Liv Kelly is a journalist who has worked at Time Out since July 2023, first as a freelance contributor and now the Travel Writer, as of July 2025. You’ll usually find her writing about city life and culture, sustainability, overtourism and travel trends. 

She studied at the University of Leeds and is now based in London. It’s a city that she loves, but growing up in Brighton means Liv can’t be parted from the coast for extended periods of time. 

Time Out has covered the world’s greatest cities through the eyes of local experts since 1968. For more about us, read our editorial guidelines.

Liv Kelly

Liv Kelly

Travel Writer

Articles (229)

The 100 best TV shows of all time you have to watch

The 100 best TV shows of all time you have to watch

Updated for 2026: Whatever you think of Netflix’s theatrical strategy, it continues to produce some of television’s most formally daring works, including Adolescence, a hard-to-watch but impossible to ignore limited series about an unimaginable crime. On the other end of the spectrum, there’s HBO’s hilariously profane The Righteous Gemstones, which stuck the landing in 2025 with its final season. In addition, we have moved Andor into the top 20 after its astounding second and final season.  Television used to be considered one of the lowest forms of entertainment. It was derided as ‘the idiot box’ and ‘the boob tube’. Edward R Murrow referred to it as ‘the opiate of the masses’, and the phrase ‘I don’t even own a TV’ was considered a major bragging right.  A lot has changed. Television is now the dominant medium in basically all of entertainment. The shift in perception is widely credited to the arrival of The Sopranos, which completely reinvented the notion of what a TV show could do. But that doesn’t mean everything that came before is primordial slurry. While this list of the greatest TV shows ever is dominated by 21st century programs, from The Wire to Succession to Adolescence, there are many shows that deserve credit for laying the groundwork for this current golden age.  Chiseling them down to a neat top 100 is difficult, so we elected to leave off talk shows, variety shows and sketch comedy, focusing on scripted, episodic dramas, comedies and miniseries. So don’t touc
Where to stay in London: our ultimate guide to the best places for 2026

Where to stay in London: our ultimate guide to the best places for 2026

You’ve decided you’re travelling to London. You’ve booked your transport and downloaded a tube map, but where to stay? You’ve probably clocked that London is one massive, sprawling city, made up of neighbourhoods that each have their own unique character. Resist the urge to panic-book a fancy hotel in London’s West End – there’s plenty more out there, we promise. So, if you're visiting in 2026, why not dive into the real London by branching out from the well-trodden tourist path? Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of somewhere totally new. If you're after local living, hit up Leyton or Walthamstow, or Brixton has an endless array of cheap eats, bars and culture on every corner. Whether you’re after lively nightlife, easy access to gorgeous green spaces, culture on your doorstop, or serious dining, you’ll find it here. Ready to get booking? Read on for our guide to the best neighbourhoods and places to stay in London.  Where to stay in London at a glance Hackney - best for living like a local Camberwell - best for hyped restaurants, bakeries and galleries Camden - best for punk living and vegan food Peckham - best for BYOBs, rooftop bars and hitting the club Shoreditch - best for vintage shopping and curry houses Chiswick - best for a tranquil getaway Dalston - best for eating, drinking and nightlife Marylebone - fine dining and luxury hotels Harringay - best for neighbourhood vibes and Turkish food Hampstead - wild swimming, cosy pubs and spotting Harry Styles
The best Airbnbs in London to book right now

The best Airbnbs in London to book right now

Whatever your vibe (and whatever your budget), London’s got it all – and anyone will find something they love here. Historic pubs, leafy parks and gardens and an unmatched restaurant scene make this city worth visiting year-round, but before you’ve booked anything in London, you kind of have to know where you’re going to be based. To get you started, we’ve rounded up the city’s best Airbnbs available to book right now, with expert tips from our local editors. And, new for 2026 is our top Airbnb, a garden flat in Leyton, perfect for a summer BBQ! Should I choose an Airbnb or a hotel in London? London is not short on lovely hotels, ranging from budget to luxury and just about everything in between. But it’s fair to say that even the cheaper options cost a pretty penny – and you’ll often find them in more central, touristy areas in the city. If you want to live like a Londoner, an Airbnb can allow you to properly immerse yourself in a more residential area of London – and all the locally-loved bars, pubs and restaurants that come with it. You’ll find lots of our local tips below, but for a detailed breakdown of the best neighbourhoods to stay in London, check out our ultimate area guide. More of a hotels guy? No problem. Here’s our list of the best hotels in London.  📍 RECOMMENDED: Ultimate guide to the best hotels and Airbnbs in London Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every Airbnb featured, our writers have based our list on expert knowledge of the de
The 25 best museums in London

The 25 best museums in London

April 2026: It’s a massive month for London’s museums. As well as loads of great new spring exhibitions to check out – from Elsa Schiaparelli at the V&A to Water Pantanal Fire at the Science Museum – the city is about to get a major new venue. More than a decade in the making, V&A East is finally set to open on April 18 in Stratford’s Olympic Park, with a landmark exhibition on Black British music among its inaugural offerings. We can’t wait! Museums are one of the things that London does best. This city boasts grand institutions housing ancient treasures, modern monoliths packed with intriguing exhibits, and tiny rooms containing deeply niche collections – and lots of them are totally free to anyone who wants to come in and take a gander. And with more than 170 London museums to choose from, there's bound to be one to pique your interest, whatever you're in to.  Want to explore the history of TfL? We’ve got a museum for that. Rather learn about advertising? We’ve got a museum for that too. History? Check. Science? Check. 1940s cinema memorabilia, grotesque eighteenth-century surgical instruments, or perhaps a wall of 4,000 mouse skeletons? Check, check and check! Being the cultured metropolitans that we are, Time Out’s editors love nothing more than a wholesome afternoon spent gawping at Churchill’s baby rattle or some ancient Egyptian percussion instruments. In my case, the opportunity to live on the doorstep of some of the planet’s most iconic cultural institutions was a b
The best Sunday roasts in London

The best Sunday roasts in London

April 2026: We've updated our roasts list to reflect the return of sunnier days. Try the Macbeth in Hoxton, which offers a great Portuguese-style Sunday sesh, and the ravishing Jamaican-inspired roast at Buster Mantis in Deptford. There are a couple of posh restaurants in the mix too, with a Nordic roast at the plush Ekstedt at the Yard near Westminster, and a serious meat feast at Quality Chop House in Clerkenwell. We also have a new Number 1 to welcome spring in; the bright and breezy offering at the super fancy-feeling Sessions Arts Club in Clerkenwell.  London’s best Sunday roasts at a glance: đŸ„© Central: Sessions Arts Club, Clerkenwell 😇 North: The Angel, Highgate â›Ș South: Old Nun’s Head, Nunhead 🌈 East: The Nelson’s, Hackney đŸ» West: The Mall Tavern, Notting Hill Sunday lunch. There’s nothing quite like it. An elemental meal, one that Londoners take incredibly seriously. Debates about what constitutes the ‘perfect’ Sunday roast have been known to last for hours. There is no shortage of top roasts and Sunday lunch options in London. We’ve rounded up the city’s best Sunday meals from a host of pubs, restaurants and breweries all around town. What makes a good roast? For us, it’s simple; a welcoming room is a good start, maybe in a pub with an open fire during the winter months. Then it comes to the plate – we need perfect roast potatoes, well-cooked lamb, beef or pork and a decent plant-based option too. A Sunday roast is more than just lunch - it’s self-care. From s
The world’s best cities for green spaces and nature in 2026

The world’s best cities for green spaces and nature in 2026

Green space is as integral to the ebb and flow of city life as good transport and a welcoming culture – even the most urban of urbanites need to touch grass once in a while, after all.  That’s why, when Time Out conducts its annual survey – this year collecting data from a staggering 24,000 city-dwellers – we don’t just ask about the best places for eating, dancing, dating and exploring, we get the lowdown on how accessible nature is, too.  All of that data is combined to create Time Out’s Best Cities with Intrepid Travel, our definitive ranking of the best cities on the planet to live in and to explore in 2026. And while Melbourne was crowned the overall best city this year, a quiet UK city took the crown as the world’s greenest, according to locals. That’s right – the lush, densely park-populated city of Bath received the highest score for green spaces and nature in our 2025-26 survey. Chicago in the US followed closely behind, and third place was copped by the effortlessly cool Canadian city of Montreal. To rank the world’s greenest cities, we asked thousands of locals across 150 hubs one question: how would you rate the green spaces and access to nature in your city? We then collated the places where the highest percentage of respondents answered ‘good’ or ‘amazing’, including only the highest-scoring city for each country to ensure the list reflects nature-packed cities globally. Fancy a gander? Check out the world’s best cities for green space and nature below, accordin
London’s best restaurants for pizza

London’s best restaurants for pizza

London is full of perfect pizza. The finest of fast foods, this delicious staple has been elevated far beyond its humble roots by great Italian restaurants in London, pop-ups, street food vendors and pub residencies, and we know just where to find these world-class wonders, because we’ve been eating our way across London in order to discover the best. Whether it’s delivered in a cardboard box or served in a swish restaurant, excellent pizza is hard to beat. Browse our list of the best pizza places in town and try not to drool on your screen. Recent additions to the list include some nifty kitchen residencies; Dough Hands at the Spurstowe Arms and (from May 7) All My Friends in Hackney Wick, Hot Saint at the Old Queen’s Head in Angel, Little Earthquakes at the Railway Tavern in Dalston, and Short Road Pizza at the William The Fourth in Leyton and Three Colts in Bethnal Green. You can find Ace Pizza at the Pembury Tavern in Hackney Downs, but they have also opened their first standalone parlour in Victoria Park. Try also; Spring Street Pizza in Borough for pie with a Michelin-starred chefs touch, Carmela’s on Upper Street for a cosy slice and Vincenzo’s in Shoreditch for no-flop pizza. RECOMMENDED: The finest fish and chips in London.  Leonie Cooper is Time Out London’s Food and Drink Editor. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.
20 day trips from London to escape the city (updated 2026)

20 day trips from London to escape the city (updated 2026)

We know that London is the best city in the world. But like any metropolis, it can also get a bit much sometimes. Occasionally, what you want isn’t to drink cocktails in a trendy bar after seeing the hottest Gen Z bedroom popstar at the Islington Assembly Hall, but a little peace and quiet, actually. Enter: the weekend getaway, invented by the Victorians (probably), there’s a reason why Londoners have been taking sojourns to the seaside on sunny bank holidays since the 1800s.  Together, we’ve come up with a cracking list of our favourite day trip destinations near London. There’s something for everyone here, from historic cities and cute villages to sandy beaches and rolling countryside. We've included some recommendations for ace restaurants, quaint little pubs, and our favourite things to do at each destination on the list – all of which are close enough to the city that you can get there and back in one sweet day.  Best day trips from London at a glance 🍔 Best for foodies: Margate 🎭 Best for culture lovers: Stratford-Upon-Avon â›Ș Best for history buffs: Canterbury 🛁 Best for families: Bath 🐮 Best for hikers: New Forest đŸș Best for pub crawls: Lewes đŸ–ïž Best for seaside fun: Brighton RECOMMENDED:✹The best day trips an hour from LondonđŸ‘Ș The best family day trips from London☀ The best weekend trips from LondonđŸ˜ïž The best Airbnbs near London🌳 The best quirky Airbnbs in the UK This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial conte
‘They shriek like throttled muppets’: Are London’s parakeets ‘posh pigeons’ or an ecological menace?

‘They shriek like throttled muppets’: Are London’s parakeets ‘posh pigeons’ or an ecological menace?

There’s a decent chance that if you’ve been for a twilight stroll in one of London’s many parks, you might have witnessed (and probably heard) a flurry of vivid green arrows darting towards the trees. It’s a parakeet roost – the daily return of the flock to their nesting place for the night – and despite the bird’s strikingly exotic appearance, they’re actually a common sight in London.  However, their reputation isn’t as sunny as their vibe might imply – in fact, the birds are downright controversial. But, how did they even end up in London, why are there so many of them, and what does their ever-growing presence mean for the city’s environment? As birdwatching soars in popularity among Gen Z, with Google searches surging by 200 percent in February 2026, we’ve called on scientific experts and Londoners for the low-down on all things parakeets.  What the heck even is a parakeet?  Standing around 40cm tall (from the tops of their heads to the ends of their tails), characterised by a camp combination of Brat-green feathers, fiery orange eyes, pointy red beaks, and, on the males, what looks like pink necklaces, ring-necked parakeets are the only naturalised parrot species in the UK.  It won’t surprise you to learn that they aren’t London ‘natives’ – parakeets originally hail from Asia and sub-Saharan Africa but have populated the capital in such staggering numbers that the ecological community now widely refers to them as an ‘invasive’ species. According to David Attenborough’s
The 51 most beautiful places in the world

The 51 most beautiful places in the world

A red sandstone amphitheatre. An ancient woodland on the English coast. A teeny tiny island with a black sand beach. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes – luckily, the world isn’t held to the same rigid beauty standards as humans are – and we’ve curated this list to celebrate that.  It goes without saying that Time Out’s ranking of the world’s most beautiful places is entirely subjective and by no means exhaustive, but what we can guarantee is real-life experience. Every single beach, lake, city and valley on this list has been visited and vetted by our globetrotting network of travel writers. In short, they’re all well worth making the journey to see for yourself (no social media fakery here).We update this list regularly, ensuring we’re including the big-hitters while considering the impact of overtourism and spotlighting lesser-known beauty spots. So here it is: Time Out’s guide to the most beautiful places on planet Earth. Happy travels!Updated March 2026: There are seven new additions to the list this year, including a terracotta-coloured Old Town in Italy, an opulent Renaissance-style library in New York and a compact mountain range in northern Spain.Grace Beard is Time Out’s travel editor, based in London. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. RECOMMENDED:⛰ The most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage SitesđŸ—ș The most underrated travel destinations i
The most underrated destinations in Europe for 2026 – hidden gems away from the crowds

The most underrated destinations in Europe for 2026 – hidden gems away from the crowds

In 2026, European travel is shifting fast. We’ve seen overcrowding, overheating and plenty of anti-tourism measures across the continent – and as a result, travellers are actively seeking out quieter, lesser-known destinations away from the tourist crowds. And if that sounds like you, you’re in luck – here at Time Out, underrated destinations are our bread and butter.  This list has been updated for 2026 by Time Out’s global network of local experts who have been to every single destination featured (often multiple times), highlighting destinations that are not only overlooked, but genuinely worth visiting right now. We’ve got alternative Scandinavian city breaks, remote islands only accessible by ferry, and destination dupes for some of Europe’s hottest beach holidays, from the Algarve to the Amalfi Coast.  âžĄïžÂ Discover the best city breaks in Europe for 2026 Why travel to underrated destinations in 2026? Sure, we love the classics for a reason. But if you’ve ever queued an hour for a pastry, spent your day’s budget on a coffee or had to book a museum three months in advance, you’ll know why more and more of us are searching for under-the-radar breaks: it’s the crowds. In fact, in some cities – the likes of Amsterdam, Venice, Barcelona – overtourism is so bad, they’ve been forced to clamp down on crowds with anti-tourism measures, from daily visitor limits to outright bans on new hotels. If you’re coming up against these, then we’d say that’s a pretty good reason to head some
The 9 best Miami Beach hotels for 2026

The 9 best Miami Beach hotels for 2026

For a healthy dose of sun, sand, and sea, is there any U.S. destination more iconic than Miami Beach? We’d argue not, and that’s why we’ve poured a whole load of love and care into researching and reviewing the neighborhood’s very best places to stay—it’s a hard life, we know. Below is a shiny list of gleaming swimming pools, suave spas, and gorgeous oceanfront views, which each have a top hotel attached. Scroll on for our refreshed list, with new entries for 2026.  Which area is best to stay in Miami? South Beach, known for its colourful nightlife, Art Deco buildings and, of course, stretches of powdery sand, is quintessential Miami, but Bricknell is a fun place to stay for a taste of the city (and its swish restaurants), and those keen to sight-see should opt for Downtown.  Miami’s best hotels at a glance: 💎 Most luxurious: Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club 👛 Best budget: Fontainebleau Miami Beach đŸ«§ Best spa: Eden Roc Miami Beach 👙 Best pool: The Shelborne by Proper 📍 Discover our ultimate guide to the best hotels in Miami How we curate our hotel lists Our team of writers and travel experts review hotels all over the world—new openings, old classics and everything in between—to bring you fresh, honest recommendations, all year round. We have reviewed many of the hotels featured below, but we may not have stayed at every single one. Any we haven’t stayed in have been selected by experts based on their amenities, features, pricing and more. By the way, this article i

Listings and reviews (127)

Cato

Cato

4 out of 5 stars
Cato is a tale of two bars. You’ll arrive at what they’re calling The House of Julep, a lively, chatter-filled space on the ground floor with dark wood, garnet-painted walls, and the pleasant rattle of cocktail shakers. Here, the vibe is relaxed, jovial, and on a Thursday evening it feels like the merry hum of a pub has been transplanted into the swankier body of a sultry bar.  In the basement, you leave the hubbub behind to find a much more intimate space, draped in scarlet velvet. This is Cato, a name inspired by freedman and pioneer of American cocktail culture Cato Alexander. Classic disco plays as we snack on pretzels, olives, and airy focaccia while browsing the menu, which is organised by colour. Inspired by the colour-coded brain phenomenon of synesthesia, it includes 14 different cocktails which contain ingredients sourced exclusively from UK suppliers. The standouts? If you fancy something ‘Brown’, then Chestnut + Brown Butter is an exquisite, earthy, very savoury combination of aged rum, Balvenie 14 Year Old Caribbean Cask, brown butter, caramelised chicken broth ‘brown’ rum, and chestnut praline. The most impressive was undoubtedly Wasabi + Mustard Greens, where ginger and honey shrub, foraged mustard greens and mustard leaf tincture mixed with gin and English wasabi distillate make for a refreshing, slightly fiery zinger of a cocktail. Order this Don’t sleep on The House of Julep’s menu. Go for The Oyster House Martini – it’s a pellucid blend of Ford’s London Dry
Homeboy Bar

Homeboy Bar

4 out of 5 stars
If you’re after a refined and polished bar perfect for quiet conversation, Homeboy is not the place. What it is good for, however, is expertly-executed cocktails served in what feels more like a raucous Irish pub. Enter and you’ll be enveloped into a snug, pleasingly low-lit space and affably greeted like a regular, even if you’ve never been here before. It’s a welcome tonic to the monosyllabic, named-after-a-generic-white-bloke bars which have proliferated London of late: there’s ample room on plump Chesterfield banquettes and lots of dark wood. On Thursdays and Sundays your evening will be soundtracked not by vinyl, but by a live Irish band.  There are TVs which, when we visited, were blaring the Six Nations, and once the music actually gets going, this place gets properly noisy. However, the seamlessness of the table service and the lively atmosphere proves that this place is a well-oiled hospitality machine – as do the drinks. Homeboy Bar’s menu features a signature collection of cocktails which have been steadfast inclusions since it opened, but there’s also a list of drinks inspired by Irish idols. The Punk Poet is one of these: it blends Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon with orange zest-infused oil, dark chocolate liqueur and demerara sugar, and it’s moreish, sour and sharp. The emphasis is very much on mixing a bit of Irishness into classic cocktail recipes, and dirty martini drinkers will also enjoy an Irish Sea.  Oh, and arrive hungry. This place doesn’t just knock it out of
Sofitel New York

Sofitel New York

3 out of 5 stars
Pass under the quintessential New York black awning, rotate through the revolving door and Sofitel New York greets you with a lengthy, imposing, Art Deco-esque lair of a lobby. It’s a lowly illuminated but pleasingly warm welcome from New York’s crispy late-fall streets, and while confusingly you’ll need to walk all the way towards the glitzy statement staircase at the far end to reach the actual reception, there are plenty of staff floating around to assist you.  This hotel is Sofitel’s new North American flagship property, which, after a substantial facelift, is a Midtown base that brims with potential. Despite a slightly bizarre entrance and shortcomings in the food offering, the hotel’s impressive location, immaculately designed beds and assured luxury service are where it gleams. Here’s what we thought of Sofitel New York.  Why stay at Sofitel New York? You probably haven’t traveled all the way to New York for a glimpse at the French way of life, but Sofitel is keen to deliver at least a flavor of it anyway. With the brand’s renewed emphasis on eating, drinking and sleeping well (which they refer to as the ‘French zest’), Sofitel New York has emerged from its site-wide renovation, striving and mostly succeeding to deliver on all those with polish.  The number one reason you should stay at this hotel is because of its prime—and we mean prime—location. Beyond having the Rockefeller Center, Empire State Building, Bryant Park, Central Park, Broadway and Times Square all with
After Dark Festival

After Dark Festival

Head along to University of East London’s Docklands campus after dark and you'll find this spectacular free festival brightening up the skies. This year, the theme is the four elements, which means there'll be tons to see inspired by the wonders of wind, earth, fire and water. Its eclectic line-up includes glowing hula hooping, fire acrobatics, a giant roaming octopus and dragon, and illuminated performers walking high above the crowds. There'll also be refreshments from local street food stalls throughout the evening. Book your free place to be part of the fun. 
ME Lisbon

ME Lisbon

4 out of 5 stars
Lisbon strikes an unmatched balance of spontaneous small town energy while ticking all the criteria a great city should – stellar restaurants and bars, cool museums, top-tier places to go shopping and plethora of unique and interesting neighbourhoods to explore. It’s that balance which is also somehow executed by ME Lisbon, a large luxury stay in MarquĂȘs do Pombal which, despite its glassy exterior, intimidatingly polished lobby and sheer size, is an unabashedly friendly and thoughtfully designed hotel that I would definitely return to.  Why stay at ME Lisbon? While this hotel is big, corporate, and ultra luxurious, the warmth of the service, the excellent restaurant and the tasteful design mean it still feels quintessentially Lisbon. Sure, it’s a far cry from the whimsical little boutique hotels you’ll find in Alfama or the city centre, but ME Lisbon, armed not only with a friendly team, good food and a marvellous scent (literally everything smells good – even the air in the lifts) but also a downright beautiful spa and rooftop pool mean you can properly kick back here.  What are the rooms like at ME Lisbon? There are 213 rooms at ME Lisbon, with a whopping 12 different types to choose from – we stayed in an expansive Beyond ME+ Suite Street View which overlooked Avenue AntĂłnio Augusto de Aguiar and bragged a walk-in dressing area with shedloads of storage, a bar and mini fridge, living space and Smart TV, plus a bedroom area and a vast and luxurious en suite.  The entire sp
CosĂŹ Fan Tutte

CosĂŹ Fan Tutte

It’s been four years since Mozart’s revered comedy was performed on a London stage, but the English National Opera’s upcoming production of CosĂŹ fan tutte has had some whimsy injected thanks to a collaboration with Improbable, an improv-based theatre company. The opera follows the outcome the cynical placing of a bet by two soldiers, Ferrando and Guglielmo, that if tested their fiancĂ©es, Fiordiligi and Dorabella, would have affairs, and soprano Lucy Crowe OBE and mezzo-soprano Taylor Raven are starring as the two sisters.  With Olivier Award-winner Phelim McDermott at the helm and Critics’ Circle Young Talent Award winner Dinis Sousa conducting, this co-production (in partnership with New York’s Metropolitan Opera), written originally at the height of Mozart’s career in the 1790s, has now been transformed by set (by Tom Pye) and costume design (by Laura Hopkins) to unfurl on 1950s Coney Island.
Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile

Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile

4 out of 5 stars
Montreal is a cool city – and I don’t just mean literally. From its dazzling fine art museum whose architectural engineering is just as outstanding as its collections, to its hearty, diverse food, stylish bars, top-tier shopping and an actual underground network of streets (yes, really), it’s somewhere I recommend you move to the top of your bucket list for 2026. And when you do pay a visit, the Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile is ready and waiting to greet you. Just like the city, this hotel has an effortless, stylish je ne sais quoi about it, largely thanks to the conclusion of a recent site-wide refurbishment. The result? A comfortable and exceptionally well-run hotel, perched on one of the coolest streets in the world. Why stay at Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile? The Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile is, simply, an expertly run hotel. The service is attentive but not overbearing, the rooms and suites are spacious with considerate details, and you’re in a handy Downtown location, just minutes from the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and Mount Royal.  On top of all that, the hotel has impressive environmental credentials – it was awarded 5 Green Keys in early 2025, the highest possible certification from eco-label programme Green Key Global, plus a local Montreal sustainability award – thanks to details such as its policy on using no paper or plastic bottles. It’s also platinum certified by SHe Travel Club, a certification platform for women travellers. What are the rooms like at Sofitel
The Natural Philosopher

The Natural Philosopher

4 out of 5 stars
Through the MacSmiths Repair Shop on Hackney Road is where you’ll find this cave-like, perfect-for-the-winter cocktail bar. We arrived drenched from the rain into the pleasantly toasty, warmly but lowly-lit space which sits at the bottom of a small staircase, and the vibe feels most like the den of a whacky old professor – think kooky portraits, cluttered old computer monitors and even something called a poem-o-graph. This is the place to come if you’re trying to ‘get into’ whisky. As of 2025, the bar is run by the same team behind the nearby Absinthe Parlour at The Last Tuesday Society, and not only does it have 24 different kinds on an evolving roster (when a bottle runs out, a new whisky replaces it), but they also have Whisky Wednesdays for tastings and specially curated cocktail menu. It’s no surprise they refer to themselves as a ‘whisky bunker’. For a crash course on whisky without committing to a full drink, there were three flight options on the menu: the ‘world wonderer’, the ‘smoke stack’ and the brilliant dessert trolley, which included notes of tropical vanilla, honeycomb and banana bread – it’s definitely one for those of us with a sweet tooth. Service is suitably laid-back, and if you’re overwhelmed by the lengthy list of options, you won’t feel too intimidated to seek out some recommendations from the bar staff about the drinks or well-paired snacks. Order this If, like me, you’re a fan of cocktails that’ll make your face scrunch up, order the Pickleback Sour.
Carols by Candlelight

Carols by Candlelight

St Martin's Voices and St Martin's Brass will this year be bringing us some stunningly festive performances of glorious music, carol singing and festive readings. Conducted by Andrew Earis, expect to hear beloved classic songs such as ‘The Holly and the Ivy’ and ‘O Holy Night’ plus the audience carols of ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ and ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’. Set against the beautiful backdrop of St Martin-in-the-Fields Church, these concerts promise to be a magical start to Christmas. 
Bincho Yakitori

Bincho Yakitori

What’s the vibe?  In a nutshell, the vibe here is casual, speedy and really, really tasty. It’s unlikely you’ll wait long for your food to arrive, nor will you be at the table for much more than an hour, but we guarantee every second will be worth it. Why? Well, Bincho’s isn’t just a favourite of Brighton’s locals, but also of its chefs. What should I order? The chef here describes himself as an Izayaka fanatic, and after spending three years in Japan finessing the cooking techniques, you can bet that this is the most authentic take on southeast Asian cuisine that Brighton has to offer. There aren’t any duds on this menu – the only mistake would be not arriving ravenous.  
The Little Fish Market

The Little Fish Market

What’s the vibe?  This space is one of Brighton’s most refined restaurants. It sits on Upper Market Street unbeknownst to the majority of passers-by, which gives it an exclusive, elevated vibe. The restaurant is tastefully and simply furnished with lots of pale wood and natural light giving it a beachhouse feel, and that is reflected in the menu.  What should I order?  The menu here changes regularly, but there’ll be a three-course set lunch menu for £35 per person or a decadent six-course option at dinner time which costs £85 per person. Each will include simple but super elegant seafood dishes, and the restaurant’s signature dish, the egg and soldiers, will (hopefully) be available at dinner time.
Bodysgallen Hall

Bodysgallen Hall

4 out of 5 stars
You might expect a Grade I National Trust property to be a bit of a stuffy and impersonal place to stay for a weekend, but Bodysgallen Hall, a lovingly restored manor house on Pydew Mountain in north Wales, is quite the opposite.  The hotel provided us tired, post-hike guests with a stay so comforting that, despite its looming size, felt more like we were at the home of an impossibly wealthy relative than a high-end hotel. Swathed by crackling fires, good, tasty food and amiable staff, this place is primed for a properly restful weekend.  Why stay at Bodysgallen Hall?  If you don’t just want a break from your day-to-day life but some proper respite from the 21st century, this is the place to stay. Bodysgallen Hall’s Main House feels a bit imposing as you approach it, but there’s something undeniably old-timey and welcoming about the place once you’ve stepped inside.  It brags all the traditional quirks that a proper country estate should, with comically low ground-floor ceilings, dark wood-panelled walls, heartily-stoked fires and marshmallow-like armchairs throughout the reception area and jumbled hallways, and much of it was built around 600 years ago. Though modern elements (speedy wifi and high-pressure showers) have seeped through, a weekend here still feels like you’ve dipped back into a different era.  What are the rooms like at Bodysgallen Hall? The Main House bedrooms could well remind you of a grandparent’s house, and I mean that as a compliment. The furnishings are

News (2627)

Are airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi open? Here’s the latest on the Middle East airspace closure

Are airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi open? Here’s the latest on the Middle East airspace closure

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East is continuing to disrupt air travel. Airlines are cancelling flights to the region and airspace closures are causing uncertainty for travellers, though some hubs are starting to resume services. Not to mention, there’s a looming global jet fuel shortage.  It’s a worrying time to be travelling, particularly through major hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so below is all the latest information on airspace closures, departures, and which hubs and operators are running services right now.  Recommended: Should you be booking a holiday right now? The latest information in light of soaring jet fuel prices.  Which airports are affected by the airspace closures? At the time of writing, several major Middle East airports are still affected by airspace closures, but at varying levels of severity. Below is an overview of what operations look like at each one right now, but all travellers should keep a keen eye on their flights’ latest status before departing for the airport.  Dubai International Airport has partially resumed services, and your airline should have contacted you directly to confirm that your flight is going ahead. Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Hamad International Airport in Doha have both advised passengers to only travel if they have a confirmed ticket and are following the instructions from their airlines.  Muscat International Airport has continued with its commercial flight schedule and is also acting as a base for spec
After two years, one of Europe’s most beautiful hiking trails will re-open this month

After two years, one of Europe’s most beautiful hiking trails will re-open this month

Traversing the planet on two feet will take you past some of the most glorious scenery imaginable, and thanks to new trails open in the UK, South Korea and Mallorca for 2026, there are more opportunities than ever to don your hiking boots.  Oh, and to complement all of that, one of the most beautiful paths in Europe is about to reopen after a two-year closure.  The route in question is Madeira’s PR1 Vereda do Areeiro, a 7km trail which encompasses three of the archipelago’s highest peaks, beginning at the Pico do Arieiro viewpoint and meandering across ridgelines, through volcanic tunnels and over Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo.  Recommended: These are the best walking trails in Madeira.  It takes around three and a half hours and also ventures through the protected area of Central Mountain Massif – keep your eyes peeled for native birds like Berthelot’s pipit and the plain swift (unique to North Atlantic Macaronesian archipelagos).  Photograph: Jason Wells / Shutterstock So, why has it been closed for so long? Well, back in 2024, much of the route was damaged by a wildfire and significant safety improvements were needed before it could be trekked safely again.  Its reopening, earmarked for later on in April, is part of the island’s ‘continued commitment to investing in infrastructure, conservation programmes and community-focused tourism activities’, according to the Visit Madeira tourism board.  However, we reported back in January that Madeira had plans to up the entry f
An entire Irish village is up for sale – with quaint cottages, a spa and a library

An entire Irish village is up for sale – with quaint cottages, a spa and a library

Some of us crave the chaos of city life, but for the most intense introverts out there, occupying an entire village all on your own is nothing short of a dream. And if that sounds like a bit of you, we’ve got some exciting news. The Village at Lyons, a 20-acre estate hidden away in Ireland’s verdant County Kildare, is up for sale with Sotheby’s International Realty.  It lies on the banks of the Grand Canal, which connects Dublin with the River Shannon, and dates back to the eighteenth century. You’ll find the property – currently an exclusive, five-star hotel Cliff at Lyons – nestled down a grand, tree-lined driveway around 30 minutes from the capital.  Recommended: These are the very best things to do in Dublin.  The site used to feature a flour mill, plus barracks and a forge, but the mill burnt down and the village fell into decline – that was until it (along with the site’s main house) was purchased by Tony Ryan, founder of Ryanair. It’s worth noting that the main house is not up for sale, according to euronews.  Don’t worry though, as there’s plenty included. Right now, the village comprises 32 rooms across a handful of buildings, plus five cottages, which each contain two bedrooms. Oh, and a spa called The Well in the Garden, which has indoor and outdoor facilities.  Do you also require a library, a home theatre, an outdoor hot tub and a yoga space? Of course you do – and it’s got all that covered, too.  It’s also got bags of Irish whimsy thrown in. The buildings mirror
All the best travel photos from the Sony World Photography Awards 2026 shortlist

All the best travel photos from the Sony World Photography Awards 2026 shortlist

On April 16, all the winners of the Sony World Photography Awards 2026 will be announced at a glitzy ceremony in London, but there’s no harm in taking a sneak peek at those in contention for a prize, is there?  After the shortlist of images from the Student and Youth categories were unveiled in January, the awards body has now released all the entries from the professional competition competing for the grand prizes – including the coveted title of Photographer of the Year – and we’ve combed through to find our favourite travel snaps. Scroll on to have a look.  Photograph: © Vanta Coda III, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards Photograph: © Megumi Murakami, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards Photograph: © Robby Ogilvie, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards Photograph: © Rob Van Thienen, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards Photograph: © Siavosh Ejlali, Iran, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards Photograph: Marcus Westberg / Sony World Photography Awards 2026 Photograph: Michael Blann / Sony World Photography Awards 2026 Oh, and if you’re keen to get a closer look at the winners, they’ll all be on display at the exhibition in London’s Somerset House, from April 17 to May 4 2026.  We’re giving away 100 tickets to the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition 2026 to London Time Out subscribers. Find out more here. ICYMI: Why is Rome chopping down its iconic pine trees? Plus: Berlin just opened a museum dedicated to Ukraine in a former bunker.  Stay in the loop: sign up to
All the European airport, airline and transport strikes to watch out for right now

All the European airport, airline and transport strikes to watch out for right now

It’s a tough time to be working in the aviation industry. Faced with staff shortages and huge levels of disruption, many workers at airlines and airports are facing long, stressful hours and poor working conditions. And, thanks to the cost of living crisis, loads of them are doing it all for lower wages, too. Needless to say, it’s no wonder that so many staff at airports and airlines have been going on strike. From Italy and Belgium to Greece and France, airports across Europe have seen thousands of flights delayed and cancelled by industrial action over the past couple of years. Strikes can, of course, have a serious impact on your holiday, so it’s best to be as informed about them as possible. Read on for our guide to who’s going on strike in Europe right now, where and when those strikes will happen – and whether you need to worry about them.   German pilots’ strike begins  A last-minute strike by members of Vereinigung Cockpit, a German commercial pilots’ union, was announced on Sunday April 12. It kicked off at 12.01 am on Monday April 13 and will conclude on Tuesday April 14 at 11.59pm, and is thought to have placed at least 80 percent of flights from both Frankfurt and Munich at risk of delay or cancellation.  More specifically, the union represents more than 10,000 members, and those who are striking work across Deutsche Lufthansa AG, Lufthansa Cargo AG, Lufthansa CityLine, and Eurowings GmbH. What happens if your airline goes on strike? If strikes cause your flight
“Índice de oportunidades” global Ă© liderado por paĂ­s europeu – eis a classificação completa

“Índice de oportunidades” global Ă© liderado por paĂ­s europeu – eis a classificação completa

Mudar a famĂ­lia para o estrangeiro para garantir um futuro melhor para os filhos Ă© algo que os pais tĂȘm feito durante dĂ©cadas. O Índice de Oportunidades da Henley (Henley Opportunity Index) visa dar destaque aos paĂ­ses “onde o acesso, as redes e a qualidade institucional se alinham para maximizar a progressĂŁo na carreira” e o “potencial de ganhos”. O Ă­ndice foi publicado juntamente com o RelatĂłrio de Educação de 2026 e avalia paĂ­ses de todo o mundo com base em seis indicadores principais: potencial de ganhos, progressĂŁo na carreira, perspectivas de emprego de topo, educação de excelĂȘncia, mobilidade econĂłmica e elevada habitabilidade. Tudo isto Ă© combinado numa “pontuação de oportunidade” geral, depois utilizada para classificar os 15 melhores paĂ­ses do mundo em termos de progressĂŁo na carreira e prosperidade. A encabeçar a lista estĂĄ a Suíça, que obteve 86 em 100 pontos no total, saindo-se particularmente bem no potencial de ganhos, para o qual obteve uns perfeitos 100 pontos, e na mobilidade econĂłmica, onde pontuou 93. Logo de seguida, em segundo lugar, estĂĄ Singapura, com uma pontuação geral de oportunidade de 81%, e a AustrĂĄlia ficou em terceiro lugar, com 80%. Abaixo pode ver o resto da lista de 15 paĂ­ses. O relatĂłrio da Henley estĂĄ na Ă­ntegra no site oficial. Os 15 melhores paĂ­ses no Índice de Oportunidades da Henley: Suíça Singapura AustrĂĄlia Reino Unido EUA CanadĂĄ Áustria Emirados Árabes Unidos Nova ZelĂąndia Hong Kong ItĂĄlia LetĂłnia Malta Portugal GrĂ©cia ✈ Mais via
Este destino de Verão lançou um “trilho de selfies” para os turistas

Este destino de Verão lançou um “trilho de selfies” para os turistas

Seja um boomer a empunhar um pau de selfie ou um gen Z a abusar do zoom 0.5, ninguĂ©m estĂĄ imune a tirar fotografias de si prĂłprio nas fĂ©rias – particularmente quando hĂĄ uma vista espectacular a servir de cenĂĄrio. Pode ser complicado, no entanto, seja porque nĂŁo se consegue fazer justiça Ă  paisagem ou porque hĂĄ demasiada gente a tentar tirar a mesma fotografia ao mesmo tempo. É por isso que um municĂ­pio na ilha espanhola de Maiorca anunciou um novĂ­ssimo “trilho de selfies”. Sim, leu bem. CalviĂ  Ă© uma bela localidade em Maiorca, cheia de bonitos edifĂ­cios do sĂ©culo XVII, enseadas banhadas por ĂĄguas translĂșcidas e vistas dramĂĄticas por excelĂȘncia – e Magaluf Ă© uma das suas maiores e mais famosas estĂąncias. É aqui que encontrarĂĄ a rota, que foi lançada este mĂȘs sob o slogan “Magaluf para Todos” pela CĂąmara Municipal de CalviĂ . Foi concebida para encorajar um “comportamento responsĂĄvel entre turistas e residentes, fomentando a coexistĂȘncia e a gestĂŁo ambiental”. Fotografia: Shutterstock Apresenta “sinalĂ©tica inteligente patenteada que permite aos visitantes tirar fotografias e selfies perfeitas de forma independente”, de acordo com um comunicado de imprensa. Os visitantes encontrarĂŁo cabines fotogrĂĄficas – que sĂŁo mais suportes de metal para segurar o telemĂłvel – espalhadas pelos caminhos para poderem utilizar. Neste momento, existem quatro ao longo do passeio marĂ­timo de Magaluf, com vistas para a propriedade de Cas Saborners e a Illa de Sa Porrassa, mas a Euronews relata que h
Suíça vai ter um parque temåtico de chocolate gigante (e vai custar 433 milhÔes de euros)

Suíça vai ter um parque temåtico de chocolate gigante (e vai custar 433 milhÔes de euros)

Passar um dia fantĂĄstico numa fĂĄbrica de chocolate Ă© uma fantasia de infĂąncia recorrente. Se ainda sonha com ela, vai poder tornĂĄ-la realidade num pequeno municĂ­pio suíço. Bem, mais ou menos. A Maison Cailler, uma fĂĄbrica de chocolate na pequena cidade de Broc, no leste da Suíça, vai desenvolver um parque temĂĄtico de chocolate para “promover o patrimĂłnio cultural e industrial Ășnico do local e a produção de chocolate Cailler”. Os planos para a atracção incluem uma nova galeria, oficinas de mecĂąnicas antigas e reconstruçÔes das linhas de produção, hotĂ©is, restaurantes, estufas em forma de grĂŁo de cacau e – obviamente – um EmpĂłrio do Chocolate (onde se poderĂĄ provar as coisas boas). Parece um pouco mais elegante do que o cenĂĄrio de Willy Wonka, nĂŁo Ă©? O projecto tem um orçamento reportado de 400 milhĂ”es de francos suíços (aproximadamente 433 milhĂ”es de euros) e, segundo a Euronews, a primeira fase do parque poderĂĄ abrir jĂĄ em 2027 (embora a data de abertura oficial esteja prevista para 2030). Depois de o projecto ter sido originalmente lançado em 2023, o Cailler Chocolate Park foi submetido a consulta pĂșblica, mas sĂŁo necessĂĄrias vĂĄrias fases de aprovação (incluindo dez pedidos diferentes de licença de construção) antes que as obras possam arrancar devidamente, de acordo com o Independent. A proposta tambĂ©m inclui a demolição do actual museu do local para dar lugar a um novo edifĂ­cio que acolherĂĄ workshops de culinĂĄria com mestres chocolateiros. O que torna o chocolate suíço tĂŁo
All the new rules for visiting Europe this summer, from tourist charges to visitor caps

All the new rules for visiting Europe this summer, from tourist charges to visitor caps

We’ve done it, guys – spring has sprung, the dregs of winter are beginning to feel like a distant, grey memory, and a summer of swishing down Aperols and sunning ourselves on Europe’s glorious sandy shores is almost (almost!) upon us.  From budget-friendly city breaks and paradisicial beaches to ‘coolcations’ and otherworldly scenery, Europe really has got it all when it comes to summer holiday options – but its popularity is both a blessing and a curse.  Many European destinations are suffering under the weight of ever-growing tourist numbers, and it’s on us as travellers to better mitigate our habits and ensure we visit new places responsibly.  However, lots of destinations – be them landmarks, islands, or whole cities – are also initiating policies to ensure they don’t buckle completely. Below, we’ve outlined all the tourist charges, visitor caps and new rules to be aware of if you’re planning a holiday in Europe in summer 2026.  Recommended: Time Out editors on where you should travel in 2026.  New rules at top tourist attractions For many, visiting the top landmarks is a must-do on any city break. But, in order to limit damage from crowds, historic sites all over Europe have begun introducing visitor caps, entry fees, or both to raise funds that go towards maintenance. The Louvre recently doubled its entry fee for non-EU nationals, and after a record-breaking number of visitors were welcomed in 2025, the Prado, Spain’s largest museum, also announced a cap on visitor numb
A European country has topped a new global ‘opportunity index’ – here’s the full ranking

A European country has topped a new global ‘opportunity index’ – here’s the full ranking

Relocating your family overseas to secure them a better future is something parents have been doing for decades, and the Henley Opportunity Index aims to shine a light on countries ‘where access, networks, and institutional quality align to maximize career progression’ and ‘earning potential’.  It’s been published alongside the 2026 Education Report, and evaluates countries worldwide based on six main indicators: earning potential, career advancement, top-tier employment prospects, premium education, economic mobility, and high livability.  All of that is combined into an overall ‘opportunity score’, which is then used to rank the world’s top 15 countries for career progression and prosperity.  Recommended: These are the 50 best cities in the world for 2026 Topping the list is Switzerland, which scored 86 out of 100 overall, faring particularly well for earning potential, for which it scored a perfect 100, and economic mobility, for which it scored 93.  Following closely behind in second place is Singapore, with an overall opportunity score of 81 percent, and Australia came in third place with 80 percent. Scroll on for a look at the rest of the top 10, and have a read of Henley’s report in its entirety on the official website.  The top 15 countries in the Henley Opportunity Index Switzerland Singapore Australia United Kingdom USA Canada Austria UAE New Zealand  Hong Kong Italy Latvia Malta Portugal  Greece Did you see that another Spanish city is clamping down on holiday re
A massive €433 million chocolate themepark is opening in this European country

A massive €433 million chocolate themepark is opening in this European country

Still daydream about fulfilling your childhood fantasies of spending a fantastical day in a chocolate factory? Well, head to this tiny Swiss municipality, and those dreams could become reality – sort of.  Maison Cailler, a chocolate factory in the small town of Broc in east Switzerland, is set to develop a chocolate-themed tourist park that will ‘promote the unique cultural and industrial heritage of the site and the production of Cailler chocolate.’ Plans for the attraction include a brand-new gallery, former mechanical workshops and reconstructions of the production lines, hotels, restaurants, cocoa-bean shaped greenhouses and – obviously – a Chocolate Emporium (where you can get a taste of the good stuff).  Sounds a little classier than Wonka’s setup, right? The project has a reported budget of 400 million Swiss francs (approximately €433 million), and according to euronews, the first phase of the park could be open as early as 2027 (though the official opening date is slated for 2030).  After the project originally launched in 2023, Cailler Chocolate Park has been submitted for public consultation, but several stages of approval (including ten different building permit applications) are needed before work can properly start, according to the Independent.  The proposal also includes demolishing the site’s current museum to make way for a new building that will host cooking workshops from master chocolatiers. Swish, eh? What makes Swiss chocolate so good? Broc is located in
Two South American cities have been ranked among the world’s best for green space

Two South American cities have been ranked among the world’s best for green space

We all need green space in our lives – research has shown that it’s integral not only to the state of our mental health, but also the health of our cities – however, it comes in more leafy shapes and flourishing forms than you might think.  Time Out’s Best Cities with Intrepid Travel has just landed for 2026, naming Melbourne the best city on the planet. However, in the massive survey of 24,000 urbanites that we conducted to compile the list, we also quizzed people about how easy it is for them to access nature.  The UK city of Bath received the highest rating for its green spaces of all cities surveyed, with an impressive 94 percent of locals describing the city’s greenery and access to nature as ‘good’ or ‘amazing’. Nine European cities featured in the top 20 – here’s the full list of Europe’s greenest cities, according to locals. Photograph: oscar garces / Shutterstock Over in South America, Medellín, Colombia’s lush second city, received an 86 percent approval rating from locals. It’s known as the ‘city of eternal spring’, and that nickname refers to its consistently balmy daytime temperatures.  Dreamy, right? Well, you’d think so, but Medellín’s climate paired with its concrete-heavy streets actually means it can be a pretty stuffy place to live – and that’s where the green spaces come in. Back in 2016, strategically plotted plants (known as green corridors) were placed all over the city, leading to a decrease in average temperature of 2C in just three years.  São Paul