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How to make Ella Mills’ chunky chickpea and lentil soup with tahini and tomatoes
Soup season is upon us. Chunky chickpea and lentil soup with tahini and tomatoes (Clare Winfield/PA) “This one-pan soup is such a lifesaver – hearty, comforting, and packed with protein from the lentils and chickpeas,” says Deliciously Ella, aka Ella Mills. “You simply throw everything into the pan, and it pretty much cooks itself, making it perfect for those evenings when you’re low on energy but still want something nourishing. It also freezes brilliantly, if you want to do
How to make Ella Mills’ creamy white bean and mushroom orzo risotto
No risotto rice in the cupboard? No problem. Creamy white bean and mushroom orzo risotto (Clare Winfield/PA) “When I want something cosy and comforting but super easy, with almost no washing up, this creamy, zesty white bean and mushroom orzo is my go-to. Everything comes together in one pan, making it the perfect fuss-free meal for busy days,” says Ella Mills, founder of the Deliciously Ella brand. “With earthy mushrooms, hearty beans and velvety orzo, it’s rich and satisfyi
How to make Ella Mills’ pulled aubergine tortillas with crispy roasted cabbage
A total feast. Pulled aubergine tortillas with crispy roasted cabbage (Clare Winfield/PA) This is a two-parter of a recipe, which makes the most of leftovers. Start with Deliciously Ella’s pulled miso aubergine ragu. “A hearty and flavourful pulled aubergine ragu with lentils, perfect as a main dish on its own or served over pasta or grains. The aubergine is roasted until tender, shredded, then combined with lentils and a spiced tomato sauce to create a rich, satisfying sauce
Ella Mills: ‘When everyone is so overwhelmed and so busy, it’s got to be easy’
Deliciously Ella is back with a new plant-based cookbook designed to make healthy weeknight dinners a doddle. Ella Mills (Sophia Spring/PA) Barely have time to moan about how little time you have? You know you really are short on it. Amidst the manic work deadlines, school pick-up, the big shop and keeping the dog alive, it’s easy to forget to feed yourself. Well, properly, at least. So if you’ve eaten too many fish finger sandwiches, ready meals and packets of crisps stood a
Joe Wicks: ‘Don’t convince yourself you haven’t got time to cook and that you can’t, because you can’
The Body Coach is back with a new cookbook, Protein In 15, which he hopes will get us all back in the kitchen and away from ultra-processed foods. Joe Wicks The Body Coach “My little boy, he had leftover Thai green curry for breakfast yesterday,” says Joe Wicks, 40, deadly serious. “It had baby corn, mangetout, chicken, not even any rice, it was just the actual curry, and he loved it. And it’s like, why do I need to give my child sugary cereals when that’s just been sold to u
PizzaExpress Brings a Free Christmas Concierge to Cardiff
Christmas in Cardiff just got a whole lot easier. PizzaExpress is launching a FREE Christmas Concierge service at Cardiff St David’s, giving city-centre shoppers their precious festive time back. (PizzaExpress Cardiff) Because let’s be honest, December in Cardiff is magical… but the festive admin? Not so much. New research shows Brits lose more than an entire day to Christmas chores, with 33% calling wrapping their biggest nightmare and 62% saying the season has become more s
The Steps Musical Brings pure pop joy to Cardiff
If your idea of a perfect night out includes glittering harmonies, euphoric dance breaks and the irresistible pull of late-90s pop nostalgia, then Here & Now is about to become your new favourite musical. Here and Now Musical at Wales Millennium Centre Arriving at Wales Millennium Centre in February, this brand-new stage spectacular takes the iconic songs of Steps, one of Britain’s biggest pop phenomena, and transforms them into a vibrant, feel-good celebration of friendship,
Michael Sheen talks about his new play and plans or Welsh National Theatre
In an exclusive interview, Michael Sheen discusses why he chose Swansea Grand for Our Town, how the play resonates with Welsh audiences and his vision for the Welsh National Theatre. Michael Sheen Why did you decide to bring Our Town to Swansea Grand, do you think the play will resonate with Welsh audiences today? I originally wanted to do the play in order for Francesca Goodridge, who’s directing it, to direct on a bigger stage. So that’s what came first, wanting to work wit
The Best Christmas Shows, Pantos & Performances in South Wales
From pantomimes to festive theatre, discover the must-see Christmas shows across Cardiff, Swansea, and the Valleys. Elf the Musical at Gwyn Hall 2 - 6 Dec Elf The Musical Gwyn Hall, Neath gwynhall.com Based on the beloved film, this hilarious comedy follows Buddy the Elf to find his true identity. This holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. Until 3 Jan The Frog Prince Sherman Theatre, Cardiff shermantheatre.co.uk Packed with songs, laughter, and mag
Christmas in Cardiff 2025 – Shows, Ice Skating & Festive Fun
Your complete guide to Christmas in Cardiff, including markets, events, festive food and top winter experiences. Cardiff Winter Wonderland Until 4 Jan Cardiff Winter Wonderland Cardiff Castle/City Hall Gardens Featuring the much-loved undercover ice-rink and Ice Walk, the Big Wheel and family funfair, Alpine ski-lodge bar (Sur la Piste), plus festive food and drink stalls and a whole host of other attractions. Winter Wonderland is always at the heart of Cardiff’s seasonal cel
Meet Santa in South Wales – The Best Santa Grottos for Christmas 2025
Your guide to the most magical Santa grottos, Father Christmas experiences, and festive meet-and-greets in South Wales. The Royal Mint Christmas Experience Until 23 Dec The Royal Mint Christmas Experience The Royal Mint Experience, Llantrisant royalmint.com Coin collectors, Christmas fans and little believers unite! Meet Santa and his elves as you journey through a sparkling workshop where Christmas traditions are brought to life, starting with the story of a single coin. Ex
Christmas in Swansea 2025 – Your Ultimate Festive Guide
Explore the best Christmas events, festive attractions and seasonal activities happening across Cardiff this holiday season. Santa’s Grotto at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees Until 24 Dec Santa’s Grotto at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees Three Crosses, Swansea It doesn’t get more Christmassy than this. Wander through a twinkling Winter Wonderland filled with talking trees, cheeky elves, and even polar bears before meeting Santa himself for a special gift. You can also feed real reind
Big Eighties hair is back – how to style it without looking retro
Celebrities are bringing back big bouncy hair on the red carpet – here’s how you can conquer volume at home. Simone Ashley is one of many celebrities bringing back big bouncy hair (Alamy/PA) You may have seen the Eighties revival seeping its way into fashion with peplum tops and shoulders pads – but the retro resurgence has finally reached our hair. Big, bouncy, full-bodied hair is everywhere again, thanks to the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Simone Ashley and more. B
Podiatrist-approved hacks for wearing heels this festive season
Here’s how to look great in heels without limping home during the party period. Here’s how to swear off sore toes in heels this festive season (Alamy/PA) Here’s how to swear off sore toes in heels this festive season (Alamy/PA) There are few things as confidence-boosting as a great pair of heels – especially during party season – but the reality of wearing them is far less glamorous. Hours of dancing, cold pavements, champagne and questionable flooring choices (cobblestones o
4 trending hairstyles for the party season
From the return of the side part to Sixties updos – here are the trending hairstyles for the upcoming festive period. Molly-Mae, Lana Del Rey and Zoë Kravitz are among the celebrities sporting the trending dos (Ben Whitley/Alamy/PA) Party season hair is always difficult to nail. Whether you’re trying to maintain a slick-back pony or making messy, tousled curls not look bedraggled – making sure your hair lasts through the evening is the trickiest task of all. Bella Hadid is am
Pantone Colour of the Year revealed: How to style ‘Cloud Dancer’
Soft, light and serene, here’s how you should be wearing the shade for 2026. Alexa Chung is one of many celebrities sporting the shade head-to-toe (Ian West/PA) Pantone has announced its Colour of the Year for 2026 as ‘Cloud Dancer’ – a shade the Colour Institute calls a “perfect blank slate” for fashion, interiors and design. “As we walk into 2026, it became clear this is an evolution – a transitional time. People are questioning everything: what we believe, how we want to l
5 subtle and showy options for your festive manicure
From frosted chromes to velvet finishes – here are the trending manicures to try this Christmas. Velvet-style manicures are trending for Christmas 2025 (Jo Whittle/PA) Festive dressing is usually synonymous with sequins, velvet and the classic red nail. But if you’re looking for something new that’s either barely-there or boldly seasonal, there are a load of manicure trends to pick from. A seasonal Christmas manicure for 2025 (Jo Whittle/PA) According to nail artists, there’s
12 Christmas beauty gifts for every age – from teens to grandparents
From trending brands to cult-classics – here’s what to gift a beauty lover for Christmas 2025. Here are the 12 best beauty buys for Christmas 2025 (Alamy/PA) This year’s most-wanted beauty products combine TikTok trends with timeless classics and cover everyone from the teen who’s just discovering serums to the grandparent who loves a pamper. So whether you’re shopping for under-£20 stocking fillers or something truly splurge-worthy, here are a beauty journalists top picks fo
Festive Family Days Out in South Wales – The Best Christmas Activities
Plan unforgettable family-friendly Christmas outings, winter attractions, and holiday adventures across South Wales. Christmas at Bute Park Until 31 Dec Christmas at Bute Park Bute Park, Cardiff bute-park.com Light up your Winter evenings for a fifth year with Christmas at Bute Park. Take a mile long stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. Until 4 Jan Swansea Waterfront Winterland National Waterfront Museum...
Dec 2, 20251 min read
Best Christmas Events in South Wales 2025 – Magical Days Out for All the Family
Discover the top festive events, Christmas days out, and family-friendly activities happening across South Wales this holiday season. Tower Grotto at Zip World in Aberdare 21 Nov - 24 Dec Tower Grotto Zip World, Aberdare Start with a mince pie and hot chocolate or mulled wine, then visit the grotto to meet Santa himself! Receive a special Welsh slate bauble to decorate, write a letter to Santa and take home a special gift, suitable for all ages. zipworld.co.uk 21 Nov - 4 Jan
Nov 21, 20255 min read
Christmas at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees
From tree shopping to Santa spotting, Gower Fresh Christmas Trees is everything Christmas should be, magical, heartwarming and unforgettable for the whole family. Christmas at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees Step into a Winter Wonderland, a sparkling world bursting with joy and imagination. Wander through scenes filled with polar bears, talking trees and busy elves crafting toys for children around the world. Every corner is alive with festive cheer, leading you to the man of the
Oct 27, 20251 min read
Best things to do when visiting Cardiff from City Maps
Discover the top attractions in Cardiff and South Wales with City Maps Cardiff – pick up your free copy in every hotel and visitor...
Aug 4, 20253 min read
Museum marvels to visit this summer
Summer isn’t complete without a few museum days out to spark young minds. From hands-on exhibits to ancient artifacts, these Welsh gems...
Jul 29, 20252 min read
Don't miss the Milford Waterfront Weekender, 8-10 August
If you're looking to make the most of summer, mark your calendar for one of the season’s most exciting events — The Milford Waterfront...
Jul 29, 20252 min read
Festive Family Days Out in South Wales – The Best Christmas Activities
Plan unforgettable family-friendly Christmas outings, winter attractions, and holiday adventures across South Wales. Christmas at Bute Park Until 31 Dec Christmas at Bute Park Bute Park, Cardiff bute-park.com Light up your Winter evenings for a fifth year with Christmas at Bute Park. Take a mile long stroll through an enchanted world of illumination, uniquely crafted by world leading lighting designers. Until 4 Jan Swansea Waterfront Winterland National Waterfront Museum...
Best Christmas Events in South Wales 2025 – Magical Days Out for All the Family
Discover the top festive events, Christmas days out, and family-friendly activities happening across South Wales this holiday season. Tower Grotto at Zip World in Aberdare 21 Nov - 24 Dec Tower Grotto Zip World, Aberdare Start with a mince pie and hot chocolate or mulled wine, then visit the grotto to meet Santa himself! Receive a special Welsh slate bauble to decorate, write a letter to Santa and take home a special gift, suitable for all ages. zipworld.co.uk 21 Nov - 4 Jan
Christmas at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees
From tree shopping to Santa spotting, Gower Fresh Christmas Trees is everything Christmas should be, magical, heartwarming and unforgettable for the whole family. Christmas at Gower Fresh Christmas Trees Step into a Winter Wonderland, a sparkling world bursting with joy and imagination. Wander through scenes filled with polar bears, talking trees and busy elves crafting toys for children around the world. Every corner is alive with festive cheer, leading you to the man of the
Best things to do when visiting Cardiff from City Maps
Discover the top attractions in Cardiff and South Wales with City Maps Cardiff – pick up your free copy in every hotel and visitor...
Museum marvels to visit this summer
Summer isn’t complete without a few museum days out to spark young minds. From hands-on exhibits to ancient artifacts, these Welsh gems...
Don't miss the Milford Waterfront Weekender, 8-10 August
If you're looking to make the most of summer, mark your calendar for one of the season’s most exciting events — The Milford Waterfront...
Things you are too embarrassed to ask your doctor – but really should
Surgeon and social media star Dr Karan Rajan gives the lowdown on being honest about your ailments. Being honest with your doctor could save your life (Alamy/PA) There are some subjects many of us find hard to talk to our doctors about – bowel habits, sexual organs and personal hygiene spring to mind. But these are problems that we shouldn’t be afraid to discuss, says surgeon and social media star Dr Karan Rajan, 35, who has more than 10 million followers on social media, has
5 small bursts of equipment-free exercises to boost longevity
You can weave these quick exercises into any part of your day. You don’t need any equipment to do these short-burst exercises (Alamy/PA) New research suggests that small increases in daily moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity may reduce the risk of death. The study, which was published in The Lancet, examined data from almost 95,000 middle-aged and older adults in the UK, and 40,000 people from Norway, Sweden and the US. Researchers, led by academics from the Norw
Can how you eat affect how you age?
Dr Ian K Smith, author of Eat Your Age, explains how to keep yourself looking and feeling youthful from your 30s to your 60s and beyond. Dr Ian K Smith gives his health tips for ageing well in every decade (Alamy/PA) We all know ageing is inevitable – but that doesn’t stop most of us wanting to look and feeling younger. But while there’s no mythical fountain of youth to bathe in, there are ways to slow down how ageing makes us look and feel, promises Dr Ian K Smith. In the Ha
Mariella Frostrup: I have ‘more of an appetite for adventure’ in my 60s
The Irish-Norwegian broadcaster and women’s health advocate chats to Lauren Taylor about travelling in mid and late life. Mariella Frostrup (Mariella Frostrup/PA) Mariella Frostrup is sick of “the terrible idea that you end up post-50 and don’t have an interest or an appetite for more” in life. The 63-year-old broadcaster, author and campaigner – perhaps best known for being a menopause advocate – says it couldn’t be further from the truth for people in her age group and olde
How to navigate party season without sabotaging your wellbeing
Why aiming for moderation can benefit your body and soul over the festive break. Here’s how to enjoy all those Christmas invitations without overdoing it and feeling rotten the next day (Alamy/PA) Hitting the booze and festive food hard is often as much a part of Christmas as awkward work dos and Rudolf. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can enjoy December without a perpetual hangover and a tin of Quality Street constantly on the go – you might even have a better time.
8 health check-ups for over-60s to tick off this winter
From breast and bowel screening to vaccinations, stay on top of these health checks. Get your all check-ups done and dusted (Alamy/PA) As December rapidly approaches, now could be the perfect time to tackle any lingering health admin that you may have been putting off before the Christmas festivities officially commence. Taking care of our health becomes even more essential as we grow older, so staying proactive is key. “While genetics play a role, advancing years, environmen
5 things too much screen time is doing to your child’s brain
Excessive screen time can have a number of cognitive effects. Government research has found that children aged two with the highest screen use – about five hours a day – could say significantly fewer words than those with screen use of about 44 minutes a day (Alamy/PA) New government research indicates that increased screen time may be linked to poorer vocabulary development in toddlers. Findings came from The Children of the 2020s (COT20s) study where primary caregivers were
Dinos, diggers and fast cars – the toys tipped to be best sellers this Christmas
The DreamToys list features the toys, games and gadgets predicted to be most in demand this festive season. By Lisa Salmon. Jurassic World Primal Hatch T.Rex has made the 2025 DreamToys ‘most wanted’ Christmas list (DreamToys/PA) Singing witch dolls, a grave-digging monster and shimmering slime are among the predicted top-selling toys this Christmas, according to industry experts. The 15 toys to have made the 2025 DreamToys list, selected by a panel of independent toy retaile
Tom Daley: ‘I’ve found a second passion in life’
After retiring from diving, Tom Daley is trying to get more people – including the young – to take up the knitting and crocheting he loves so much. New passion: crocheter Tom Daley (Hobbycraft/PA) Instead of impressing the nation with gold medal-winning performances off the diving board, Tom Daley is now hoping to inspire people in a radically different way: through his love of knitting and crochet. Daley, who retired from diving last year after a haul of Olympic, World, Euro
How to make 2026 the year you get on top of your finances
Follow this expert-backed financial advice to set yourself up for success. Setting good financial habits is a great goal for the new year (Alamy/PA) If you have no idea where all your money went this year and your finances feel like a huge source of stress, don’t worry because 2026 offers a fresh start. As the new calendar year speedily approaches, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect and reset. “A lot of people set New Year’s resolutions and see January as a fresh start,”
The Best New Prams for Your Newborn: Top 5 Bugaboo Prams
If you’re searching for the best pram for newborns, look no further than Bugaboo, one of the world’s most trusted baby brands. Known for its stylish design, smooth handling and exceptional safety features, Bugaboo prams are a favourite among new parents — and for good reason. Whether you want a lightweight stroller, an all-terrain travel system or a luxe newborn pram, Bugaboo offers premium options designed to make everyday life easier. To help you choose, here are the top 5
Experiences at The Vale Resort make the perfect Christmas gift
Make the season sparkle at The Vale Resort with the gift of time well spent, think indulgent escapes, gourmet feasts and one-of-a-kind experiences designed to delight everyone on your list. The Vale Resort Overnight stays Midweek Dinner, Bed & Breakfast Break (from £190 for two) The perfect midweek retreat, including a delicious three-course dinner, a restful night’s sleep in a beautifully appointed room and a hearty Welsh breakfast. Spiced Rum Making B&B Break (from £299 for
HOMES & INTERIORS
Home design trends for 2026
From heritage maximalism to lighting as art, these are the key looks gaining traction. By Sam Wylie-Harris. Interior styles to look out for, according to the design pros (Space Shack/Chris Snook/PA) Looking for ideas on how to keep your decor and interior styling bang up-to-date? With the focus on new horizons, home and design platform Houzz has gathered insights from its community of homeowners, designers and home improvement professionals to forecast the top home design tre
9 ways to weave chic chalet style into your scheme
Time to nail the Alpine lodge look, says Sam Wylie-Harris. Ski lodge style to amp up your space (Desenio/PA) Got that cosy slopeside chalet vibe? Thinking a fireside fondue, glühwein or mug of cocoa, and a sheepskin rug to sink your toes into? With icy temperatures and a wintry cold snap stirring thoughts of après ski, now’s the time to snug up your space with earthy tones, natural materials and a good measure of rustic charm. Here’s how to reinvent your décor with mountainsi
8 budget-friendly ways to heat your home during a cold snap
Heating and energy efficiency experts tell Lisa Salmon how to keep homes warm at a low cost when the temperatures drop again. Simple ways to keep your home toasty during the cold winter weather (Alamy/PA) Although the cold snap has eased, there’s a possibility of further icy conditions over the next few weeks – this is the British winter, after all. The Met Office says there’s a chance of some colder spells, with the potential for associated winter hazards, later in January a
5 signs you’re financially ready to buy a home
It’s not just about finding your dream house. Is it the right time to step onto the property ladder? Read this essential financial checklist first (Alamy/PA) Finding a way on to the property ladder can feel borderline impossible for many, and the pressure to start climbing the rungs can lead others to buy before they are really financially ready. The average house price in the UK is around £269k – in London it’s more like £600k – making buying a property possibly the biggest
Why 2026 kitchens are all about warmth and comfort
Relaxed and inviting, cosy is the new luxury. By Sam Wylie-Harris. Today’s kitchen aspires to be a social, stylish and welcoming space (The Used Kitchen Company/PA) If you’re looking at your kitchen in a whole new light, and thinking about a different theme or concept, there’s a growing movement towards spaces that prioritise comfort and warmth. “Think muted tones, soft furnishings, and a modern take on traditional design,” says Looeeze Grossman, founder of The Used Kitchen C
How to create a viral-worthy tablescape for Christmas
Styling the table is a joyous way to elevate your festive fare, says Sam Wylie-Harris. Laying the table to an art form to showcase your festive flair (B&M Home/PA) Celebrating the holiday season and rallying your friends for aperitifs, followed by a jubilant lunch or dinner, calls for a seating plan – and your cue to dial up the drama with the art of tablescaping. “When it comes to Christmas entertaining, the table is so much more than just a place to eat… it’s where memories
10 ways to delight with shimmery decos and festive touches
From glitzy baubles and beautiful bows to snowflakes sparkling with seasonal joy. By Sam Wylie-Harris. Make it a magical Christmas with this joyous collection of decorations (Rockett St George/PA) With the festive fervour gathering momentum and Christmas decor stealing the limelight, now’s the time to focus on those finishing touches. Especially if you’re inspired by the celebratory Chrimbo light switch-on events, can’t wait to put the tree up, or looking for that something l
Get creative with garden-inspired home-made Christmas gifts
Chutneys, scented pouches and decorations can all be sourced from your plot. Home-made gifts have more meaning behind them (Alamy/PA) Home-made gifts spell love, effort and thought – and it’s easy to extend that to garden-inspired festive presents. Whether you create a beautifully scented herb drawer pouch or a jar of delicious home-made chutney or jam, it will mean more to the recipient than something you’ve bought in haste from a retailer. “There’s so much to be gained from
12 cleaning hacks for a sparkling Christmas
From gleaming cutlery to fresh-smelling garlands, these quick wins from the Queen of Clean are a lifesaver. By Sam Wylie-Harris. Sparkle, shine and save time with these savvy shortcuts (Alamy/PA) Can you feel it? The Christmas lights are on, window displays have been given the wow factor, and magical displays are drawing us closer to the big day – with feel-good festive fixes topping the to-do list. Especially if you’re setting the stage for holiday hosting, decking the halls
10 stylish gift suggestions for interior enthusiasts
From chic abodes to cottagecore, these decorative items will elevate the everyday, says Sam Wylie-Harris. Christmas is the perfect time to tuck a home gift under the tree (Alamy/PA) Some of the best buys are for sprucing up your space, and gifting is the perfect opportunity to style up the season with something for the home. Especially if you’re not sure what to buy a loved one; but you’re confident a interiors-based gift will give great aesthetic pleasure if it channels comf
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