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From beautiful beaches to lost valleys: New travel guide reveals hidden gems in North East England

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Dramatic waterfalls, mysterious ruins, lost villages, breathtaking beaches, enchanting churches and remote valleys.

Welcome to North East England, as mapped out by an amazing new guidebook to the area.

Wild Guide North East England (Wild Things Publishing) is billed as an ‘inspiring travel compendium’ that reveals the region’s ‘most exciting, hidden gems’, courtesy of mesmerising photography, detailed maps – and even GPS co-ordinates.

Author Sarah Banks writes in the introduction: ‘If you yearn for the wilderness, then the North East can offer you every kind of wild place you could possibly imagine.

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‘The beauty of this region is the astonishing variety of its landscape interwoven with a fascinating history.

‘The book takes in the former battlegrounds of the Scottish borders to the tip of Spurn Point, facing its own conflict with the sea, and stretches from the North Pennines and Hadrian’s Wall across the North York Moors to the coastlines of Northumberland and Yorkshire. It is a celebration of the most beautiful, lesser-visited places, where you will find secret locations for wild swimming, walking and exploring, along with unique places to eat and stay.’ Scroll down for MailOnline Travel’s pick of the spots this inspiring tome highlights…

HIGH STACKS, FLAMBOROUGH, YORKSHIRE: This isolated pebble cove has a 'spectacular' sea arch known as the 'Drinking Dinosaur', the book says, adding: 'In summer, common seals sprawl out along the beach.' Co-ordinates: 54.1148, -0.0773

HIGH STACKS, FLAMBOROUGH, YORKSHIRE: This isolated pebble cove has a 'spectacular' sea arch known as the 'Drinking Dinosaur', the book says, adding: 'In summer, common seals sprawl out along the beach.' Co-ordinates: 54.1148, -0.0773

HIGH STACKS, FLAMBOROUGH, YORKSHIRE: This isolated pebble cove has a ‘spectacular’ sea arch known as the ‘Drinking Dinosaur’, the book says, adding: ‘In summer, common seals sprawl out along the beach.’ Co-ordinates: 54.1148, -0.0773

HIGH FORCE WATERFALL, RIVER TEES, DURHAM: 'Chances are you will hear High Force before you see it,' writes Banks. She continues: 'England's biggest waterfall drops a spectacular 21m (69ft) over a shelf of ancient Whin Sill rock, a layer of dolerite formed from molten rock nearly 300million years ago, into a swirling plunge pool below. Take time to marvel at the power of the thundering sheet of white water crashing onto the rocks below.' Co-ordinates: 54.6506, -2.1862

HIGH FORCE WATERFALL, RIVER TEES, DURHAM: 'Chances are you will hear High Force before you see it,' writes Banks. She continues: 'England's biggest waterfall drops a spectacular 21m (69ft) over a shelf of ancient Whin Sill rock, a layer of dolerite formed from molten rock nearly 300million years ago, into a swirling plunge pool below. Take time to marvel at the power of the thundering sheet of white water crashing onto the rocks below.' Co-ordinates: 54.6506, -2.1862

HIGH FORCE WATERFALL, RIVER TEES, DURHAM: ‘Chances are you will hear High Force before you see it,’ writes Banks. She continues: ‘England’s biggest waterfall drops a spectacular 21m (69ft) over a shelf of ancient Whin Sill rock, a layer of dolerite formed from molten rock nearly 300million years ago, into a swirling plunge pool below. Take time to marvel at the power of the thundering sheet of white water crashing onto the rocks below.’ Co-ordinates: 54.6506, -2.1862

COVES HAVEN, HOLY ISLAND, NORTHUMBERLAND: 'Situated at the far north of Holy Island, this beautiful, remote sandy beach is backed by high dunes, with cliffs at the eastern end,' writes Banks. Noting that the site is 'often overlooked by visitors', she continues: 'On our visit, we spot deer scampering through the dunes.' The author adds that there are rock pools at low tide. Co-ordinates: 55.6875, -1.7992

COVES HAVEN, HOLY ISLAND, NORTHUMBERLAND: 'Situated at the far north of Holy Island, this beautiful, remote sandy beach is backed by high dunes, with cliffs at the eastern end,' writes Banks. Noting that the site is 'often overlooked by visitors', she continues: 'On our visit, we spot deer scampering through the dunes.' The author adds that there are rock pools at low tide. Co-ordinates: 55.6875, -1.7992

COVES HAVEN, HOLY ISLAND, NORTHUMBERLAND: ‘Situated at the far north of Holy Island, this beautiful, remote sandy beach is backed by high dunes, with cliffs at the eastern end,’ writes Banks. Noting that the site is ‘often overlooked by visitors’, she continues: ‘On our visit, we spot deer scampering through the dunes.’ The author adds that there are rock pools at low tide. Co-ordinates: 55.6875, -1.7992

THE EMPEROR'S BATH, FILEY BRIGG, FILEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE: The book reveals: 'According to legend, Emperor Constantine the Great liked to bathe in a large sea pool refreshed by the tides on Filey Brigg [a peninsula]. Whatever its real history, you will see the Emperor's Bath, a large rock pool with ledges, as you peer down over the Scarborough side of Filey Brigg.' Co-ordinates: 54.2182, -0.2709

THE EMPEROR'S BATH, FILEY BRIGG, FILEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE: The book reveals: 'According to legend, Emperor Constantine the Great liked to bathe in a large sea pool refreshed by the tides on Filey Brigg [a peninsula]. Whatever its real history, you will see the Emperor's Bath, a large rock pool with ledges, as you peer down over the Scarborough side of Filey Brigg.' Co-ordinates: 54.2182, -0.2709

THE EMPEROR’S BATH, FILEY BRIGG, FILEY, NORTH YORKSHIRE: The book reveals: ‘According to legend, Emperor Constantine the Great liked to bathe in a large sea pool refreshed by the tides on Filey Brigg [a peninsula]. Whatever its real history, you will see the Emperor’s Bath, a large rock pool with ledges, as you peer down over the Scarborough side of Filey Brigg.’ Co-ordinates: 54.2182, -0.2709

THE HEN HOLE AND THE THREE SISTERS WATERFALL, NORTHUMBERLAND: Banks says of Hen Hole: 'This dramatic gorge cuts an enormous slice out of the steep, west-facing slopes of the mighty Cheviot [an extinct volcano], creating a channel for the Three Sisters Waterfall.' She says that it is 'arguably the most beautiful rift in Northumberland', set in an 'outstanding' location in the College Valley. From here, the author says that you might want to 'scramble on' to reach the summit of Cheviot, which is the county's highest hill. Co-ordinates: 55.4760, -2.1794

THE HEN HOLE AND THE THREE SISTERS WATERFALL, NORTHUMBERLAND: Banks says of Hen Hole: 'This dramatic gorge cuts an enormous slice out of the steep, west-facing slopes of the mighty Cheviot [an extinct volcano], creating a channel for the Three Sisters Waterfall.' She says that it is 'arguably the most beautiful rift in Northumberland', set in an 'outstanding' location in the College Valley. From here, the author says that you might want to 'scramble on' to reach the summit of Cheviot, which is the county's highest hill. Co-ordinates: 55.4760, -2.1794

THE HEN HOLE AND THE THREE SISTERS WATERFALL, NORTHUMBERLAND: Banks says of Hen Hole: ‘This dramatic gorge cuts an enormous slice out of the steep, west-facing slopes of the mighty Cheviot [an extinct volcano], creating a channel for the Three Sisters Waterfall.’ She says that it is ‘arguably the most beautiful rift in Northumberland’, set in an ‘outstanding’ location in the College Valley. From here, the author says that you might want to ‘scramble on’ to reach the summit of Cheviot, which is the county’s highest hill. Co-ordinates: 55.4760, -2.1794

ST ETHELBURGA'S CHANCEL, GREAT GIVENDALE, YORKSHIRE: Banks describes this structure as an 'exquisite church hidden down a wooded slope on an ancient site overlooking a picturesque valley and large pond'. She writes: 'Rebuilt in 1849, the church retains its Saxon font and Norman chancel arch, with two rows of chevron carvings and intricately carved capitals above the pillars. Services are conducted by candlelight as it has no electricity.' The author recommends visiting in spring to see displays of snowdrops and aconite flowers nearby. Co-ordinates: 53.9746, -0.7614

ST ETHELBURGA'S CHANCEL, GREAT GIVENDALE, YORKSHIRE: Banks describes this structure as an 'exquisite church hidden down a wooded slope on an ancient site overlooking a picturesque valley and large pond'. She writes: 'Rebuilt in 1849, the church retains its Saxon font and Norman chancel arch, with two rows of chevron carvings and intricately carved capitals above the pillars. Services are conducted by candlelight as it has no electricity.' The author recommends visiting in spring to see displays of snowdrops and aconite flowers nearby. Co-ordinates: 53.9746, -0.7614

ST ETHELBURGA’S CHANCEL, GREAT GIVENDALE, YORKSHIRE: Banks describes this structure as an ‘exquisite church hidden down a wooded slope on an ancient site overlooking a picturesque valley and large pond’. She writes: ‘Rebuilt in 1849, the church retains its Saxon font and Norman chancel arch, with two rows of chevron carvings and intricately carved capitals above the pillars. Services are conducted by candlelight as it has no electricity.’ The author recommends visiting in spring to see displays of snowdrops and aconite flowers nearby. Co-ordinates: 53.9746, -0.7614

ASHGILL FORCE, NEAR THE VILLAGE OF GARRIGILL, CUMBRIA: Banks describes this as a 'spectacular 16m (52ft) curtain waterfall that you can walk behind, by way of a rocky shelf, when not in flood'. She says that it's 'off the beaten track in a beautiful deep gorge with pools for paddling and dipping in', and there are 'many smaller waterfalls further downstream with deeper pools'. Banks adds that the area is a 'haven for dragonflies'. Co-ordinates: 54.7588, -2.3762

ASHGILL FORCE, NEAR THE VILLAGE OF GARRIGILL, CUMBRIA: Banks describes this as a 'spectacular 16m (52ft) curtain waterfall that you can walk behind, by way of a rocky shelf, when not in flood'. She says that it's 'off the beaten track in a beautiful deep gorge with pools for paddling and dipping in', and there are 'many smaller waterfalls further downstream with deeper pools'. Banks adds that the area is a 'haven for dragonflies'. Co-ordinates: 54.7588, -2.3762

ASHGILL FORCE, NEAR THE VILLAGE OF GARRIGILL, CUMBRIA: Banks describes this as a ‘spectacular 16m (52ft) curtain waterfall that you can walk behind, by way of a rocky shelf, when not in flood’. She says that it’s ‘off the beaten track in a beautiful deep gorge with pools for paddling and dipping in’, and there are ‘many smaller waterfalls further downstream with deeper pools’. Banks adds that the area is a ‘haven for dragonflies’. Co-ordinates: 54.7588, -2.3762

MARSDEN BAY, SOUTH TYNESIDE: This 'beautiful bay' has 'dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, caves and Marsden Rock [the rock formation in the sea on the left]'. The author reveals that the bay is also 'home to one of England's most important seabird colonies with thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, cormorants and gulls'. The book continues: 'Above the bay is The Leas, a long stretch of grassy land for kite-flying, walks and cycling.' Co-ordinates: 54.9785, -1.3783

MARSDEN BAY, SOUTH TYNESIDE: This 'beautiful bay' has 'dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, caves and Marsden Rock [the rock formation in the sea on the left]'. The author reveals that the bay is also 'home to one of England's most important seabird colonies with thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, cormorants and gulls'. The book continues: 'Above the bay is The Leas, a long stretch of grassy land for kite-flying, walks and cycling.' Co-ordinates: 54.9785, -1.3783

MARSDEN BAY, SOUTH TYNESIDE: This ‘beautiful bay’ has ‘dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, caves and Marsden Rock [the rock formation in the sea on the left]’. The author reveals that the bay is also ‘home to one of England’s most important seabird colonies with thousands of fulmars, kittiwakes, cormorants and gulls’. The book continues: ‘Above the bay is The Leas, a long stretch of grassy land for kite-flying, walks and cycling.’ Co-ordinates: 54.9785, -1.3783

BANK TOP KILNS, ROSEDALE CHIMNEY BANK, NORTH YORKSHIRE: 'With only the song flight of skylarks to punctuate the silence, it's hard to imagine this area as a hive of industry in the 19th century when miners poured in to extract iron ore, swelling the population of Rosedale from 558 to almost 3,000,' writes Banks. 'As you scramble over the old roasting kilns, you get some of the best views in the [North York Moors] National Park.' Co-ordinates: 54.3444, -0.8925

BANK TOP KILNS, ROSEDALE CHIMNEY BANK, NORTH YORKSHIRE: 'With only the song flight of skylarks to punctuate the silence, it's hard to imagine this area as a hive of industry in the 19th century when miners poured in to extract iron ore, swelling the population of Rosedale from 558 to almost 3,000,' writes Banks. 'As you scramble over the old roasting kilns, you get some of the best views in the [North York Moors] National Park.' Co-ordinates: 54.3444, -0.8925

BANK TOP KILNS, ROSEDALE CHIMNEY BANK, NORTH YORKSHIRE: ‘With only the song flight of skylarks to punctuate the silence, it’s hard to imagine this area as a hive of industry in the 19th century when miners poured in to extract iron ore, swelling the population of Rosedale from 558 to almost 3,000,’ writes Banks. ‘As you scramble over the old roasting kilns, you get some of the best views in the [North York Moors] National Park.’ Co-ordinates: 54.3444, -0.8925

BEACH AT STAITHES, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Banks says that the 'tiny' beach next to the harbour in the seaside village of Staithes 'is great for fossil hunting'. She warns, however, to 'be careful of rockfall from the cliffs on the south end of the beach'. The author adds: 'Call in at The Cod and Lobster pub afterwards.' Co-ordinates: 54.5586, -0.7891

BEACH AT STAITHES, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Banks says that the 'tiny' beach next to the harbour in the seaside village of Staithes 'is great for fossil hunting'. She warns, however, to 'be careful of rockfall from the cliffs on the south end of the beach'. The author adds: 'Call in at The Cod and Lobster pub afterwards.' Co-ordinates: 54.5586, -0.7891

BEACH AT STAITHES, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Banks says that the ‘tiny’ beach next to the harbour in the seaside village of Staithes ‘is great for fossil hunting’. She warns, however, to ‘be careful of rockfall from the cliffs on the south end of the beach’. The author adds: ‘Call in at The Cod and Lobster pub afterwards.’ Co-ordinates: 54.5586, -0.7891

ROSEBERRY TOPPING, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Banks writes: 'With its fin-like peak, Roseberry Topping is an outlier among the Cleveland Hills. A small stubborn slab of hard Middle Jurassic sandstone on its summit is responsible for its character.' The author continues: 'It is a fun

ROSEBERRY TOPPING, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Banks writes: 'With its fin-like peak, Roseberry Topping is an outlier among the Cleveland Hills. A small stubborn slab of hard Middle Jurassic sandstone on its summit is responsible for its character.' The author continues: 'It is a fun
RSPB BEMPTON CLIFFS, YORKSHIRE: The book reveals: 'The UK's largest mainland seabird colony at Bempton Cliffs is alive with puffins, gannets, guillemots and razorbills, many arriving between March and October each year. The spectacle, and the sounds and smell, of these swooping creatures at this amazing seabird city is unforgettable, as is the spectacular seascape. The puffins are undoubtedly the main draw; however, the massive albatross-like gannets are an equally wonderful sight as they plunge into the sea at speed. These magnificent birds pair for life, returning to the same nest each year.' Co-ordinates: 54.1474, -0.1686

RSPB BEMPTON CLIFFS, YORKSHIRE: The book reveals: 'The UK's largest mainland seabird colony at Bempton Cliffs is alive with puffins, gannets, guillemots and razorbills, many arriving between March and October each year. The spectacle, and the sounds and smell, of these swooping creatures at this amazing seabird city is unforgettable, as is the spectacular seascape. The puffins are undoubtedly the main draw; however, the massive albatross-like gannets are an equally wonderful sight as they plunge into the sea at speed. These magnificent birds pair for life, returning to the same nest each year.' Co-ordinates: 54.1474, -0.1686

ROSEBERRY TOPPING, NORTH YORKSHIRE (LEFT): Banks writes: ‘With its fin-like peak, Roseberry Topping is an outlier among the Cleveland Hills. A small stubborn slab of hard Middle Jurassic sandstone on its summit is responsible for its character.’ The author continues: ‘It is a fun “mountain” to climb, with panoramic views from the top, 320m up. In spring a spectacular display of bluebells carpets the ancient Newton Wood at its base.’ Co-ordinates: 54.5053, -1.1073. RSPB BEMPTON CLIFFS, YORKSHIRE (RIGHT): The book reveals: ‘The UK’s largest mainland seabird colony at Bempton Cliffs is alive with puffins, gannets, guillemots and razorbills, many arriving between March and October each year. The spectacle, and the sounds and smell, of these swooping creatures at this amazing seabird city is unforgettable, as is the spectacular seascape. The puffins are undoubtedly the main draw; however, the massive albatross-like gannets are an equally wonderful sight as they plunge into the sea at speed. These magnificent birds pair for life, returning to the same nest each year.’ Co-ordinates: 54.1474, -0.1686

CAULDRON SNOUT WATERFALL, TEESDALE, ON THE DURHAM-CUMBRIA BORDER: 'A tumbling succession of spectacular cataracts stretching more than 180m (591ft) gives Cauldron Snout the title of the longest waterfall in England,' Banks reveals. Describing the falls as 'impressive', she notes that 'because of its remote location, you're likely to be the only one here'. Co-ordinates: 54.6528, -2.2891

CAULDRON SNOUT WATERFALL, TEESDALE, ON THE DURHAM-CUMBRIA BORDER: 'A tumbling succession of spectacular cataracts stretching more than 180m (591ft) gives Cauldron Snout the title of the longest waterfall in England,' Banks reveals. Describing the falls as 'impressive', she notes that 'because of its remote location, you're likely to be the only one here'. Co-ordinates: 54.6528, -2.2891

CAULDRON SNOUT WATERFALL, TEESDALE, ON THE DURHAM-CUMBRIA BORDER: ‘A tumbling succession of spectacular cataracts stretching more than 180m (591ft) gives Cauldron Snout the title of the longest waterfall in England,’ Banks reveals. Describing the falls as ‘impressive’, she notes that ‘because of its remote location, you’re likely to be the only one here’. Co-ordinates: 54.6528, -2.2891 

BARROWBURN HAY MEADOWS, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book says: 'Stroll through stunning ancient upland hay meadows, a blaze of colour in June and July, enjoying wide vistas and the song flight of the skylarks. The two fields behind the farm are an SSSI [Site of Special Scientific Interest] , with more than 60 species of plants... an absolute delight.' Co-ordinates: 55.3867, -2.2125

BARROWBURN HAY MEADOWS, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book says: 'Stroll through stunning ancient upland hay meadows, a blaze of colour in June and July, enjoying wide vistas and the song flight of the skylarks. The two fields behind the farm are an SSSI [Site of Special Scientific Interest] , with more than 60 species of plants... an absolute delight.' Co-ordinates: 55.3867, -2.2125

BARROWBURN HAY MEADOWS, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book says: ‘Stroll through stunning ancient upland hay meadows, a blaze of colour in June and July, enjoying wide vistas and the song flight of the skylarks. The two fields behind the farm are an SSSI [Site of Special Scientific Interest] , with more than 60 species of plants… an absolute delight.’ Co-ordinates: 55.3867, -2.2125

SIMONSIDE, SIMONSIDE HILLS, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'This justifiably popular summit has magnificent panoramic views of the Cheviots and the Northumberland coastline. The spiritual importance of these wild, windswept hills to Bronze Age people is evident by the number of burial cairns on the slopes and crags.' Sharing some of the area's myths and legends, Banks says: 'Beware the Simonside Duergars, malevolent dwarves of folklore who reside in the rugged hills and lure unwitting travellers to their doom.' Co-ordinates: 55.2823, -1.9640

SIMONSIDE, SIMONSIDE HILLS, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'This justifiably popular summit has magnificent panoramic views of the Cheviots and the Northumberland coastline. The spiritual importance of these wild, windswept hills to Bronze Age people is evident by the number of burial cairns on the slopes and crags.' Sharing some of the area's myths and legends, Banks says: 'Beware the Simonside Duergars, malevolent dwarves of folklore who reside in the rugged hills and lure unwitting travellers to their doom.' Co-ordinates: 55.2823, -1.9640

SIMONSIDE, SIMONSIDE HILLS, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: ‘This justifiably popular summit has magnificent panoramic views of the Cheviots and the Northumberland coastline. The spiritual importance of these wild, windswept hills to Bronze Age people is evident by the number of burial cairns on the slopes and crags.’ Sharing some of the area’s myths and legends, Banks says: ‘Beware the Simonside Duergars, malevolent dwarves of folklore who reside in the rugged hills and lure unwitting travellers to their doom.’ Co-ordinates: 55.2823, -1.9640

SPURN HEAD BEACH, EAST YORKSHIRE: Banks writes: 'For a bracing dip in the North Sea, you won't get much wilder or isolated than the beaches along Spurn Head. Walk past the first shingle beach and follow the path to reach a lovely sandy beach hidden behind the dunes.' Co-ordinates: 53.5933, 0.1403

SPURN HEAD BEACH, EAST YORKSHIRE: Banks writes: 'For a bracing dip in the North Sea, you won't get much wilder or isolated than the beaches along Spurn Head. Walk past the first shingle beach and follow the path to reach a lovely sandy beach hidden behind the dunes.' Co-ordinates: 53.5933, 0.1403

SPURN HEAD BEACH, EAST YORKSHIRE: Banks writes: ‘For a bracing dip in the North Sea, you won’t get much wilder or isolated than the beaches along Spurn Head. Walk past the first shingle beach and follow the path to reach a lovely sandy beach hidden behind the dunes.’ Co-ordinates: 53.5933, 0.1403

THE HERMITAGE, FALLING FOSS, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Sharing the story behind this site, Banks writes: 'Located in a fairy-tale woodland near Falling Foss waterfall, the Hermitage is carved out of an enormous boulder and dates back to the 18th century. It was once the home of a hermit, who lived his life foraging for food and fuel in the surrounding woods.' Co-ordinates: 54.4247, -0.6361

THE HERMITAGE, FALLING FOSS, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Sharing the story behind this site, Banks writes: 'Located in a fairy-tale woodland near Falling Foss waterfall, the Hermitage is carved out of an enormous boulder and dates back to the 18th century. It was once the home of a hermit, who lived his life foraging for food and fuel in the surrounding woods.' Co-ordinates: 54.4247, -0.6361

THE HERMITAGE, FALLING FOSS, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Sharing the story behind this site, Banks writes: ‘Located in a fairy-tale woodland near Falling Foss waterfall, the Hermitage is carved out of an enormous boulder and dates back to the 18th century. It was once the home of a hermit, who lived his life foraging for food and fuel in the surrounding woods.’ Co-ordinates: 54.4247, -0.6361

SPEETON SANDS, NORTH YORKSHIRE: 'The clamber down a rugged cliff path to this stunning stretch of wide sandy beach is well worth the effort,' the book reveals, continuing: 'Even in the height of summer, you are likely to have the beach to yourself. The remains of the barnacle-encrusted shipwreck Laura is a landmark rooted in the seascape here.' Co-ordinates: 54.1619, -0.2332

SPEETON SANDS, NORTH YORKSHIRE: 'The clamber down a rugged cliff path to this stunning stretch of wide sandy beach is well worth the effort,' the book reveals, continuing: 'Even in the height of summer, you are likely to have the beach to yourself. The remains of the barnacle-encrusted shipwreck Laura is a landmark rooted in the seascape here.' Co-ordinates: 54.1619, -0.2332

SPEETON SANDS, NORTH YORKSHIRE: ‘The clamber down a rugged cliff path to this stunning stretch of wide sandy beach is well worth the effort,’ the book reveals, continuing: ‘Even in the height of summer, you are likely to have the beach to yourself. The remains of the barnacle-encrusted shipwreck Laura is a landmark rooted in the seascape here.’ Co-ordinates: 54.1619, -0.2332

SEVEN SISTERS, TYNE AND WEAR: The book says: 'Dating back to the Mesolithic period, this impressive mound crowned by beech trees sits atop Copt Hill. It was first excavated in the 19th century, but it was a second dig that revealed the burial mound to be 7,000 years old.' Banks notes that there used to be seven trees at the site, but only five remain. Co-ordinates: 54.8366, -1.4514

SEVEN SISTERS, TYNE AND WEAR: The book says: 'Dating back to the Mesolithic period, this impressive mound crowned by beech trees sits atop Copt Hill. It was first excavated in the 19th century, but it was a second dig that revealed the burial mound to be 7,000 years old.' Banks notes that there used to be seven trees at the site, but only five remain. Co-ordinates: 54.8366, -1.4514

SEVEN SISTERS, TYNE AND WEAR: The book says: ‘Dating back to the Mesolithic period, this impressive mound crowned by beech trees sits atop Copt Hill. It was first excavated in the 19th century, but it was a second dig that revealed the burial mound to be 7,000 years old.’ Banks notes that there used to be seven trees at the site, but only five remain. Co-ordinates: 54.8366, -1.4514

BAMBURGH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND: 'Perched above an outcrop of the Great Whin Sill, this superbly situated 11th-century coastal fortress has panoramic views of Holy Island, the Farne Islands and Bamburgh village,' the book reveals. It continues: 'Once the capital of the 7th-century kings of Northumbria, the castle site has been occupied since at least the last Iron Age.' Coordinates: 55.6089, -1.7099

BAMBURGH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND: 'Perched above an outcrop of the Great Whin Sill, this superbly situated 11th-century coastal fortress has panoramic views of Holy Island, the Farne Islands and Bamburgh village,' the book reveals. It continues: 'Once the capital of the 7th-century kings of Northumbria, the castle site has been occupied since at least the last Iron Age.' Coordinates: 55.6089, -1.7099

BAMBURGH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND: ‘Perched above an outcrop of the Great Whin Sill [a sheet of volcanic rock], this superbly situated 11th-century coastal fortress has panoramic views of Holy Island, the Farne Islands and Bamburgh village,’ the book reveals. It continues: ‘Once the capital of the 7th-century kings of Northumbria, the castle site has been occupied since at least the last Iron Age.’ Co-ordinates: 55.6089, -1.7099

OSGODBY POINT, CAYTON BAY, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Giving directions to this stretch of sand, Banks says: 'Walk through a wooded valley to this isolated sandy beach at the north end of Cayton Sands, buffeted by the rocky headland of Knife Point.' Co-ordinates: 54.2515, -0.3682

OSGODBY POINT, CAYTON BAY, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Giving directions to this stretch of sand, Banks says: 'Walk through a wooded valley to this isolated sandy beach at the north end of Cayton Sands, buffeted by the rocky headland of Knife Point.' Co-ordinates: 54.2515, -0.3682

OSGODBY POINT, CAYTON BAY, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Giving directions to this stretch of sand, Banks says: ‘Walk through a wooded valley to this isolated sandy beach at the north end of Cayton Sands, buffeted by the rocky headland of Knife Point.’ Co-ordinates: 54.2515, -0.3682

HOLY ISLAND, NORTHUMBERLAND: Banks writes: 'Cut off from the mainland twice a day, as the North Sea sweeps over its causeway, this tidal island is steeped in history. In AD 635, St Aidan arrived from Iona and founded his monastery here... the island has since remained a place of pilgrimage.' The author adds that 'you can walk the three-mile (5km) Pilgrim's Way, marked out with poles along the sand' but notes that the route is 'only to be attempted on a receding tide'. Co-ordinates: 55.6764, -1.8037

HOLY ISLAND, NORTHUMBERLAND: Banks writes: 'Cut off from the mainland twice a day, as the North Sea sweeps over its causeway, this tidal island is steeped in history. In AD 635, St Aidan arrived from Iona and founded his monastery here... the island has since remained a place of pilgrimage.' The author adds that 'you can walk the three-mile (5km) Pilgrim's Way, marked out with poles along the sand' but notes that the route is 'only to be attempted on a receding tide'. Co-ordinates: 55.6764, -1.8037

HOLY ISLAND, NORTHUMBERLAND: Banks writes: ‘Cut off from the mainland twice a day, as the North Sea sweeps over its causeway, this tidal island is steeped in history. In AD 635, St Aidan arrived from Iona and founded his monastery here… the island has since remained a place of pilgrimage.’ The author adds that ‘you can walk the three-mile (5km) Pilgrim’s Way, marked out with poles along the sand’ but notes that the route is ‘only to be attempted on a receding tide’. Co-ordinates: 55.6764, -1.8037

WHARRAM PERCY, YORKSHIRE WOLDS: Home to more than 30 'lost houses', this site is 'one of the country's best preserved deserted villages, tucked away in a tranquil Wolds valley', Banks writes. She continues: 'Settled in prehistoric times, Wharram flourished between the 12th and 14th centuries before it was abandoned around 1500; however, the church [St Martin's church] continued to be used long after this.' Co-ordinates: 54.0704, -0.6872

WHARRAM PERCY, YORKSHIRE WOLDS: Home to more than 30 'lost houses', this site is 'one of the country's best preserved deserted villages, tucked away in a tranquil Wolds valley', Banks writes. She continues: 'Settled in prehistoric times, Wharram flourished between the 12th and 14th centuries before it was abandoned around 1500; however, the church [St Martin's church] continued to be used long after this.' Co-ordinates: 54.0704, -0.6872

WHARRAM PERCY, YORKSHIRE WOLDS: Home to more than 30 ‘lost houses’, this site is ‘one of the country’s best preserved deserted villages, tucked away in a tranquil Wolds valley’, Banks writes. She continues: ‘Settled in prehistoric times, Wharram flourished between the 12th and 14th centuries before it was abandoned around 1500; however, the church [St Martin’s church] continued to be used long after this.’ Co-ordinates: 54.0704, -0.6872

DOD LAW AND ROCK ART, NORTHUMBERLAND: 'Climb to Dod Law, the highest point on Doddington Moor (187m/613ft), for magnificent views across the Cheviots and Milfield Plain,' the book reveals. It continues: 'This archaeologically rich moor has Iron Age enclosures, Bronze Age burial cairns and a number of carved stones. There is a cup-and-ring-marked stone near the high point of the hill, and another lies in a gap among the ferns at the base of the hill.' Co-ordinates: 55.5789, -1.9945

DOD LAW AND ROCK ART, NORTHUMBERLAND: 'Climb to Dod Law, the highest point on Doddington Moor (187m/613ft), for magnificent views across the Cheviots and Milfield Plain,' the book reveals. It continues: 'This archaeologically rich moor has Iron Age enclosures, Bronze Age burial cairns and a number of carved stones. There is a cup-and-ring-marked stone near the high point of the hill, and another lies in a gap among the ferns at the base of the hill.' Co-ordinates: 55.5789, -1.9945

DOD LAW AND ROCK ART, NORTHUMBERLAND: ‘Climb to Dod Law, the highest point on Doddington Moor (187m/613ft), for magnificent views across the Cheviots and Milfield Plain,’ the book reveals. It continues: ‘This archaeologically rich moor has Iron Age enclosures, Bronze Age burial cairns and a number of carved stones. There is a cup-and-ring-marked stone near the high point of the hill, and another lies in a gap among the ferns at the base of the hill.’ Co-ordinates: 55.5789, -1.9945

BRANSDALE, NORTH YORKSHIRE: Banks writes: ‘Known as the “lost dale”, this small, remote valley, managed by the National Trust, is the North York Moors’ hidden jewel. It is neither on the way to nor from anywhere, but those who venture here will find beautiful moorland scenery, fields criss-crossed by dry-stone walls and breathtaking views.’ Co-ordinates: 54.3669, -1.0528

RILEY'S FISH SHACK, TYNEMOUTH, NORTH TYNESIDE: The book says: 'Pull up a deckchair at this acclaimed seafood bar and grill operating out of two converted shipping containers on beautiful King Edward's Bay. The food is amazing; tuck into delicious, chargrilled monkfish, mackerel and lobster and savour the experience.' It adds that the eatery is 'one of the best seafood restaurants in the North East'. Co-ordinates: 55.0187, -1.4204

RILEY'S FISH SHACK, TYNEMOUTH, NORTH TYNESIDE: The book says: 'Pull up a deckchair at this acclaimed seafood bar and grill operating out of two converted shipping containers on beautiful King Edward's Bay. The food is amazing; tuck into delicious, chargrilled monkfish, mackerel and lobster and savour the experience.' It adds that the eatery is 'one of the best seafood restaurants in the North East'. Co-ordinates: 55.0187, -1.4204

RILEY’S FISH SHACK, TYNEMOUTH, NORTH TYNESIDE: The book says: ‘Pull up a deckchair at this acclaimed seafood bar and grill operating out of two converted shipping containers on beautiful King Edward’s Bay. The food is amazing; tuck into delicious, chargrilled monkfish, mackerel and lobster and savour the experience.’ It adds that the eatery is ‘one of the best seafood restaurants in the North East’. Co-ordinates: 55.0187, -1.4204

STEEL RIGG TO HOUSESTEADS SECTION, HADRIAN'S WALL, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'This section of Hadrian's Wall is almost unrivalled in its dramatic features and magnificent vistas.' The author notes: 'As you walk the wall, you are literally following in the footsteps of the Roman soldiers who manned this outpost of the empire.' Co-ordinates: 55.0134, -2.3304

STEEL RIGG TO HOUSESTEADS SECTION, HADRIAN'S WALL, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'This section of Hadrian's Wall is almost unrivalled in its dramatic features and magnificent vistas.' The author notes: 'As you walk the wall, you are literally following in the footsteps of the Roman soldiers who manned this outpost of the empire.' Co-ordinates: 55.0134, -2.3304

STEEL RIGG TO HOUSESTEADS SECTION, HADRIAN’S WALL, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: ‘This section of Hadrian’s Wall is almost unrivalled in its dramatic features and magnificent vistas.’ The author notes: ‘As you walk the wall, you are literally following in the footsteps of the Roman soldiers who manned this outpost of the empire.’ Co-ordinates: 55.0134, -2.3304 

RABY CASTLE AND DEER PARK, COUNTY DURHAM: The book reveals: 'Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family and home to Cecily Neville, mother of two kings of England, Raby Castle is one of the most impressive intact castles in the north of England. It was a parliamentary stronghold during the English Civil War.' The tome adds that 'kids will love the Plotters' Forest, a playground in the forest'. Co-ordinates: 54.5907, -1.8023

RABY CASTLE AND DEER PARK, COUNTY DURHAM: The book reveals: 'Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family and home to Cecily Neville, mother of two kings of England, Raby Castle is one of the most impressive intact castles in the north of England. It was a parliamentary stronghold during the English Civil War.' The tome adds that 'kids will love the Plotters' Forest, a playground in the forest'. Co-ordinates: 54.5907, -1.8023

RABY CASTLE AND DEER PARK, COUNTY DURHAM: The book reveals: ‘Built in the 14th century by the powerful Neville family and home to Cecily Neville, mother of two kings of England, Raby Castle is one of the most impressive intact castles in the north of England. It was a parliamentary stronghold during the English Civil War.’ The tome adds that ‘kids will love the Plotters’ Forest, a playground in the forest’. Co-ordinates: 54.5907, -1.8023

WARKWORTH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'Sitting above a loop of the River Coquet, this mighty Northumberland fortress was inhabited by the influential Percy family between the 14th and 17th centuries.' Banks notes that a visit to the castle is 'worth the entry fee'. Co-ordinates: 55.3453, -1.6117

WARKWORTH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'Sitting above a loop of the River Coquet, this mighty Northumberland fortress was inhabited by the influential Percy family between the 14th and 17th centuries.' Banks notes that a visit to the castle is 'worth the entry fee'. Co-ordinates: 55.3453, -1.6117

WARKWORTH CASTLE, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: ‘Sitting above a loop of the River Coquet, this mighty Northumberland fortress was inhabited by the influential Percy family between the 14th and 17th centuries.’ Banks notes that a visit to the castle is ‘worth the entry fee’. Co-ordinates: 55.3453, -1.6117

WHITBY ABBEY, WHITBY, YORKSHIRE: This is 'quite possibly the country's most romantic ruin', according to Banks. The abbey inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula, a link that the town of Whitby has 'embraced with its famous Whitby Goth Weekend'. The author notes that the site's legacy goes back to 664AD, when a landmark meeting known as the Synod of Whitby took place there. During the meeting, it was decided that the Northumbrian church would follow Roman, rather than Celtic, practices, the book reveals. The date for Easter was also decided 'by adopting the lunar calculation we use to this day'. At that time, a monastery existed on the site, but the ruins we see today are 'the shell of the 13th-century Benedictine Abbey'. Banks adds that Whitby and the coastal views the town offers are 'spectacular'. Co-ordinates: 54.4883, -0.6074

WHITBY ABBEY, WHITBY, YORKSHIRE: This is 'quite possibly the country's most romantic ruin', according to Banks. The abbey inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula, a link that the town of Whitby has 'embraced with its famous Whitby Goth Weekend'. The author notes that the site's legacy goes back to 664AD, when a landmark meeting known as the Synod of Whitby took place there. During the meeting, it was decided that the Northumbrian church would follow Roman, rather than Celtic, practices, the book reveals. The date for Easter was also decided 'by adopting the lunar calculation we use to this day'. At that time, a monastery existed on the site, but the ruins we see today are 'the shell of the 13th-century Benedictine Abbey'. Banks adds that Whitby and the coastal views the town offers are 'spectacular'. Co-ordinates: 54.4883, -0.6074

WHITBY ABBEY, WHITBY, YORKSHIRE: This is ‘quite possibly the country’s most romantic ruin’, according to Banks. The abbey inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, a link that the town of Whitby has ’embraced with its famous Whitby Goth Weekend’. The author notes that the site’s legacy goes back to 664AD, when a landmark meeting known as the Synod of Whitby took place there. During the meeting, it was decided that the Northumbrian church would follow Roman, rather than Celtic, practices, the book reveals. The date for Easter was also decided ‘by adopting the lunar calculation we use to this day’. At that time, a monastery existed on the site, but the ruins we see today are ‘the shell of the 13th-century Benedictine Abbey’. Banks adds that Whitby and the coastal views the town offers are ‘spectacular’. Co-ordinates: 54.4883, -0.6074

MIDDLEMOOR FARM HOLIDAYS, NORTHUMBERLAND: At this holiday site - a 'quirky hideaway' - guests can stay in a glamping narrowboat that's 'safely docked on dry land'. The site also offers 'fire pits and countryside views', the book reveals. Co-ordinates: 55.4997, -1.7501

MIDDLEMOOR FARM HOLIDAYS, NORTHUMBERLAND: At this holiday site - a 'quirky hideaway' - guests can stay in a glamping narrowboat that's 'safely docked on dry land'. The site also offers 'fire pits and countryside views', the book reveals. Co-ordinates: 55.4997, -1.7501

MIDDLEMOOR FARM HOLIDAYS, NORTHUMBERLAND: At this holiday site – a ‘quirky hideaway’ – guests can stay in a glamping narrowboat that’s ‘safely docked on dry land’. The site also offers ‘fire pits and countryside views’, the book reveals. Co-ordinates: 55.4997, -1.7501

JUNIPER WOODS, UPPER TEESDALE: This juniper forest is the largest in England, the book reveals. It says: 'Juniper trees date back 10,000 years and were one of the first tree species to colonise Britain after the last ice age. Juniper is dioecious, which means it is either male or female, unlike most tree species. Sadly, several trees are suffering from Phytophthora austrocedri, a soil-borne pathogen that kills native juniper trees, noticeable in the bronze-coloured discolouration you will see.' Co-ordinates: 54.6498, -2.1815

JUNIPER WOODS, UPPER TEESDALE: This juniper forest is the largest in England, the book reveals. It says: 'Juniper trees date back 10,000 years and were one of the first tree species to colonise Britain after the last ice age. Juniper is dioecious, which means it is either male or female, unlike most tree species. Sadly, several trees are suffering from Phytophthora austrocedri, a soil-borne pathogen that kills native juniper trees, noticeable in the bronze-coloured discolouration you will see.' Co-ordinates: 54.6498, -2.1815

JUNIPER WOODS, UPPER TEESDALE: This juniper forest is the largest in England, the book reveals. It says: ‘Juniper trees date back 10,000 years and were one of the first tree species to colonise Britain after the last ice age. Juniper is dioecious, which means it is either male or female, unlike most tree species. Sadly, several trees are suffering from Phytophthora austrocedri, a soil-borne pathogen that kills native juniper trees, noticeable in the bronze-coloured discolouration you will see.’ Co-ordinates: 54.6498, -2.1815

PORT MULGRAVE, NORTH YORKSHIRE: This is a 'fascinating' sand and rock beach, which formerly served as a 'thriving' port, that has an 'end-of-time atmosphere', the book reveals. It says that the port 'was used for shipping ironstone to Jarrow on Tyneside'. Banks notes: 'Rustic beach shacks built by local fishermen sit under precarious cliffs, and the remains of its industrial past are scattered among the rocks.' Co-ordinates: 54.5467, -0.7693

PORT MULGRAVE, NORTH YORKSHIRE: This is a 'fascinating' sand and rock beach, which formerly served as a 'thriving' port, that has an 'end-of-time atmosphere', the book reveals. It says that the port 'was used for shipping ironstone to Jarrow on Tyneside'. Banks notes: 'Rustic beach shacks built by local fishermen sit under precarious cliffs, and the remains of its industrial past are scattered among the rocks.' Co-ordinates: 54.5467, -0.7693

PORT MULGRAVE, NORTH YORKSHIRE: This is a ‘fascinating’ sand and rock beach, which formerly served as a ‘thriving’ port, that has an ‘end-of-time atmosphere’, the book reveals. It says that the port ‘was used for shipping ironstone to Jarrow on Tyneside’. Banks notes: ‘Rustic beach shacks built by local fishermen sit under precarious cliffs, and the remains of its industrial past are scattered among the rocks.’ Co-ordinates: 54.5467, -0.7693 

BYLAND ABBEY, YORKSHIRE: Byland Abbey was known as one of the largest of the Cistercian orders in Britain, the book reveals. Banks writes: 'It is a magnificent example of early Gothic architecture; the towering remains of the great rose window on the west wall of the abbey church inspired the design for York Minster's rose window. The 13th century floor tiles in the south transept of the church are the most extensive collection found anywhere today.' She adds that 'kids love playing hide and seek here'. Co-ordinates: 54.2032, -1.1592

BYLAND ABBEY, YORKSHIRE: Byland Abbey was known as one of the largest of the Cistercian orders in Britain, the book reveals. Banks writes: 'It is a magnificent example of early Gothic architecture; the towering remains of the great rose window on the west wall of the abbey church inspired the design for York Minster's rose window. The 13th century floor tiles in the south transept of the church are the most extensive collection found anywhere today.' She adds that 'kids love playing hide and seek here'. Co-ordinates: 54.2032, -1.1592

BYLAND ABBEY, YORKSHIRE: Byland Abbey was known as one of the largest of the Cistercian orders in Britain, the book reveals. Banks writes: ‘It is a magnificent example of early Gothic architecture; the towering remains of the great rose window on the west wall of the abbey church inspired the design for York Minster’s rose window. The 13th century floor tiles in the south transept of the church are the most extensive collection found anywhere today.’ She adds that ‘kids love playing hide and seek here’. Co-ordinates: 54.2032, -1.1592

SEATON SLUICE HARBOUR, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'Situated at the mouth of the Seaton Burn, this small pretty harbour once exported coal, bottles and salt. In the mid-17th century Sir Ralph Delaval constructed sluice gates that trapped seawater at high tide and released it at low tide, preventing the harbour from silting up. A century later a cut was made through the headland to form a new harbour entrance, with gates at either end creating a basin unaffected by the tide.' The author adds that the harbour 'is backed by a beautiful sandy beach'. Co-ordinates: 55.0837, -1.4744

SEATON SLUICE HARBOUR, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: 'Situated at the mouth of the Seaton Burn, this small pretty harbour once exported coal, bottles and salt. In the mid-17th century Sir Ralph Delaval constructed sluice gates that trapped seawater at high tide and released it at low tide, preventing the harbour from silting up. A century later a cut was made through the headland to form a new harbour entrance, with gates at either end creating a basin unaffected by the tide.' The author adds that the harbour 'is backed by a beautiful sandy beach'. Co-ordinates: 55.0837, -1.4744

SEATON SLUICE HARBOUR, NORTHUMBERLAND: The book reveals: ‘Situated at the mouth of the Seaton Burn, this small pretty harbour once exported coal, bottles and salt. In the mid-17th century Sir Ralph Delaval constructed sluice gates that trapped seawater at high tide and released it at low tide, preventing the harbour from silting up. A century later a cut was made through the headland to form a new harbour entrance, with gates at either end creating a basin unaffected by the tide.’ The author adds that the harbour ‘is backed by a beautiful sandy beach’. Co-ordinates: 55.0837, -1.4744

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International

Live like a French aristocrat… from just £41 a night each: Book a grand chateau with friends and family this summer and you may be in for a bargain

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Just the word ‘chateau’ sounds expensive, but staying in the castles and large country houses that were once home to French nobility doesn’t have to blow your holiday budget.

Gather the clan for a booking of up to a week and you’ll be surprised at how reasonable it can be.

BRITTANY FROM £41

Four-poster luxury awaits at the 15th Century Chateau de Queblen near Quimperle

Four-poster luxury awaits at the 15th Century Chateau de Queblen near Quimperle

Four-poster luxury awaits at the 15th Century Chateau de Queblen near Quimperle

Only the west wing of the 15th Century Chateau de Queblen near Quimperle has so far been restored, but the accommodation is far from medieval.

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Eat in the shabby-chic kitchen-diner before moving to the elegant sitting room with marble fireplace and windows looking out to 40 acres of wooded grounds.

Among the five bedrooms, one with a wooden four-poster bed is reached via a spiral staircase. The Breton coast beaches are just 15 minutes away.

How to do it: A week in September costs from £2,896 for ten (Airbnb property reference 45252876; also see chateaudequeblen.com). Take the car ferry to St Malo from £349 return (brittany-ferries.co.uk).

NORMANDY FROM £69

Grand: Chateau du Mont in Normandy is an 'imposing' property with formal and Italian gardens

Grand: Chateau du Mont in Normandy is an 'imposing' property with formal and Italian gardens

Grand: Chateau du Mont in Normandy is an ‘imposing’ property with formal and Italian gardens 

A fountain plays outside the imposing Chateau du Mont, with its formal and Italian gardens. Within, rooms are full of original features and wood panelling, the nine bedrooms have a refined period air about them, and the bathrooms have been nicely modernised.

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The thatched, beamed poolhouse has been converted from former stables. Bayeux and its tapestry are just 15 minutes away from this house whose guests have included the Dalai Lama and the Aga Khan.

How to do it: A week in May or September costs from £8,772 for 18 (chateaudumont-normandy.com). Take the car ferry to Le Havre from £146 return (brittany-ferries.co.uk).

BURGUNDY FROM £54

Chateau Bourgogne, half an hour from Chablis, boasts ten bedrooms and a saltwater swimming pool (above)

Chateau Bourgogne, half an hour from Chablis, boasts ten bedrooms and a saltwater swimming pool (above)

Chateau Bourgogne, half an hour from Chablis, boasts ten bedrooms and a saltwater swimming pool (above)

The decor at Chateau Bourgogne is 'farmhouse chic' with beamed ceilings and stone floors. Pictured is the library

The decor at Chateau Bourgogne is 'farmhouse chic' with beamed ceilings and stone floors. Pictured is the library

The decor at Chateau Bourgogne is ‘farmhouse chic’ with beamed ceilings and stone floors. Pictured is the library 

Just half an hour from Chablis, Chateau Bourgogne comes with its own wine library, and you can arrange for a sommelier to advise you which vineyards to visit. This creeper-clad property with crenelated turret and ten bedrooms has steep staircases, thick walls and a watchtower terrace.

The decor is farmhouse chic, with beamed ceilings and stone floors. A saltwater pool can be found in the grounds, and you can walk to the village to use the tennis court for free. Book a chef to rustle up something on the range cooker while you sip a glass or two.

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How to do it: A week in May is from £6,004 for 16 (oliverstravels.com). Take the train to Montbard via Paris from £219 return (thetrainline.com).

LOT-ET-GARONNE FROM £48

Chateau de Galaup, near the hilltop village of Beauville, may be new to Vintage Travel’s portfolio this year, but it holds plenty of history within its thick walls, with an old archway, square keep and two stone spiral staircases.

The 15th Century property with five bedrooms has been converted into a comfortable living space that exudes relaxed elegance, with timbered ceilings and terracotta floors. Outside, a pool has far-reaching views over the rolling countryside of France’s South West. There is also a tennis court.

How to do it: A week in May is from £3,358 for ten or £2,786 for six (vintagetravel.co.uk). Fly to Bergerac from £119 return (ryanair.com).

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DORDOGNE FROM £63

Chateau de la Forge in the Dordogne is a classic Perigord country house set within a 32-acre estate

Chateau de la Forge in the Dordogne is a classic Perigord country house set within a 32-acre estate

Chateau de la Forge in the Dordogne is a classic Perigord country house set within a 32-acre estate

You can really make an entrance at the 32-acre estate at Chateau de la Forge, where wrought-iron gates open on to an avenue of trees. It leads to a classic Perigord country house with blue shutters against pale stone walls.

Expect polished wood floors, panelled walls and high ceilings in the downstairs rooms; there’s also a billiard room. Upstairs, the six bedrooms have a more modern feel, with colourful fabrics. There’s a pool in the grounds, and you can hire kayaks to paddle along the Dordogne in nearby Mussidan.

How to do it: A week in September is from £5,295 for 12 (simpsontravel.com). Fly to Bergerac from £119 return (ryanair.com).

CHAMPAGNE FROM £50

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There’s surely no better place to party than in Champagne. Chateau de Mairy is just ten minutes from Chalons-en-Champagne and half an hour from Reims and Epernay, with as many cellars as you care to visit.

A historic monument, the 17th Century building with a private chapel has a genteel feel to its public rooms and 15 bedrooms, with chandeliers, panelled walls and floor-to-ceiling windows. Bathrooms and the kitchen aren’t of the same standard. Not that you need to cook here: it’s a short walk to the local restaurant, or you can book a local chef.

How to do it: A week costs from £7,145 for 20, or from £10,427 for 30 (chateaudemairy.com). Take the Eurotunnel to Calais from £232 (eurotunnel.com).

PAS DE CALAIS FROM £47

Chateau d’Hallines offers entertainment in abundance, from an indoor trampoline room and home cinema to a heated outdoor pool and a tennis court

Chateau d’Hallines offers entertainment in abundance, from an indoor trampoline room and home cinema to a heated outdoor pool and a tennis court

Chateau d’Hallines offers entertainment in abundance, from an indoor trampoline room and home cinema to a heated outdoor pool and a tennis court

You’re unlikely to get bored at Chateau d’Hallines, which is just 30 minutes from the Eurotunnel terminal at Calais. Its indoor attractions alone include a trampoline room (yes, really), mini tennis court, games room, home cinema and snooker room. Outdoors you will find a heated pool and a tennis court.

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The entrance hall leading from the exterior has a grand staircase leading to 12 colourful bedrooms sharing 11 bathrooms. Cook in the contemporary kitchen and serve dinner in the wood-panelled dining room, with its table for 30.

How to do it: A week in May is from £8,489 for 26 (holidaylettings.co.uk; ref 9074565). Take the Eurotunnel to Calais from £232 (eurotunnel.com).

PROVENCE FROM £71

A former retreat for French royalty, Chateau Aubenas near Forcalquier has an elevated view over the rolling hills of the Luberon. In gated grounds with a pool amid the pine trees, an olive grove and a sun terrace with barbecue, this cream-stone mansion is all about outdoor living.

Not that the interiors have been neglected; huge rooms with high ceilings have been decorated in a light palette, the modern, minimalist look rubbing shoulders with original features.

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A dormitory for four children is in the tower, and there are four other bedrooms for eight adults.

How to do it: A week in August costs from £6,015 for 12 (cvvillas.com). Fly to Marseille from £92 return (ryanair.com).

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British Dignitas membership soars by 24% as Scotland could be the first UK nation to legalise assisted dying

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  • 1,900 registered British members in 2023, a rise of 372 on the previous year  
  • The UK ranks second behind Germany in the number of its nationals registered 

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Dignitas membership in the UK soared by 24 per cent last year – as assisted dying legislation yesterday came closer in Scotland.

There were 1,900 registered British members in 2023, a rise of 372 on the previous year, according to figures.

Also last year, there were 40 UK residents who travelled to its clinic in Switzerland to die, Dignitas revealed.

The UK ranks second behind Germany both in the number of its nationals registered as members and the total number of people who have made the trip. 

Overall, 1,454 people had travelled from Germany, while there were 571 from the UK and 549 from France.

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The UK ranks second behind Germany both in the number of its nationals registered as members and the total number of people who have made the trip to Dignitas assisted suicide clinic (pictured)

The UK ranks second behind Germany both in the number of its nationals registered as members and the total number of people who have made the trip to Dignitas assisted suicide clinic (pictured)

The UK ranks second behind Germany both in the number of its nationals registered as members and the total number of people who have made the trip to Dignitas assisted suicide clinic (pictured)

The figures cover 1998 to 2023. However, fewer from Germany have opted to die at Dignitas, dropping into the single digits in recent years.

But the number travelling from the UK has risen, as has that of France which saw 50 citizens make the journey for an assisted death last year. It comes as legislation was published at Holyrood that looks to begin the process of Scotland becoming the first nation in the UK to legalise assisted dying.

Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur introduced the Bill which is likely to be voted on by MSPs later this year – it came after a consultation found 76 per cent of Scots supported the proposals.

A vote would be the third time the issue of assisted dying has come before the Scottish parliament – two previous attempts to change the law have been resoundingly defeated. 

The Bill sets out conditions under which assisted dying would be legalised in a bid to provide ‘robust safeguards’.

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Under the legislation, only those over the age of 16 with an advanced terminal illness would have the option of an assisted death. 

They would need to have the mental capacity to make the request and the Bill sets out a 14-day mandatory ‘reflection’ period. The patient would also be required to administer the life-ending treatment themselves.

Those eligible would also be required to have been resident in Scotland for at least 12 months and be registered with a medical practice. 

Mr McArthur said: ‘Currently in Scotland assisted dying is illegal, a situation that I believe is failing too many terminally ill Scots at the end of life. 

‘It is leaving them facing traumatic deaths that impact not just them, but those that they leave behind. We can and must do better.

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‘The provisions… would be robustly safeguarded to ensure the process works as intended.’

Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur introduced the Bill which is likely to be voted on by MSPs later this year – it came after a consultation found 76 per cent of Scots supported the proposals

Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur introduced the Bill which is likely to be voted on by MSPs later this year – it came after a consultation found 76 per cent of Scots supported the proposals

Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur introduced the Bill which is likely to be voted on by MSPs later this year – it came after a consultation found 76 per cent of Scots supported the proposals

The Bill has been praised by campaigners, led by Dame Esther Rantzen who is herself a member of Dignitas, having been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer.

 ‘The current law is cruel, complicated and causes terrible suffering to vulnerable people,’ she said.

‘I have received dozens of letters from people describing the agonising deaths of those they loved. This is literally a life and death issue.’

But Bishop of Paisley John Keenan said the Bill ‘attacks human dignity’ and introduces a dangerous idea that a citizen can lose their value and worth. 

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‘Assisted suicide sends a message that there are situations when suicide is an appropriate response to one’s individual circumstances, worries, anxieties,’ he said.

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International

Senegal’s Sall holds ‘courteous’ meeting with president-elect Faye

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Senegal’s anti-establishment leader Bassirou Diomaye Faye, whose weekend election victory could be officially confirmed within days, was welcomed at the presidential palace Thursday by outgoing leader Macky Sall.

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The meeting, which came after weeks of crisis surrounding the vote, suggested a swift and peaceful handover in the West African nation that prides itself on democratic stability in a coup-hit region.

Faye, 44, was only freed from prison 10 days before the election, along with his mentor Ousmane Sonko, who was barred from running following a criminal conviction he says was politically motivated.

The outgoing president received both men in what his office called “a courteous meeting where they discussed at length the major issues for the state, as well as the inauguration ceremony”.

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According to provisional results, Faye won the first round of the vote outright with 54.3 percent, far ahead of Sall’s hand-picked candidate, former prime minister Amadou Ba.

He came second with 35.8 percent of the vote.

Senegal’s Constitutional Court could declare Faye the official winner before the weekend, which would make a handover possible before April 2, the official end of Sall’s term.

This handout picture distributed by the Senegalese Presidency on March 28, 2024 shows Ousmane Sonko (2nd R), outgoing President Macky Sall (R) and president-elect Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko (second from right) pictured in between outgoing president Macky Sall (right) and the country’s president-elect Bassirou Diomaye Faye. © Senegalese Presidency handout via AFP

Sall provoked a political crisis in February by suspending the presidential election just days before polls were to open, citing security concerns.

The move sparked protests and clashes that left four people dead, before the Constitutional Court ordered him to set the date for March 24.

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Faye, who has never held elected office, is set to become the fifth president of the West African country of around 18 million people.

He has promised to restore national “sovereignty” and implement a programme of “left-wing pan-Africanism”.

(AFP)

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Xabi Alonso will NOT succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool with Anfield icon set to stay at Bayer Leverkusen as Ruben Amorim emerges as new favourite

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  • Xabi Alonso will likely stay at Bayer Leverkusen in a blow to Liverpool and Bayern
  • Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim is now the leading candidate for Liverpool
  • Why a defeat against Arsenal will be curtains for Man City’s title defence – Listen to the It’s All Kicking Off podcast 

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Liverpool and Bayern Munich have been dealt a blow in their search for a new manager after both received strong discouragement in their quest to appoint Xabi Alonso, with the Spaniard now likely to stay at Bayer Leverkusen.

Alonso had been strongly mooted as a Jurgen Klopp successor since the German announced he was to leave the club this summer, but Liverpool had been given no reason to believe the former midfielder wanted to leave the Bundesliga leaders.

It now appears Alonso, 42, is out of the running for the Anfield job, which makes Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim the leading candidate alongside Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi. 

Amorim, 39, will likely get an interview at Liverpool and it is believed he scored well on internal data tests.

Bayern had been public in their desire to recruit Alonso, perhaps a tactic to unsettle Leverkusen’s title tilt, but president Uli Hoeness on Thursday said it would be ‘probably impossible’ to lure him to Munich this year.

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Xabi Alonso will not be Liverpool's next manager after Jurgen Klopp because he wishes to stay in Germany

Xabi Alonso will not be Liverpool's next manager after Jurgen Klopp because he wishes to stay in Germany

Xabi Alonso will not be Liverpool’s next manager after Jurgen Klopp because he wishes to stay in Germany

Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim has emerged as the new favourite for the Liverpool job

Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim has emerged as the new favourite for the Liverpool job

Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim has emerged as the new favourite for the Liverpool job

He added: ‘Alonso is more inclined to stay at Bayer Leverkusen in view of their current successes, because he would not want to leave them behind. Let’s say if he had two or three more years of success, it would probably be easier to bring him out of there.’

Liverpool had never been confident on appointing Alonso despite strong external links. 

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Their recruitment drive, led by new sporting director Richard Hughes and CEO of Football Michael Edwards, now turns to Amorim and De Zerbi, whose Brighton side come to Anfield on Sunday.

Alonso, who was seen as Liverpool’s dream target, has overseen a revolution at Bayer Leverkusen since joining in October 2022.

When he signed up, they were in the relegation zone but he steered them into the top six.

This campaign, they are 10 points clear of Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga, unbeaten all season, and into the last eight of the Europa League for a second year running. 

It has been a historic season, with Leverkusen on course to lift their first Bundesliga title barring an almighty breakdown, and they have only conceded 18 goals in the process.  

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Liverpool were expected to compete with Bayern Munich for his signature, given that Thomas Tuchel will depart the latter in the summer. 

Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi sits behind leading candidate Amorim for the job

Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi sits behind leading candidate Amorim for the job

Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi sits behind leading candidate Amorim for the job 

Bayern's honorary president Uli Hoeness said on Thursday that it would be 'probably impossible' to lure away Alonso

Bayern's honorary president Uli Hoeness said on Thursday that it would be 'probably impossible' to lure away Alonso

Bayern’s honorary president Uli Hoeness said on Thursday that it would be ‘probably impossible’ to lure away Alonso

Bayern are facing the prospect of their first season without winning a trophy since 2011-12 – following 11 consecutive title wins – and have thus deemed Tuchel surplus to requirements.

Alonso could still manage against Liverpool this season, with the Merseyside outfit and Leverkusen both through to the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

They are on opposite sides of the draw, meaning they could meet in the final on May 22.

Reports in Germany this month had claimed that Bayern were ahead of Liverpool in the race to hire Alonso, while former Sky Sports presenter Richard Keys claimed earlier this week that the 42-year-old manager had decided to move to Liverpool.

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Yet it now appears that neither Bayern or Liverpool will get their man.

Bayern honorary president Hoeness added: ‘I personally, we all, extremely appreciate Xabi Alonso, but you mustn’t forget that he is now training at a club that is currently in the process of becoming German champions.’

Bayern could reportedly turn to Ralf Rangnick as their successor to Tuchel – something Manchester United fans might have a thing or two to say about. 

Rangnick, the current Austria manager, spent six months as United’s interim boss in the 2021/22 season, steering them to sixth and the worst points total in their Premier League history.

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Horror bus crash leaves 45 dead with girl, eight, as the sole survivor after South African coach plunged off a bridge into a ravine before bursting into flames

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  • The bus driver lost control and collided with the bridge barriers, authorities said 

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A horror bus crash in South Africa has left 45 dead and only one survivor, an eight-year-old girl, who is being treated in hospital.

South Africa’s Department of Transport said that the driver lost control and collided with barriers on a bridge near Mamatlakala in the northeast province of Limpopo.

The bus then plunged over the bridge onto a rocky surface some 50 metres below before catching fire, according to reports.

The passenger bus was transporting pilgrims from Botswana, a landlocked country in Southern Africa, to Moria, a town in Limpopo, for an Easter weekend church service.

Rescue operations continued late into this evening, as some bodies were burned beyond recognition, others trapped inside the debris and scattered on the scene, Limpopo’s Department of Transport said.

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Firefighters at the scene of a bus crash on the R518 in the Waterberg district in Limpopo

Firefighters at the scene of a bus crash on the R518 in the Waterberg district in Limpopo

Firefighters at the scene of a bus crash on the R518 in the Waterberg district in Limpopo

Pictures show the wreckage of the bus in flames after it plunged off the bridge

Pictures show the wreckage of the bus in flames after it plunged off the bridge

Pictures show the wreckage of the bus in flames after it plunged off the bridge

Black smoke engulfed the passenger bus and firefighters were pictured at the scene

Black smoke engulfed the passenger bus and firefighters were pictured at the scene

Black smoke engulfed the passenger bus and firefighters were pictured at the scene

A view of the bridge, known as the Mamatlakala Pass, located in the northeast province of Limpopo

A view of the bridge, known as the Mamatlakala Pass, located in the northeast province of Limpopo

A view of the bridge, known as the Mamatlakala Pass, located in the northeast province of Limpopo

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, who visited the crash site, sent her condolences to the bereaved families and the Botswana government.

‘I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragic bus crash, near Mamatlakala. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. With heightened alertness, we continue to urge responsible driving at all times as more people are on our roads this Easter weekend,’ Chikunga said.

The minister added that the cause of the crash is under investigation. 

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France seeks help from allies to bolster security during Paris Olympics

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France has asked its foreign allies to send several thousand members of their security forces to help guard the Paris Olympics, officials said Thursday, underlining the strains caused by the sporting extravaganza which begins in July.

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“Several foreign nations are going to reinforce us in certain critical areas, such as dog-handling capabilities where the needs are enormous,” an official at the defence ministry told AFP on condition of anonymity.

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The official did not say how many foreign soldiers would be on French soil, but Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed his country was joining “an international coalition established by France” for the Olympics.

An official in the French interior ministry said separately that Paris had asked 46 allies to send 2,185 police reinforcements.

Both officials played down the significance of the requests for foreign assistance.

“It’s a classic move for host countries ahead of the organisation of major events,” the interior ministry official said on condition of anonymity.

For the rugby World Cup in France last year, European allies sent 160 police officers to help with security, the official added, with some of them visible to fans as they patrolled the streets.

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Securing the Paris Olympics is stretching France’s domestic forces, however, with an attack last Friday on a concert hall in Moscow, claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, underlining the stakes.


“The terrorist threat is real, it’s strong,” French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal told reporters on Monday, adding that two plots by suspected Islamic extremists had been thwarted already this year.

Up to 45,000 French police and gendarmes are set to be deployed each day during the Olympics, while 18,000 troops are also expected to be mobilised, according to government figures.

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Another 18,000-22,000 private security guards will be on the ground for the Games, which run from July 26-August 11.

The request for foreign help was “for the spectators’ experience, to respond to the capacity challenge of the Games and to reinforce international cooperation,” the French interior ministry official said.

Germany said in March that it would send an unspecified number of police to France for the Olympics, while French forces are set to travel to Germany when it holds the Euro 2024 football tournament in June and July.

Unprecedented opening ceremony

The Olympics have been attacked in the past – most infamously in 1972 in Munich and again in 1996 in Atlanta – with the thousands of athletes, huge crowds and live global television audience making it a target.

French organisers have faced persistent questioning over their decision to hold the opening ceremony outside of the athletics stadium for the first time.

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Athletes are instead set to sail down the river Seine in a flotilla of boats in a made-for-TV extravaganza. The choice has been resisted by some security officials because of the challenges for police.

The crowd size for the ceremony has been significantly reduced, but 326,000 are set to attend with tickets while hundreds of thousands more are expected on the streets or watching from windows overlooking the waterway.

French security forces are screening up to a million people before the Games, including athletes and people living close to key infrastructure, according to the interior ministry.

France was placed on its highest terror alert on Sunday following the attack in Moscow.

(AFP)

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Indian police spot glowing UFOs zig-zagging over nuclear power plant – mirroring reports of craft at sensitive bases in US

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India’s Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant has become a UFO hotspot after a police officer reported seeing odd aerial lights above it more than 10 times last summer.

Indian Police Service investigator Syed Abdul Kader shared two videos exclusively with DailyMail.com, which track the bright lights making ‘zigzags’ above the facility.

Fearing the craft was not manmade, Kader turned to his nation’s leading UFO expert, who in 2019 filed a petition to the Supreme Court of India with the backing of former Pentagon officials and US Air Force vets — urging the south Asian nation to take all the unexplained sightings near its nuclear facilities more seriously. 

Kader’s UFO encounters add international heft to domestic national security concerns within the US, following detailed Pentagon and civilian research into an eerie correlation between UFO sightings and America’s tightly held nuclear arsenal.

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While the shape, size and speed of Kader’s mystery objects are difficult to discern, his footage shows them making unusual movements at the altitude of an airplane.

‘It’s shaking when it’s moving! It’s going up and down,’ the confused cop narrates in one video, watching the UFO’s bizarre and apparently non-aerodynamic maneuvers.

‘The way it’s moving,’ he opines in the video, ‘this could never be an airplane.’

India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant has become a UFO hotspot after a police officer reported seeing odd aerial lights above it more than 10 times last summer

India's Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant has become a UFO hotspot after a police officer reported seeing odd aerial lights above it more than 10 times last summer

India’s Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant has become a UFO hotspot after a police officer reported seeing odd aerial lights above it more than 10 times last summer 

Roughly a dozen or so incidents last summer all involved apparent airborne craft loitering near the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (pictured above) at the southern tip of the subcontinent - as well as the Madras Atomic Power Station near Kalpakkam, along the country's east coast

Roughly a dozen or so incidents last summer all involved apparent airborne craft loitering near the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (pictured above) at the southern tip of the subcontinent - as well as the Madras Atomic Power Station near Kalpakkam, along the country's east coast

Roughly a dozen or so incidents last summer all involved apparent airborne craft loitering near the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (pictured above) at the southern tip of the subcontinent – as well as the Madras Atomic Power Station near Kalpakkam, along the country’s east coast

‘It’s in a southern direction,’ Kader told his wife during the August 8th sighting.

‘It’s standing [or hovering] in the direction of the Koodankulam Nuclear Power Plant.’

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‘It is always coming in at this time, when it is not too dark, nor too bright,’ Kader’s wife can be heard saying. ‘I’ve seen this many times.’

While it is difficult for an outside observer to discern if the UFO is moving, or if Kader’s camera is unsteady, DailyMail.com can report that some common prosaic explanations can likely be ruled out.

Such sightings have turned out to be distant planets, like Venus that is the third brightest object in the sky, after the sun and moon.

And the bright ‘dog star,’ Sirius, as well as the planets Jupiter and Mercury have also been occasionally misreported as UFOs.

However, in Kader’s August 8 video, filmed at dusk (7:30PM local time), the eastern direction of the UFO at sunset refutes the notion that a common bright planet or star could explain the mystery’s eerie aerial glow.

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While the shape, size and speed of Kader's mystery objects are difficult to discern, his footage shows them making unusual movements at the altitude of an airplane

While the shape, size and speed of Kader's mystery objects are difficult to discern, his footage shows them making unusual movements at the altitude of an airplane

While the shape, size and speed of Kader’s mystery objects are difficult to discern, his footage shows them making unusual movements at the altitude of an airplane 

Syed Abdul Kader shared two of the videos exclusively with DailyMail.com, which show bright lights whizzing up and down above the facility

Syed Abdul Kader shared two of the videos exclusively with DailyMail.com, which show bright lights whizzing up and down above the facility

Syed Abdul Kader shared two of the videos exclusively with DailyMail.com, which show bright lights whizzing up and down above the facility

Police sub-inspector Syed Abdul Kader (right), assigned to the technical wing of the Tirunelveli office - one hour's drive north of the Kudankulam nuclear plant - told UFO expert Sabir Hussain (left) that he filmed two videos of these unusual aerial phenomena or UAP

Police sub-inspector Syed Abdul Kader (right), assigned to the technical wing of the Tirunelveli office - one hour's drive north of the Kudankulam nuclear plant - told UFO expert Sabir Hussain (left) that he filmed two videos of these unusual aerial phenomena or UAP

Police sub-inspector Syed Abdul Kader (right), assigned to the technical wing of the Tirunelveli office – one hour’s drive north of the Kudankulam nuclear plant – told UFO expert Sabir Hussain (left) that he filmed two videos of these unusual aerial phenomena or UAP

A sky map for that night and time, geolocated to the Kaders’ hometown of Tirunelveli via TheSkyLive.com shows that Venus was completely obscured, below the western horizon and below the sunset. 

Most other bright stars and planets were also not in the eastern sky at that moment. 

At another point in the video, Kader’s wife exclaims, ‘It’s so close. How come no one else is seeing this?’

To which Kader replies, ‘No, that’s why the DGP [Director General of Police] he, himself, has seen it [the UFOs]. And that’s why everybody’s talking about this.’

In fact, the Kaders’ sightings to the south overlapped with weeks of others in July and August up India’s east coast along the Neelankarai-Mahabalipuram shoreline.

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That region, near the bustling city of Chennai, is home to the Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) in Kalpakkam.

Kader’s mysterious UFO videos were first secured by one of India’s foremost UFO investigators, Sabir Hussain, director of the Indian Society for UFO Studies (INSUFOS) based in Chennai.

It was Hussain who petitioned the Supreme Court of India in 2019 warning that casually dismissing reports of UFO activity near the nation’s sensitive atomic power sites could risks an unintentional nuclear war between India and its uneasy neighbor Pakistan.

His efforts came with letters endorsing his petition, by former US counterintelligence official and Pentagon UFO investigator Lue Elizondo, US Air Force veteran Robert Salas, and other UFO experts from America and Europe. 

‘Syed came to my house,’ Hussain told DailyMail.com. ‘I debriefed him.’

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‘He told me that most of the time, [the UFO] was either coming from the direction of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, going towards it, or stationary in that direction.’

Officer Kader, Hussain told DailyMail.com, also stated that the UFOs were sometimes spotted hovering above the nearby Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) Propulsion Complex.

Nestled alongside the mountainous Mahendragiri hill in the state of Tamil Nadu, the ISRO Propulsion Complex tests cryogenically stored rocket fuel among its other space program duties.

The ISRO facility is also approximately one hour’s drive south of the Kaders’ home, which is in the city of Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu.  

A vocal advocate on the UFO issue, Hussain once voiced his suspicion that alleged alien occupants of such craft cut communications between ISRO and its Chandrayaan-2’s Vikram lander in 2019 — for the south Asian nation’s own good. 

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‘The extra-terrestrials have sent a message to the Indian government to get rid of your nukes before you explore other worlds,’ Hussain told the Deccan Chronicle.

‘You will not be allowed to land on the moon unless “they” decide to allow you.’

The fate of ISRO’s Vikram lander aside, Hussain’s new UFO witnesses, sub-inspector Kader and his wife, can at least be heard in their videos discussing the mysterious aerial phenomena’s consistent apparent interest in the Kudankulam nuclear plant.

Kader’s video-taped sightings, as Hussain told DT Next, ‘happened just 10 days after former DGP [Director General of Police] Prateep V. Philip took pictures of a UFO on [the] Muttukadu sea shore near Chennai.’

Philip’s rank of DGP is the highest position attainable in the Indian Police Service.

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A sky map for that night and time (above), geolocated to the Kaders' hometown of Tirunelveli via TheSkyLive.com, shows Venus was completely obscured, below the western horizon and sunset. Most other bright stars and planets were also not in the eastern sky at that moment

A sky map for that night and time (above), geolocated to the Kaders' hometown of Tirunelveli via TheSkyLive.com, shows Venus was completely obscured, below the western horizon and sunset. Most other bright stars and planets were also not in the eastern sky at that moment

A sky map for that night and time (above), geolocated to the Kaders’ hometown of Tirunelveli via TheSkyLive.com, shows Venus was completely obscured, below the western horizon and sunset. Most other bright stars and planets were also not in the eastern sky at that moment 

The Kaders' sightings to the south overlapped with weeks of sightings in July and August up the eastern coast, along the Neelankarai-Mahabalipuram shoreline. That region, near the city of Chennai, is home to the Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) in Kalpakkam (above)

The Kaders' sightings to the south overlapped with weeks of sightings in July and August up the eastern coast, along the Neelankarai-Mahabalipuram shoreline. That region, near the city of Chennai, is home to the Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) in Kalpakkam (above)

The Kaders’ sightings to the south overlapped with weeks of sightings in July and August up the eastern coast, along the Neelankarai-Mahabalipuram shoreline. That region, near the city of Chennai, is home to the Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS) in Kalpakkam (above)

Hypothetical extraterrestrial interest in the Kudankulam nuclear plant, if correct, would join decades of active protests against the plant by concerned local civilians.

Thousands of local residents faced teargas shelling, imprisonment and prosecution under both terrorism and sedition charges by local police for speaking out against the nuclear energy plant. Even children with the protestors faced sedition charges.

In September of 2019 the Kudankulam nuclear plant was discovered to be infected with malware, which one cyber security analyst with CSO attributed to ‘a false flag operation using stolen North Korean code to muddle attribution.’ 

Hussain told DailyMail.com that the plant has faced corruption charges and safety concerns since before it first became operational a decade ago.

‘Kudankulam, which is a focus of our attention,’ Hussain said, ‘came online only in 2013 after Fukushima disaster happened.’

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‘Ever since it came online, it has been shutting down once every two months,’ he added. ‘They are working only to 30 percent of their capacity. So you do the math.’

DailyMail.com has reached out to the Indian government’s Nuclear Power Corporation of India, Ltd., which runs the plant, for comment. 

US Air Force ICBM launch officer Robert Salas (pictured above) told of his encounter with an orange flying disc that turned off 10 warheads at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana in 1967

US Air Force ICBM launch officer Robert Salas (pictured above) told of his encounter with an orange flying disc that turned off 10 warheads at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana in 1967
Robert Salas as a young airman

Robert Salas as a young airman

US Air Force ICBM launch officer Robert Salas (pictured left, and as a young man, right) told of his encounter with an orange flying disc that turned off 10 warheads at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana in 1967  

An email shows AARO staff contacted former US Air Force ICBM launch officer Robert Salas to gather information about his encounter. He tweeted his thank you email from AARO 

This time last year, two Air Force veterans revealed to DailyMail.com’s Josh Boswell that they had just testified to the Pentagon’s UFO-hunting All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) about their experiences witnessing UFOs interfere with US nuclear missiles.

One email showed AARO staff contacting former US Air Force ICBM launch officer Robert Salas to gather information about his chilling encounter with an orange flying disc that inexplicably turned off 10 warheads at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana in 1967.

Another former officer, Dr. Robert Jacobs, also briefed AARO, testifying to a 35mm film he shot for the Air Force in 1964, which allegedly caught a flying saucer shooting a test missile out of the sky.

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Although Salas described those early interactions with AARO officials as ‘very magnanimous,’ this month the disappointed Air Force veteran described the Pentagon office’s most recent UFO report as ‘a ‘Steaming pile of …’ 

‘I gave AARO a two hour PowerPoint presentation on the Malmstrom AFB incidents where twenty ICBMs were disabled during UFO encounters,’ Salas said on the social media site X, speaking to incidents at the base beyond 1967. 

‘The USGOV owes us, the informed public, much more respect on this subject,’ he concluded, ‘than offered by AARO’s steaming pile of insults.’ 

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Russia links Moscow attack to ‘Ukrainian nationalists’; US rubbishes claim

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Russia said Thursday it had evidence the perpetrators of last week’s massacre at a concert hall outside Moscow were linked to “Ukrainian nationalists”, a claim that the United States called nonsense.

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President Vladimir Putin and his security services continue to allege Kyiv and the West were involved somehow in last Friday’s attack, despite an Islamic State (IS) group affiliate having claimed responsibility.

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Putin said Saturday that 11 people had been detained after gunmen stormed the Crocus City Hall, setting the building alight and killing at least 143 people.

“As a result of work with the detained terrorists, examination of the technical devices seized from them and analysis of information on financial transactions, evidence of their links with Ukrainian nationalists has been obtained,” Russia’s Investigative Committee said on Thursday.

It alleged the suspects had received “significant amounts of money and cryptocurrency from Ukraine” and said another man “involved in financing the terrorists” had been identified and detained.

“Investigators will ask the court to remand him in custody,” it said.

Ukraine and its Western allies have branded as absurd accusations they were involved.

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“My uncle used to say … that the best manure salesmen often carry their samples in their mouths,” US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters Thursday.

“Russian officials seem to be pretty good manure salesmen,” Kirby said, denouncing what he called Russia’s “nonsense propaganda.”

‘Completely inappropriate’

The four suspected assailants – with bruises and cuts on their swollen faces – were dragged into a Moscow courtroom Sunday, all of whom were from Tajikistan, Russian media reported.

Russia’s FSB security service said it arrested the gunmen while they were trying to flee to Ukraine, a claim seemingly disputed by Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko, who said they were headed for his country first.

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Islamic State (IS) jihadists have said several times since Friday that they were responsible, and IS-affiliated media channels have published graphic videos of the gunmen inside the venue.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov gave no indication on Thursday that Putin planned to visit the family members of those killed.

The Russian leader was seen lighting a candle for the victims at a Moscow church last week, but has not visited the scene of the massacre or publicly met with any victims.

“If any contacts are necessary, we will inform you accordingly,” Peskov said, when asked if Putin planned to meet family members of the dead.

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He also said Putin did not plan to visit Crocus City Hall, where rescuers had for the past week been searching the rubble for bodies.

“In these days it would be completely inappropriate to carry out any fact-finding trips, because this would simply interfere with the work,” he said.

(AFP)

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Insurance market Lloyd’s of London toasts best result ‘in recent history’ with £10.7bn profit

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  • The world’s biggest insurance marketplace rebounded to a £10.7bn profit
  • In the group’s underwriting arm, its profits swelled from £2.6bn to £5.9bn 

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Lloyd’s of London has achieved its strongest annual results ‘in recent history’ after swinging to a bumper profit from a loss the prior year. 

The world’s biggest insurance marketplace, whose roots date back to a 17th-century coffee house, rebounded to a £10.7billion profit last year after making an £800million pre-tax loss in 2022. 

It credited the performance to higher interest rates and an ‘unwind of the previously booked mark-to-market loss’.

Recovery: Insurance marketplace Lloyd's of London, whose roots date back to a 17th-century coffee house, rebounded to a £10.7billion profit last year

Recovery: Insurance marketplace Lloyd's of London, whose roots date back to a 17th-century coffee house, rebounded to a £10.7billion profit last year

Recovery: Insurance marketplace Lloyd’s of London, whose roots date back to a 17th-century coffee house, rebounded to a £10.7billion profit last year

In the group’s underwriting arm, its profits swelled from £2.6billion to £5.9billion due to falling costs from large risks and natural catastrophe claims.

This helped boost the company’s combined ratio – the difference between written premiums and payouts – by nearly eight percentage points to 84 per cent, its highest level for 16 years.

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A ratio below 100 per cent denotes a profit, while any figure above that number represents a loss.

Gross written premiums at Lloyd’s totalled £52.1billion, an 11.6 per cent increase on the previous year and its third consecutive year of double-digit growth.

John Neal, chief executive of Lloyd’s, said: ‘The results we’re reporting today are our best in recent history, with an outstanding underwriting result underpinned by a strong and resilient balance sheet.

‘Our ability to attract – and provide returns on – capital is vital to ensuring we can support our customers through uncertainty.’

In the past few years, the insurance market has doled out billions in claims related to the Ukraine war, especially for aircraft stranded in Russia.

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It has also taken losses from a significant number of extreme weather events; in 2023, these included the Turkey-Syria Earthquake, Hawaii’s August wildfires, and Cyclone Gabrielle in Oceania.

Lloyd’s of London’s results come a few weeks after two of its insurers, Beazley and Hiscox, both reported record annual profits and launched major share buybacks.

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Fallen cryptocurrency mogul Bankman-Fried sentenced to 25 years in jail

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Disgraced cryptocurrency wunderkind Sam Bankman-Fried was sentenced to 25 years in jail on Thursday following his conviction in one of the biggest financial fraud cases in history.

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US prosecutors were seeking a prison term of 40-50 years after a New York jury found Bankman-Fried, known by his initials SBF, guilty in November following a five-week trial that probed the one-time high roller’s spectacular fall.

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During the hearing Bankman-Fried told the courtroom that he was “sorry about what happened at every stage. And there are things I should’ve done and things I shouldn’t have.”

They “built something beautiful,” Bankman-Fried said. “And I threw it all away.”

The final sentence was meted out by US District Judge Lewis Kaplan who used the hearing to carefully walk through the financial crimes committed by Bankman-Fried.

There was “never a word of remorse for the commission of a terrible crime,” the judge said, adding that there was a risk Bankman-Fried would commit crimes again.

With the sentencing now done, Bankman-Fried’s lawyers said they would appeal his conviction.

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Calling Bankman-Fried’s seven-count conviction reflective of the defendant’s “unmatched greed and hubris,” the government’s sentencing request argued for significant jail time in light of fraud it estimates at more than $10 billion.

Bankman-Fried’s attorneys depicted their client as a diligent young man motivated by philanthropy who got in over his head, calling the government’s proposed sentence “barbaric.”

Their portrayal is similar to the one SBF’s defense presented at trial – which was quickly rejected by jurors after just five hours of deliberation.

Bankman-Fried’s defense team had asked for six years in prison, a sentence that would return him “promptly to a productive role in society,” said the attorneys led by Marc Mukasey.

FTX Implosion

A graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a billionaire before the age of 30, Bankman-Fried conquered the crypto world at breakneck speed, turning FTX, a small start-up he cofounded in 2019, into the world’s second largest exchange platform.

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But in November 2022, the FTX empire imploded, unable to cope with massive withdrawal requests from customers panicked to learn that some of the funds stored at the company had been committed to risky operations at Bankman-Fried’s personal hedge fund, Alameda Research.


During the trial, some of Bankman-Fried’s closest associates said that he was key to all the decisions that saw $8 billion vanish from FTX.

This group included Caroline Ellison, the former Alameda CEO and Bankman-Fried’s on-and-off-again girlfriend, who testified that Alameda had stolen “around $14 billion” from FTX clients and that Bankman-Fried “directed me to commit those crimes.”

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Filings from the prosecution and defense offered starkly different takes on Bankman-Fried, the son of two well-regarded law professors at tony Stanford University.

“The lack of contrition is galling,” said US Attorney Damian Williams, who took issue with the image of Bankman-Fried as “selfless” and “altruistic,” as championed by the defense, noting he used funds for “luxury” real estate, donations to rub shoulders with political leaders, a Super Bowl television ad and “access to celebrities.”

The defense’s statement describes Bankman-Fried as “wracked” with remorse over the implosion of FTX.

Recovered funds

Bankman-Fried’s attorneys also pointed to statements from FTX’s current leaders expressing confidence that FTX customers and creditors would get back their money, saying in the brief that “the harm to customers, lenders and investors is zero.”

That argument drew a scathing response from FTX Trading Chief Executive John Ray, who said ongoing recoveries of ill-gotten gains do not make up for fraud.

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“That things he stole… were successfully recovered through the efforts of a dedicated group” of professionals “does not mean the things were not stolen,” Ray said in a letter to the court.

“What it means is that we got some of them back.”

(AFP)

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