Travel: Switch It Up
Give your next city break a fresh spin and look beyond the big names…
Swap Paris for Lille
This northern French city is known for its quirky student vibe, beautiful city centre, and active cultural life. Spend the morning shopping in the picturesque city, with regular coffee and waffle breaks, soak in some history at the many Gothic churches and fine art museums, or visit the Braderie de Lille - the largest flea market in Europe.
Swap Dublin for Cork
Rich in historical heritage, Cork City has always been an important Irish sea port, with the River Lee flowing through its centre. As a result, it has become a city of bridges, and the best way to sample its unique flavour is to walk. Set off to explore the city’s hilly streets and meet the locals.
Must do:
Take a walk along St Patrick’s Street: Make sure you have your credit card to hand as you explore Cork’s main shopping street, boasting big names such as Brown Thomas and Dunnes Stores. Do time at the Cork City Gaol: This building once housed 19th century prisoners, and is now open to visitors.
Get an insight into day to day prison life and read harrowing tales of inmates from the original graffiti they left on cell walls. Must try: The English Market: Sample homemade coffee, meat, fish, and chocolate at this roofed market at the heart of the city. It is one of the oldest markets of its kind in the world. A few heritage pints: The Cork Heritage Pub Trail will lead you on a boozy adventure through the city. Drink your way through The Mutton Lane Inn and The Oval, to Crane Lane Theatre, and The Vicarstown Inn. Getting there: There are daily flights with Aer Lingus and Ryanair to Cork from all over the UK, including London, Birmingham, Liverpool, Bristol, Newcastle, Manchester, and Cardiff airports.