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What should I eat in a heatwave?
During a heatwave, focus on light, water-rich foods. Many people have a reduced appetite during a heatwave (Alamy/PA) As temperatures begin to soar across the UK, many of us will instinctively reach for our water bottles to stay hydrated. However, hydrating foods are often overlooked. Maintaining a balanced diet and fuelling our body is key to warding off the feelings of fatigue and sluggishness that can accompany a heatwave. We spoke to some experts to find out why our eati


7 radiant wines to raise a glass to summer socials
From lip-smacking reds to still and sparkling rosé, top picks to sip in the sunshine. By Sam Wylie-Harris. The prettiest wine labels come with the promise of a celebratory glass (Nyetimber/PA) After a bottle for the hamper or to complement a picnic spread with an eye-catching sparkler? There are plenty of decorative labels to pique your interest. Refreshing, food-friendly styles which capture our imagination with the flowering notion you’re going to love what’s in your glass,


Claudine Boulstridge’s coconut cod and zesty noodles recipe
The chef calls this a ‘healthier’ version of fish fingers. Coconut cod with greens and zesty lime rice noodles “This quick and tasty dish – think of it as a healthier version of fish fingers – is packed with good fats from coconut and seeds, as well as high-protein hemp, fish and eggs,” says chef Claudine Boulstridge. “It’s both nutritious and delicious, and the creamy, fragrant lime sauce makes it a hit with adults and children alike.” Coconut cod with greens and zesty lime


Ottolenghi’s recipe tester Claudine Boulstridge: My children ‘grew up on Yotam’s food’ – so they’re not fussy
Wales-based Boulstridge has been working with Ottolenghi for nearly two decades, and is releasing her debut cookbook. Claudine Boulstridge is Yotam Ottolenghi’s recipe tester (Helen Cathcart/PA) If you don’t want your children to become fussy eaters, why not wean them on a steady diet of Yotam Ottolenghi recipes? That’s what Claudine Boulstridge did – but not necessarily by design. French-British chef Boulstridge has been Ottolenghi’s recipe tester for 17 years now – meaning


Claudine Boulstridge’s blueberry Danish pastries recipe
Swap out blueberries for blackberries, apples or whatever you have in your fridge in these easy pastries. Claudine Boulstridge’s Blueberry Danish pastries (Helen Cathcart/PA) “These six-ingredient, low-sugar pastries are unbelievably simple to make and will quickly become your favourite healthy breakfast treat,” says chef Claudine Boulstridge. “Not only are they delicious and beautiful, but they’re also packed with blueberries – often hailed as a superfood for their numerous


6 stylish cocktails to cheer happy hour
Springtime soirées signal a snazzy serve, says Sam Wylie-Harris. Party drinks to rustle up at home (Trevethan Distillery/PA) In tune with the seasons, much like wearing fewer layers and lighter fabrics to stay cool, tastes change and so do our warm weather drinks rituals. After months of muddling and garnishing with evergreen herbs and rustling up spicy recipes, it’s time to forage for fresh flavours, zingy notes of citrus to perk up the palate, and lighter thirst-quenchers.


Joanne Clifton: From the Ballroom to Britain’s Most Chaotic Hotel
As Fawlty Towers prepares to check into the Wales Millennium Centre this month, Joanne Clifton is stepping into one of British comedy’s most beloved roles. The 2016 Strictly Come Dancing champion and member of one of Britain’s best-known dancing families takes on the role of Polly in John Cleese’s stage adaptation of the iconic sitcom. John Cleese’s stage adaptation of Fawlty Towers Born into a family of champion dancers, with parents Keith and Judy Clifton and brother Kevin


The Bodyguard The Musical comes to Wales Millennium Centre this summer
This summer, The Bodyguard The Musical returns to Wales Millennium Centre for a limited run from 20–25 July 2026, bringing with it star casting, theatrical spectacle and the unmistakable legacy of one of cinema’s most beloved stories. The Bodyguard The Musical returns to Wales Millennium Centre Few stage musicals manage to combine blockbuster romance, edge-of-your-seat drama and a soundtrack packed with era-defining hits quite like The Bodyguard. A Hollywood story reimagined


Don't miss the Royal Welsh Show 2026
Get ready for one of the biggest and best events in the British agricultural calendar as the Royal Welsh Show makes its much-anticipated return to Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, from Monday 20th to Thursday 23rd July 2026. Royal Welsh Show 2026 Every summer, thousands of visitors head to the heart of Mid-Wales for four unforgettable days celebrating the very best of Welsh and British agriculture and 2026 promises to be bigger, brighter and more exciting than ever. From world-class


John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers The Play at Wales Millennium Centre
Comedy fans are in for a treat when John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers – The Play checks in for a laugh-out-loud stay at Wales Millennium Centre. John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers – The Play is heading to Wales Millennium Centre Nearly 50 years after it first burst onto television screens, one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms is back, this time live on stage. John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers – The Play is heading to Wales Millennium Centre from 23–27 June 2026, bringing timeless comedy, unfo


Visit the Portmeirion Festival 2026
Tucked away on a private peninsula in North Wales, Portmeirion is a place where imagination and landscape blend seamlessly. In 2026, this iconic destination celebrates a remarkable milestone with the Gŵyl Portmeirion Festival, marking 100 years since it first opened its gates. The Portmeirion Festival 2026 Few places in Wales capture the imagination quite like Portmeirion. Perched on a stunning peninsula overlooking the shimmering Dwyryd Estuary, this extraordinary Italianate


Hay Festival 2026: The Must-Visit Cultural Event of the Year
The world-renowned Hay Festival returns to Hay-on-Wye from 21–31 May 2026, with eleven unforgettable days of ideas, stories and inspiration. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, visitors can dive into a vibrant programme packed with thought-provoking talks, live performances and cultural experiences. Hay Festival 2026 Writers, readers, thinkers and dreamers gather once more at Hay Festival on the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National


7 of the best Wimbledon royal fashion moments from over the years
A look back at courtside royal fashion, before the Championships begin on June 29. Royal fashion has taken centre stage at Wimbledon over the years(Neil Munns/Victoria Jones/Jordan Pettitt/PA) The Wimbledon Championships are fast approaching – and while spectators are keen to see what happens on court, the off-court fashion will be just as closely watched. The royal family has a long-standing relationship with Wimbledon – the late Queen Elizabeth II became a patron of the All


Serena Williams’ best fashion moments on court – as she makes tennis comeback at Queens
The tennis star loves to push the boundaries with fashion, with many of her on-court looks making waves in the tennis world. Serena Williams (Adam Davy/PA) Tennis icon Serena Williams made her eagerly awaited return to the grass courts at the HSBC Championships in London on Tuesday. Renowned for her fearless sense of style, the 23-time Grand Slam champion stepped onto the court in a white Nike sleeveless top, pale pink skirt and pink trainers, receiving a wildcard entry in th


How to find the perfect sunglasses shape for your face
An expert explains how to decode your face shape and choose the frames that suit you best. Victoria Beckham has long sported the ‘aviator’ style (Alamy/PA) Finding the perfect pair of sunglasses is deceptively complicated. What looks effortlessly chic on someone else can sit completely differently on your own face – either too wide, too narrow, too harsh or simply… off. “The main rule I’d give anyone is to contrast, not match,” explains the co-founder of sunglasses label Finl


6 best pieces from Victoria Beckham’s new Gap range, from £25 to £250
Here are the standout items from Victoria Beckham’s new 38-piece Gap collection. Here are some of the best items to get your hands on from Victoria Beckham’s new Gap launch (Gap/PA) The long-awaited collaboration between Gap and Victoria Beckham has officially landed, marking a significant moment in the high street’s ongoing push towards more elevated and design-led fashion. The 38-piece collection – priced from £25 to £250 – reimagines Gap’s most recognisable staples through


How to treat adult acne
Dermatologists and facialists share their insights on treating breakouts and blemishes in adulthood. Experts break down the key steps to treating adult acne (Alamy/PA) Acne is often seen as something we leave behind in our teenage years – but for many, breakouts persist well into adulthood, often becoming even more frustrating in the process. Unlike adolescent acne, which tends to follow a more predictable pattern, adult acne can feel erratic, reactive and harder to treat. Ho


9 most scandalous Met Gala looks in history
As we gear up for the latest instalment of the Met Gala on May 4, here’s a look back at some of its most controversial looks in history. Here’s a breakdown of the most controversial Met Gala looks in history (Alamy/PA) As the Met Gala approaches its 80th anniversary, the world’s most famous fashion fundraiser, which was first held in 1948, returns with a fittingly reflective theme: Fashion as Art. Over nearly eight decades, the gala has evolved from a society dinner into one


Go on an alpaca adventure with Alpaca My Boots
Looking for a fun and unforgettable way to explore the Welsh countryside? Then it’s time to lace up your walking boots and meet your new furry trekking companion at Alpaca My Boots, a 90-minute alpaca adventure guaranteed to leave you smiling from ear to ear. Alpaca My Boots Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Bannau Brycheiniog, this unique experience combines stunning scenery, fresh mountain air and plenty of alpaca charm. Think rolling hills, sweeping green valleys an
Jun 11 min read


Techniquest launches new annual pass to celebrate their 40th year
This year marks 40 years of discovery at Techniquest, the UK’s first purpose-built science discovery centre. To celebrate the occasion, they’re introducing a new Premium Pass giving you the freedom to visit all-year round, including during the school holidays! Techniquest founder Professor John Beetlestone demonstrates the Bernoulli Blower exhibit for television in the late 1980s. The exhibit helps to explain how aeroplanes fly and is still much-loved today! The best part? Th
Mar 311 min read


Gozzle hatches this spring at WWT Llanelli
This spring, WWT Llanelli is teaming up with Macmillan Children’s Books to explore the wonderful world of wetlands with Gozzle, a freshly hatched gosling discovering what it takes to grow up. The Gozzle wetland adventure at Llanelli Wetland Centre amilies are invited to enjoy a season of firsts this spring as WWT Llanelli is teaming up with Macmillan Children’s Books to explore the wonderful world of wetlands with Gozzle, a freshly hatched gosling discovering what it takes to
Mar 113 min read


The best Easter days out in South Wales
Easter in South Wales is bursting with egg-cellent attractions the whole family will love. Folly Farm Go wild at Folly Farm Easter is the perfect excuse to dust off the picnic blanket, grab the kids and make some memories at Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire. Part farm, part zoo, part amusement park, it’s a one-stop adventure that keeps little (and big) ones entertained from morning to evening. Spring brings the farm to life, fluffy lambs, bouncing bunnies, and a host of animals th
Feb 264 min read


Have a blast at Techniquest this February
Cardiff Bay's much-loved science discovery centre will be open 9am–6pm every day this February half-term so there's even more time for families to get blown away by science. Cardiff Bay's Techniquest As well as three floors packed with curious exhibits and creative activities, you can catch Bubbles and Blasts — a live science show with mega bubbles that float, glow in the dark, and even pack an explosive punch! Or you can get hands-on with a workshop in the lab, where you can
Jan 271 min read


Festive Family Days Out in South Wales – The Best Christmas Activities
Plan unforgettable family-friendly Christmas outings, winter attractions, and holiday adventures across South Wales. Christmas at Bute Park Until 31 Dec Christmas at Bute Park Bute Park, Cardiff bute-park.com Light up your Winter evenings for a fifth year with Christmas at Bute Park. Take a mile long stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. Until 4 Jan Swansea Waterfront Winterland National Waterfront Museum...
Dec 2, 20251 min read


Go on an alpaca adventure with Alpaca My Boots
Looking for a fun and unforgettable way to explore the Welsh countryside? Then it’s time to lace up your walking boots and meet your new furry trekking companion at Alpaca My Boots, a 90-minute alpaca adventure guaranteed to leave you smiling from ear to ear. Alpaca My Boots Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Bannau Brycheiniog, this unique experience combines stunning scenery, fresh mountain air and plenty of alpaca charm. Think rolling hills, sweeping green valleys an


Techniquest launches new annual pass to celebrate their 40th year
This year marks 40 years of discovery at Techniquest, the UK’s first purpose-built science discovery centre. To celebrate the occasion, they’re introducing a new Premium Pass giving you the freedom to visit all-year round, including during the school holidays! Techniquest founder Professor John Beetlestone demonstrates the Bernoulli Blower exhibit for television in the late 1980s. The exhibit helps to explain how aeroplanes fly and is still much-loved today! The best part? Th


Gozzle hatches this spring at WWT Llanelli
This spring, WWT Llanelli is teaming up with Macmillan Children’s Books to explore the wonderful world of wetlands with Gozzle, a freshly hatched gosling discovering what it takes to grow up. The Gozzle wetland adventure at Llanelli Wetland Centre amilies are invited to enjoy a season of firsts this spring as WWT Llanelli is teaming up with Macmillan Children’s Books to explore the wonderful world of wetlands with Gozzle, a freshly hatched gosling discovering what it takes to


The best Easter days out in South Wales
Easter in South Wales is bursting with egg-cellent attractions the whole family will love. Folly Farm Go wild at Folly Farm Easter is the perfect excuse to dust off the picnic blanket, grab the kids and make some memories at Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire. Part farm, part zoo, part amusement park, it’s a one-stop adventure that keeps little (and big) ones entertained from morning to evening. Spring brings the farm to life, fluffy lambs, bouncing bunnies, and a host of animals th


Have a blast at Techniquest this February
Cardiff Bay's much-loved science discovery centre will be open 9am–6pm every day this February half-term so there's even more time for families to get blown away by science. Cardiff Bay's Techniquest As well as three floors packed with curious exhibits and creative activities, you can catch Bubbles and Blasts — a live science show with mega bubbles that float, glow in the dark, and even pack an explosive punch! Or you can get hands-on with a workshop in the lab, where you can


Festive Family Days Out in South Wales – The Best Christmas Activities
Plan unforgettable family-friendly Christmas outings, winter attractions, and holiday adventures across South Wales. Christmas at Bute Park Until 31 Dec Christmas at Bute Park Bute Park, Cardiff bute-park.com Light up your Winter evenings for a fifth year with Christmas at Bute Park. Take a mile long stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. Until 4 Jan Swansea Waterfront Winterland National Waterfront Museum...


How sudden increases in temperature can affect the body – and how to manage it
Hot weather can make you feel weak and tired, so here’s how to stay safe. How to keep cool when the mercury rises (Alamy/PA) Despite a week of rain, thunderstorms and unsettled weather, the Met Office predicts that temperatures will rise significantly this weekend. Dan Stroud, meteorologist at the Met Office, told The Press Association that he expects conditions to become much warmer, with temperatures widely above average, especially in southern areas on Saturday and Sunday.


Katherine Ryan on what might be the most embarrassing thing about childbirth
The comedian admits she pooed during two of her four labours – saying ‘it’s nothing to worry about because no one will remember’ The truth about labour: Katherine Ryan (Andrex/Dawn Productions/PA) As a mum of four, Katherine Ryan is well aware of both the joys and the horrors of childbirth. And the outspoken comedian, who gave birth to her latest baby seven-and-a-half months ago, is keen to stress that nothing about the birth process should be embarrassing or taboo – includin


A huge new wellness resort is coming to Manchester – here’s a peek inside the Bucharest version
As the first ‘Therme’ is being built in the UK, Claire Spreadbury finds out what to expect. Anyone for a dip? (Therme Manchester/PA) A wellbeing resort, which developers claim will be the ‘world’s largest’ of its kind, is set to open in Manchester in 2028. Building is underway at the 65,000 square-metre site for Theme Manchester – which will cost an estimated £500 million to complete. The spa and water park will include more than 20 saunas and almost two kilometres of water s


6 changes to make now to improve your sleep in warm weather
Simple adjustments can significantly reduce the impact of high temperatures on your sleep. Try to cool down your environment and your mind, advises the expert (Alamy/PA) As summer approaches, many of us look forward to longer days and warm evenings spent outdoors. But while rising temperatures are welcome during the day, they can become far less appealing at night when it’s time to sleep. If you’re concerned about how the warmer weather might affect your rest this summer, you


6 unexpected signs you’re dehydrated – and what to do about it
Dehydration can sometimes sneak up on you with some surprising symptoms. Make water a priority during the heatwave (Alamy/PA) As temperatures across the UK continue to climb to record highs, it’s important that staying hydrated doesn’t slip down the priority list. Dehydration is very common during heatwaves, and can range from mild to severe explains Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. “Most of us are probably mildly dehydrated the majority of the time and expe


When It’s your child, experience matters at Nuffield Health
At Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals, specialist paediatric teams deliver care that is carefully designed around the needs of children and young people, ensuring they feel comfortable, listened to and fully supported at every stage of their journey. Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals Every parent knows that few things matter more than their child’s health. From the first unexplained tummy ache to a niggling sports injury or concerns about development, deciding wh


Why teens get withdrawals from social media – and how to deal with it
Stepping away from social media can initially trigger withdrawal-like symptoms. When disconnected, dopamine levels plummet, leading to cravings, irritability, and anxiety (Alamy/PA) As the Government continues to tease a complete social media ban for under-16s, many people are wondering how such a move could affect teenagers in everyday life. Even as adults, many of us find it difficult to resist the temptation to constantly check our phones. “While social media withdrawal is


The 10 best finance apps to help you organise your money
Download some of these nifty apps to help you stay on top of your spending. Finance apps can help you sort out your finances and keep on track with savings goals (Alamy/PA) Feel like you’re floundering when it comes to keeping track of the money you have coming in and going out? As you’d imagine, there are more than a few apps out there designed to help you stay on top of your finances. So whether you’re struggling with budgeting, debt or splitting bills, an online organiser


When It’s your child, experience matters at Nuffield Health
At Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals, specialist paediatric teams deliver care that is carefully designed around the needs of children and young people, ensuring they feel comfortable, listened to and fully supported at every stage of their journey. Nuffield Health Cardiff & Vale Hospitals Every parent knows that few things matter more than their child’s health. From the first unexplained tummy ache to a niggling sports injury or concerns about development, deciding wh


How an Olympic mindset can bring students exam success
An Olympic sports psychologist explains how achieving peak exam performance has ‘marked parallels’ with striving for sporting excellence. For exam success, it’s about the preparation you put in beforehand – exactly the same as sport (Alamy/PA) Sitting an exam can be one of the most important performances in a child’s life – and the way to succeed may be to adopt the mindset of an Olympic athlete. The link between sporting success and acing exams is all about creating the righ


Voters urged to register to vote before it’s too late
With the voter registration deadline fast approching for the Senedd election on 7 May, anyone who wants to vote must make sure they are registered in time. Research shows that some groups, including young people, students and those who have recently moved, are less likely to be registered than others. The deadline to register to vote is midnight on Monday 20 April. Voters can apply online at gov.uk/register-to-vote . It takes just five minutes. Once registered, voters have


Climbing for Aled: A Mother-Daughter Mission to Machu Picchu
Sian and her mum Sylvia are taking on an 11-day trek through the Peruvian jungle in memory of Sian’s late son Aled. Battling altitude, splints and age, they’re walking to raise funds for Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice. Climbing for Aled: A Mother-Daughter Mission to Machu Picchu Trekking at altitude through the Peruvian jungle to the lost city of Machu Picchu would be a challenge for most people. But Sian Milligan, 44, who will be heading for Machu Picchu with her mum Sylvia Wal
HOMES & INTERIORS


The most important gardening jobs to do in July
Keep on top of things as summer continues. There is still work to do in the garden in July (Alamy/PA) July may seem the month where all your hard work pays off and you can finally sit and admire your garden. Flowers will be in full bloom, some fruit and veg are ready to harvest and patios will be looking their best. But don’t let things slide – because some jobs just won’t wait. 1. Keep watering (Alamy/PA) July is often dry, so it’s important to keep on top of watering. If yo


8 hacks to cool your home quickly without air-con
Combat the heatwave with these quick tips and tricks. Surviving a UK heatwave doesn’t require AC (Alamy/PA) As temperatures soar across the UK this week, you might have spent the weekend frantically rummaging through your attic in search of a fan. Heatwaves tend to trigger a sense of panic for many Brits, with concerns about how to keep cool, avoid restless nights, and stay comfortable while working can feel all consuming. While maintaining a cool indoor environment can be ch


Plastic Free July: The hidden plastics in your garden and how to ditch them
Compost, fertilisers and even turf may all contain plastic elements. Slow-release fertilisers can contain plastic (Alamy/PA) For many gardeners, the plastic elements used in horticulture are obvious – black plastic pots and seed trays, artificial grass and some membranes, to name but a few. But what about the hidden plastics in your garden, the microplastics we don’t really consider which might eventually leach into our soil? And how can we ditch them? So, where are the hidde


9 stylish ideas for dads who appreciate home decor
Whether it’s accessorising his man cave or gifting on Father’s Day, make it something lasting, says Sam Wylie-Harris. From little luxuries to handy homewares, gifting ideas for Father’s Day (Smeg/PA) Whatever the age demographic of your dad, there’s a perfect present out there to suit his taste in decorative detail. From art and design options that fuse function with flair, or if you simply hope to bring a smile to his face by presenting him with a gift he’s been hankering af


Handmade Living, Inside & Out
From bespoke architectural interiors to handcrafted outdoor furniture, The BOX Furniture and Chunk Monkey create statement pieces that bring craftsmanship, character and durability to modern living. Handmade furniture from The BOX Furniture and Chunk Monkey Designed and handmade in South Wales, each project combines solid timber, precision steelwork and over 20 years of craftsmanship experience, creating furniture and interiors built not only to look exceptional, but to last


Two exciting new developments by Acorn Property Group
Peaceful and modern homes in South Wales with Acorn Property Group who showcase the very best of design-led living in South Wales. Hensol Grove, Vale of Glamorgan Hensol Grove, Vale of Glamorgan Set within the prestigious grounds of The Vale Resort and historic Hensol Castle, Hensol Grove is an exceptional collection of sustainable new 2 to 5-bedroom homes located in the sought-after Vale of Glamorgan. Prices from £665,000. The new homes combine luxury living with an outstand


9 summer bedding sets for a peaceful night’s slumber
Embrace the warmer weather by styling up your scheme with dreamy duvet sets. By Sam Wylie-Harris. With a heatwave on the cards, time to refresh your bedding (Secret Linen Store/PA) With summer hotting up and promise of warmer weather, it only takes the first heatwave to put the focus on fresh bed linen – and making everything look and feel cool, crisp and charming. And whether you favour white, pastels, or feel fearless with colour by mixing and matching prints and florals, t


Watering aids to help you through the drier months
Water butts, solar-powered irrigation and mists can all help. The Hozelock Solar Select automatic irrigation system is perfect for when you go away (Hozelock/PA) After an extremely dry spring in some parts, gardeners may now be heading for their hosepipes to try to keep their beloved flowering plants, fruit and vegetables happy. We may choose to plant drought-tolerant plants, although they are still likely to need watering-in until established, and use mulch to cover the grou


Summery kitchen ideas for a quickie refresh
The hardest working room in the house loves to look spanking new for summer, says Sam Wylie-Harris. Clear the clutter and create the perfect kitchen space for entertaining (Beach House Art/PA) If sunshine and blue skies have you thinking about a simple spruce-up and introducing a breath of fresh air, it could be time for a kitchen makeover. Especially with longer, warmer days, and promise of throwing open the windows to embrace indoor-outdoor living… and getting organised ahe


How to create a cottage garden in a small space
Think organised with a loose hand, says an expert. A small cottage garden (Alamy/PA) The vision of a cottage garden may be one of a countryside scene in a rural retreat like the Cotswolds, with clouds of peonies, roses, lupins, delphiniums and all other manner of classic blooms wafting in the summer sun. “When we think of cottage gardens we do often think of small spaces which are quite heavily planted but with a loose hand,” says writer and gardener Joff Elphick, whose new b
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