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Your all-in-one guide to the best of South Wales, a vibrant mix of what’s on, homes and lifestyle
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Restaurant Review: A vegan feast at Mowgli Cardiff
We were invited to try the brand-new vegan menu at Mowgli Cardiff, a fresh plant-based addition to the restaurant’s vibrant Indian street food offering. Mowgli Cardiff Tucked along the bustling stretch of Church Street, Nisha Katona’s much-loved Indian street food concept has built its reputation on bold flavours, playful interiors and a fresh take on home-style Indian cooking. Known for small plates designed to share rather than the traditional curry house format, Mowgli pro
The best luxury Easter eggs
Luxury Easter chocolate, tried and tasted, for those who truly savour the art of chocolate. Jacob the Sheep or Jenny the Sheep Easter Eggs by Bettys Jacob the Sheep or Jenny the Sheep Easter Eggs, £19.95 each, Bettys Two utterly charming Easter eggs, handcrafted by Bettys’ expert chocolatiers. Jenny, the White Chocolate Sheep, is made with rich, creamy Swiss white chocolate, indulgent yet balanced, melting smoothly without being overly sweet. Jacob, the Milk Chocolate Sheep,
Ping Coombes’ crispy Bangkok eggs recipe
Change up brunch with this sweet and spicy version. Crispy Bangkok eggs (Sam Folan 2026/PA) “I took the family to Bangkok two years ago. We went to this highly recommended restaurant and one of the dishes the girls raved about was fried eggs in a sweet and spicy sauce,” says Ping Coombes. “They could not get enough of this, so I set out to recreate it. The secret to the crispy edges on eggs is the amount of oil you use.” Crispy Bangkok eggs Ingredients: (Serves 2-4) 6–7tbsp v
Make sure you pick up Welsh yogurt next time your in the supermarket
Last year marked a proud milestone for Llaeth y Llan as the family business celebrated its 40th anniversary, four decades of producing exceptional dairy with deep roots in the Welsh countryside. Llaeth y Llan celebrates their 40th year. From its beginnings as a small local venture to becoming one of Wales’ most respected dairy brands, Llaeth y Llan has remained true to its founding values, quality, locality and pride in Welsh produce. At the heart of the business is a simple
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
The best Easter days out in South Wales
Easter in South Wales is bursting with egg-cellent attractions the whole family will love. Folly Farm Go wild at Folly Farm Easter is the perfect excuse to dust off the picnic blanket, grab the kids and make some memories at Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire. Part farm, part zoo, part amusement park, it’s a one-stop adventure that keeps little (and big) ones entertained from morning to evening. Spring brings the farm to life, fluffy lambs, bouncing bunnies, and a host of animals th
Claire Sweeney’s Wickedly Fabulous Cardiff Takeover
Get ready Cardiff, stage and screen favourite Claire Sweeney is bringing her deliciously devious Miss Hannigan to the capital when ANNIE arrives at the WMC from 7 July for a limited two-week run. Claire Sweeney as Miss Hannigan. Beloved by generations, Annie is the ultimate feel-good family musical, and this new UK and Ireland tour promises all the sparkle, sass and heart that have made it a global sensation. Set against the backdrop of 1930s New York, the story follows brave
Don't miss Under Milk Wood at Sherman Theatre this spring
“To begin at the beginning…” Few opening lines are as instantly recognisable or as richly woven into Welsh cultural identity as those from Under Milk Wood. Under Milk Wood in the Sherman Theatre, Cardiff Theatr Clwyd brings Dylan Thomas’s lyrical masterpiece back to the stage in a bold new production at Sherman Theatre from 30 April to 9 May 2026, promising humour, heartbreak and a beautifully eccentric portrait of Welsh life. Directed by Kate Wasserberg, the production inv
Cardiff Speed Puzzle Championship: My First Attempt at Speed-Puzzling
There are hobbies you do to relax and then there are hobbies you suddenly attempt under pressure, surrounded by strangers, a ticking clock and the creeping realisation that two hours disappears far faster than you ever imagined. That’s how I found myself staring down at 500 scattered cardboard pieces at Cardiff’s first ever speed-puzzling championship. Competing in the UKJPA Speed Puzzle Championship Cardiff 2026 Hosted at Cardiff City House of Sport, the buzzing event brough
Buddy, the biggest rock & roll musical comes to Wales Millennium Centre
Mega-smash musical Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story comes to Wales Millennium Centre from 14-17 May 2026. Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story comes to Wales Millennium Centre Buddy – the original ‘jukebox’ musical – has enjoyed phenomenal success, playing a record-breaking 4,900 performances over 614 weeks on tour in the UK and Ireland, as well as 5,822 performances over 728 weeks in London’s West End. Featuring a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians, Buddy presents two terrific hou
All New Priscilla! Bigger, Bolder and More Fabulous Than Ever
Dust off the sequins and prepare to party, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert The Musical is strutting into the Wales Millennium Centre this spring in a glittering, feel-good spectacular you won’t want to miss. Priscilla, Queen of the Desert The Musical is at Wales Millennium Centre Celebrating 30 fabulous years since the iconic film first captured hearts, this dazzling new UK and Ireland tour promises bigger laughs, bolder costumes and more sparkle than ever before. Based on the
Margot Robbie goes sheer at Wuthering Heights premiere in London
Robbie sported a British designer for the occasion. Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi arriving on the red carpet (Ian West/PA) Margot Robbie stepped out in a Dilara Findikoglu custom gown at the London premiere for the highly anticipated Wuthering Heights. Margot Robbie in Dilara Findikoglu (Ian West/PA) Coming to UK cinemas on February 13, Robbie celebrated in a sheer corseted Gothic gown with moss green, blooming seams and a matching choker. It is a British label that she has
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
The best Easter days out in South Wales
Easter in South Wales is bursting with egg-cellent attractions the whole family will love. Folly Farm Go wild at Folly Farm Easter is the perfect excuse to dust off the picnic blanket, grab the kids and make some memories at Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire. Part farm, part zoo, part amusement park, it’s a one-stop adventure that keeps little (and big) ones entertained from morning to evening. Spring brings the farm to life, fluffy lambs, bouncing bunnies, and a host of animals th
3 hours ago4 min read
Have a blast at Techniquest this February
Cardiff Bay's much-loved science discovery centre will be open 9am–6pm every day this February half-term so there's even more time for families to get blown away by science. Cardiff Bay's Techniquest As well as three floors packed with curious exhibits and creative activities, you can catch Bubbles and Blasts — a live science show with mega bubbles that float, glow in the dark, and even pack an explosive punch! Or you can get hands-on with a workshop in the lab, where you can
Jan 271 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...
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
The best Easter days out in South Wales
Easter in South Wales is bursting with egg-cellent attractions the whole family will love. Folly Farm Go wild at Folly Farm Easter is the perfect excuse to dust off the picnic blanket, grab the kids and make some memories at Folly Farm in Pembrokeshire. Part farm, part zoo, part amusement park, it’s a one-stop adventure that keeps little (and big) ones entertained from morning to evening. Spring brings the farm to life, fluffy lambs, bouncing bunnies, and a host of animals th
Have a blast at Techniquest this February
Cardiff Bay's much-loved science discovery centre will be open 9am–6pm every day this February half-term so there's even more time for families to get blown away by science. Cardiff Bay's Techniquest As well as three floors packed with curious exhibits and creative activities, you can catch Bubbles and Blasts — a live science show with mega bubbles that float, glow in the dark, and even pack an explosive punch! Or you can get hands-on with a workshop in the lab, where you can
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...
A New Era in Patient Care at St Joseph’s Hospital Newport
St Joseph’s Hospital has successfully performed its first robotic assisted surgical procedure, marking a significant milestone in its continued investment in advanced patient care. Robotic-Assisted Surgery from Mako SmartRobotics™ at St Joseph’s Hospital in Newport. Following a recent investment of over £1 million, independent private healthcare provider St Joseph’s Hospital in Newport is now able to offer all patients considering hip and knee replacement surgery even more ac
‘You don’t need to hit 10k steps’: Rita Ora’s workout philosophy and why less can be more
The British artist says listening to her body has helped transform her relationship with fitness. Rita Ora now opts for low impact strength training as opposed to intense cardio (Primark/PA) Rita Ora, 35, has spent more than a decade living at speed. From chart-topping singles and global tours to becoming an X Factor judge and a familiar face on prime-time TV, her career has been defined by momentum. And in an industry where visibility is currency and stamina is key, slowing
Are statins the best choice for me?
Discussing your personal circumstances with a GP is essential when considering statins. Statins are often taken to lower cholesterol (Alamy/PA) New research suggests that most side-effects linked to statins are not caused by the drugs. The new study, published in The Lancet, looked at data from 123,940 people who were were followed up for an average of 4.5 years after initiating treatment and took part in 19 clinical trials comparing the effects of statins to a placebo. Resea
Award‑winning joint care at Nuffield Health Cardiff and Vale Hospitals
Nuffield Health Cardiff and Vale Hospitals are celebrating national recognition for patient safety in orthopaedic surgery. Nuffield Health Cardiff and Vale Hospitals This year, Nuffield Health hospitals performing joint replacements across England and Wales have, (for the fifth consecutive year), achieved the National Joint Registry (NJR) Gold Quality Data Award, the registry’s highest mark for data quality and compliance. This reflects rigorous standards designed to improve
The Vale Resort Reveals £500k Gym Refurb
The all-new gym space offers state of the art equipment, new dedicated training zones and a brand new look for 2026. The Vale Resort Gym South Wales’ iconic Vale Resort has today unveiled the completion of a significant refurbishment of its extensive gym in time to help guests kick-start their new year fitness goals, investing £500,000 in the latest in fitness technology and equipment, as well as all-new training zones, to maximise the health and wellness experience for guest
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
Climbing for Aled: A Mother-Daughter Mission to Machu Picchu
Sian and her mum Sylvia are taking on an 11-day trek through the Peruvian jungle in memory of Sian’s late son Aled. Battling altitude, splints and age, they’re walking to raise funds for Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice. Climbing for Aled: A Mother-Daughter Mission to Machu Picchu Trekking at altitude through the Peruvian jungle to the lost city of Machu Picchu would be a challenge for most people. But Sian Milligan, 44, who will be heading for Machu Picchu with her mum Sylvia Wal
The bank of mum and dad: How to help adult children without harming your future finances
Financial experts tell Lisa Salmon about sensible ways parents can protect their money while helping children with big expenses. Supporting your children shouldn’t come at the expense of your own financial wellbeing (Alamy/PA) Having kids is expensive – and never more so than when they get older and parents’ primary role seems to morph from giving love and care to being head of the bank of mum and dad. Because while the financial outlay for younger children tends to centre ar
Over Half of UK Adults Do Not Have A Will In Place – Are You One of Them?
Hannah Thomas, a Partner in the Wills & Probate team at Harding Evans Solicitors, tells us why it's important to make a will and review it every five years to protect your loved ones. Wills & Probate at Harding Evans Solicitors in Cardiff Having a Will in place is one of the most important steps adults can take to protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are carried out. Yet research conducted by Censuswide and published in 2025 by The Association of Lifetime Lawye
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
HOMES & INTERIORS
Hand crafted Furniture in South Wales
The BOX Furniture and Chunk Monkey are redefining handmade furniture with premium, handcrafted pieces designed to fit homes of every shape and size. The BOX Furniture and Chunk Monkey hand made furniture. South Wales is home to two sister furniture brands making big waves with hand-crafted, premium pieces, The BOX Furniture and Chunk Monkey. Both began with a passion for quality craftsmanship and have grown into distinct brands, each offering a unique approach to modern livin
Future-focused New Homes in an Idyllic Heritage Location
Nestled in the picturesque grounds of The Vale Resort and historic Hensol Castle, Hensol Grove is an exclusive collection of sixteen sustainable new homes by independent housebuilders Acorn Property Group. Hensol Grove is an exclusive collection from Acorn Property Group This impressive scheme is set out over two phases with The Mews offering ten 2 & 3 bedroom homes, while The Villas will consist of six 4 & 5 bedroom detached houses. An exceptional setting, The Vale Resort is
Llanmoor Homes at 60
A trusted, family-run Welsh housebuilder combining heritage with modern, sustainable homes. Llanmoor Homes, Tondu For six decades, Llanmoor Homes has been a trusted name in housebuilding across South Wales, combining the reassurance of a family-run business with a progressive approach to modern living. Founded in 1966 by Chartered Accountant Brian Grey, Llanmoor has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality new homes in sought-after locations, from Neath Port Talb
8 ways to weave moss green into your scheme
From paint finishes to furnishings, be moved by muted greens, says Sam Wylie-Harris. A mid-green at one with nature, cue this feel-good hue (Annie Sloan/PA) Calm, comforting and versatile, moss green has a natural, grounding aesthetic – and a go-to thanks to its tranquil energy as we transition into spring. Moreover, these leafy shades have a positive effect on the senses, and are a brilliant way to boost your wellbeing with the growing ubiquity of mindfulness and self-care i
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
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