and hot tub make it easy to unwind and socialize. With ski-in, ski-out access, it’s ideal for adventurous travelers and digital nomads alike.

Pendry Park City

Located in Canyons Village, Pendry Park City offers a modern mountain vibe with direct ski access and stylish amenities. The hotel’s rooftop pool and bar are a hit for sunset cocktails. Guests appreciate the high-end spa, ski valet, and multiple dining options, including Japanese-inspired cuisine at KITA. Pendry’s contemporary rooms and proximity to the village shops make it a top choice.

Pendry Park City

Main & SKY

Located just off Main Street, Main & SKY blends contemporary design with the rustic charm of Park City’s historic district. This boutique hotel features spacious suites, each with private hot tubs and chic, minimalist decor. Guests appreciate the proximity to Park City Mountain Resort, as well as the rooftop lounge perfect for après-ski cocktails. The intimate setting and exceptional service make it a top choice for couples and small groups.

Westgate Park City Resort & Spa

Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, located in Canyons Village, offers a family-friendly stay with extensive amenities and ski-in, ski-out access. The resort features an indoor/outdoor pool, Serenity Spa, and a Kids Club for young travelers. Guests can enjoy Edge Steakhouse, known for its hearty mountain fare and extensive wine list. The spacious suites, complete with kitchens and fireplaces, provide a homey, comfortable base for ski adventures.

Westgate Resorts

Hyatt Centric Park City

Situated slope side at Canyons Village, Hyatt Centric Park City delivers modern mountain charm and convenience. The ski valet service and direct access to the Sunrise Lift make it a favorite among skiers. With amenities like a heated pool, fire pits, and spacious rooms with kitchenettes, the hotel feels luxurious yet cozy. Powdered culinary options include a stylish restaurant and bar, offering seasonal, locally inspired dishes.

AC Hotel by Marriott Park City

Located in Kimball Junction, just a few minutes north from Park City, AC Hotel Park City provides travelers with comfortable and convenient stay. Travelers praise the attentive team, the spacious guest rooms, and the excellent onsite breakfast options. contemporary style at an affordable price, just minutes from Canyons Village. This sleek hotel offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a lively lounge area. The AC Kitchen serves up European-inspired breakfasts and local coffee. Guests love the nearby shopping, dining, and the easy access to mountain trails.

Marriott

Treasure Mountain Inn

Towards to top of historic Main Street, Treasure Mountain Inn offers an eco-conscious stay close to all the nightlife, après, and dining scene. This green-certified inn provides condo-style suites with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays and families. The lush courtyard and hot tub create a serene oasis amid the bustling downtown. Just a short shuttle ride from the slopes, it’s perfect for travelers seeking both ski access and downtown convenience.

Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa

For travelers who don’t mind staying a little further away from the mountain, Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa, in Midway offers Swiss inspired charm.  A unique, relaxing escape from the congestion of downtown Park City. With scenic mountain views and quick access to local hot springs, Zermatt Utah provides both luxury and natural beauty. Guests can unwind in the full-service spa, indoor/outdoor pool, and grab a bite at their traditional Swiss bakery. Enjoy a European-styled ski vacation without flying to Europe!

Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa

Each of these hotels adds a distinct flavor to the Park City experience, from the excitement on Main Street to quiet family-friendly retreats. With ski season just around the corner, these unique accommodations ensure an unforgettable trip to Park City.

THE UK’s busiest train station is to undergo a major renovation – albeit on a smaller scale than previously planned.

London Liverpool Street’s previous £1.5billion plans included a rooftop swimming pool and garden as well as a 20-storey tower.

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Designed by architects Herzog & de Meuron and Sellar (who designed the Shard), they were met with controversy, and called “oversized and insensitive”.

A new scaled back renovation has now been revealed – without the pool and gardens – to make journeys much easier for passengers.

Instead the main features include new “landmark entrances” on Liverpool Street, Bishopsgate and Exchange Square as well as a much larger concourse to reduce congestion.

More waiting lounges, ticket barriers and cycle storage along with seven new lifts and doubling the number of escalators are all part of the plans.

More cafes, restaurants and shops as well as toiles will be included, as well as a new office building on top.

However, the plan adds: “We’ve spent time talking and listening; our latest plans embrace Victorian features including the original train shed and the Great Eastern Hotel.”

The previous plans including building over the Grade II listed Victorian building.

Robin Dobson, Group Property Director at Network Rail Property, said: “Network Rail Property is leading a new team with a new approach which will respect the station’s unique heritage.

“Simple in design, embracing London’s mix of the old with the new.

“A new office building on top of the station concourse will generate the money to pay for these improvements.”

London Liverpool Street station first opened in 1874, and is now the most used station in the UK with up to 80million passengers a year.

This only includes overground services, with the number reaching 100million with the London Underground.

Train routes include Cambridge, Norwich, Essex and both Stansted and Southend Airport.

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And the Elizabeth Line opened at the train station in 2022.

The train station was last redeveloped in the 1980s, with experts warning it will soon reach capacity.

Passenger numbers are expected to reach 140million by 2020.

The website states: “As Britain’s busiest station, Liverpool Street is long overdue the transformation it deserves.”

It hopes that the works can start next year, with the public able to give their opinions until December 5 this year.

Elsewhere in the UK are some new train stations opening as well.

Liverpool Baltic Train Station is set to open by 2027 – in a neighbourhood that was named one of the world’s coolest.

And here’s the small cosy train station that was named the UK’s best.

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William Raveis, a leading U.S. real estate company specializing in premium and luxury properties, today announced that select rental properties will be featured on the Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy platform, as of October 15, 2024.

Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy is a curated collection of over 160,000 premium and luxury whole home rentals in more than 800 prime destinations worldwide. Drawing on Marriott International’s decades of hospitality expertise, each rental home is professionally managed and adheres to Marriott’s high standards for design, cleanliness, safety, and amenities. As part of the award-winning Marriott Bonvoy travel program, members can earn and redeem points for all stays.

William “Bill” Raveis, founder and CEO of William Raveis Real Estate comments on the announcement, “Our luxury brand is continually expanding our East Coast footprint, with specialty services to best serve our clientele. As a family-owned company for fifty years, we’re very excited to partner with Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy.” William Raveis is the number one independent real estate company in Florida, South Carolina and the Northeast, named Top Brokerage 2023 by Inman, and three-time winner of the elite Luxury Lifestyle Top 100 Luxury Real Estate Brokers in the World award, among its many honors.

William Raveis homes are showcased along Southwest Florida’s Paradise Coast, spanning from Fort Myers to Marco Island, with Naples at its premier location. The portfolio will feature an array of luxurious properties, including beachfront homes, lavish estates, and upscale high-rise condos in exclusive communities such as Port Royal, Old Naples, Park Shore, Moorings, Pelican Bay, Coquina Sands, and Vanderbilt Beach. Each property was carefully vetted by Marriott International to ensure it meets the company’s high standards.

Lesley Garlock, Director of Florida Rentals at William Raveis, expressed the company’s excitement: “We are thrilled to partner with Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. Their global platform elevates our rental properties and provides a new level of exposure to discerning travelers. With Marriott’s strong reputation for quality and service, we’re excited to offer our landlords the opportunity to reach a worldwide audience while upholding the exceptional standards of the Homes & Villas collection.”

William Raveis properties on the Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy platform will feature key services, including:

• 24/7 support
• 24-hour check-in, either in-person or via touch keypad
• High-speed Wi-Fi
• Premium bed linens and towels
• Kitchen essentials
• Professional cleaning before and after each stay
  
   

Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy is the premier booking platform for travelers seeking luxury and premium rental properties. It emphasizes consistency, quality, and the unmatched benefits of the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, connecting guests with a carefully curated selection of homes worldwide.

Whether enjoying home-cooked meals, playing lawn games with family, or celebrating special occasions, Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy creates a space for lasting memories. Connect with us: https://www.raveisfloridarentals.com/

About William Raveis

William Raveis is the number one family-owned real estate company in Florida, South Carolina, and the Northeast, providing unrivaled real estate services to customers for more than 50 years and in 2023 selected Top Brokerage in the US by Inman Innovators, the voice for Realtors® nationwide. With over 140 offices and 4,500 sales associates from Florida to Maine, William Raveis consistently ranks among the top independent and publicly traded brokerages for sales volume and units sold according to RealTrends. In addition, William Raveis offers full-service Mortgage, Insurance, and Title Companies; thereby streamlining the customer experience under one company roof. For more information, please visit: raveis.com.

EASYJET has launched its Big Seat Sale for flights next year – and we’ve found some big bargains.

The airline’s sale includes flights between October 1 and December 25 in 2025.

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This means families can try and snap up a bargain for the October half term.

The sale includes more than 10million seats across 56,000 flights to and from the UK.

The cheapest flight route on offer is Belfast to London Luton, starting from £17.99.

Similarly, for £22.99 you can fly from Bristol to Glasgow – a fraction of the price of a the train fare which on average is £153.

But some European destinations are also cheap and found for less than £30.

London Gatwick to Milan starts from £29.99, as does Manchester to Copenhagen.

Or you could fly from Liverpool to Paris for the same price.

Other routes include Birmingham to Enfidha  and London Luton to Lisbon for under £45.

The only catch is you have to book them early to take advantage of the cheap flights.

And expect them to cost more during peak times like the school holidays and Christmas.

Thousands more places have been added for easyJet holidays too, with destinations including Morocco, Spain and Tunisia.

Each one also includes flights, hotels, 23kg luggage and transfers.

Ali Gayward, UK Country Manager for easyJet, said: “Putting millions more seats on sale today for next autumn means customers across the UK can book early and enjoy great value fares to Europe’s most popular leisure destinations, including favourites such as Amsterdam, Paris, Alicante, Tenerife, and Malaga.

“With hundreds of routes available from 21 UK airports, our short-haul network offers unrivalled choice for those planning their holidays for next year and we can’t wait to welcome them on board.”

Here are some of the flights on sale for autumn 2025 with easyJet

• London Gatwick to Milan from £29.99
• London Gatwick to Malaga, Alicante, Amsterdam, and Palma from £39.99

• London Luton to Paris and Geneva from £34.99
• London Luton to Malaga, Lisbon, Palma from £39.9

• Birmingham to Paris from £34.99
• Birmingham to Enfidha from £44.99

• Bristol to Glasgow from £22.99
• Bristol to Rome, Amsterdam and Paris from £34.99
• Bristol to Lisbon from £39.99

• Manchester to Copenhagen and Geneva from £29.99
• Manchester to Paris and Prague from £34.99
• Manchester to Malaga and Amsterdam from £39.99

• Liverpool to Paris from £29.99
• Liverpool to Prague from £34.99
• Liverpool to Malaga, Alicante, Amsterdam, and Palma from £39.99

• Edinburgh to Belfast from £26.99
• Edinburgh to Berlin, Paris, Geneva and Keflavík from £39.99

• Glasgow to Amsterdam from £34.99
• Glasgow to Berlin, Paris, and Palma from £39.99

• Belfast to London Luton from £17.99
• Belfast to Paris from £29.99
• Belfast to Amsterdam from £34.99
• Belfast to Alicante and Palma from £39.99

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