AN UNDERRATED museum in the north of England is home to a one-of-a-kind underground Christmas attraction.

Earlier this year, research from luggage storage company Bounce named the National Coal Mining Museum in Wakefield as one of the country’s best hidden gem attractions.

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Located in West Yorkshire, the National Coal Mining Museum is housed at the former Caphouse Colliery, which dates back to the 18th century.

The museum opened to the public in 1988 and offers visitors a deep insight into the life and work of coal miners, preserving the rich industrial heritage of the region.

Later this year, the National Coal Mining Museum will host a Christmas event called Santa Underground.

Visitors will descend 140m underground where they’ll head to a “one-of-a-kind” Christmas grotto to meet the big man himself.

At the event, Children will receive an age-appropriate gift and a certificate.

Previous visitors to Santa Underground have raved about the attraction, with one person writing on TripAdvisor: “I can’t write I can’t fault anything.

“The staff were fantastic and friendly, the underground tunnel to Santa’s grotto was magical and the grotto itself was enchanting.

“Santa spent a lot of time talking to the children and going underground in an original miners’ lift was very exciting.”

Tickets to Santa Underground cost £10 for a full-paying adult and £13 for kids.

Named one of the UK’s best hidden gem attractions, there are plenty of other things to do at the National Coal Mining Museum.

Set across two former coal mines, visitors can learn about over 200 years of coal production.

On volunteer-led underground tours, visitors will hear stories from former coal miners.

There are above-ground attractions too, including a nature trail, an adventure playground and a pony discovery centre where visitors can meet ponies.

The battery-powered Paddy Train is another popular attraction at the sprawling museum.

Previously used to ferry miners around the pit, museum-goers who visit during peak hours can ride on the train from Caphouse to Hope and back again.

Entry into the National Coal Mining Museum is free, although a £5 donation is encouraged. Underground tours cost an additional £7.50.

Despite not being well-known as a tourist destination, there are plenty of other things to do in Wakefield.

One of those is Hepworth Wakefield, an art gallery that overlooks the River Calder.

Named after artist Barbara Hepworth, the award-winning museum is home to displays of artwork like sculptures and still life paintings.

Wakefield Cathedral is another popular attraction in the city, with the tallest church spire in Yorkshire.

Other nearby attractions include Diggerland – one of the strangest theme parks in the UK.

Visitors can spend the day riding dumper trucks around a gravel pit, digging stones out of a hole with a full-sized digger and riding around a muddy concourse while seated in an enormous bucket.

Wakefield is a 70-minute drive from Manchester, and it’s a 20-minute drive from Leeds.

Here are the 25 best ice rinks to visit in London and the South East.

And, these are the best Christmas markets to visit in the UK.

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In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and constant connectivity have become the norm, the concept of wellness travel has evolved into something much deeper. Luxury villas across the globe are no longer just about grand accommodations—they are about providing an immersive experience that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. These luxury wellness retreats, nestled in some of the world’s most stunning locations, offer guests a chance to disconnect from daily pressures and reconnect with themselves in unparalleled luxury.

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Luxury villas that focus on wellness go beyond aesthetics, creating a holistic environment where guests can truly unwind. The breathtaking views, the sound of waves, and the feeling of being immersed in nature combine to create an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Each villa has been meticulously designed with wellness in mind, offering spaces that calm the senses while inviting relaxation.At Villa Emerald Pavilion in Turks and Caicos, located on Grace Bay, you’ll find the perfect balance between Caribbean beauty and holistic wellness. This seven-bedroom villa offers a private gym setting with access to an approximate 4,200 sq. ft. pool terrace enters into a zero-edge beach entry at the pool closest to the home, with a signature perfectly appointed pool pavilion with

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At Villa Serena on Lake Como, Italy, guests can indulge in guided meditation sessions in the villa’s serene gardens or participate in lakeside yoga overlooking the tranquil waters of the lake. Villa Serena offers a wellness retreat with a focus on relaxation and mindfulness. Its luxurious interiors are designed for comfort, while the outdoor spaces invite guests to connect with nature. Whether it’s exploring the scenic beauty of Lake Como or enjoying a massage in the villa’s private wellness center, Villa Serena offers a unique blend of Italian elegance and wellness.

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A True Wellness Haven: Total RejuvenationFor those who seek more than just a luxurious escape, wellness villas provide the ultimate sanctuary for total rejuvenation. At Villa Cielito del Mar in Los Cabos, Mexico, guests are treated to a beachfront oasis where daily wellness rituals are seamlessly integrated into the villa experience. This oceanfront property is designed with a focus on relaxation and renewal, offering guests a private yoga deck, in-villa spa treatments, and organic meals crafted by the villa’s personal chef. With the sound of the Pacific Ocean in the background, it’s the perfect setting for deep meditation and reflection.

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ENGLAND isn’t short of beautiful little towns – and one is surging in popularity this month.

The tiny town of Rye has seen a boost in train ticket sales, according to a new study.

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Conducted by Trainline, Rye has seen a rise of 167 per cent in ticket sales,

Just over an hour from London (when changing at Ashford) the small ‘seaside’ town isn’t on the beach, although has its own harbour on the coast.

Also called one of England‘s quaintest towns, the main Mermaid Street feels like going back in time.

Many of the Tudor buildings remain, with hidden lanes and paths between each of them.

Originally a fishing port, it was a famous pirate port in the 13th century – although this was sanctioned by the crown, who took a cut of the profits.

Now it is a popular staycation spot with tiny hotels, restaurants and cafes to explore.

Some of the popular attractions include Lamb House, a Georgian house owned by National Trust and once the home of a number of writers.

Or there is the retro independent Kino Cinema, built in a former Victorian library.

Shopping is a must – especially for chocoholics.

The first Knoops store opened in Rye, which is often considered as having the best hot chocolates in the country.

Otherwise there is also the nearby Rye Chocolates shop, all handmade at the harbour.

Interior lovers will enjoy both Sailors and Rae, with beautiful home goods and gifts, as well as Rye Art Gallery for some new prints.

Grammar School Records has more than 20,000 vinyls on sale (the name coming from its location, being built in a former 17th century school) while sweets can be found at the Rye Candy store.

When you need a food break, The Fig cafe is the highest rated, serving both lunch and dinner.

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One of the UK’s top chef‘s Ben Tish told Conde Nast Traveller it was where “all the locals” go, and raved about the aubergine shawarma.

Or head to the burger shack Frankie’s At The Beach, named the best place in the UK for a quick bite by Tripadvisor.

If you want to stay longer than a day trip, there are some stunning boutique hotels to choose from.

There is The Mermaid Inn, with parts of the hotel built back in 1156 and rooms from £90 a night, or the smaller hotel The Regent with rooms from £95 a night,

The fanciest hotel is The George in Rye, right on the high street and named one of the best places to stay in the UK by the Sunday Times.

It’s loved by by celebs too, with previous guests being George Clooney and Helene Bonham-Carter.

Or there is the nearby hotel The Gallivant in Camber, which was named mall Hotel of the Year 2024 by Visit England.

A visit to the nearby Camber Sands is one to do in spring – as it was named the UK beach that gets the warmest then hitting highs of 19C.

There is even a Parkdean Resort there, for a cheap family staycation.

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ONE of the the Haven holiday parks which has recently welcomed some very famous faces is to undergo a huge renovation.

The Presthaven Sands resort was visited by footballer Harry Maguire earlier this year with his family.

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And the holiday park has now revealed new plans to upgrade the resort.

New documents submitted to the local council include a huge extended play zone, with aerial adventure courses, climbing walls and bungee trampolines.

A new inflatable arena as well as a dog-friendly “Bark Yard zone” are also part of the plans.

In the planning statement, it said: “The proposal represents a major investment by Haven into the Presthaven Sands Holiday Park to enhance existing facilities and the customer experience.

“Haven are seeking to upgrade the existing adventure area between the entertainment complex and swimming pool complex.

“The refurbished Adventure Village will be solely for the use of holidaymakers already visiting the park, and will not therefore create any additional visitor pressure on the wider area.”

The improvements are yet to be given the go-ahead, with opening dates also yet to go.

In the mean time, the coastal holiday park has enough to keep you occupied.

There is the indoor swimming pool for when the weather turns, with an outdoor lazy river.

Also inside is the huge entertainment venue with amusement arcades too.

A NERF training camp, The Jump attraction, adventure golf and indoor soft play are all on-site.

It’s newest additions include the new Chopstix food stand, serving freshly cooked noodles and sides.

If you’re not a fan, there are other food options include Mash and Barrel, Burger King, Papa Johns and a chippie.

And if you want to brave the weather, there is direct access to the huge sandy beach.

Mum copies Harry Maguire’s Haven holiday

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Mum Rebecca visited the same Haven park – and stayed in the same lodges.

“Like most other Brits, I was surprised to hear that a well-paid footie star stayed at a Haven holiday park, and couldn’t resist going down to copy his holiday.

“Along with my six-year-old, we stayed in a Diamond Lodge like the Man United star and his family, and signed up for the same activities he did.

“The caravan was definitely celeb-worthy with huge marble kitchen with matching bathroom and en-suite as well as hipster lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows and a 40-inch TV.

“We also did everything from Make-A-Bear classes and pottery painting at the Creative Studio although were too tired for a night at the bingo, where Harry was spotted.

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“This trip was better than any fancy cruise or all-inclusive holiday abroad.”

Four-night caravan stays can still be found for £49, or you can book a November weekend break for £209.

Other Haven parks to choose from include Hopton Holiday Park in Norfolk, the highest rated of Haven’s resorts.

Not only is it right by the beach, but there is even a new indoor swimming pool.

Or there is Devon Cliffs, the largest of the Haven parks.

This year the park launched its new tube slide ride and beach bar.

And Haven Primrose Valley opened a Wetherspoons on-site earlier this year, the first of its kind – and we went down.

Haven holidays for 2025 can still be found for £49 too.

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A NEWLY-OPENED adventure playground has been described as a ‘child’s dream’ by visitors thanks to its huge play structures.

Hockerhill Adventure Playbarn has been a hit with families since it opened to the public in March.

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Set on the Chillington Estate, just outside of Brewood in Staffordshire, the attraction was built to offer a space for both children and adults.

After realising there was nowhere to go for both kids and adults, Tessa and Charlie Giffard decided to create the new attraction.

Housed inside a former agricultural barn, the adventure playground features a huge fake oak tree inspired by one King Charles II used to hide during the Battle of Worcester in 1651.

A central indoor turret inside the barn lets kids explore bridges, high-level walkways, tunnels, slides and ropes.

There’s also an outdoor area with zip lines, swings, slides and a designated area for toddlers.

Children and tweens can live out their Formula One dreams on a pedal go-kart track.

The track starts outside before heading indoors, with kids following a winding tarmac track.

There are also indoor and outdoor dining facilities, serving snacks such as cakes and ice cream as well as hot food such as sourdough pizzas and sandwiches.

Special Educational Needs (SEN) sessions run on the first Thursday of the month when the adventure playground is quieter.

Other themed events also run throughout the year, including Halloween activities like face painting, a treasure hunt and craft sessions.

Hockerhill Adventure Playbarn will also be transformed into a winter wonderland on selected dates in November and December.

Younger visitors will meet Father Christmas and his elves inside a specially-created grotto.

Kids will be given a gift from the big man himself, a deluxe hot chocolate, a seasonal biscuit and a Christmas craft activity.

Tessa Giffard, custodian of Chillington Hall and Estate, said: “We’re so excited to welcome Father Christmas to Hockerhill for the very first time this year.

“Families can share a wonderful experience and create unforgettable memories whilst enjoying two hours of play in our festive wonderland.”

Despite only being open since March, families have raved about the Staffordshire-based attraction on TripAdvisor.

One person wrote: “We had a superb morning at Hockerhill Playbarn.

“The kids loved the go-karts and the zip wire, it’s a child’s dream, with swings, slides, towers, bridges, walkways, zip lines and tunnels.”

Another person added: “This place is brilliant”.

A third person wrote: “This is without a doubt the best playbarn we have ever visited.

“We have three children of different ages and it is usually impossible to find somewhere that ALL the children enjoy, until we visited Hockerhill.”

Entry to Hockerhill Adventure Playbarn costs £8 for a full-paying adult, with tickets for kids starting from £5.

Hockerhill Adventure Playbarn is a 30-minute drive from Birmingham, and it’s a 25-minute drive from Stafford.

Another one in Wales has amazing rollercoasters and aerial attractions.

And one has been so popular, it’s staying open for winter.

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