The perfect Cotswold boltholes
We've scoured the pretty hills and sleepy villages to find the ideal hotel for every personality - from a grand castle for aspiring aristocrats to a funky treat for fashionistas
Around the world in 195 days, six hours – by bike
A Scottish man has become the fastest to cycle around the world, completing the trip in 195 days and six hours
Top 10 eco escapes in Ireland
Lonely Planet had some harsh words for Ireland in its latest guide, claiming it's not as green as it once was. Catherine Mack begs to differ
Hiking holiday? Try Hackney
You don't have to head to the hills to go walking.Stephen Emms tries a 78-mile circuit around Britain's capital - and finds it full of surprises
Wish you were here?
More of us than ever are booking into health retreats - but are the results really worth substituting relaxing holiday bliss for early rises, enemas and gruelling exercise regimes? We sent three writers to find out ...
What would Beth Ditto do?
Beth Ditto: No matter how rare plane crashes are, I realised that my odds were getting slimmer with each flight. I knew that if I was to keep flying (and in my job it's difficult not to) I would need to develop some fear-tackling tactics. So here's what I came up with!
‘I’m as natural a horseman as Napoleon was a basketball player’
Anna Pickard rides a world-famous horse, gets pummelled by a Shaolin monk and learns when and when not to wear clothes - all in the space of one short break
How am I supposed to get up there?
Nick Bishop has cerebral palsy. He explains how he deals with the obstacles he comes across in everyday life - such as the steps that come between him and a pint with his mates - and, below, puts 10 award-winning London restaurants to the test
Five adventure trips for 2008
From a pioneering trip into remote Madagascar to an expedition to see the eclipse in China
Winter wanderland
The Munros may be more dramatic but the smaller, less taxing Marilyns are perfect for walking off post-Christmas bulges