That proliferance doesn’t make things any cheaper, it should be said straight off the bat. In fact, even fairly conservative estimates of the cost of living for students in London arrive at a figure of between £1400 and £3000 a month. Woof.
Of course, there are ways to make London living cheaper for undergrads, with a raft of discounts, hacks and freebies out there and available, if only you know where to look. We know where to look; here’s how to make your money go further in London if you’re a student.
Savvy Accommodation Choices
Let’s face it; apart from the ever-growing, always-extortionate tuition fees (c’mon Kier, sort it out)
Finding affordable student accommodation in London can be a challenge, but there are ways to make it more manageable:
Intercollegiate Halls: These are halls shared by students from different University of London institutions. They can be a great way to meet people from other universities. Prices vary, but they often include meals, which can save you money on food.
Private Halls: Companies like Unite Students, iQ Student Accommodation, and Scape offer private student halls. These can be more expensive than university halls but often come with additional amenities like gyms, study rooms, and social spaces. Look out for early-bird discounts and referral bonuses.
House Shares: Websites like Spareroom and Gumtree are great for finding house shares. Living with others can significantly reduce your rent and bills. Areas like Stratford, Hackney, and Peckham are popular with students and tend to be more affordable than central locations.
Council Tax Exemption: Full-time students are exempt from paying council tax. Make sure to get a council tax exemption certificate from your university and submit it to your local council.
Student Oyster Card: Get a Student Oyster photocard for 30% off adult-rate travelcards and bus & tram passes.
16-25 Railcard: Combine this with your Oyster card for a third off off-peak travel on the Tube, DLR, London Overground, and National Rail services.
Cycle: Consider cycling. Lime Bikes and Santander Cycles represent a cheap and healthy way to get around. Students can get a yearly membership for just £90.
Walking: London is a walkable city. Use apps like Citymapper to find the best walking routes and discover hidden gems along the way.
Eat Well For Less
Eating out in London can drain your wallet quickly, but there are ways to enjoy good food without breaking the bank:
Markets: Visit markets like Borough Market, Camden Market, and Brick Lane towards the end of the day for potential discounts on food that would otherwise be thrown away.
Student Discounts: Many restaurants and cafes offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID and check apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans for deals.
Supermarket Savvy: Shop at budget supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl. Look out for reduced items in the evenings at larger supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s.
Food Sharing Apps: Use apps like Olio and Too Good To Go to get free or discounted food from local businesses and neighbours.
Free & Cheap Entertainment
London is brimming with free and low-cost activities. Make the most of it:
Museums and Galleries: Many of London’s top museums and galleries, such as the British Museum, Tate Modern, and the National Gallery, are free to enter.
Theatre Tickets: Check out the TKTS booth in Leicester Square for discounted theatre tickets. The National Theatre and Shakespeare’s Globe also offer cheap tickets for students.
Outdoor Spaces: Enjoy London’s parks and gardens. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Hampstead Heath are perfect for a day out without spending a penny.
Student Nights: Many, many clubs and bars have student nights with discounted entry and drinks.
Free Events: Websites like Eventbrite and Meetup list free events happening around the city, from lectures and workshops to social gatherings and fitness classes.
If you love to shop, London is home to lots of flea and street markets where you can find clothes at bargain prices.
Budget Like A Pro
With such a tempting array of spending opportunities in London, getting your finances sorted is absolutely crucial. Once September comes around and you begin university, you can adjust your budget where needed, but planning beforehand is a good start.
Track Everything: Most students benefit from tracking their expenses on their banking app – apps like Monzo, Starling, and even traditional banks now offer brilliant categorisation features that show exactly where your money’s going. Set up notifications for when you’re approaching spending limits in different categories.
Needs vs Wants: This classic budgeting principle becomes your best friend in an expensive city like London. That £5 coffee might seem like a need when you’re cramming for exams, but prioritising genuine necessities will keep you afloat financially. Create a simple list: rent, groceries, transport, and course materials come first; everything else is negotiable.
Bill Splitting Made Simple: If in shared accommodation, students often find combining their household bills and splitting them can save everyone money and hassle. Use apps like Splitwise or Tricount to track shared expenses fairly. Set up direct debits for utilities so no one forgets, and consider getting a joint account just for household expenses that everyone pays into monthly.
The 50/30/20 Rule (London Edition): Adapt this classic budgeting framework to student life: 50% for essentials (rent, food, transport), 30% for wants (entertainment, eating out), and 20% for savings or paying down student debt. In reality, London students might need to flip this to 60/25/15, but having a framework helps.
Emergency Fund: Even a small buffer of £100-200 can be a lifesaver when your laptop dies during essay season or you need an unexpected trip home.
Part-Time Work & Internships
Balancing work and study can be tough, but a part-time job or internship can provide extra cash and valuable experience:
University Job Boards: Check your university’s job board for on-campus opportunities. These jobs are often flexible and understanding of your study commitments.
Hospitality and Retail: London has a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and shops that often hire students. Look for positions in areas with high foot traffic like Covent Garden or Oxford Street.
Internships: Many companies offer paid internships. Websites like RateMyPlacement and TARGETjobs can help you find opportunities relevant to your field of study.
Tutoring: If you excel in a particular subject, consider tutoring other students. Websites like Tutorful and MyTutor can help you find clients.
Utilise Student Services
Make the most of the services your university offers:
Student Unions: They often have free or discounted events, societies, and sports clubs.
Student Discounts on Tech: Apple, Microsoft, and other tech companies offer student discounts. Check their websites or visit stores with your student ID.
Streaming Services: Many streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Prime, and Apple Music offer student rates. Share subscriptions with housemates to cut costs further.
Software: Many universities provide free or discounted access to software like Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud. Check with your IT department.
Deciding On A University
When it comes to different college options in London, a college quiz match can help you narrow down the best fit for your academic goals and personal preferences. London hosts over 40 universities and higher education colleges, from the prestigious Russell Group institutions like UCL, King’s College London, and LSE to specialized creative arts colleges like UAL and performing arts academies like RADA.
Consider factors like course offerings, location within London (central locations often mean higher living costs), campus facilities, and the strength of industry connections in your field of study.
The Bottom Line
Living in London as a student doesn’t have to mean constant financial stress. By taking advantage of a whole host of student-specific deals and offers, you can enjoy all that this incredible city has to offer without breaking the bank quite so comprehensively.
Summer is a season filled with outdoor activities, swimming, and sun-soaked adventures. While we slather on sunscreen and stay hydrated, our ears often get overlooked in our summer safety routine. Yet this is precisely when our ears face some of their biggest challenges of the year.
From pool parties to music festivals, the warmer months bring unique risks that can turn a perfect summer day into an uncomfortable – or even dangerous – situation for our hearing health.
What Is ‘Hot Weather Ear’?
‘Hot weather ear’, medically known as otitis externa, affects millions of people each summer. This condition, also commonly called swimmer’s ear, occurs in the external ear due to exposure to hot weather and humidity. The combination of increased heat, humidity, and moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungi in the ear canal.
Research shows this isn’t just a minor inconvenience. In the UK, outer ear infections are particularly common during summer months, especially in children between seven and 12 years old. What makes hot weather ear particularly troublesome is that the warm, humid environment creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth, while increased sweating and water exposure from summer activities compound the problem.
Summer can also lead to increased earwax buildup. The heat and humidity cause the earwax-producing glands to work overtime, while increased sweating can soften existing wax, making it more likely to form blockages. If you notice symptoms such as earache, feeling of fullness, or temporary hearing loss, it’s important to seek professional ear wax removal rather than attempting to clear it yourself with cotton buds, which can push wax deeper and worsen the problem.
The symptoms often start subtly – perhaps a slight itch or feeling of fullness in the ear. However, if left untreated, hot weather ear can progress to severe pain, hearing difficulty, and discharge. The key is recognising these early warning signs and taking preventive action before a minor irritation becomes a major problem.
Swimming Saviours
Water activities are synonymous with summer fun, but they’re also the leading cause of ear infections during the warmer months. Outer ear infections are particularly common in summer, especially in children, as people are more likely to go swimming and getting water in your ear can sometimes lead to swimmer’s ear infection.
The mechanics are straightforward: when water becomes trapped in the ear canal, it creates a moist environment where bacteria and fungi thrive. Research involving over 50,000 beachgoers found that head immersion swimming significantly increases the risk of developing earaches and infections.
Prevention is remarkably effective and doesn’t require giving up your favourite aquatic activities. After swimming, tilt your head from side to side to allow water to drain naturally. Gently towel-dry the outer ear, and consider using a hair dryer on the lowest setting, held at least 12 inches away, to remove any remaining moisture. Use a bathing cap, ear plugs, or custom-fitted swim moulds when swimming.
For frequent swimmers, a simple home remedy can work wonders: You can make ear drops by mixing 1 part white vinegar to 1 part rubbing alcohol. Using this mixture helps the ear dry and prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi. However, never use this if you have ear tubes or a perforated eardrum.
Summer holidays often mean air travel, and the change in cabin pressure can wreak havoc on your ears. While not strictly a summer-only issue, the increased travel during holiday season makes this particularly relevant for warm-weather ear care.
The key to managing cabin pressure lies in keeping your eustachian tubes – the small passages connecting your middle ear to your throat – functioning properly. During takeoff and landing, try swallowing, yawning, or gently blowing your nose with your mouth closed and nostrils pinched. Chewing gum or sucking on sweets can also help.
If you’re travelling with a cold or congestion, consider using a decongestant about an hour before your flight (always check with your doctor first). Consider bringing some boiled sweets with you. The sucking and swallowing motions help open the eustachian tubes, preventing the painful pressure build-up that can persist long after landing.
Concerts and festivals are undoubtedly a highlight of summer, but they pose significant risks to your hearing health. The noise level at an average festival is around 100 decibels. It takes just five minutes of exposure to sound at this level to cause hearing damage.
The solution isn’t to avoid live music altogether – it’s to protect yourself properly. High-fidelity or musician’s earplugs are essential. Unlike cheap foam earplugs that muffle sound quality, these specialised plugs reduce volume while preserving clarity. To prevent hearing damage at a concert or festival, you should wear earplugs with an attenuation of 18 to 25 decibels.
Strategic positioning makes an enormous difference to your risk level. Avoid standing directly in front of speakers, where noise levels can easily exceed 110 decibels, putting you at risk of hearing damage within seconds. Instead, position yourself towards the middle or back of the venue, or off to the side where sound levels are lower. Outdoor venues generally offer better sound dispersion than indoor concerts, where sound waves become trapped and intensified.
Finally, take regular breaks. Audiologists recommend a 15-minute break for every hour of exposure to loud music. Use these breaks to step away from the main stage area and give your ears essential recovery time. Pay attention to warning signs – if you experience ringing in your ears or feeling of fullness, these could indicate the noise level was too high. If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours, consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Beach days bring their own set of ear challenges that many people overlook. Wind can drive sand particles into the ear canal, causing irritation and potentially leading to infection. Similarly, strong coastal winds can create sudden pressure changes that affect your inner ear balance.
When spending time on windy beaches, consider wearing a hat or headband that covers your ears. If sand does get into your ears, resist the urge to dig it out with your fingers or cotton swabs – this often pushes particles deeper and can damage the delicate ear canal skin. Instead, tilt your head and gently shake it to encourage natural removal, or rinse gently with clean water.
For water sports enthusiasts, specially designed ear protection can be a game-changer. Surfers and sailors often use custom-fitted ear plugs that allow sound through while blocking water and wind. These are particularly valuable for anyone spending extended periods in marine environments.
The Bottom Line
Summer ear health doesn’t require major lifestyle changes – just smart precautions. Whether you’re diving into crystal-clear waters, dancing at a music festival, or catching flights to exotic destinations, protecting your ears ensures these experiences remain purely positive memories. For adults, summer ear problems are largely preventable with the right knowledge and preparation.
Remember that ear damage is often cumulative and irreversible. The delicate structures in our ears cannot regenerate after being damaged, and so far, medical science hasn’t discovered a way of repairing them. Taking preventive steps now protects not just your immediate comfort, but your long-term hearing health and quality of life.
This summer, make ear protection as routine as applying sunscreen. Your future self will thank you for it.
Where the Aegean meets the Eastern Mediterranean, Larnaca sprawls along Cyprus’s sun-bleached southern coast, each palm-lined street telling its own tale of ancient settlement and modern reinvention. Too often dismissed as merely a transit point between airport and resort, this coastal city rewards those who pause to explore its layers: Byzantine churches neighbour bustling fish markets, while Ottoman fountains share squares with contemporary galleries.
Unlike its more tourist-worn counterparts across the Mediterranean, Larnaca maintains an authenticity that’s increasingly rare in island port cities. Here, elderly fishermen still mend nets beside the medieval castle, whilst families gather for evening volta along the Finikoudes promenade where salt-scented breezes carry the sound of clinking coffee cups and animated conversation.
The city’s relationship with time feels delightfully fluid – ancient salt lakes witness pink flamingo migrations just as they did millennia ago, while modern tavernas serve recipes passed down through generations of Cypriot families. Recent archaeological discoveries suggest this coastline has welcomed travellers for over 6,000 years, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited ports.
While you could easily spend weeks unraveling Larnaca’s mysteries, 48 hours provides enough time to taste its essence – from dawn coffee rituals in stone-walled bakeries to sunset dining on fresh-caught fish, from exploring sacred sites where saints once walked to discovering the world’s oldest named wine still in production…
Day 1: Ancient Saints & Culinary Traditions
Morning: Byzantine Beginnings
Begin your Larnaca adventure at Lazaris Bakery in Saint Lazarus Square, housed within a beautifully restored 18th-century building. Arrive before 9am to experience their signature coffee, brewed using a traditional hovoli coffee maker—a copper contraption that creates the most aromatic cup you’ll taste in Cyprus. Their sourdough bread, baked fresh daily on-site, pairs perfectly with local honey and creamy mizithra cheese.
The bakery’s location couldn’t be more perfect – just steps from the Church of Saint Lazarus, one of the most significant Byzantine monuments in Cyprus. Built in the 9th century over the tomb of Lazarus of Bethany, who fled here after his resurrection, the church houses relics discovered during renovations in 1972. The gold-covered iconostasis survived Ottoman rule intact and represents one of the finest examples of baroque woodcarving on the island.
After exploring the church, spend time wandering Saint Lazarus Square itself. The morning light filters beautifully through the platanos trees, and you’ll notice how local life unfolds around this sacred space—elderly men gathering for backgammon, mothers walking children to school, and shop owners sweeping their doorsteps in preparation for the day.
A short taxi ride brings you to Larnaca Salt Lake, one of Europe’s most important wetlands and winter home to thousands of pink flamingos. The salt lake has been harvested since ancient times – Herodotus wrote about its exceptional quality in 450 BC. Visit the adjacent Hala Sultan Tekke, one of Islam’s most important pilgrimage sites, built around the tomb of Prophet Muhammad’s wet nurse. The mosque’s serene courtyards and lakeside setting provide welcome respite from the midday heat.
Ideal tip: You’ll need to book more that one taxi in Larnaca for this guide so consider downloading a taxi booking app like Alfa CY or CABC. You can prebook your rides on these apps and the cost of the trip will be displayed in the application as soon as you create an order. And before you ask, no Uber does not operate in Cyprus.
For lunch, head to our absolute favourite restaurant in Larnaca: To Kazani in nearby Aradippou. This family-run taverna occupies a historic building that once housed a zivania distillery—the restaurant’s name translates to “the cauldron,” referring to the large copper vessels used for distilling the traditional Cypriot spirit. The original cauldron still sits proudly in the dining room.
The Pavlou family has been serving authentic Cypriot meze here for decades, and their passion for preserving culinary traditions is infectious. Order the full meze for two (trust us, you’ll need to share) and prepare for over 20 small dishes showcasing the island’s diverse influences. From slow-cooked kleftiko lamb to grilled halloumi that squeaks between your teeth, each plate tells a story of Cyprus’s complex heritage. Don’t miss their house-made loukanika sausage or the surprisingly delicious pork brain—a traditional dish that even skeptics find irresistible.
Return to Larnaca proper and enjoy a leisurely walk along the Finikoudes Promenade, named for the phoenix palms that have lined this waterfront since the 1920s. The promenade stretches beautifully from the marina to the old town, offering perfect people watching opportunities as families picnic, teenagers play volleyball, and fishermen cast lines from the pier. Free guided walking tours operate at selected times for those who prefer structured exploration, though the route is equally rewarding to discover independently.
Visit Larnaca Medieval Castle, built by the Lusignans in the 12th century to protect the harbour. The small museum inside contains remarkable artefacts from the area’s long history, including amphorae that once carried wine and olive oil across the ancient Mediterranean. Climb to the battlements for panoramic views across the bay – on clear days, you can see the Troodos Mountains rising in the distance.
For history enthusiasts, consider a detour to Ancient Kition in the city’s northwest, where temple foundations dating to the 13th century BC reveal Cyprus’s Bronze Age heritage. These remarkably preserved ruins demonstrate the sophisticated urban planning of one of the Mediterranean’s earliest city-states, founded by Mycenaean Greeks and later inhabited by Phoenicians who established important copper-working industries here.
As the sun begins its descent, choose between three excellent dining options depending on your culinary mood. For authentic Italian cuisine, Aldente Cucina Italiana on the Finikoudes promenade serves wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta that would make Romans weep with joy. Their risotto ai frutti di mare showcases the day’s catch in a creamy embrace of Arborio rice and saffron, while the cozy, rustic atmosphere makes you forget you’re not actually in Tuscany.
Alternatively, Sushi La offers a sophisticated Oriental-fusion experience that consistently ranks among Cyprus’s best Asian restaurants. The sushi chef’s artistry transforms the Mediterranean’s finest fish into edible delights. The beachfront location means you can watch the sun set over the Mediterranean between courses – a uniquely Larnaca experience that perfectly captures the island’s East-meets-West character.
For those craving more traditional Cypriot flavors after a day of sightseeing, consider Militzis near the marina, where three generations of the same family have been serving authentic island cuisine since 1938. Their souvlaki is grilled over charcoal in the traditional way, while the moussaka follows a recipe that hasn’t changed in decades. The simple taverna atmosphere—checkered tablecloths, local wine served in small carafes, and the sound of families enjoying leisurely dinners—epitomizes the unhurried Cypriot approach to dining.
Late Night: Mackenzie Beach Scene
After dinner, head south to Mackenzie Beach where buzzing bars line the waterfront, creating Larnaca’s most vibrant nightlife scene. This stretch transforms after dark into a pulsing entertainment district where locals and visitors mingle over cocktails and Mediterranean beats. The proximity to Larnaca Airport means you’ll occasionally spot planes landing overhead—a uniquely atmospheric backdrop to evening drinks that somehow adds to rather than detracts from the experience. End your evening watching fishing boats prepare for their pre-dawn departures whilst the castle’s floodlit walls reflect in the calm waters.
Day 2: Island Excursions & Ancient Traditions
Morning: Artisanal Awakening
Start day two at Kapitanis Bakery on Zenonos Kitieos Street, a family institution since 1930. Four generations of the Kapitanis family have perfected their craft in this unassuming shop near the old town. Their triangular cheese pies, invented here in 1972, have become a Larnaca institution, while traditional flaounes (Easter cheese cakes) and kourabiedes (butter cookies) showcase techniques passed down through the decades.
Watch the bakers work through the shop’s rear window—the sight of dough being hand-shaped at 6am is oddly mesmerizing. Grab some sesame bread and sweet tahini pastries for the road; you’ll need sustenance for the morning’s adventure.
Underwater Adventure: MS Zenobia Wreck
For certified divers, Larnaca offers one of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular wreck diving experiences. The MS Zenobia, a Swedish ferry that sank in 1980 just 1.5 kilometers off Larnaca’s coast, now rests in 42 meters of water and ranks among the world’s top ten wreck dives. This massive vessel -180 meters long and still largely intact – provides an otherworldly underwater experience where trucks and trailers remain perfectly preserved in the ship’s holds.
Several reputable dive operators run daily trips to the Zenobia, catering to different experience levels. Even novice divers can explore the upper sections at 16-20 meters depth, while advanced divers can penetrate the ship’s interior to discover its remarkable cargo. The wreck has become an artificial reef teeming with marine life—grouper, barracuda, and countless smaller species now call the ship home.
Alpha Divers and Dive-In Larnaca both offer excellent Zenobia packages, including equipment rental and professional guides who know the wreck intimately. Expect to pay around €50-60 for a two-tank dive including equipment. The visibility here typically exceeds 30 meters, making photography exceptional even for underwater beginners.
For non-divers, glass-bottom boat tours provide a glimpse of the wreck’s upper sections and surrounding marine life—a compromise that still offers insight into this underwater monument.
Take a 25-minute taxi ride to Terra Oliva near Pano Lefkara, an organic olive farm that offers one of Cyprus’s most authentic agricultural experiences. The Sophocleous family has cultivated these 7,000 olive trees—some over 800 years old—using methods that predate the Roman Empire. Cyprus Government certification protects these ancient specimens as living monuments to the island’s agricultural heritage.
The tasting session reveals the complexity of properly produced olive oil—from peppery first-press varieties to mellower oils perfect for finishing dishes. You’ll sample olive paste, traditional sweets made from olive fruit, and even cosmetic products derived from the trees. The farm’s elevated location provides stunning views across the countryside toward the Troodos Mountains, making this an ideal spot for photographs that capture rural Cyprus’s timeless beauty.
Since you’re in the area, consider extending your visit to include nearby Lefkara village, perched dramatically on the Troodos foothills. This UNESCO-recognised settlement has been renowned for centuries for its exquisite lefkaritika lacework—so prized that Leonardo da Vinci himself made the journey to Cyprus in 1481 specifically to purchase pieces for Milan Cathedral’s altar. The village’s narrow cobblestone streets are lined with workshops where master craftsmen continue traditional silversmithing techniques passed down through generations, creating intricate filigree jewellery that makes exceptional souvenirs.
Alternative family option: Those travelling with children might prefer Camel Park Mazotos, a unique attraction about 15 minutes southeast of Larnaca. This working farm offers camel rides through Mediterranean countryside—an unexpectedly authentic experience given the animals’ historical presence in Cyprus during Ottoman times. The park also houses ostriches, llamas, and wallabies, making it an engaging alternative to historical sites for younger visitors whilst still providing insight into Cyprus’s diverse cultural influences.
Afternoon: Spiritual Heights & Fishing Village Adventure
Before heading to lunch, consider a detour to Stavrovouni Monastery, perched dramatically atop a jagged clifftop about 40 kilometers west of Larnaca. This ancient monastery commands superb panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. The site has held religious significance for millennia—during Cyprus’s Greco-Roman period, a temple honoring Aphrodite occupied this summit.
Founded in the 4th century AD by Saint Helena (mother of Emperor Constantine), the monastery houses what is believed to be a fragment of the True Cross. The steep, winding road to reach it adds to the sense of pilgrimage, and the views from the top stretch across the entire Mesaoria Plain to the Troodos Mountains. Note that women are not permitted inside the main monastery, though all visitors can explore the grounds and enjoy the spectacular vistas.
From Stavrovouni, arrange for your taxi to continue to Zygi, a picturesque fishing village about 30 minutes away. Using the same taxi in Cyprus for multiple stops like this is common practice and often more economical than separate journeys. This small port has been landing fish for centuries, and its harbourfront tavernas represent some of Cyprus’s finest seafood dining.
Captain’s Table occupies prime position overlooking the marina, where fishing boats bob alongside gleaming yachts. The restaurant sources fish directly from local boats—what you eat was likely swimming in Mediterranean waters just hours earlier. Their fish meze (€25 per person) showcases the day’s catch through eight different preparations, from simply grilled sea bream to complex seafood soufflé served in actual seashells. The octopus, slow-cooked until fork-tender, represents the pinnacle of Cypriot coastal cuisine. Pair it with local white wine whilst watching seabirds wheel overhead and fishing boats return with the afternoon catch.
Return to Larnaca with time to visit a local wine shop for the ultimate Cypriot souvenir: a bottle of Commandaria, the world’s oldest named wine still in production. This amber-colored dessert wine has been made continuously since 800 BC and was declared “the wine of kings and king of wines” by Richard the Lionheart during the Crusades. Most shops in central Larnaca stock quality producers like KEO St. John or the more artisanal offerings from Tsiakkas Winery.
For your final Larnaca dinner, return to the source and book an early table at To Kazani (we can never get enough of their exceptional meze) or explore the Finikoudes strip for a more casual farewell meal. Many locals end their evenings at small kafenions around Saint Lazarus Square, sipping ouzo or traditional zivania while discussing politics, football, and family—the eternal themes of Greek island life.
Neighbourhood Know-How: Where To Stay In Larnaca
Finikoudes Area: For maximum convenience, the strip along Finikoudes Beach offers the widest selection of hotels within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and the medieval castle. The Josephine Boutique Hotel provides intimate luxury with harbour views, whilst larger properties like Sun Hall Hotel offer traditional resort amenities. Hotel Opera stands out as a sophisticated choice right on the promenade, combining contemporary design with prime beachfront location—its rooftop bar offers spectacular sunset views over the Mediterranean. Expect some street noise, particularly during summer weekends when the promenade comes alive with families and young people.
Old Town (Saint Lazarus Quarter): For authentic atmosphere, seek accommodation near the Byzantine church and traditional neighbourhoods. Lokàl represents a new generation of boutique properties, offering stylishly renovated rooms that blend traditional Cypriot architecture with modern amenities, all within walking distance of the best bakeries and historic sites. Smaller guesthouses and renovated traditional houses provide additional character that chain hotels can’t match. You’ll be steps from the best bakeries and traditional kafenions, though amenities may be more basic than beachfront options.
Mackenzie Beach: Just south of the centre, this residential area provides a quieter base whilst maintaining easy access to Larnaca’s attractions. The beach here is marginally better than Finikoudes, and several boutique hotels offer sea views without the central bustle. A 10-minute taxi ride brings you to the old town for sightseeing and dining. This area comes alive after dark with waterfront bars and restaurants, making it ideal for those who want to experience Larnaca’s nightlife scene.
Near Airport: For early flights or late arrivals, several quality hotels cluster around the airport area, about 15 minutes from central Larnaca. Whilst lacking in atmosphere, they offer convenience and often include complimentary airport transfers—a consideration if you’re travelling with heavy luggage or have mobility concerns.
The Bottom Line
While Larnaca is best known for Finikoudes Beach and its role as a convenient gateway to Cyprus, there’s so much more to explore: world-class wreck diving at the MS Zenobia, vibrant nightlife along Mackenzie Beach, spiritual journeys to mountaintop monasteries, and authentic cultural experiences that reveal the real heart of this remarkable Mediterranean port city.
If you’re considering on moving to Cyprus after your holiday to Larnaca (and we don’t blame you) here our guide on moving to the country…
Summer fashion has always been about bold statements and carefree expression, but this season’s print landscape is particularly captivating. From Mediterranean-inspired motifs to mesmerising abstracts, the patterns dominating wardrobes this summer tell stories of wanderlust, cultural appreciation, and artistic freedom.
Let’s address the elephant in the room – or should we say, the rose in the garden. We’re officially bored of florals for summer. Yes, it’s a fashion writer trope as predictable as Miranda Priestly’s cerulean speech, but no less true for being overused. Every summer brings the inevitable floral infiltration, and frankly, we’ve reached peak petal fatigue.
Consider this your cheat sheet to looking effortlessly chic without a single bloom in sight – because let’s face it, we could all use a little more ‘effortless’ in our lives, even if it takes considerable effort to achieve.
Living La Dolce Vita
Ideal for sun drenched sophistication with a playful twist…
The Italian coast has captured fashion’s imagination this summer, with Mediterranean-inspired prints offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional florals. Because apparently, we’ve reached peak rose petal saturation and it’s time to branch out – or should we say, lemon out? Lemon motifs lead the charge, adorning everything from flowing midi dresses to structured blazers, evoking lazy afternoons on the Amalfi Coast with an Aperol Spritz in hand (Instagram post not included, but highly recommended).
This trend extends beyond citrus to embrace the full Italian experience. Olive branch prints, ceramic tile patterns reminiscent of hand-painted pottery, and even playful spaghetti motifs on adjustable-strap dresses bring a sense of European summer romance to everyday wear. Yes, you read that right – spaghetti prints on spaghetti straps.
Fashion’s love affair with meta-references has reached delicious new heights. Just remember: when wearing spaghetti print dresses, any actual spaghetti spillage becomes part of the design aesthetic. We’re calling it ‘accidental couture.’ The key is choosing pieces that capture the effortless elegance of Italian coastal living while maintaining modern sophistication.
Abstract Expressionism
Ideal for making an artistic statement without saying a word…
Perhaps the most striking trend this season, abstract prints are making fashion feel like wearable art. These dreamy, swirling patterns feature energetic colour combinations that seem to move across the fabric, creating pieces that are genuinely transfixing. Perfect for those days when you want to look artistic and mysterious – or when you need people to think you understand modern art galleries (we won’t tell if you don’t).
The palette ranges from sunset gradients in coral and gold to ocean-inspired blues and greens, often within the same garment. These prints work particularly well on flowing silhouettes where the pattern can truly come alive with movement. Think silk scarves that double as statement pieces, or flowing palazzo trousers that turn heads with every step.
Dotty About Polka
Ideal for timeless elegance that never goes out of style…
Speaking of timeless patterns, polka dots deserve their own standing ovation for sheer staying power. These perfectly round spots have been making fashion statements since the 1920s and show no signs of slowing down. Like animal prints, polka dots are beautifully transitional – equally at home on a summer sundress or an autumn blazer.
This season sees polka dots getting creative with scale and spacing. Micro dots create subtle texture on silk blouses, while oversized spots make bold statements on dresses. The key is choosing the right dot size for your frame and occasion – because nothing says “effortlessly chic” like dots that actually require considerable effort to get right.
African Heritage Celebration
Ideal for wearing history and supporting cultural appreciation…
The global fashion conversation has rightfully expanded to celebrate the incredible diversity of African textile traditions, with prints from across the continent gaining well-deserved mainstream recognition. This represents part of a broader cultural appreciation that’s reshaping fashion’s landscape.
While the term ‘African prints’ is used for convenience, it’s important to recognise the vast diversity within this category. From West African wax prints with their bold geometric patterns to East African kanga textiles with their meaningful messages, each tradition brings unique artistry and cultural significance. The common threads include vibrant colours, symbolic motifs, and exceptional craftsmanship that has influenced designers worldwide.
The appeal of African prints extends far beyond their beautiful designs – each carry profound symbolism reflecting the traditions, cultures, and stories of entire communities. Each African print tells a story, whether tied to spiritual beliefs, historical events, or personal identity tells a story, whether tied to spiritual beliefs, historical events, or personal identity. Take Ankara prints, for instance, which captivate with their vibrant colours and intricate geometric patterns. These designs aren’t just visually stunning on skirts, dresses, and headscarves; they’re woven with meanings of fertility, prosperity, and beauty.
Under The Sea
Ideal for adding whimsy to your wardrobe with oceanic charm…
Aquatic life has surfaced as a major print trend, with crustaceans, shells, and fish swimming across summer wardrobes. This oceanic obsession gained momentum with viral pieces like the iconic Never Fully Dressed lobster-print dress and has evolved into a full underwater fantasy. Finally, a way to wear your love of seafood without actually having to crack shells at dinner – though we can’t guarantee you won’t get hungry looking at your outfit.
Sardine prints, delicate shell motifs, and even playful crab designs are appearing on everything from swimwear to evening wear. The trend perfectly captures the season’s coastal energy while offering a fresh alternative to traditional nautical stripes. It’s whimsical without being childish, and works beautifully in both bright, tropical colourways and more sophisticated monochromatic schemes.
Ideal for bringing out your wild side this and every season…
Animal prints prove thier staying power this summer with fresh interpretations of this eternal classic. While leopard and zebra remain wardrobe staples, designers are exploring new territories with unexpected creatures and innovative coluor palettes. It’s like Noah’s Ark, but make it fashion – and significantly more stylish than biblical outerwear.
The beauty of animal prints lies in their versatility – they transition seamlessly from season to season and can be dressed up or down with ease. This summer’s iterations feature softer, more organic interpretations of classic patterns, often in unexpected colours like sage green leopard spots or rust-coloured tiger stripes.
The Bottom Line
This season’s print trends reflect our collective desire for joy, cultural connection, and artistic expression. Whether you’re drawn to the sophistication of Mediterranean motifs, the boldness of abstract art, or the timeless appeal of animal patterns, there’s a print story waiting to become part of your summer wardrobe.
The key to wearing prints confidently is choosing patterns that resonate with your personal style and make you feel authentically yourself. After all, the best fashion trend is the one that brings a smile to your face every time you wear it – and if it happens to make you look like a walking work of art or a glamorous sea creature, that’s just a bonus.
For something so small, so light, and so easily lost, wedding rings carry so much weight. While tiny in stature, this ever-elegant piece of jewellery has one hell of a message to convey; of love, of memories, and of future promises.
And that’s only the generic symbolism. Wedding bands – no, not those guys in the corner playing Mr. Brightside with almost concerning gusto – are also highly personal pieces of jewellery that say a lot about the wearer’s ethos, aesthetic and life’s outlook. These rings are symbols of the unique vows you make to your partner, and are a daily reminder to keep them, however turbulent your relationship (and life) may be.
Best treat this decision with the diligence it deserves, then, by first reading these 8 beginner’s tips on choosing the IDEAL wedding band for your big day.
Set A Realistic Budget Early
Before you fall in love with any particular ring, establish a clear budget range and stick to it. Unlike engagement rings, there’s no traditional ‘rule’ about how much to spend on wedding bands, which can make the decision both freeing and overwhelming. Wedding band prices can vary dramatically based on metal type, diamond quality, brand, and craftsmanship—from a few hundred dollars for a simple band to several thousand for intricate designs.
Consider that you’re likely buying two rings (or more if you’re planning matching sets), and factor this into your overall wedding budget. Remember that the most expensive option isn’t necessarily the best choice for your lifestyle and preferences. A well-crafted, simple band from a reputable jeweller may serve you better than an elaborate design that doesn’t suit your daily routine. Research average costs for your preferred style and metal beforehand, and don’t be afraid to ask jewellers about payment plans if needed. Having a clear budget will help you focus on rings that offer the best value within your price range, rather than getting distracted by options that might strain your finances.
Shop At The Right Time
So much emphasis is placed on the engagement ring and proposal that the wedding band purchase seems to take a backseat, rarely getting the attention it deserves.
Timing, here, is crucial. Some people wait until a month before their big day to purchase the band, instead prioritising other aspects of their enormous to-do list. But treating such a symbolic item as an afterthought is something the happy couple may one day live to regret. After all, when it’s all said and done, the cake has been scoffed, the first dance finished and best man’s speech’s laughter has died down, what’s left for eternity is the ring.
As such, wedding planners recommend beginning the buying process around three months before the big day, to allow for the initial research, the purchase, and any adjustments as well as engravings and customization (which usually takes a month or so) to take place.
Consider Fit & Comfort
The wedding band is not just a symbol of your love and commitment but also a piece of jewelry that you will wear every day. Therefore, it’s essential to consider how the ring fits and feels on your finger. A good fit isn’t just about the size; it’s also about how the ring sits on your hand.
Comfort fit bands, for example, have a rounded interior to slide over the knuckle easier and provide a more comfortable fit. Take the time to try on different thicknesses and profiles to see what feels best for you. Remember, you’ll be wearing this band for a long time, so it should feel like a natural extension of your finger.
Match Your Wedding Band To Your Engagement Ring
If you plan to wear your wedding band alongside your engagement ring, it’s important to consider how the two will look together. Some people prefer a perfectly matched set where the engagement ring and wedding band are designed to fit together seamlessly. Others may choose a contrasting style that complements the engagement ring without matching it exactly. Think about the width of the bands, the style of the settings, and the colour of the metal.
If your engagement ring is a unique shape or design, you might even consider a custom-made wedding band to ensure a perfect pairing. Don’t be afraid to mix metals or styles if it suits your personal taste and ensures that both rings stand out in the way you want them to.
Plain Or Diamond?
With the engagement ring traditionally being an extravagant-looking (and costing!) piece, many choose something more understated for their wedding band. Diamond rings, in particular, can offer a balance of elegance and simplicity, making them an attractive choice for those who prefer a touch of sparkle without excess. Indeed, for a piece of jewellery you’re going to be wearing every day, a more durable, simple design makes sense.
If you are going to include a diamond in your wedding band, then there are several separate factors you’ll need to consider. Check out our tips on choosing the perfect wedding ring which go into the specifics of diamond choice in more detail.
Choosing The Right Metal For Your Bands
Though yellow gold – that is, the blending of pure gold at 24K with other metals due to the former’s soft nature in its purest form – is probably the most common metal used in making wedding rings, you’re certainly not restricted to it. Indeed, the lower the carat, the more diluted the pure gold is, and that’s something you should consider. That said, yellow gold is practical, durable and easy to repair.
If you want a less expensive band, consider white gold, which is yellow gold amalgamated with other metals such as zinc or nickel. The metal looks like platinum and blends perfectly with the white sparkle of diamonds. Platinum is also popular, particularly for men’s wedding band styles, as it’s the most durable metal. It’s also a good choice for people with allergies since it isn’t mixed with any other metals.
Rose gold contains copper and is an increasingly popular choice, looking elegant and feminine. Of course, your lifestyle to an extent dictates your choice here…
Your Lifestyle Matters
Your lifestyle is also a crucial consideration when it comes to choosing a wedding ring. Since you’ll be wearing the band daily for a lifetime, you need to consider what factors from your everyday routine might affect the longevity of your band.
For those with particularly demanding lifestyles or unique preferences, bespoke rings offer the perfect solution. Custom-designed wedding bands can be tailored specifically to your daily activities—whether that means creating a lower profile setting for someone who works with their hands, incorporating specific metals for those with allergies, or designing reinforced structures for active individuals. As Bercott Diamonds, who create bespoke jewellery in Glasgow tell us, a skilled jeweller can work with you to create a ring that not only reflects your personal style but also stands up to your particular lifestyle demands, ensuring your wedding band is as practical as it is meaningful.
If you’re an active person who spends a lot of time outdoors or if your job leaves your hands in exposed to a lot of chemicals, for instance, then you should ensure that the pieces you choose are tough enough to withstand those unique conditions. You should also consider wedding insurance to potentially cover any loss or damage.
Consider Maintenance Requirements
Fine jewellery requires regular maintenance to keep it looking pristine. With time, diamond prongs can wear down, making diamonds loose, and bands can become misshapen (fingers can too, requiring adjustments to the size!). What’s more, some wedding rings require professional polishing to take care of scratches and others need re-plating to ensure their shimmer lasts.
So much to consider, right? Fortunately, some rings are relatively easy to clean at home. You can, for example, deploy a steam cleaner which uses high-pressure steam to remove grime, oil, and dirt that may be on your wedding ring.
That said, prevention is better than cure, and if the original item is sturdy and made of quality material using expert craftsmanship, then it’ll be less likely to need regular maintenance. Because of this, make sure you buy your bands from reputable jewellers.
Let’s be honest—the traditional stag do is having a bit of an identity crisis, and, frankly, it’s about time. With most blokes now tying the knot in their late thirties (the national average is around 38), there’s been a noticeable shift away from the juvenile antics that once defined these celebrations. We’ve moved past the idea that as soon as the booze comes out, the shape of the day inevitably goes south.
We all know someone who’s got war stories about paintballing in a forest dressed as a hotdog, pedalling around Amsterdam on a beer bike whilst annoying the locals, or worse still, parading around Bath in a miniskirt.
And then there are the stags abroad that fuel regular news headlines, like the story of eight British men arrested on a stag do in Mallorca after a brawl with beach club staff who had repeatedly asked them to stop throwing beer cans and rubbish into the sea. It’s exactly this kind of behaviour that’s giving British tourists a bad name and making locals genuinely resentful of stag groups.
Instead of cringing through another weekend of organised fun or potential arrest, modern grooms and their mates are demanding something different; celebrations that people might actually enjoy attending.
Why The Old Ways Aren’t Working
Here’s the thing that might surprise you: most men don’t actually enjoy the chaos. Research published in the journal Deviant Behaviour found that the majority of participants weren’t keen on the “extreme shaming, humiliation and deviance” that’s become the norm. The study revealed countless stories of blokes feeling pressured into activities they absolutely didn’t want to do; strip clubs they had no interest in visiting, fancy dress that left them mortified in front of locals, or ending up lost, robbed, or sleeping rough in shop doorways.
As The Independent puts it, stag dos are finally changing, and thank goodness for that. We’re moving past the outdated idea that a proper send-off requires public embarrassment or genuinely dangerous behaviour. The question is: what should replace it?
The New Rules: Keep It Real & Realistic
One Night Is Plenty
First things first; we all have different situations these days. Some of your group might be single with cash to splash, whilst others are juggling mortgages, kids, and the reality that a weekend in Vegas just isn’t happening. Since the groom wants everyone there, it makes sense to plan something that doesn’t require anyone to remortgage their house or use up all their annual leave.
A single day or night keeps things manageable for everyone, which is especially important when you’re dealing with proper adult hangovers that seem to last for days rather than hours. Plus, let’s face it, most of us don’t have the stamina we had at 25.
Think About Getting There (& Back)
Choose somewhere people can actually reach without selling a kidney for train fare. With public transport costs these days, asking everyone to trek to some remote location is a bit much, frankly. And think about the journey home, especially for day events where people need to get back to their families in one piece.
If you’re planning an overnight stay, your stag do accommodation needs to be easy for everyone to get to. Central locations near train stations work well, or somewhere with decent parking if people are driving. Nobody wants to spend half their Saturday navigating complicated transport links just to get to the starting point.
What Actually Works
A Proper Meal & Some Drinks
Sometimes the best celebrations are the simplest ones. There’s something brilliant about sitting down for a good meal with your closest mates; proper conversation, decent food, and the chance to actually catch up rather than shouting over club music. Book a private dining room somewhere nice where you can hear each other talk, and don’t forget to invite the older members of the wedding party who might feel a bit left out of more energetic activities.
The beauty of this approach? Those who want to carry on drinking can head to the pub afterwards, whilst those who need to get home can bow out gracefully after the meal.
If you’re dead set on a traditional pub crawl, at least give it some structure. Pick a route with a clear end point so you’re not wandering aimlessly until someone inevitably goes missing or spends their mortgage payment on rounds. Maybe choose pubs with a bit of history or cracking beer selections, as these give people something to talk about other than how hammered they’re getting.
And here’s a crucial bit: plan a proper food stop midway through. Whether it’s the honoured tradition of a late-night kebab, fish and chips or something a bit more substantial, soaking up the alcohol is essential if you want everyone to make it to the end in one piece. Nothing kills a celebration faster than having to carry someone home or explain to their other half why they’re face-down in a hedge.
Day Events That Don’t Require Recovery Time
Think festivals, gigs, or matches. You know, the things that give you plenty to talk about and shared experiences without needing to maintain party energy until 3am. We’re blessed in England with an incredible festival, music, and sports scene, so take advantage of it.
Or consider a proper country walk or hike ending at a decent pub for lunch; fresh air, good conversation, and a well-earned meal that everyone can appreciate. Day events often work out cheaper too, and there’s less chance of anyone ending up in A&E or a police cell.
An Experience Day With Actual Skills
Consider something everyone can learn from, whether it’s a whisky or wine tasting, brewery tour, or cooking class. These activities give you something to focus on beyond just drinking, create natural conversation starters, and often include food to help pace the alcohol consumption. Plus, people might actually pick up a skill they can use later.
The key difference here is that these are actually bonding activities. Think about it: your typical stag do experiences like go-karting mean everyone’s alone in their car, not talking or bonding with anyone. Paintballing has everyone hiding from each other in fear of getting shot at – hardly conducive to meaningful conversation. The key is to focus on just one event rather than cramming it into a tiny part of a whole day, so give it the time and attention it deserves.
Consider A ‘Sten’ Do
If the bride and groom share a lot of mates, why not combine forces? As reported by The Independent “there has been a rise in joint stag and hen dos, know as a sten do, with one in 10 (11%) opting for it”
A joint stag and hen celebration – or ‘sten do’ – can actually be brilliant. It cuts down on planning stress, reduces costs, and creates a more relaxed atmosphere where everyone knows at least some of the other guests. Plus, it prevents any competition between the stag and hen organisers about who’s having the better time.
The real bonus? Having everyone bond together beforehand means there’ll be much better interactions on the wedding day itself. Instead of two separate groups who barely know each other, you’ll have a mixed crowd who’ve already shared some laughs and broken the ice.
What To Swerve
Forcing Everyone to Join In
Don’t be that organiser who insists everyone has to do the same activity. Half the popular stag activities – go-karting, quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, paintballing – either don’t mix with alcohol or are frankly miserable when you’re trying to nurse a hangover. Nobody wants to spend their Saturday trudging through a muddy field in Nottinghamshire getting shot at with paint whilst feeling rough as a badger’s arse.
Fancy Dress & Public Humiliation
Skip the matching t-shirts with embarrassing slogans or forcing the groom into a ridiculous costume for ‘banter.’ Walking around town centres dressed as superheroes or in drag might seem hilarious after a few pints, but it’s mostly just annoying for everyone else trying to get on with their day. Plus, the photos will haunt social media forever.
Strip Clubs & Lapdancing
This one’s becoming increasingly outdated, and for good reason. Many grooms genuinely aren’t interested, and it can make people deeply uncomfortable. There are plenty of ways to celebrate without making half the group feel awkward about what they’re supposed to be enjoying.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, the best stag dos are the ones where everyone’s comfortable and nobody feels like they’re being put through some sort of endurance test. That means thinking about your group’s actual circumstances, like their their budgets, their interests, whether they’ve got kids to get back to, rather than defaulting to tired ideas about what a ‘proper’ stag do should look like.
The goal isn’t to create content for your Instagram or prove how wild you can be. It’s about celebrating a mate’s big life change with the people who matter to him. And here’s a revolutionary thought: sometimes the celebrations people remember most fondly are the ones where they actually enjoyed themselves.
The pressure to conform to extreme stag do culture often ruins what should be a genuinely good time. Choose activities that reflect what your group actually wants to do, and you’re far more likely to create something the groom will thank you for – rather than spend years trying to live down.
Recent trends suggest that renters developed a lasting preference for larger living spaces following the experiences of the early 2020s lockdowns and the compact living conditions that highlighted the challenges of studio living.
Indeed, back in 2019, studio flats were highly coveted. According to research by Rightmove via the Metro, these were the most in-demand property for renters before the pandemic, with their compact size often ensuring excellent locations in and amongst the action and a relatively low rental price, too.
How times have changed since then. By 2020, searches for ‘studio flats’ had slipped to eighth in the priority list, with ‘two-bedroom house’ becoming the most popular enquiry. Rather than assuming everyone became wealthier during that period, it appears that renters became keen to spend more in order to turn the spare bedroom into a home office, or simply to enjoy some personal space after extended periods spent indoors.
But what does this mean for studio flats today? Rightmove’s commercial director Miles Shipside noted that “Landlords with a large portfolio of studio flats may find they need to accept lower rents than in previous years”, with some agents now advising their landlords to incorporate work-from-home spaces to appeal to the market segments that emerged following the pandemic years.
Whether you own your studio flat or you’re renting it, with a little creativity and a firm resolve, there are plenty of ways to maximise your studio apartment space. Here are 7 of them.
Look Upwards
If you find you have no room to expand outwards, then look upwards. No, not to heaven; the Big Man upstairs isn’t going to magic up some more space in your studio apartment. Instead, should the ceiling of your studio apartment be of the requisite height, then look upwards to find space by introducing a mezzanine.
A mezzanine will add precious additional square footage to an apartment, and offer residents the chance to draw that distinction between work, rest, and play which became so important during the remote working era, particularly for those living in relatively compact spaces.
Having the bedroom area on a mezzanine level can offer an ‘escape’ from the rest of the apartment – a simple, cosy space where you can recharge, relax, read, take some time for yourself and forget about the world below.
By freeing up floor space, a mezzanine can make your studio apartment a more peaceful, and most importantly, spacious place to spend time.
Bespoke Furniture
In today’s world of hybrid working and ever-changing living needs, investing in flexible furniture for everyday use has become essential for studio apartment dwellers. Extending tables are particularly brilliant for small spaces, as they can serve as a compact desk during the day and expand to accommodate dinner guests in the evening.
Plenty of storage exists to occupy awkward spaces, with some great fitted furniture options out there which can be designed bespokely to fit in a nook, cranny or alcove and double up as storage. This kills two birds with one stone, as your made-to-measure furniture makes use of every spare centimetre, and you guarantee additional storage space, to boot.
There are many ways to maximise a studio apartment and have everything in place. A wall of floor-to-ceiling, built-in units will provide you with ample storage space options, too, while floor-to-ceiling bespoke shelving, vertical cupboards and fitted wardrobes are all great additional ways to maximise space in a compact room.
Bespoke furniture designed specifically for its room helps you put every single centimetre of space to good use. For more inspiration on doing just that, check out our article on compact, flexible furniture ideas to make the most of small spaces.
Divide & Conquer
One of the biggest challenges of a studio apartment is dividing out space, choosing what fits where most succinctly and drawing clear distinction between various spaces, both physically and mentally. The key here is to choose dividers that don’t block sunlight or cut up the square footage, we think.
Makespace.com say that “When one of your goals is to maximise space, the more practical a solution is, the better. Set bookshelves perpendicular to a wall to divide living areas and add valuable storage space in your small apartment. The bookshelves don’t have to stretch to the ceiling, but for the sake of illusion and the extra room, go tall”. We couldn’t agree more.
Free standing shelves are ideal partitions that allow natural light to penetrate every room, whilst still maintaining the privacy of a bedroom from, say, the remaining living space, as well as serving a functional purpose.
Multi-Purpose, Double-Duty Furniture
There are some clever ways you can create some extra space in your studio apartment involving practical but stylish furniture which boasts hidden storage potential.
Indeed, Architectural Digest say that “For city dwellers, two things are priority whilst choosing furniture—it should be decorative and also functional. In city apartments where space is at a premium, every item and piece of furniture needs to do double duty to truly earn its place in the house. In cases like these, buying multipurpose furniture becomes a smart, clever idea to survive space crunch.”
A platform bed with storage underneath can help you make the most of every available millimetre of your small living space whilst an Ottoman can boast plenty of interior storage, too. A sofa that doubles as a bed is another super-practical furnishing ideally suited to small spaces.
Things That Fold Down From The Wall
Calling to mind the space-savvy style used by Japanese urban interior designers, Murphy beds have long been a mainstay for studio apartments, and for good reason. As Apartment Therapy explains, “The Murphy bed, in case you’re unfamiliar, is a bed that literally folds down from the wall — a clever little space-saving solution for anyone living in cramped quarters”.
Don’t stop there; there are plenty of other items of furniture able to fold down from walls which have been invented to solve the woes of small-spaced apartment residents. From wall-mounted, fold-down dining tables to hideaway desks and retractable second beds, there are brilliantly flexible solutions out there when you don’t have many square metres to work with. The trick, is knowing where to find them.
Add Mirrors
One super-easy way to achieve at least the illusion of space in your studio apartment is to use mirrors with a dexterity and lightness of touch. Indeed, when it comes to studio apartments, a well placed mirror can amplify space, light, and even mood.
Create the sense of having an extra window by placing a mirror directly opposite your real window. Not only does this maximise the effect of natural light running through your apartment, but it also reflects what’s going on outside, allowing you to appreciate the view from another angle. It’s also a good idea to place a mirror behind a light source, such as a lamp, as it will increase the light’s reach.
Think outside the box (and the bedroom) here and consider bringing a mirrored bathroom cabinet into the main studio area, providing you with your make-up mirror and additional space for storage, too.
You could go all out and create a mirror wall to give the illusion of way more space, too, though we do find that this approach works best in bathrooms rather than bedrooms or living spaces.
One word of warning; we’d disregard these tips if you’re particularly clumsy, or you’ll be running the risk of seven years’ bad luck whenever you move about your home.
One of the most overlooked aspects of studio apartment living is making use of those forgotten nooks and crannies that often go unnoticed. Every studio apartment has hidden storage potential just waiting to be discovered and exploited.
The space under your bed is prime real estate for storage boxes, seasonal clothing, or rarely used items. Invest in vacuum storage bags to compress bulky bedding and winter coats, freeing up valuable cupboard space for everyday essentials.
Don’t forget about the area behind doors – over-the-door organisers can hold shoes, cleaning supplies, or toiletries without taking up any floor space. Similarly, the space above doorways can accommodate narrow shelving units perfect for books or decorative items.
Consider the often-wasted space under your sofa or along the tops of kitchen cabinets. Slim storage baskets can slide underneath furniture, whilst the area above your kitchen units is perfect for items you don’t need daily access to.
Even the inside of wardrobe doors presents opportunities – hanging organisers can store accessories, ties, or small items that would otherwise clutter your limited surface space. The key is to think vertically and creatively about every single inch of your studio apartment.
The ingredients of a great road trip are certainly no secret, the recipe public knowledge. Start with long stretches of open road and changing scenery, punctuated by pit stops of intrigue. Have a route mapped out, but leave room for spontaneity and whim. Make sure the soundtrack has rhythm and the company can keep a conversation going.
Though it’s on the other side of the world and you won’t get there on four wheels alone, once you land down under the options for such an adventure are limitless. Here’s one of the best; our 7 IDEAL stops on your Australian road trip from Melbourne to Sydney.
Start In Melbourne
Melbourne to Sydney is most efficiently served by the Hume highway. But we’re in this for the journey, not the destination, and we believe that this 10-hour drive to Sydney doesn’t offer the chance to take in Australian East Coast’s raw natural beauty to its full potential.
Instead, we suggest taking the coastal route, through the Princes Highway. Of course, if you’re kicking things off in Melbourne, its cosmopolitan, artistic vibe should definitely get at least a day of your time. You’re going to be cooped up in the car for a while, so make the most of the famous Royal Botanic Gardens while in the city. Over 38 hectares and 8500 species of plant, huge lawns, shimmering lakes….it’s the perfect way to clear your mind and refresh your soul before you embark on the long drive to Sydney. Oh, and it’s free to everyone. Yes!
From Here To Wilson Promontory Park
With a mind of clarity and intent, from Melbourne a 374 kilometre stretch of open road and stunning scenery along Princes Highway will take you to Wilson Promontory Park, one of Victoria’s most beloved national parks, Some locations along the drive just begging to be admired and explored are Yarragon, Walhalla, and Meeniyan. It should be understood that there are no petrol stations from Meeniyan to Wilson Prom; fuel up and buy all the necessities beforehand, when you can. In Walhalla, the Goldsfield Railway and the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine of Walhalla is well worth your attention.
Once at ‘the Proms’, Tidal River is a great place to pitch a tent and spend the night, and cheap too. If you have a campervan with you, you can stay at the overnight Hiker’s Car Park. Both are well equipped with hot water, showers and even an outdoor cinema if you’re already missing the glare of screens and distraction.
Onwards to Metung
Assuming you’ve enjoyed a night under the stars (or canvas) at Tidal River, then get back on the Princes Highway and keep on until Tambo River Tourist Park. The upcoming right turn will take you on the Metung road within 8 minutes. Metung boasts the Nyerimilang Heritage Park, which offers great hiking and even sailing on the lake. Stay at the Chinaman’s Creek camping ground.
Metung to Gypsy Point
A two and a half hour drive east will take you to Gypsy Point.The must see of East Gippsland is Croajingolong National Park, which has been identified by Unesco as a Biosphere Reserve and is recognised by BirdLife International for its safe housing of abundant migratory birds.
If you’re up for some views (who isn’t?) then you should scale the Genoa Peak to watch the breathtaking sunset over Croajingolong. There aren’t a lot of overnight car parks (though Shipwreck Creek and Wingan Inlet offer limited spaces for car based camping) close to Gipsy point, but the Gipsy Point Lakeside offers inexpensive lodging.
Gypsy Point To Narooma
At this point, you can straight drive through Bega, a small New South Wales town famed for cheese production, to Narooma; a comfortable two and a half hour journey. From here you can take a boat tour of nearby Montague Island, which boasts a nature reserve. The main draw here is seal and whale watching, as well as on the island itself, the home of the smallest species of penguin on the planet, the aptly named ‘little penguins’. Narooma is a fairly large town, so has plenty of caravan and camping options, many right on the beach.
Get Cultural In Canberra
Onwards for roughly three hours, to the country’s capital Canberra. Known as Australia’s cultural centre, after so much time in and amongst nature, take the opportunity here to reconnect with the invention and creativity of the human mind. Currently running at the National Gallery of Australia is a collection of pre-Raphaelite masterpieces lent by the Tate (ending in late April). Exhibitions of Monet’s impressionist best, and an exploration of Picasso and Matisse’s relationship, run until September 2019 and April 2020 respectively.
Canberra To Lerida Estate & Lake George Wineries
While combining a road trip with copious quantities of wine isn’t a wise move, it’d be rude not to check out some of South East Australia’s famous vineyards and wineries. You don’t actually have to neck the wines at a tasting session, after all.
Two of the best are only a short drive from Canberra; Lerida Estate is 40 minutes north and five minutes further is the Lake George Wineries. The latter is Canberra’s oldest vineyard and has an excellent onsite restaurant, The Harvest, which has an all day dining menu of refined fare utilising Australian produce from nearby farms served in a bright and airy room overlooking the estate. And of course, expert wine pairing. Now, who’s up for taking the wheel on the last leg?
Finish Up In Sydney
Just shy of three hours more on the road and you’ll be rolling into Sydney, which signals the end of your road trip but the start of a new adventure in the big Syd. Give the tourist-teeming harbourside a swerve and head for Surry Hills. Once a sketchy crime-ridden corner, it’s now one of Sydney’s most artistically-vibrant neighbourhoods. This area is a major player in Sydney’s foodie revolution, full of Sydney’s most innovative chefs, restaurants and cafes. In fact, some have heralded the buzzing ‘burb as the very epicentre of the city’s food scene. Also if you like shopping then head on over to Surry (as the locals call it) for some seriously cool vintage shops and markets.
The Bottom Line
With your itinerary ready, it’s time to head off on your road trip. When travelling from Melbourne to Sydney, you will want a comfortable and reliable way to travel, like a campervan. The best rates on campervan hire in Melbourne might start at around $40-50 per day for basic budget campervans, though prices typically range from $40 to $380 per day depending on the vehicle type, season, and length of hire.
The cheapest months for hiring are usually April through September, with rates spiking during December and January. To secure the best deals, book well in advance and consider longer rental periods for automatic discounts. With everything you need included – from cooking equipment to bedding – a campervan gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace while keeping accommodation costs low. Melbourne’s numerous rental companies offer everything from basic 2-berth campervans perfect for couples to larger 6-berth motorhomes ideal for families, ensuring there’s an option to suit every budget and travel style for your epic Melbourne to Sydney adventure.
As the days grow longer and the promise of summer beckons, there’s a delightful trend transforming British gardens, balconies and rooftops alike – outdoor cinemas have captured the imagination of film lovers, with people ingeniously fashioning their own outside viewing areas using everything from professional screens to repurposed bedsheets strung between trees.
With approximately 26-27 weekends stretching across the UK’s official summer season (June through August, according to the Met Office), we’ve curated exactly 26 films – one for each weekend night when the magic feels most potent. Whether you’re projecting onto a pristine white wall under the stars or curling up indoors while rain patters against the windows, these cinematic escapes can transport you to the heat and freedom you’re craving.
And even if you don’t have an outside space of your own– in a country where summer can sometimes feel more like a rumour than a season, these films offer something equally valuable: the chance to live vicariously through sun-drenched stories, Mediterranean adventures, and those golden-hour moments that define the perfect summer day. Here are 26 films bringing different flavours of summer – from sophisticated European art house cinema to joyous musicals, brooding thrillers to nostalgic coming-of-age tales – each one capturing a unique aspect of the season’s magic.
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Anthony Minghella’s psychological thriller transforms into a seductive travelogue of 1950s Italy, where Tom Ripley’s mission to bring back playboy Dickie Greenleaf becomes an obsession with wealth, status, and identity. The Amalfi Coast setting – with its yacht-filled harbours, jazz clubs, and villa parties – creates a darkly glamorous vision of summer among the beautiful and wealthy.
Matt Damon’s Ripley is both tourist and predator, enchanted by the lifestyle he’s witnessing and determined to claim it for himself. The film uses the intoxicating beauty of Italian summer as both seduction and trap, where the pleasure of living like the rich becomes a dangerous addiction. Jude Law’s golden Dickie embodies the careless privilege of eternal summer, making his fate all the more tragic.
Somewhere (2010)
Sofia Coppola’s languid meditation on fame and fatherhood unfolds against the backdrop of the Chateau Marmont, capturing the lazy, hazy atmosphere of an endless Los Angeles summer. Stephen Dorff plays a successful actor adrift in his privileged but empty life until his eleven-year-old daughter arrives for an extended visit. The film’s deliberate pacing mirrors those drowsy afternoon hours when time seems suspended in amber heat, with long takes of poolside lounging, room service deliveries, and the peculiar stillness that comes with having nowhere urgent to be. It’s a perfect reflection of summer’s potential for both indulgence and introspection.
Billy Wilder’s comedy masterpiece may be set in the Prohibition era, but its Miami Beach hotel setting radiates pure summer energy. When musicians Joe and Jerry witness a mob hit, they flee Chicago disguised as members of an all-female band bound for Florida. The film’s sun-soaked finale at the Del Coronado Hotel, with its palm trees, beach scenes, and resort atmosphere, makes it the perfect companion for those evenings when you’re dreaming of cocktails by the ocean. Marilyn Monroe’s Sugar Kane personifys the carefree spirit of a summer holiday romance, while the film’s screwball energy captures that anything-can-happen feeling of vacation adventures.
Dirty Dancing (1987)
Dirty Dancing is the perfect film. Set in the summer of 1963 at a Catskills resort, this beloved romance captures the transformative power of a summer holiday. Jennifer Grey’s Baby Houseman arrives at Kellerman’s as a sheltered teenager but discovers passion, purpose, and her own voice through her relationship with Patrick Swayze’s working-class dance instructor Johnny Castle.
Baby’s coming-of-age story unfolds amid warm nights, lakeside activities, talent shows, and the kind of summer romance that changes everything. The resort setting – with its organised activities, family dining rooms, and hidden staff quarters – creates the perfect environment for Baby’s journey from adolescence to womanhood, all set to an unforgettable soundtrack that captures the era’s optimism.
Before Sunrise (1995)
Richard Linklter’s romantic masterpiece follows two strangers through one magical night in Vienna, but it’s the summer festival atmosphere and the golden European light that gives the film its dreamy, ethereal quality. When American backpacker Jesse meets French student Céline on a train, their impromptu decision to spend one night wandering Vienna becomes an intimate exploration of connection, philosophy, and the possibility of love.
The warm summer evening provides the perfect background for their marathon conversation, from sunset cemetery walks to dawn riverside reflections. It’s the essence of summer travel – that openness to experience and the belief that a single night can change your life forever.
Call Me By Your Name (2017)
Luca Guadagnino’s sensual coming-of-age story is drenched in the drowsy heat of 1980s Northern Italy. Seventeen-year-old Elio spends his family’s summer villa holiday falling in love with Oliver, a charismatic American graduate student working with his professor father. Every frame radiates summer – from lazy bicycle rides through sun-dappled countryside to stolen moments by ancient fountains, from languid afternoons reading in the garden to midnight swims.
The film captures that particular intensity of summer desire, where the heat seems to amplify every emotion and the temporary nature of the season adds urgency to every encounter. It’s a masterclass in using summer’s sensuality to heighten a story of first love and sexual awakening.
Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
Alfonso Cuarón’s road movie captures the essence of a life-changing summer as two Mexican teenagers embark on a journey to a mythical beach with an older woman. Julio and Tenoch’s hedonistic friendship faces its ultimate test when they travel with Luisa, their friend’s wife, to the remote Boca del Cielo.
The film pulses with youthful energy and the kind of sexual awakening that defines many summer holidays, but beneath its sun-soaked surface lies a meditation on class, mortality, and the end of innocence. The beach scenes are particularly evocative, capturing that perfect summer moment when paradise seems within reach, even as adult realities begin to intrude.
Roman Holiday (1953)
Voted as one of the most romantic films of all time, Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck’s Roman adventure is the ultimate summer holiday fantasy. When Princess Ann escapes her royal duties for one day of freedom, she finds romance with American reporter Joe Bradley in the eternal city’s sun-baked streets.
From the Spanish Steps to the Mouth of Truth, from Vespa rides through cobbled streets to gelato in sidewalk cafés, the film transforms Rome into the perfect summer playground. Set against the city’s monuments and bustling piazzas, it’s pure escapist pleasure for anyone dreaming of European summer adventures, where every corner promises discovery and every encounter might lead to romance.
Stranger by the Lake (2013)
Alain Guiraudie’s provocative thriller unfolds entirely at a lakeside cruising spot during one sweltering summer. Franck becomes obsessed with Michel, a handsome stranger he witnesses committing murder, leading to a dangerous game of desire and death played out against the natural beauty of the lake.
The film’s languid pacing and natural setting capture both the sensual possibilities and dangerous undercurrents of summer freedom, where the heat seems to intensify both passion and paranoia. Shot entirely outdoors with natural light, it creates an almost documentary-like portrait of men seeking connection and release in nature’s embrace, while building to a thriller climax that transforms the idyllic setting into something far more sinister.
Summertime (1955)
David Lean’s Venice-set romance starring Katharine Hepburn is a love letter to both the city and the season. Hepburn plays Jane Hudson, a lonely American secretary who finally takes her dream vacation to Venice, where she discovers unexpected romance with married shopkeeper Renato Di Rossi.
The golden light reflecting off the canals, the leisurely gondola rides, and the unhurried pace of tourist life create an intoxicating atmosphere of possibility. Lean’s direction captures Venice at its most seductive – from intimate canal-side cafés to the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square – making this essential summer viewing for anyone who’s ever believed that the perfect holiday might just change their life.
The Kings of Summer (2013)
This indie gem follows three teenage boys – Joe, Patrick, and the eccentric Biaggio – who build a ramshackle house in the woods to escape their suffocating parents and declare independence. Director Jordan Vogt-Roberts captures that uniquely adolescent summer feeling where freedom seems infinite and adult responsibilities feel impossibly distant.
The boys’ forest hideaway becomes their own private kingdom, complete with hunting for food, skinny-dipping, and long nights around the campfire discussing life’s big questions. It’s a perfect encapsulation of summer’s promise – the desire for adventure, the belief that anything is possible, and that bittersweet moment when childhood’s last hurrah collides with the reality of growing up.
Pauline at the Beach (1983)
Éric Rohmer’s delicate comedy of manners unfolds during a seaside holiday in Normandy, where fifteen-year-old Pauline observes the romantic entanglements of the adults around her, particularly her divorced cousin Marion. The film captures the particular pleasure of summer conversations – those long, lazy discussions about love, philosophy, and life that seem to flourish in the holiday atmosphere. Set among beach walks, seaside cafés, and the rhythm of tides, Rohmer creates an intimate portrait of how romantic complications seem to multiply when people have time to think, talk, and desire. The film’s gentle pace mirrors the unhurried quality of seaside holidays where every conversation feels significant.
The Green Ray (1986)
Éric Rohmer’s delicate masterpiece follows Delphine, a lonely Parisian secretary, through her attempts to find the perfect summer holiday after her original plans fall through. As she drifts from the mountains to the seaside, from relatives’ homes to resort towns, Delphine’s quest for companionship and meaning becomes a meditation on solitude, serendipity, and the elusive nature of happiness. Shot entirely with natural light and featuring largely improvised dialogue, the film captures the particular melancholy of solo travel and the way summer holidays can amplify both loneliness and possibility.
The title refers to a rare optical phenomenon where the sun briefly flashes green at sunset – a moment of magic that Delphine desperately hopes to witness. Rohmer’s patient observation of small social interactions, missed connections, and gradual self-discovery creates the most authentic portrait of a summer holiday’s emotional rhythms, proving that the most profound journeys often happen within ourselves.
Aftersun (2022)
Charlotte Wells’ devastating debut captures the bittersweet essence of a father-daughter holiday in Turkey through the lens of memory and loss. Eleven-year-old Sophie accompanies her young father Calum to a budget resort, where their week of poolside games, evening entertainment, and tentative conversations becomes a treasured final chapter she’ll spend her adult life trying to understand. Shot with handheld intimacy and suffused with golden Mediterranean light, the film transforms a simple package holiday into something profound and heartbreaking.
The Turkish resort – with its all-inclusive cheerfulness, karaoke nights, and holiday romance possibilities – provides a poignant stage for a relationship on the edge of change. Wells uses the ephemeral nature of summer holidays, where time feels both endless and fleeting, to explore how we construct meaning from fragments of memory, making this essential viewing for anyone who’s ever looked back on a perfect summer day and realized it was also goodbye.
Eternal Summer (2006)
Leste Chen’s Taiwanese coming-of-age drama uses the metaphor of an endless summer to explore the complex friendship between Shane and Jonathan, two high school boys whose relationship becomes complicated by love, competition, and sexual awakening. Set within the humid summers of Taipei, the film follows their relationship from carefree childhood through the emotional turbulence of adolescence.
The beach setting and school holiday atmosphere intensify the emotional journey, while the ever-present heat seems to amplify every feeling. The film’s title becomes both literal and metaphorical – representing the characters’ desire to freeze time at its most perfect moment and the universal wish to remain forever young.
The Swimmer (1968)
Burt Lancaster’s surreal odyssey through suburban swimming pools is perhaps cinema’s strangest summer movie. Lancaster plays Ned Merrill, who decides to “swim home” by using every pool in his affluent Connecticut neighbourhood, treating them as a river that will carry him to his house.
What begins as a whimsical summer afternoon adventure gradually reveals itself as something much darker – a journey through memory, delusion, and the collapse of the American dream. His character’s journey from pool to pool becomes a meditation on success, failure, and self-deception, all unfolding under the blazing summer sun that seems to intensify both his determination and his growing desperation.
Stand by Me (1986)
Rob Reiner’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novella “The Body” is the definitive summer-of-childhood movie. When twelve-year-old Gordie and his friends – Chris, Teddy, and Vern – hear about a dead body in the woods, they embark on a two-day hiking adventure that becomes a journey into friendship, mortality, and the end of innocence.
Set during those crucial last days of summer vacation in 1959 Oregon, the film captures everything that makes childhood summers unforgettable – the sense of adventure, the deepening of friendships, the scary stories around the campfire, and that bittersweet awareness that growing up means leaving certain things behind forever. The warm, golden cinematography and the period soundtrack create a perfect nostalgic capsule of American boyhood.
Mamma Mia! (2008)
Phyllida Lloyd’s joyous musical transforms the Greek island of Skopelos into pure summer fantasy, where Sophie’s quest to discover her father’s identity before her wedding provides the framework for an infectious ABBA soundtrack. Meryl Streep’s Donna radiates the free-spirited energy of someone who built a life following her heart, while the azure seas, whitewashed buildings, and taverna celebrations create an irresistible vision of Mediterranean bliss.
The film captures that holiday feeling where music, dancing, and spontaneous joy feel not just possible but inevitable. From “Dancing Queen” performed on a harbour pier to “Super Trouper” in a moonlit courtyard, every number celebrates the liberating power of summer, friendship, and following your dreams regardless of age.
Randal Kleiser’s beloved musical opens with Danny and Sandy’s whirlwind summer romance at the beach, setting up the central tension between holiday freedom and school-year reality. The film’s “Summer Nights” sequence perfectly captures the intoxicating nostalgia of holiday romance – the way summer love feels both intense and innocent, magical and temporary.
When Sandy transfers to Rydell High, the collision between her memory of sweet summer Danny and his tough-guy school persona drives the plot, but it’s the underlying theme of how summer changes us that gives the film its emotional resonance. The carnival finale brings back that summer fair atmosphere where transformation seems possible and love can conquer all.
Barbie (2023)
Ken’s job is “beach” – need we say more? Greta Gerwig’s pink-tinted phenomenon became the cultural event of summer 2023, transforming cinema screens into candy-coloured dreamscapes. Margot Robbie’s “stereotypical Barbie” lives in perfect Barbieland until existential thoughts intrude, leading her on a journey to the real world with Ryan Gosling’s devoted Ken.
The film’s vibrant aesthetic – from fuchsia convertibles to dream houses – captures that bright, bold energy of summer days when anything feels possible. More than just a toy adaptation, it’s a meditation on growing up, identity, and the complexity of womanhood, all wrapped in the kind of visual spectacle that made it the perfect summer blockbuster for audiences seeking both entertainment and substance.
Monsieur Hulot’s Holiday (1953)
Jacques Tati’s gentle comedy masterpiece follows the beloved character through a seaside vacation filled with mild misadventures and observational humour. At a French beach resort, Hulot’s well-meaning but clumsy presence creates a series of comic situations – from tennis mishaps to dining room disasters – that capture the universal experience of summer holidays where relaxation and chaos often go hand in hand.
Tati’s visual comedy style, with minimal dialogue and maximum physical humour, creates a timeless portrait of vacation life that transcends language barriers. The film’s episodic structure mirrors the lazy rhythm of holiday days, while its gentle satire of middle-class leisure remains endlessly charming and surprisingly relevant.
Summer with Monika (1953)
Ingmar Bergman’s early romance follows young lovers Harry and Monika who escape Stockholm’s summer heat for an idyllic retreat in the Swedish archipelago. What begins as a carefree summer adventure – filled with swimming, sunbathing, and passionate nights under the midnight sun – gradually turns sour as reality intrudes. Harriet Andersson’s Monika is both earth goddess and destructive force, embodying summer’s dual nature as liberation and recklessness.
The film captures that particular intensity of Nordic summer, where the endless daylight seems to promise infinite possibility, but also exposes character flaws that darkness might hide. It’s a meditation on how summer love can be both transformative and ultimately unsustainable.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Spike Lee’s powerful drama unfolds during one sweltering day in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighbourhood, using the oppressive heat as both backdrop and catalyst for mounting racial tensions. From morning to explosive night, the temperature rises alongside the community’s frustrations, culminating in tragedy that feels both inevitable and preventable.
Lee’s vibrant direction captures the texture of urban summer life – from fire hydrants spraying cooling water to boom boxes blasting different musical styles, from sidewalk arguments to stoop conversations. The film serves as a reminder that summer’s intensity can be both liberating and dangerous, where the heat that brings communities together can also ignite conflicts that have been simmering beneath the surface.
Mektoub, My Love: Canto Uno (2017)
Abdellatif Kechiche’s three-hour meditation on youth and desire follows Amin, an aspiring screenwriter returning to his hometown on the Tunisian coast for the summer of 1994. The film unfolds with the languid pace of a true holiday, capturing the rhythm of beach days, nightclub evenings, and those long summer conversations that seem to contain infinite possibility.
Set against the backdrop of Mediterranean beaches and pulsing with period music, the film creates an almost tactile sense of summer heat and possibility. Kechiche’s observational style lets viewers luxuriate in the details of young people testing their desires and identities during those precious months when the future feels both urgent and endlessly postponed.
La Piscine (1969)
Jacques Deray’s seductive thriller epitomises the sun-soaked French Riviera lifestyle, following the dangerous dynamics that emerge when Harry and Penelope’s poolside paradise is disrupted by the arrival of old friend Maurice and his teenage daughter Marianne. Alain Delon and Romy Schneider smolder in the Mediterranean heat as their characters’ desires and jealousies simmer like the summer air.
The film’s title translates simply as “The Swimming Pool,” and indeed the pool becomes both sanctuary and trap, a crystalline stage where sexual tension, class resentment, and masculine competition play out under the relentless Côte d’Azur sun. Shot in glorious Technicolor that captures every drop of poolside decadence, the film transforms a luxury villa holiday into a study of how summer’s intoxicating freedom can unleash dangerous passions.
Summer Holiday (1963)
Cliff Richard’s musical romp follows Don and his friends as they convert a red London bus into a mobile home for the ultimate European summer adventure. When the group picks up a trio of female singers whose car has broken down, romance blossoms amid stunning Continental scenery.
The film captures that uniquely British optimism about summer holidays abroad, complete with catchy musical numbers, romantic misunderstandings, and the infectious belief that adventure awaits just across the Channel. From the Austrian Alps to the Greek islands, the travelling bus becomes a symbol of youthful freedom and the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone. Richard’s wholesome charm and the film’s technicolor celebration of European travel make it a time capsule of early 1960s summer holiday dreams, when package tours were opening up new worlds of possibility.
The Bottom Line
The equipment needed is surprisingly minimal – a portable projector, a laptop or streaming device, some decent speakers, perhaps a few battery packs for power, and for those looking to access international streaming catalogues, a VPN for Chrome or other browsers might prove useful for unlocking different regional film libraries. Though many discover that even a tablet propped against garden furniture can create memorable movie nights.
Whether you’re setting up a projector in the garden or curling up indoors while rain patters against the windows, these 26 films offer passport-free travel to the summer of your dreams. From Italian riviera romance to American suburban nostalgia, they remind us that sometimes the best summer holidays happen in our own imagination – with the perfect film as our guide.
Let’s be honest – who hasn’t daydreamed about escaping Britain’s unpredictable weather for a life of Mediterranean sunshine? Greek islands are increasingly becoming the go-to choice for Brits looking to make this dream a reality, and it’s not hard to see why. They offer something special for year-round living: mild winters, over 300 days of sunshine annually, and living costs that won’t break the bank.
You’ll be pleased to hear that in the 2023 Expat Insider survey by InterNations, Greece was recognised as a country where settling and finding friends among locals is easy, which makes the transition to island life much smoother for newcomers. Part of this is down to its numerous visa options.
In 2021, Greece joined the growing number of countries embracing remote work by launching its Digital Nomad Visa, and since then, remote workers and their families have been flocking to the islands. The visa allows non-EU/EEA remote workers to live in Greece for up to 12 months while working for companies or clients outside the country, requiring proof of stable remote income of at least €3,500 per month after taxes.
But here’s the thing – not all Greek islands are suitable for permanent living. Many of the smaller, more touristy spots essentially shut down during the off-season, with restaurants closing, ferry services reduced, and even basic amenities becoming scarce from November through March.
That’s exactly why we’ve been selective about our recommendations. The four islands we’ve chosen are specifically picked because they maintain active, functioning communities year-round. You won’t find yourself stranded with nowhere to grab groceries or get a decent meal in January. These islands have substantial local populations, not just seasonal tourism, which means shops stay open, public transport continues running, and you’ll have neighbours who actually live there full-time.
Crete: The Island That Has Everything
Crete is Greece’s largest island and honestly, it’s got the lot. Whether you want bustling city life or peaceful countryside, this island delivers. Heraklion is becoming a proper tech hub with a growing startup scene, boasting a well-educated workforce and supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs.
The city’s robust infrastructure makes it perfect for technology companies, while Chania, with its UNESCO-listed Venetian harbour, attracts a sophisticated international crowd. If you’re after peace and quiet, the largely undeveloped south coast offers countless options for tranquil living.
Ideal for the cosmopolitan adventurer: Those who want options. City amenities when you need them, unspoiled countryside when you don’t. This island suits professionals, families, and retirees who appreciate diversity in their living environment and want access to sophisticated cultural attractions while maintaining the option to retreat to secluded beaches or mountain villages.
What’s it like living there?Crete enjoys one of Europe’s best climates – over 300 days of sunshine and winters that rarely drop below 10°C, making it genuinely suitable for year-round residence. The island’s diverse geography means you can find everything from vibrant beach communities to peaceful mountain villages, each offering its own unique character and lifestyle.
The internet infrastructure is excellent throughout most areas, with high-speed broadband suitable for remote work now standard. There’s even a co-working space called Workhub right in the heart of Heraklion, perfectly positioned near beaches, pharmacies, supermarkets, and transport networks for that classic Greek island co-working experience.
Where you’ll live: Housing options range from traditional stone villas with private pools in areas like Chania and Rethymno (€1,000-€3,000 monthly) to modern town center apartments (€400-€800 monthly) and budget-friendly rural properties from €300 monthly. Most properties come fully furnished with reliable WiFi, air conditioning, and modern amenities, with established expat communities creating a robust long-term rental market designed for permanent residents rather than tourists.
Corfu is different from the typical Greek island – it’s lush and green thanks to more rainfall, with a unique blend of British, French, and Venetian influences. The UNESCO-listed Old Town is absolutely stunning, and there’s a reason Brits have been drawn here since the British Protectorate period from 1815 to 1864. This historical connection continues today, creating a welcoming environment for UK residents.
The island has embraced digital nomads in innovative ways. A local startup has created an AI-powered platform that matches remote workers with suitable long-term rentals based on their work requirements and lifestyle preferences. The main coworking space in Corfu Town features a rooftop solar farm that powers its high-speed internet infrastructure, while the municipality offers a “Digital Nomad Welcome Package” including a free 30-day public transportation pass and discounts on local attractions.
Ideal for the cultured traditionalist: Culture lovers and anyone missing British greenery. Corfu appeals to those who appreciate European sophistication mixed with Greek warmth, perfect for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a more temperate climate with lush, green surroundings. The island suits those who value architectural beauty and a slower, more refined pace of life.
What’s it like living there? Corfu’s unique position in the Ionian Sea gives it a distinctly different character from Aegean islands, with lush green landscapes that remain verdant even in summer. More temperate than other Greek islands, this makes it particularly appealing to those missing the greenery of Britain. The compact size means you’re never far from both mountains and sea, while the rich history is evident everywhere, from the Old Town’s arcaded Liston to the magnificent palaces of Achilleion.
The local culture seamlessly blends Greek traditions with Italian and British influences, creating a unique cosmopolitan atmosphere that feels both familiar and exotic to British residents.
Where you’ll live:Accommodation ranges from traditional villas in olive groves (€250-€600 monthly) to historic properties within Corfu Town’s converted Venetian mansions (from €500 monthly) and seafront apartments in areas like Glyfa and Almyrida (€400-€1,200 monthly). The island’s compact geography means even rural properties are rarely more than 30 minutes from main amenities, with many rentals featuring traditional Ionian architecture, private terraces, gardens, and pools.
Rhodes: Medieval Magic Meets Modern Life
Rhodes perfectly balances historical significance with modern convenience, offering perhaps the best combination of living surrounded by tangible history while enjoying contemporary amenities. The island’s strategic position in the Dodecanese has made it a crossroads of civilizations for millennia, creating a rich tapestry of cultural influences that’s both cosmopolitan and traditional, timeless yet thoroughly modern.
The medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a stunning backdrop for daily life that never gets old. Meanwhile, the modern areas offer all necessary amenities, excellent infrastructure for digital nomads to thrive, and a growing community of remote workers drawn by reliable internet and dedicated coworking spaces.
Ideal for the active history enthusiast: Those who want to live surrounded by tangible history while enjoying modern conveniences. Rhodes suits active individuals who appreciate both cultural exploration and outdoor activities, from beach sports to hiking in pine-forested mountains. The island particularly appeals to digital nomads, young professionals, and anyone seeking a vibrant social scene within a historically significant setting.
What’s it like living there?Rhodes enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually and benefits from the meltemi winds in summer, which provide natural air conditioning during the hottest months. The island’s diverse landscape includes everything from ancient ruins and pristine beaches to pine-forested mountains, offering endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.
The tourism industry provides a robust local economy that supports year-round residents, while significant investment in digital infrastructure has made it increasingly attractive to remote workers and digital entrepreneurs. The well-developed tourism infrastructure translates into high-quality services and reliable utilities year-round.
Where you’ll live: Accommodation ranges from traditional villas in olive groves (€250-€600 monthly) to historic properties within Corfu Town’s converted Venetian mansions (from €500 monthly) and seafront apartments in areas like Glyfa and Almyrida (€400-€1,200 monthly). The island’s compact geography means even rural properties are rarely more than 30 minutes from main amenities, with many rentals featuring traditional Ionian architecture, private terraces, gardens, and pools.
Lesvos: Real Greece Without the Crowds
Lesvos, also known as Lesbos, is where you’ll find authentic Greek island living without the tourist hordes. As Greece’s third-largest island, there’s plenty of space to breathe and really become part of the local community. This remarkable island boasts castles, noble mansions, olive groves, and countless beaches, and is famous as the birthplace of both ancient poet Sappho and ouzo.
The island is renowned for its cultural heritage and continues to attract artists and writers today, drawn by its authentic atmosphere and creative community. Its thermal springs, petrified forest, and traditional architecture provide a unique living environment that feels genuinely Greek rather than touristy.
Ideal for the authentic culture seeker: Those who want the real deal. Lesvos appeals to budget-conscious individuals, artists, writers, and anyone seeking peaceful integration into traditional Greek communities. The island suits those who value authenticity over convenience and prefer cultural immersion to tourist amenities, offering genuine Greek island life without the commercialization of more popular destinations.
What’s it like living there? Lesvos offers some of the most affordable living costs in Greece while maintaining excellent amenities and infrastructure. The slower pace of life and strong local community make it ideal for those seeking genuine cultural immersion and authentic relationships with Greek neighbors. The diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to olive groves to volcanic landscapes, provide endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere year-round.
The island’s traditional way of life remains largely intact, offering visitors a chance to experience Greece as it was decades ago, complete with local festivals, traditional crafts, and time-honored customs that continue to thrive.
Where you’ll live: Accommodation is exceptionally affordable, with traditional village houses in areas like Petra and Molivos available from €280-€500 monthly, modern apartments in Mytilene ranging from €320-€600 monthly, and villa rentals offering excellent value at €400-€800 monthly. Waterfront properties provide exceptional value compared to other Greek islands, with seaside apartments from €450-€900 monthly, many retaining authentic character with original stone construction, private gardens, and spectacular views.
Sorting Out the Paperwork
Since Brexit, things have gotten a bit more complicated, but it’s definitely doable. UK citizens now face new requirements for living in Greece long-term, though short-term visits remain straightforward.
Short visits up to 90 days: No visa needed, just make sure your passport is valid and has at least 3 months left when you plan to leave the Schengen area. Your passport must also have a date of issue less than 10 years before you arrive.
Staying longer? Here are your main options:
Digital Nomad Visa: Perfect if you’re working remotely for companies or clients outside Greece. You need to prove you earn at least €3,500 per month after taxes from stable remote income. The visa is valid for 12 months and can be extended into a two-year residence permit, making it ideal for those testing the waters of island life.
Once approved, you can bring your entire family along as long as you meet the higher income requirements of an additional 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child on top of the base €3,500. An attractive feature is that you’ll pay no taxes to the Greek state if you stay for less than 183 days per year, though you cannot work for Greek employers or start a business in Greece under this visa category.
Golden Visa Investment Route: If you’ve got some cash to invest, this might be your ticket. British buyers are eligible for the Golden Visa scheme since leaving the EU. Spend €250,000 on property outside Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, or €500,000 in these premium areas, and you’ll get a residence permit for you and your family.
Employment-Based Residence: For those seeking employment in Greece, a work permit and subsequent residence permit are required, typically involving securing a job offer before application.
Retirement and Independent Means: Various long-term residence options exist for retirees and those with independent income, typically requiring proof of financial means and comprehensive health insurance.
Healthcare: For digital nomads in Greece, comprehensive health insurance is mandatory for obtaining the digital nomad visa and is crucial for accessing healthcare services during your stay. For those not immediately eligible for state healthcare, private health insurance becomes essential and is generally more affordable than UK private healthcare. If you’re going to be working and paying into the Greek social insurance system, you’ll get state healthcare on the same basis as a Greek citizen through EOPYY, the Greek National Organisation for Healthcare Services Provision.
Banking: You’ll need a Greek bank account for pretty much everything from paying rent and utility bills to everyday expenses. The process starts with getting your AFM, which is your Greek tax number (Arithmo Forologiko Mitro), and while it involves some paperwork, it’s straightforward once you know the steps. Digital nomads can open accounts with major Greek banks like Eurobank, which offers specific services for remote workers and expats, making the process smoother for those on digital nomad visas.
Buying Property:Properties for sale in Greece are generally much lower priced than UK equivalents, though popular areas like Santorini and Mykonos command premium prices. Many buyers find excellent value in traditional properties that need some renovation, particularly on islands like Crete and Lesvos.
If you’re considering purchasing rather than renting, contrary to popular belief, it’s possible to buy a home in Greece without a Golden Visa. Yes, you read that correctly. If you are from outside the EU and want to buy a home in Greece, you don’t need a Golden Visa. Indeed, there are other Visas besides the Golden Visa you get with property investment.
As Forbes writes “a Greek golden visa investment only makes sense in a handful of specific cases (if you’re from a country that does not enjoy visa-free travel to the EU or if you’re looking to gain residency without becoming a tax resident in Greece)”. They go onto explain that “if you’re interested in gaining residency in Greece, there are simpler, more affordable alternatives, such as the Financially Independent Persons Visa (a “self-sufficiency” visa) and the digital nomad visa”.
Money matters: You’ll need to declare any assets held outside Greece and file an annual declaration of assets alongside your annual tax return. There are severe penalties for failing to file or providing incorrect information, so professional tax advice is strongly recommended to navigate the complexities of dual-country obligations.
Cost of living comparisons: A three-course meal for two costs around £43 in Greece compared to £60 in the UK. A loaf of bread runs about £1.08 versus £1.22 back home, while a pint costs around £3.90 compared to £4.50 in Britain. Monthly public transport passes are approximately £26 versus £68 in the UK, and perhaps most significantly, rent for a one-bedroom city center apartment averages £433 compared to £1,059 in the UK.
The Bottom Line
Living year-round on a Greek island is genuinely one of Europe’s most attractive lifestyle choices for UK citizens. These four represent the cream of Greece’s year-round living destinations – islands large enough and economically diverse enough to support permanent residents, each offering distinct characters, climates, and communities to suit different lifestyles and budgets.
Yes, Brexit has added some paperwork, but the various visa routes mean committed folks can still make it happen. The combination of excellent weather, affordable living costs, rapidly improving internet infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage makes these islands serious alternatives to traditional retirement or remote work destinations.
The secret to success lies in thorough research, understanding the legal requirements, and picking an island that matches both your lifestyle dreams and practical needs. With proper planning, realistic expectations, and perhaps a bit of patience with Greek bureaucracy, that Mediterranean island life could be closer than you think.
Regularly named as the ‘sporting capital of the world’, London boasts 13 professional football teams, 22 football stadiums, as well as the UK’s biggest rugby stadium (Twickenham) and cricket ground (Lords). Wembley Stadium also hosts some of the world’s biggest fight nights. What we’re trying to say is that, if you’re looking to watch live sport in the capital, your needs are well and truly served.
Indeed, Londoners are well known for their immense passion for a whole host of sports. For the city’s residents, watching a game is not just a pastime — for many, it’s a lifestyle. And this lifestyle isn’t only housed in the city’s stadiums; you’ll also find passion spilling out onto the streets and into the pubs and bars of London.
Here, beers, banter and betting all rub shoulders, with friends made and rivalries cemented. When it’s good, there’s no better feeling in the world than watching sports in a London boozer.
If you’re keen to soak up this unique, one-of-a-kind atmosphere (responsibly, of course), then here’s where to do it; the best bars to watch sport in London.
The Dugout at Belushi’s, London Bridge
Ideal for private viewing with your mates and proper American bar food classics…
The continental-wide sports bar chain Belushi’s has six venues across London, all devoted to selling affordable beer and projecting sports onto its big screens. But it’s in their dedicated Dugout in London Bridge that the finest sports viewing experience can be found.
Here, you get your own private booth, complete with a TV showing the game. The best thing about this? You don’t have to spend the whole evening tediously trying to explain the rules to novices. The venue’s superb American comfort food makes for the perfect accompaniment to the action — think Philly cheesesteak subs, stacks of chicken wings in every flavour imaginable, loaded nachos, and proper juicy burgers that’ll soak up all that beer.
Alternatively, Belushi’s in Camden Town is another great venue for watching sports in London. Though perhaps more famous for its regular rotating roster of live music offering, the venue also has private booths and its boisterous, always buzzing ‘Cavern’ area, with a huge projector and the latest games broadcast pretty much every moment the doors are open and the pints being poured.
Ideal for intimate sports viewing with craft beer and casual conversation…
The Lyric is a decently-sized, homely pub that offers a great atmosphere for watching sports. This proper old school Victorian boozer, complete with wood panelling, a crackling fireplace, and beautiful etched glass, brings that authentic pub charm that’s increasingly hard to find in central London. With a couple of well-positioned TV screens, this lovely little pub is a haven for fans who enjoy watching the games, but also don’t mind indulging in some private chit-chats during the breaks.
The menu’s got something for everyone too — all the proper pub classics like fish and chips sit alongside a flame-grilled kebab section and American favourites including BBQ baby back pork ribs, butter fried chicken, and Caesar salad. It’s this mix of traditional and modern that makes The Lyric work so well.
This is also a great place to meet on a first date for a quick drink before heading onto a restaurant reservation – especially if both of you are really into sports. And, of course, aside from a plethora of drinks offered, The Lyric offers some of the best craft beers you can try.
Ideal for serious sports fans who want multiple screens and sharing platters…
No matter which sport you’re into, Greenwood will most likely have you covered. With numerous screens spread across two stories of this amazing sports pub and kitchen — and with a dedicated timetable for various sports, games and matches, you’ll surely be able to find your crowd. And the best part is that if you happen to get peckish, you can try some of their finger-licking delicious meals, designed to be shared over sport.
When it comes to watching sports with friends, one thing’s for definite; wings are the thing to enjoy. As such, we particularly love Greenwood’s ‘Signature Meat Platter’ — house fried chicken, padron peppers, buffalo wings and burger pizza to share. The burger pizza is a proper mad creation featuring beef patty, house pickles, American cheese, bacon and burger sauce all on a pizza base. Oh, and if you’re watching the NFL Playoffs, you’ll definitely want to get your hands on this feast that’ll have your tastebuds screaming ‘touchdown’.
A word of warning; since Greenwood is such a popular destination for sports lovers, you will need to book a table ahead of time, or arrive early if you wish to snatch some of the best viewing spots.
Ideal for watching women’s and men’s matches alongside craft beer and natural wines…
Now here’s a breath of fresh air. The Volley, which is walk-in only, has carved out a brilliant niche in Old Street by actually showing women’s football and England women’s rugby team matches alongside the usual men’s matches — no need to beg them to put on the Lionesses or Women’s Super League games.
This craft beer haven serves up natural wines and properly good brews that put your average sports bar to shame. The staff genuinely care about making everyone feel welcome, whether you’re there for England women’s rugby or the latest Premier League drama.
Best of all? You can watch top-quality women’s sport without having to ask them to change the channel first. In a city where most sports bars are dominated by blokes shouting at the telly, The Volley feels like a proper game-changer.
De Hems is London’s only authentic Dutch pub, with a rich Dutch heritage to match. So, if you are looking for an authentic ‘total football’ experience and you don’t have the energy to head for Amsterdam and the iconic Johan Cruijff ArenA, then book a table here instead.
The craft beer selection here is properly impressive too, with a range that goes well beyond your typical pub offerings. Whether you’re after something hoppy, malty, or somewhere in between, De Hems has got you covered while you’re cheering on your team.
Aside from being able to experience all of this firsthand while watching your favourite sport and rooting your favourite team on, the atmosphere is genuinely authentic — you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a proper Dutch brown café right in the heart of London.
Ideal for multi-level sports viewing with craft beer and no gimmicks…
If you’re looking for a sports bar in London that has screens all around you with a seemingly endless list of sports being shown, then the Porterhouse is the right place for you. Live music, craft beer (the Porterhouse Red is excellent), great food including capable Sunday Roasts, and even better people are just some of the things you can expect to find here.
This towering Irish pub sprawls across 12 levels — yes, you read that right — and shows everything from football and rugby to Wimbledon. With 18 screens around the venue, no one misses a second of the action. They show all major sporting events, from football to tennis, but they really like to think of themselves as a rugby pub — and clearly their customers do too! The Six Nations tournament always brings a big crowd, creating an atmosphere that’s absolutely electric.
The live music adds another dimension entirely, with house bands playing rock and pop covers from the 60s through to the current day every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights in their Basement Bar. Unlike some of the naff central London sports bars that force Carlsberg down your throat or charge silly entry fees, The Porterhouse keeps it real with proper atmosphere and no gimmicks.
Ideal for Canadian sports fans and ice hockey enthusiasts…
A second entry from the same road? IDEAL, you’re truly spoiling us with this Canadian pub, the best this side of the Cape Spear. The Maple Leaf in Covent Garden is a sports bar which displays its heritage for everyone to see. From the flags waving outside the venue to the poutine served within, this pub is loudly and proudly Canadian.
In terms of sports, this means that the country’s beloved ice hockey is broadcast live with enthusiasm, but the pub still makes room for plenty of CFL (the Canadian Football League) and the NFL action, too. In fact, the latter is as well represented as the former at the Maple Leaf, with live games shown weekly. Time to get stuck in!
Ideal for 24/7 sports viewing and catching those early morning games…
Tucked away near Leicester Square inside The Empire Casino, The Kings Sports Bar is one of those rare 24/7 spots where you can catch everything from Premier League matches to random e-sports tournaments at 3am. Budweiser sponsors the place, so expect plenty of crisp lager alongside the action.
The beauty of The Kings is its sheer dedication to sport — if it’s happening somewhere in the world, they’re probably showing it. The American-style menu does the job nicely, and being smack in the middle of tourist central means it’s perfect when you need to convince non-football friends to join you for the big game.
Ideal for City workers wanting quality food, craft beer and sports after trading…
Right in the heart of the financial district, Beechwood knows exactly what City workers want after a brutal day of trading — cold beer, hot food, and sport on big screens. This sleek venue pulls off the tricky balance between looking smart enough for the suited crowd whilst keeping that proper pub atmosphere alive.
The food goes beyond your usual pub grub with gourmet burgers and sharing plates that won’t break the bank. Their craft beer selection is particularly impressive, mixing London breweries with international favourites. Plus, being so close to all the major stations means you can actually make it here for those early kick-offs without faff.
Ideal for Continental football culture meets hipster vibes…
Football meets Continental class at this decidedly hip hangout. Draped in international football scarves and scattered with retro Formica tables, Café Kick brings a proper European café vibe to watching the beautiful game.
Here’s the mad thing — you can order a Sidecar cocktail during a Man United match and the barman won’t bat an eyelid. It’s probably the only sports bar in London where asking for a Pernod won’t get you laughed onto the street. In proper continental spirit they also have draft beer (Mahou), served in the traditional Spanish glass of 350ml. When there’s no match on, test your skills on the foosball tables (and no, spinning is absolutely not allowed).
Ideal for interactive football experiences and stag dos with a difference…
Right, this one’s a bit mad but brilliant — TOCA Social at The O2 isn’t your usual boozer. It’s the world’s first interactive football experience, which basically means you can watch the match then immediately go and boot some balls about yourself using fancy ball-tracking technology in private gaming booths.
Even if you think the interactive stuff sounds like a gimmick, they show all the major matches across the venue. The American-inspired menu is perfect for sharing (try the Lionel Mezzi cocktail — mezcal, yuzu, and lychee), and if you’re feeling flash, go for the massive Tocazade served in a rack of sports bottles.
Ideal for stag dos, work events, or just when you fancy combining watching football with actually playing it. Oh, and there’s a Willy Wonka-style dessert room for when the sugar cravings hit. Barmy? Yes. Fun? Absolutely.
Ideal for Shoreditch sports viewing with multiple screens and foosball tables…
Spread across two floors in Shoreditch, this place has 12 4K screens that can show up to three matches at once — so no more arguments about which game to put on.
The menu hits all the right notes with proper burgers, chicken wings, and loaded fries that’ll soak up the beer nicely. Like its sister venue, there are foosball tables for when you need to work off your frustration at England’s penalty shoot-out performance. The crowd here knows their football and isn’t afraid to show it.
Ideal for the fresh beer straight from tank to glass (and sports of course)…
Here’s something you don’t see every day — Long Arm in the City brews all their beer on-site, meaning what you’re drinking has literally gone straight from the tank to your glass. No middleman, no transport, just the freshest pint in London.
The venue’s got two massive projectors and screens dotted about, showing everything from Premier League matches to F1 racing. The industrial setup means you’re basically drinking surrounded by the brewing kit, which is pretty cool if you’re into that sort of thing.
Their beer selection changes regularly as they experiment with new brews, and the elevated pub grub pairs nicely with whatever they’ve got on tap. It’s eco-friendly too, though let’s be honest, you’re probably here for the fresh beer and the football.
Ideal for Victorian railway arch atmosphere with live music and DJ sets…
Set in a proper Victorian railway arch in Southwark, The Charlotte knows how to do sports viewing right. Run by the same team behind some cracking steak restaurants, expect seriously good wings, ribs, and burgers — the kind of food that’s made for sharing over a pint whilst watching the match.
There are screens absolutely everywhere, so you’ll get a decent view whether you’re downstairs in the main bar, upstairs with the pool tables, or outside on their massive terrace. The sound system properly pumps, and being just off London Bridge means it’s easy to get to.
Bonus points for the Thursday live music and weekend DJ sets — so if your team loses, at least you can drown your sorrows with some proper tunes.
So there you have it — from traditional British boozers to mad interactive football experiences, Continental café vibes to freshly brewed pints, London’s got every type of sports bar you could want. Whether you’re in the City, Shoreditch, Covent Garden, or down at The O2, there’s always somewhere decent to catch the match.
Just remember to book ahead for the big games, get there early if you want the best seats, and most importantly, soak up that atmosphere that only comes from watching sport with a room full of fellow fans in one of the world’s greatest sporting cities. Because let’s face it — there’s nothing quite like celebrating a last-minute winner with complete strangers who suddenly become your best mates.
For those coveting the Mediterranean lifestyle of good food, glamour and golden sands, The French Riviera, otherwise known as the Cote d’Azur, is the ideal place to live.
With 300 guaranteed days of sun per year, a mild summer and warm winter, if you’re a sun seeking expat after a comfortable climate, then you can’t do better than here.
There aren’t any restrictions on foreigners buying property in France (all you need is a French bank account and a valid ID), so if you dream of spending your spare time exploring sandy shores and secluded rocky bays, visiting medieval hilltop villages and enjoying one of the world’s great cuisines, then the French Riviera is the place for you.
Have a penchant for sporty outdoor activities like skiing, kayaking and camping? You can do that all here, too. Equally, if you’re attracted to a party atmosphere, you will not be disappointed, as there are restaurants and clubs galore in this small part of the world.
Of course, living here ain’t cheap. Famous for hosting the Monaco Grand Prix, Cannes Film Festival and the Saint Tropez Regatta, as well as being a major inspiration on the works of Picasso and James Joyce, and the preferred holiday destination of everyone from Bill Gates to Bono, it’s a place where the rich come to play.
Moreover, as Le Monde points out, “The year-round attractivity of beaches and blue skies of southern France are making real estate prices soar to unaffordable levels.”
Indeed, they go on to report that “Côte d’Azur remains the most expensive coastline in France with an average price of 5,591 euros per square meter for a property.”
If the price isn’t too prohibitive for you and you dream of moving to this part of the world, let’s dig in to where to live on the French Riviera.
Menton
Menton, on the French Riviera in South-East France and bordering Italy within walking distance, has so much going for it.
If you’re a foodie, then this is the place for you. Inspired by the area’s unique microclimate (reportedly 3°C warmer than the rest of France) and the resultant, abundant fresh produce that brings, as well as its proximity to Italy and the Mediterranean, the cuisine here has a personality all of its own; largely seafood and vegetable led, light-as-you-like and worth the trip alone to sample.
Although it wouldn’t be your regular old neighbourhood restaurant, when it comes to places to eat well, the jewel in Menton’s crown is Mirazur, a 3 Michelin-starred restaurant run by Argentinian chef Mauro Colagreco. It’s delicious and shows off the region’s luxury produce beautifully. It’s going to cost you though; the tasting menu is around £300 per head.
Away from the culinary world, there’s plenty to satiate your inner culture vulture (forgive the cliche). Menton’s Jean Cocteau Museum, housed in an ancient fort, will see you right in that regard. Housing an extensive collection of the French artist’s work, the museum contains nearly 1000 graphic works by Cocteau, spanning the entirety of his illustrious career. The building – both architecturally and in terms of setting overlooking the Med – is worth the visit alone.
The French Riviera’s capital Nice is reassuringly laid back for a region defined by such luxury, with its inclusive atmosphere, refined pace and artistic soul a world away from the city’s more showy neighbours. As such, you can find more affordable places to live here than in, say, St. Tropez and Monaco.
If you prefer your pace slow and leisurely, you’ll get much pleasure from spending your evenings strolling along the city’s famous Promenade des Anglais. It’s a strip designed to suit the city’s unhurried pace, with views of the Baie des Anges on one side and, on the other, rows of stunning pastel houses and palaces. Could you see yourself living in one?
Overseeing arguably one of the world’s most beautiful bays, Villefranche-sur-Mer lies about 25 minutes away from Nice. Less touristy than its neighbours, this quintessential French fishing village is a place to live if you like a quieter, slower pace to life than Nice still.
Its beautiful historic centre is dominated by the village’s 16th century citadel and its perfectly manicured gardens, and, being a fishing village, around the port there are many seafront restaurants serving the freshest catch, cooked with that straightforward sensibility and respect for ingredients that this part of the world is so famous for.
Not that the aesthetic here could be called ‘straightforward’. Indeed, the architecture in Villefranche is an eclectic mix of the contemporary ultra-modern villas with panoramic sea views, traditional bastides painted in all manner of pastel, luxury penthouses and countryside retreats. If you’re looking for a villa, be prepared to pay top Euro for it; the average price per square metre clocks in at above €10’000.
If you’re after the ultimate in Riviera glamour and have the bank balance to match, then Monaco is the crown jewel of the French Riviera experience. This tiny principality, roughly the size of London’s Hyde Park, packs more luxury per square metre than perhaps anywhere else on earth.
Monaco’s Monte Carlo district is synonymous with high-stakes gambling, Formula 1 racing, and A-list celebrity spotting. The legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo, with its Belle Époque architecture and storied gaming rooms, remains the beating heart of the principality’s sophisticated nightlife scene. Even if you’re not one for a flutter, the building itself is worth admiring over a perfectly crafted cocktail at the adjacent Café de Paris.
The annual Monaco Grand Prix transforms the streets into the world’s most prestigious racing circuit, whilst the Monaco Yacht Show attracts the globe’s most impressive superyachts and their equally impressive owners. If you fancy yourself amongst this crowd, you’ll need deep pockets indeed.
Property prices here are, quite simply, eye-watering. With an average cost exceeding €40,000 per square metre, Monaco consistently ranks as one of the world’s most expensive property markets. A modest one-bedroom apartment will set you back several million euros, whilst penthouses with harbour views command prices that would make even seasoned property investors wince. That said, you’re buying for modern, sustainable property in one of the world’s most prestigious neighbourhoods. As the team at ICON PROPERTY tell us, Monaco properties aren’t just about location – they’re about acquiring a piece of architectural excellence. The principality’s strict building regulations ensure every development meets the highest environmental standards, whilst the limited land availability means your investment will likely appreciate significantly over time.
However, there are distinct advantages to Monaco residency beyond the undeniable prestige. The principality famously levies no personal income tax on residents, making it particularly attractive to high earners. The healthcare system is excellent, crime rates are virtually non-existent thanks to the highest police-to-resident ratio in the world, and you’re never more than a 10-minute walk from either the Mediterranean or the French border.
The lifestyle here is undeniably rarefied – think champagne brunches overlooking luxury yachts, shopping at the most exclusive boutiques, and dining at Michelin-starred establishments where the wine list alone costs more than most people’s monthly salary. It’s a playground for the ultra-wealthy, but if you can afford the entry fee, it’s rather a spectacular one.
Cap d’Antibes
It is said that Antibes gave Picasso a new lease on life during his brief stay in 1946, with his work here “reflecting the light and lore of the seaside town”. Perhaps Antibes could do the same for you?
Cap d’Antibes is a pine forest covered peninsula whose summit is topped by a lighthouse and church. Luxury properties here have long been coveted by a clientele of celebrities, in other words places to live are pretty pricey.
The peninsula’s prime property locations are the gorgeous coastal town of Antibes, made up of the historic Old Town and the town centre, and Juan-les-Pins, a more resort-driven, modern area.
Here at IDEAL, we just adore Antibes’ Old Town, which is an attractive tangle of cobbled streets, boutique shops and markets, and squares complete with continental coffee sipping and people watching. Due to the relative compact size of the apartments in this part of town, it’s perhaps the most affordable place to live within the area, too.
Just a 2km walk south east from Antibes, the seaside resort of Juan-les-Pins is known for its nightlife and gorgeous beaches. Here you’ll find more spacious villas and apartments to rent or buy, the latter of which is going to cost you a cool million, at the very least.
Somewhat surprisingly, you don’t exactly get more bang for your buck if you go inland. Set between mountains and sea, you’ll find the communes of Bargemon and Fayence, the former a popular retreat for the Beckhams, as well as Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed in their last few weeks together. Home to a collection of attractive, exclusive resorts, property prices are prohibitive to pretty much anyone bar footballing or genuine royalty.
Buying in the village of Fayence might represent better value. Other more affordable areas in this region include Rustrel, Tourrettes sur Loup, and Castellane, the latter of which we’re particularly enamoured. Sitting on the banks of Verdon River, it’s surrounded by wild, untamed mountains, giving the village a rugged air a world away from the glitz of the Riviera proper. You know what, we think we might just stay here a little while…
Nestled in the cold but comforting embrace of a snow-blanketed French Alps, Alpe d’Huez is renowned for its sprawling ski terrain and vibrant après-ski culture. However, the allure of this mountain paradise extends far beyond the pistes. Whether you’re a non-skier, taking a day off from the slopes, or visiting outside the snowy season, Alpe d’Huez offers a treasure trove of activities that promise to enchant and entertain. With that in mind, and sashaying beyond the slopes today, here are some of the best things to do in Alpe d’Huez that don’t involve skiing.
Palais des Sports et des Congrès
A hub of non-ski activities, the Palais des Sports et des Congrès is a leisure complex that caters to all ages and interests. Here, you can dive into the indoor swimming pool, scale the climbing walls, or engage in a friendly match at the badminton courts. For a more relaxed pace, the wellness area, complete with saunas and hot tubs, offers a serene escape from the brisk mountain air.
Ice Cave of Alpe d’Huez
Carved into the heart of the glacier at an altitude of 2,700 metres, the Ice Cave (Grotte de Glace) is a subterranean wonder that captivates with its ethereal beauty. Local artists reinvent this frosty gallery each year with intricate sculptures and illuminated displays that celebrate various themes. Accessible by cable car, it’s a magical world that enchants visitors of all ages.
Sarenne Sunset
For a truly unforgettable experience, the Sarenne Sunset is not to be missed. This guided tour begins with a cable car ascent to the Pic Blanc summit, where you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama of the French Alps bathed in the golden hues of dusk. As night falls, you’ll descend the famous Sarenne piste, the longest black run in the world, on a snowmobile or piste basher, under the starry sky.
Museum of Huez and Oisans
Dive into the local history at the Museum of Huez and Oisans. This cultural gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with exhibits that detail the evolution of the region from its geological formation to the development of Alpe d’Huez as a ski resort. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds alike.
Espace VTT
Alpe d’Huez transforms into a mountain biking mecca when the snow melts. The Espace VTT boasts an extensive network of trails that cater to all levels, from serene family rides to adrenaline-pumping downhill tracks. Bike rentals and guided tours are readily available, ensuring a tailored two-wheeled adventure amidst the alpine splendour.
Even without strapping on skis, you can soak up the legendary après-ski atmosphere at La Folie Douce. This high-altitude bar and restaurant is famous for its lively music, flamboyant entertainment, and panoramic terrace views. It’s the perfect spot to mingle with fellow mountain enthusiasts and dance the afternoon away.
Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine Golf
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine Golf, one of the highest courses in Europe. With the majestic peaks serving as a backdrop, this 9-hole course offers a unique golfing experience with its undulating fairways and crisp alpine air. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice, the breathtaking scenery alone is worth the visit.
L’Altiport
For a bird’s eye view of the Alps, head to L’Altiport for a scenic flight. Whether you choose a helicopter tour or a light aircraft flight, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the rugged landscape, glacial peaks, and verdant valleys. It’s a splurge that promises memories to last a lifetime.
Spa Experiences
After a day of mountain exploration, indulge in a spa treatment at one of Alpe d’Huez’s luxury wellness centres. The Spa Nuxe at the Hotel Royal Ours Blanc and the Spa des Alpes at the Hotel Les Grandes Rousses offer a range of rejuvenating treatments designed to soothe sore muscles and relax the mind.
Alpe d’Huez Adventure Park
For families and thrill-seekers, the Alpe d’Huez Adventure Park presents an array of outdoor activities. From treetop adventure courses and zip lines to archery and trampolining, there’s no shortage of fun to be had amidst the natural beauty of the Alps.
Choosing The Right Accommodation
Selecting the right accommodation in Alpe d’Huez can be the cornerstone of an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re looking for a cosy chalet, a luxury hotel, or a convenient apartment, here are some specific tips to help you find the perfect place to stay.
Determine Your Priorities
So, you’ve opened up Skyscanner, placed a pen behind your ear and have begun planning your next Alpe d’Huez ski holiday already? Woah there! Before you start your search, consider what’s most important to you. Do you value ski-in, ski-out convenience, proximity to non-ski activities, or are you looking for a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle? For example, if you’re keen on evening entertainment, staying near the Avenue des Jeux might be ideal, as it’s lined with a variety of restaurants and bars.
Consider the Quartiers
Alpe d’Huez is divided into several quartiers, or neighborhoods, each with its own character. The Quartier des Vieil Alpe is the historic centre, offering charming traditional architecture and a quieter atmosphere. For those looking for a lively scene, the Quartier des Bergers is a popular choice, known for its proximity to the main ski lifts and après-ski spots like La Folie Douce.
Assess the Facilities
Be specific about the facilities you require. If you’re not just skiing, amenities like a spa, an indoor pool, or a fireplace might be high on your list. The Hotel Le Pic Blanc, for instance, offers a heated indoor pool and spa facilities, making it an excellent choice for relaxation.
Read Reviews
Take the time to read recent reviews from previous guests. Look for comments on the aspects that matter most to you, such as cleanliness, customer service, and noise levels. Platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com can provide a wealth of detailed feedback.
Check the Access
If you’re not planning to drive, consider the accessibility of your accommodation. Some hotels, like the Alpe d’Huez Chalet, offer shuttle services to and from key points, which can be a significant convenience. Additionally, check the proximity to bus stops if you’re planning to use local transport.
Self-Catering vs. Catered Options
Decide if you prefer the flexibility of a self-catering apartment or the convenience of a catered hotel. Self-catering can be a cost-effective option and allows you to experience local markets and cuisine. Les Appartements de Juliette is an example of luxury self-catered apartments with fully equipped kitchens.
Group and Family-Friendly Features
For those travelling with family or in a group, look for accommodations that cater specifically to your needs. Family-friendly hotels like Club Med Alpe d’Huez offer kids’ clubs and family rooms, while larger chalets, such as Chalet Melusine, provide ample space for groups, along with added privacy.
Early Booking Advantages
Alpe d’Huez is a popular destination, so booking early can secure you better rates and a wider selection of options. This is especially true during peak seasons like Christmas, New Year, and school holidays.
Contact the Hosts Directly
Don’t hesitate to contact the hosts or hotel management directly with any specific questions or requests. They can often provide the most accurate information about the accommodation and may even offer special deals or upgrades.
The Bottom Line
Alpe d’Huez is a destination that transcends its ski reputation, offering a diverse array of activities that cater to every interest. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, this alpine resort is a year-round playground that promises to delight and surprise. So, when the ski boots come off, rest assured that the adventure in Alpe d’Huez is just beginning.
Never has our energy consumption been so closely under the spotlight (using LED bulbs, of course). With energy prices a regular topic of debate and a daily cause for concern for millions of UK households, everything from our lightbulbs to standby mode are coming under greater scrutiny.
Whilst right now, only government intervention and nationalisation of profiteering energy companies will get prices (and greed) under control, in the long run it’s only sensible to consider some home improvements and adjustments, both big and small, to ensure your property is optimised in terms of its energy consumption.
With that in mind, and with our thoughts very much on the long term, here are 8 purchases that could make your home more energy efficient.
An Automated Thermostat
Automated thermostats can adjust themselves to their environment in a clean, green way. They do this by learning the temperatures you like to keep in the house at certain times and automatically adjusting accordingly, so you don’t have to worry about faffing around constantly to find your optimum warmth.
The added upside of this convenience is that you waste very little energy heating or cooling your home when you’re not there. Automated thermostats have been estimated to save hundreds in energy costs alone, so they are an investment well worth it, even before you consider the environmentally positive implications.
For those considering switching out their boiler, especially in older properties, air-to-water heat pumps are a contender worth considering. They’re best matched with low-temperature radiators or underfloor heating systems, which can maximise efficiency and make the most of their steady, lower-intensity heat output. Exploring alternatives to conventional boilers often leads homeowners down a rabbit hole of conflicting advice, but with clear information, guidance from an experienced air source heat pump engineer, and a decent understanding of their home’s needs, it’s a decision that can be made with confidence rather than confusion.
As the Energy Saving Trust explains, ”A heat pump captures heat from outside and moves it into your home.” Whilst both residential and commercial heat pump technologies use electricity, they do represent a potentially energy-efficient solution to heating your home. The EST elaborates; ”as a heat pump captures heat that is already present in the environment, the system itself does not burn any fuel and therefore emits no carbon dioxide.”
Fascinating stuff. That said, in the UK, many older buildings aren’t especially well insulated. This means that heat pumps – and other types of heating systems – will likely have to work harder to produce the same results as they would in a well-insulated building.
Therefore, the best results from heat pumps tend to come from new builds or from refurbishment projects with integrated insulation. When combined with effective insulation and triple glazing (more of that in a minute), heat pumps can represent a smart, savvy investment in terms of energy efficiency and environmental impact.
Double Or Triple Glazing
Around a quarter of a home’s energy is lost through its windows. Accordingly, window treatments are another option for increasing the energy efficiency of your house, and are growing in popularity. While curtains are good at keeping heat in your home when they’re drawn in the evening, they’re rarely deployed during the day (unless you prefer to live in dingy darkness, that is).
Investing in different window treatments or double glazing is worth investigating as the money will be recuperated fairly quickly in energy savings. As stated in a government report on double glazing published in 2016, you could save £150 by swapping your single glazing for double, due to the warmth kept in and energy saved domestically. It should be noted that, soon, triple glazing will be industry standard, and would make an even more worthwhile long-term investment.
A Rooftop Reservoir
For areas that receive plenty of rainfall throughout the year, converting that rainfall for non-essential tasks can be a great way to save costs on water use. This is done through rooftop reservoirs, which can be connected to toilets and showers to provide ample water for both. Although not suitable for drinking, the water collected is fine for other use around the home.
Insulation Stations
A crucial aspect often overlooked in the quest for energy efficiency is the role of comprehensive insulation throughout your home. Proper insulation acts as a thermal barrier, keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer, thus reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. This includes not just the more commonly thought of areas like walls and lofts, but also considering the installation of insulated ceiling tiles.
Ceiling tiles, especially those designed with insulation in mind, can significantly reduce heat loss. In many UK homes, heat rises only to escape through poorly insulated ceilings and roofs. By fitting insulated ceiling tiles, you create an additional layer of protection against thermal transfer, which can be particularly effective in rooms with high ceilings or in top-floor flats where heat loss is most prevalent. Priorisitise those made from mineral, as they not only offer insulating qualities but also soundproofing.
Beyond ceiling tiles, other forms of insulation such as cavity wall insulation, floor insulation, and even pipe insulation contribute to a comprehensive approach. Each form of insulation works to minimise the energy required to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, leading to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint.
Install Low-Flow
Staying on the theme of water but keeping things much more manageable, installing a low-flow showerhead is a straightforward way for you to reduce the general water efficiency of your home.
When you install a low-flow showerhead, you can reduce your flow rate to less than 2.5gpm. Most conventional showerheads see 5gpm at a minimum, meaning your shower’s water output is halved with a simple device that you can find on Amazon for as little as £15.
Sure, your shower head will feel a little less amazing, but you’ll be doing your bit for the environment and your energy bills. What’s not to love?
Solar Panels Or Windmills
Depending on your location, of course, you may find that solar panels or a windmill can provide alternative energy. Such energy is a huge investment – it’s no secret – but they’re also a wise one for a number of reasons.
The Money Saving Expert agrees, suggesting that you save up to £360 a year on your bills. And that’s not all; installing solar panels could well raise the value of your property substantially, too. When considering your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), your certificate will likely be promoted from a D to a band B through the installation of panels, which would likely amount to around £16,000 for your place’s value.
Replace Your Incandescent Light Bulbs
Being energy efficient takes so many forms, and at its most micro-level, even the light bulbs you buy matter in energy efficiency.
Energy efficient lightbulbs are now fully developed, government approved and affordable, meaning there can be no real excuse as to why you’re not operating on a different wattage when lighting your home. Soon enough you’ll come to appreciate the golden glow of a more energy efficient bulb and enjoy not cowering in the stark, harsh light of the more powerful ones.
We hope we’ve shone some light on how to improve your home’s energy efficiency in the future.
Rumble, rattle, repeat. If you’ve ever found yourself gently lulled into a carriage-induced coma, only to be jolted awake by the dreaded announcement, ‘This is Morden,’ fear not. You haven’t reached the culinary equivalent of a dead end; rather, you’ve arrived at a station with a surprisingly awake and appetising food scene just waiting to be explored. So, wipe the sleep from your eyes, because Morden’s got so much more to offer than just a convenient spot for a nap before the return journey.
Once a quiet Surrey parish, Morden’s transformation began in earnest with the arrival of the Underground in 1926, catapulting it into the ‘Metroland’ suburban dream of South London. This historical shift from rural tranquillity to somewhere altogether more bustling laid the groundwork for the community it is today.
This evolving landscape, where a stable local population meets renewed civic investment, creates a fertile ground for a restaurant scene that offers both quality and a sense of belonging. Forget the predictable chain eateries that often greet weary travellers at major transport hubs. We’ve ventured beyond the station concourse, past the usual suspects, to uncover the local spots that make Morden a dining destination in its own right. Here are the best restaurants in Morden.
Verona Italian Restaurant
Ideal for a generous Italian welcome that’ll whisk you off to Bel Paese…
For nearly a decade, Luigi and Wioletta have been running this little slice of Italy on London Road, and Christ, do they know what they’re doing. Step inside Verona and you might just convince yourself you’ve wandered into a backstreet trattoria somewhere in Veneto rather than a spot that’s a stone’s throw from Morden station.
The interior leans hard into traditional Italian charm — think rustic décor that actually feels authentic rather than naff, warm lighting, and that distinctive buzz of a place where locals genuinely gather. It’s the kind of restaurant that’s survived nearly a decade in suburbia not through gimmicks, but by consistently delivering the goods.
The Pizza Pavarotti, loaded with Parma ham, rocket, and shaved parmesan, hits all the right notes without being overly fussy. The Pollo Principessa arrives in portions that’ll have you questioning London’s usual stingy serving sizes. Yes, there’s cream in the carbonara, and sure, the amatriciana uses lardons not guanciale, but hey, it’s still a satisfying experience all round.
Service strikes that perfect balance between attentive and not annoyingly hovering, while prices remain refreshingly moderate (pizzas around the £12 mark, pastas around £14) for what you’re getting.
Ideal for an omakase experience that manages to be inclusive…
Okay, for a genuinely stellar meal, you might have to venture just a little north of Morden and up towards South Wimbledon station. Here, tucked between a kebab shop and a car repair garage on Merton Road, Takahashi doesn’t exactly scream ‘destination dining.’ The unmarked exterior is your first clue that chef Nobuhisa ‘Taka’ Takahashi — a 14-year Nobu veteran — isn’t interested in Instagram theatrics. This 12-seat operation with his wife Yuko feels more like dining at an obsessively perfectionist friend’s house, if that friend happened to have connections to London’s best fish suppliers and some really bloody sharp knives.
The single £160 omakase menu might sound steep for SW19, but it’s relative pocket change compared to what you’d haemorrhage at comparable central London spots. For this, you get around 18 courses journeying from delicate otsumami starters to pristine nigiri, each glistening piece handed over like a precious gem. The sea bream tataki, swimming in citrus-spiked dressing so perfectly balanced you’ll want to lick the plate clean, sets the tone early. The mushroom ajillo takahashi-style — geometrically precise portobello segments crowned with green chili and truffle paste — will have you burning your tongue in impatience.
The nigiri procession is where Takahashi truly flexes. Four types of tuna, including buttery otoro that dissolves on contact. Hamachi with a whisper of heat. Scallop kissed with truffle. Here’s the twist: instead of the chef painting each piece with nikiri sauce, you’re handed a tiny brush and bowl to DIY it yourself. It’s either charming participation or clever labour-saving, but it adds playful elements to what can sometimes verge on the overly reverent and ritualistic.
The wagyu nigiri deserves special mention — this is Joshu Wagyu from Japan, arriving pre-seasoned to perfection. It’s the kind of bite that makes you understand why people write poetry about beef.
It should be mentioned that Andy Hayler found it “pleasant enough” but noted it would seem “quite ordinary” to anyone who’s eaten extensively in Japan. Fair point, but that’s like saying a Bentley is ordinary if you’re used to Bugattis. For those not jetting to Tokyo monthly, Takahashi offers something genuinely special in Zone 3.
There’s a sake pairing available, for £95. Do be aware that it needs to be arranged in advance. Prepare for a 50% deposit. The restaurant can’t handle allergies due to its tiny kitchen, and atmosphere is minimalist to the point of austere. Some find it stark; others appreciate how it keeps focus on the plate. Anyway, it’s significantly better than your local chain, more accessible than Michelin-starred showstoppers, and intimate enough to feel special.
Ideal for when you need a pub roast without the Central London markup…
Sometimes you just want a pint, a roast, and Sky Sports. No shame in that game, and The Morden Brook delivers all three without pretension or wallet damage. This Greene King establishment knows its audience — families wanting a Sunday lunch that won’t lay waste to the bank balance, football fans seeking refuge, and locals who appreciate a dog-friendly boozer.
The menu is pub classics done capably enough: Hunter’s Chicken for £9.69 precisely, fish and chips for not much more, and their ‘legendary’ (their words, not ours) Sunday roast that comes with big, buxom Yorkshire puddings and gravy that doesn’t taste like it emerged from a packet. The ‘Two pub classics for £13.99’ deal running all day, every day is the kind of value that makes you question why you ever bothered with overpriced gastropubs.
Sure, it’s not going to revolutionise British dining, but that’s probably the point. The Morden Brook succeeds because it knows exactly what it is and you know exactly what you’re getting: a reliable local that delivers satisfying grub in generous portions.
With Carlsberg at £3.99 (what?!) a pint and multiple screens for live sports, this is community pub-ing done properly.
Ideal for Pakistani food that doesn’t hold back on the heat…
If you’ve woken up craving confident spicing and a judicious hand with the chilli, Lahori Mahal is calling your name. This no-nonsense Pakistani restaurant on London Road serves up Lahori cuisine with the kind of bold flavours that’ll remind you why Pakistani food is having something of a moment.
The Afghani charsi lamb karahi is the standout — a rich, deeply spiced stew that’s as addictive as it sounds. Their biryanis are generously portioned and aromatic, while the lamb seekh kabab, dinky though it is, at under £2.50 each represents some of the best value meat in South London. The “must try mix grill” promoted on their TikTok isn’t just social media hype — it’s genuinely excellent.
The atmosphere might be more functional than fancy, but who cares when the food hits this hard? This is the kind of robust cooking that reflects Morden’s increasingly diverse food landscape, and we’re here for every minute of it.
Ideal for fish and chips that’s not changed since 1971…
Some things don’t need fixing, and Superfish is proof. This Morden institution has been serving gold-standard fish and chips for over 50 years, and they’ve stuck to what works: quality fish, decent batter, and hearty portions served with a smile.
The setting blends “American Family Diner and French Bistro” vibes (their words, not ours), but the real charm lies in those little touches — like the complimentary prawns for dine-in customers and unlimited French bread and butter. It’s these gestures that have endeared them to locals for decades.
Prime fillet of cod comes in three sizes (small £10.50, large £12.50, extra-large £15.00), while options like huss, whole tail scampi and the restaurant’s ‘superbites’ (essentially fritto misto, and the best thing on the menu, too) provide alternatives for the non-cod crowd.
This isn’t about reinventing the wheel; it’s about executing a British classic with care and consistency. Sometimes that’s exactly what you need.
Ideal for Korean soul food that won’t break the bank…
Miga brings a taste of Seoul’s convenience culture to Aberconway Road, focusing on the kind of Korean comfort food that’s perfect for a quick, flavourful fix. While their Hackney sibling might be earning Michelin recognition, the Morden branch (run by the matriarch of the family) keeps things accessible with gimbap, cupbap, and other Korean favourites. The yakisoba (stir-fried noodles) selection is particularly enjoyable, the barbecue pork number our usual order, usually preceded by a round of takoyaki, those gorgeously tacky octopus dumplings which never fail to hit the spot.
The kimchi is homemade, the flavours fresh and invigorating, and the portions heaving. This is Korean food designed for busy lives rather than food critics, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that approach.
Ideal for Italian comfort food with minimal fuss and frippery…
Since 1999, Bella Donna has delivered exactly what its name promises: beautiful, traditional Italian cooking that doesn’t try to be anything other than satisfying neighbourhood food.
The breadth of the menu suggests a restaurant equipped for proper sit-down dining rather than just takeaway convenience. It’s the kind of local Italian that every area needs — reliable, welcoming, and committed to doing familiar dishes well rather than chasing culinary trends.
Become a regular, and you’ll be greeted with real warmth when you walk in. Scrap that, you will be even if this is your first time. If you fall in the latter camp, do order the parmigiana melanzane – a cute little puck of layered aubergine, mozzarella and tomato sauce that is thoroughly comforting. Taking that theme and running with it, we’re big fans of the fegato, too; grilled calf’s liver with bacon and onions. It’s wonderful.
End with a pitch perfect torta della nonna and the inevitable glass of limoncello, and totter off back to the tube hoping you’ll fall asleep on the Northern Line again next week, if only for the excuse to visit Bella Donna again.
Ideal for great Guinness and a Sunday carvery that’ll sort you right out…
Since 2003, Ganley’s has been bringing a slice of Ireland to London Road, complete with county shields on the ceiling and the kind of atmosphere where “banter flows as freely as the Guinness.” It’s unapologetically Irish in the best possible way — warm, welcoming, and never taking itself too seriously.
The Sunday carvery is the main event here, with massive portions clocking in at £18.95 for a plate featuring all available meats plus vegetables. Yes, it’s a touch heavy-handed, but it does the job. Beyond Sundays, their traditional Irish breakfast comes with black and white pudding, while dishes like Irish stew keep things pleasingly hearty and on brand.
Multiple screens show everything from Premier League to GAA, karaoke and quiz nights provide midweek entertainment, and the Guinness is on point. What’s not to love?
Ideal for Indian grill dishes in a buzzing sports bar atmosphere…
Operating from The Crown since 2015, Blue Junction brings together the best of Indian bar and grill cooking with the social atmosphere of a proper boozer. It’s a combination that works predictably well, especially when you’re craving tandoor-grilled meats with your football.
The menu focuses on grilled specialities and curry house classics: chicken tikka masala, Delhi butter chicken, and various biryanis that include a standout Hyderabadi gosht lamb, but the majority of punters are here for the buffet menu, and all-in, all-you-can-eat extravaganza for just £24.95 that features that headlining tikka masala as well as a whole host of other goodies (the lollipop chicken is particularly good).
Chuck in another £3 and you’ve got yourself bottomless soft drinks. Hey, it’s not going to win any stars anytime soon, but Blue Junction is an eminently satisfying place to eat.
Ideal for Caribbean flavours in the unique setting of Merton Abbey Mills…
We’ve saved arguably the best ‘till last here. Technically just outside Morden, but close enough to count, Ting ‘n’ Ting brings soulful Caribbean cooking to the historic Merton Abbey Mills complex. The setting alone — a former textile works turned artisan market — makes it worth the short journey.
Their award-winning mutton curry lives up to the hype, while jerk chicken cooked on a proper charcoal barbecue drum delivers that essential smokiness. It’s a generous (and generously spiced) affair with whole meal deals like jerk pork or chicken curry (both £11.50) coming with rice and peas, Caribbean slaw, and fried plantain — basically everything you need for a Caribbean feast.
Next time the Northern Line deposits you at its supposed terminus, don’t just dream of distant food capitals. Morden’s quietly assembled a food scene that punches above its weight. Sometimes the best discoveries happen when you’re forced to wake up at the end of the line.
