1. Cowes

This is the place to be when it comes to the famous Cowes Week, where thousands of sailors descend on the Isle of Wight to compete in daily competitions and social events. Featuring fireworks, a display from the Red Arrows (who’ll return to the event in 2026) and plenty of welcoming pubs and restaurants, Cowes is the place to be for everyone in the British sailing community.

Find out more at cowesweek.co.uk

2. Falmouth

Whether it’s high-society regattas or entrepreneurial smugglers, Cornwall’s an intrinsic part of sailing life. In Falmouth, everyone from experienced sea-dogs to complete novices can adventure in the world’s third-largest natural harbour. Fancy a longer trip? Falmouth’s a great starting point for a sail to the Isles of Scilly. Or, to sharpen your skills, take a look at some of the local sailing clubs’ courses.

Find out more at falmouth.co.uk

3. St Kilda

St Kilda is a remote island in the Atlantic Ocean, more than 40 miles off the coast of Scotland. Want to visit the scenic archipelago? Sailors must first get to the Outer Hebrides. This challenging journey is one for the more experienced, with the distance alone daunting for some, but the magic of the remote isle, first settled over four thousand years ago, lies in its wild beauty.

Find out more at classic-sailing.com

4. Weymouth

This seaside town has been a top travel destination for us Brits for a good reason. With a beautiful beach and prime location on the Jurassic Coast, Dorset has plenty to keep you occupied in between your nautical adventures. What’s on our radar? A local sailing club that offers sample experiences to encourage newbies, and boat tuition to get you to grips with a new vessel with minimal fuss.

Find out more at weymouthsailing.co.uk

5. Ullswater

The first lake in our list, Ullswater is the perfect location to experience smaller-scale sailing in a safe environment. With its tranquil water with a stunning view of the Lake District, there’s plenty of experiences over at the Ullswater Sailing School, including boat rentals, and guided routes across the beautiful and placid body of water.

Find out more at ullswatersailingschool.org

6. Dale, Pembrokeshire

This pretty seaside village is the perfect place for sailors, with the Milford Marina right on the doorstep of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – the only coastal National Park in the UK. Offering a grand waterway perfect for all abilities, berthing at Milford Marina gives you easy access to 22 miles of sheltered, tranquil waters.

Find out more at milfordmarina.com

7. Southampton

Southampton is a great place to get to grips with the technical aspects of sailing. There’s a wide variety of rental options from the local sailing club, plus a thriving social scene. And with easy access to The Solent and a reasonable sail from the Isle of Wight, it’s also a great alternative for anyone looking for a city getaway.

Find out more at southamptonsailingclub.com

8. The Broads

For more of a river experience, The Broads is the destination for you. With centuries of rich sailing tradition in its unique wherries, the sailors of the community are well-prepared to show off the beautiful nature of the national park. Trust us – this is the place to head for sailing in the midst of outstanding natural beauty.

Find out more at visitthebroads.co.uk

9. Portsmouth

As a traditional naval city, Portsmouth has long-established sailing traditions and communities. The perfect UK destination to immerse yourself in sailing culture, Portsmouth Sailing Club is also linked with the local university. Offering many social gatherings, this coastal city is a great option for any younger nautical enthusiasts.

Find out more at portsmouthsc.co.uk

10. Maldon

Just 90 minutes outside of London, Maldon is home to a growing maritime community. Suited best for smaller dinghies, it’s perfect for a quick weekend away from city life with its many independent shops, bars and restaurants. After a warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere? Maldon Yacht Club’s the one for you, a small but thriving club at the end of the promenade.

Find out more at visitmaldon.co.uk

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This pastime has been growing in popularity recently, as shown by a 19% year-on-year increase in Google searches for ‘car camping’. If you’re thinking of getting in on this trend however, there are many things that you should consider before venturing out on your trip, such as where you are allowed to park, how to maintain your car on the road, and how to save fuel along the way.

Checklist has collaborated with car parts retailer GSF Car Parts to take you through everything you need to know in order to have the idyllic car camping trip you’ve been dreaming of.

Where can you go?

The first thing to decide is where you’ll be going. There are restrictions in the UK about where people can do what’s known as wild camping, which means pitching up outside a campsite, whether that be in your vehicle or in a tent. Working out whether you are allowed to pitch camp somewhere can be confusing, so make sure that you thoroughly research the laws in your chosen location prior to setting off.

Scotland

In Scotland, wild camping is legal in most areas, as long as you follow the behaviour set out in the Access Code. This makes the country a good destination for first-time wild campers, as there’s already plenty of information available to help you and it’s hard to go far wrong. Read the Scottish Outdoor Access Code for a practical guide to car camping and wild camping without a vehicle in Scotland.

England, Wales and Northern Ireland

While there are a couple of places in England where car camping is allowed, such as parts of Dartmoor and areas of the Lake District, these are the exception, rather than the rule. All other land in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland technically belongs to someone, and therefore you must have the permission of the landowner to camp there.

This means that it’s not usually possible for you to pitch up outside of camp sites — at least, not without the landowner’s consent. So, when car camping in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you should look up camp sites beforehand and find ones where you can pitch camp in a vehicle.

It is also possible to get permission from the landowner to wild camp on their land, but this is usually more time consuming as it can be confusing to work out exactly who owns which area. It’s usually easier to park within a camp site — unless you’re camping in Dartmoor National Park, which has some spots set aside for the pastime. You should also abide by some rules to leave nature as you found it, such as those outlined in the Lake District’s Guide to Wild Camping.

What happens if you park illegally?

There are a variety of penalties and punishments which may result from parking illegally on private land; many of which can be quite expensive.

This won’t be an issue in Scotland, as wild camping is legal on most public land. However, if you park on privately-owned land in England or Wales without express permission from the landowner, you will technically be trespassing. If the landowner catches you, then you’ll likely just be told to leave the property. But, if you fail to remove your vehicle from the area when asked, then the landowner may take civil action against you. If you continue to cause disruption or intimidation to the landowner, then you could be convicted of aggravated trespassing, a much more serious offence which can result in a fine of up to £2,500, or even a three-month prison sentence.

However, if you are a first-time offender, you’ll likely only be given a fine of around £200–£300. Nonetheless, no one wants to be landed with a fine on holiday, so make sure you check out your planned parking spot in advance and be respectful of the wishes of local landowners to ensure you are complying with the law.

If you are a fan of foraging, it’s also important to note that it is illegal to dig up any plants (including fungi, algae and lichen) from the land without permission from the landowner. So, you are allowed to pick leaves, berries and flowers where plentiful, but not to remove the entire plant by the root. If you are a keen forager, the Woodland Trust’s website has more specific advice on foraging.

Making your car comfortable

The next consideration in planning your trip should be how you can make sure that your car camping holiday is comfortable. If you are planning to sleep in your vehicle, you’ll need to ensure there is enough space for yourself and anyone who is joining you on your trip.

You’ll also need to keep in mind how you’re going to transform it into a comfy bed at night, and a relaxing seating area in the evening when you want to enjoy the view. Many accessories can help you set up camp:

• An awning: Having an awning to set up can help protect you from either the sun or rain, and create a bit of shelter from the wind too. This can also make your camp more homely, as you can place chairs and a table underneath it for sitting and taking in the view.
• An air mattress: While some people prefer to go with just a padded sleeping bag, having a small air mattress that fits inside your vehicle can make the camp more luxurious.
• Storage bags: You can also get special storage bags that will provide some waterproof carrying options to fit luggage into your car more neatly, so you can make the most of the space.
• A cooler: If you are travelling in the summer, being able to keep some food and water chilled is a real asset, and you can choose a cooler size that will fit easily into your vehicle.

Maintaining your car on the road

As well as preparing your car to be comfortable throughout your trip, you’ll need to make sure that you keep it well maintained so that you don’t find yourself breaking down or running out of fuel. Give your car a thorough check before setting off to ensure that everything is in working order, including the breaks, engine, and lights. Then, take the time to assemble a basic car maintenance kit for the road, which should include:

• Replacement oil
• A spare tyre
• Window cleaner
• Brake oil
• Jump leads
• A pump.

It’s also good practice to learn some basic car maintenance tasks before you head out, and to not take a long road trip until you are comfortable enacting some of these repairs yourself. Lastly, keeping your car well maintained at all times will mean you’re ready to venture out on a road trip with much less notice.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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With this, and knowing that Formula 1 is loved by many worldwide, Checklist and Holidu are highlighting the best destinations that offer spectacular scenery and world-class entertainment. Here are the top 10 F1 destinations that should be on every fan’s radar this season.

1. Monza, Italy

Taking the first place crown for being the best destination for F1 fans is Monza in northern Italy. The Autodromo Nazionale Monza, also known as the Temple of Speed, is the fifth oldest national Grand Prix. It has over 11,000 reviews on Google and an average rating of 4.6 stars. Emotion is always present here, whether it’s the high speeds this track allows drivers to reach or the dedicated Ferrari fans. Outside of the race weekend, the circuit allows you to ride around the track by bike, car or van and even offers a go-kart track where you can spend a fun-filled day with the family.

2. Monte Carlo, Monaco

In second place we find Monaco. On the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by France, Monaco is known as a millionaire’s playground – complete with luxury hotels, fancy restaurants and huge casinos. As for the Monte Carlo circuit, it has 4.7 stars and is known for being the slowest on the calendar, but it is also the trickiest to navigate, with tight twists and turns between expensive buildings facing the sea. Place d’Armes is one of the best and brightest spots for fans; another hotspot is La Rascasse, a bar near the pit entrance.

3. Silverstone, UK

The English circuit secures third place on the podium. The Silverstone circuit has over 15,000 reviews on Google and an average of 4.6 stars, which comes as no real surprise as it always presents itself as one of the favourites on the calendar, whether thats due to the fast corners or the spectacle it provides year after year. The Northamptonshire circuit has dedicated family areas, last year it offered coding workshops, electric go-karts and sports zones. The Red Arrows offer even more spectacle with their fantastic flypasts. Last year, as well as the brilliant entertainment there were musical acts such as Rudimental and Voice UK Anne-Marie judge Anne Marie.

4. Spa, Belgium

The Walloon Spa-Francorchamps circuit is the fourth-best destination for F1 fans to visit! South of the village of Francorchamps, it has hosted 54 Grand Prix races and has a wide variety of grandstands, which makes it easy to see not only the race, but also the bright and beautiful surrounding landscape; the area is known for its wooded valleys and natural springs. We’ll leave you with one piece of advice, choose the grandstands on top of the Eau Rouge bend and we promise you won’t regret it.

5. Montreal, Canada

In the middle of the ranking, we find Montreal. Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a 4.361km motor racing circuit in the Quebec region. It is the venue for the Formula One Canadian Grand Prix and has hosted the drivers 40 times. When not hosting the event, the circuit is a unique facility in the province of Quebec where cycling, inline skating and racing enthusiasts come to train. Surrounded by lush gardens and a wide range of artwork, the circuit is a pleasant and relaxing venue, a good place to take a stroll. This multi-purpose track also provides excellent views of Montreal, with its strategic location in the heart of the St. Lawrence River.

6. Budapest, Hungary

The beautiful city of Budapest secures the seventh position. The Hungaroring circuit, with 4.7 stars on Google, is 4.381 km lonng and has crowned two drivers in its 20-year history: both Nigel Mansell in 1992 and Michael Schumacher in 2001. In addition, the Williams F1 team and Scuderia Ferrari have also secured the Constructors’ Championship at the Hungaroring, Williams in 1996 and Ferrari in 2001, 2002, and 2004. We leave two stands where to have the best view: Gold Stand 4 is situated on the outside of the first corner of the circuit and some of the best views of the Hungaroring can be found in the final corner of the circuit. Silver 3 is an excellent choice for a first time visitor to the circuit, as the stands are elevated above the track, providing a great view of the last corners and the main straight.

7. São Paulo, Brazil

In Seventh place, we find São Paulo. With the Autódromo José Carlos Pace, also known as Interlagos and with a 4.6 star rating. It is a 4.309km circuit and was renamed in 1985 to honour Formula 1 driver José Carlos Pace, who died in a plane crash in 1977. Attached to its facilities is a go-kart circuit in honour of Ayrton Senna. The circuit runs counter-clockwise. Our advice for the grandstand: Situated at the start of the main straight at Interlagos, the covered Grandstand B is one of the best places to watch the action in Brazil. Grandstand B offers views of the long approach to the final corner, the pit lane entrance and some of the team garages, as well as the Formula 1 podium.

8. Barcelona, Spain

The eighth position goes to the legendary Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, which has hosted 31 Grand Prix races, is 4.675km long and is a track of two halves: one consists almost entirely of a single straight, and the other is a tangle of tight corners. For some fun away from the race, the facilities at this fantastic venue include Rancho Rocco, an off-road motorbike track open to everyone from beginners to experts, and race fans can sign up for pit rides and autograph sessions.

9. Zandvoort, The Netherlands

In ninth place is Zandvoort in the Netherlands. The town of Zandvoort is situated on the dunes of the Dutch North Sea coast, half an hour west of the Dutch capital of Amsterdam, and the circuit itself is located right next to the beach. It held the first Grand Prix in 1950 and has hosted a total of 33, it is also the second home of Dutch world champion Max Verstappen. A curiosity about the circuit? It is British driver Jim Clark who has the most wins followed by his compatriot Jackie Stewart.

10. Melbourne, Australia

Securing the final place in our ranking is the city of Melbourne in Australia. The Albert Park Circuit uses sections of public road surrounding Melbourne’s Albert Park Lake and never fails to provide drama – notable incidents include Martin Brundle’s car being launched over David Coulthard’s McLaren in 1996 (Brundle’s car ended up in two pieces) and Ralf Schumacher’s car flying over Rubens Barrichello’s Ferrari in 2002. Fun fact? The Australian Grand Prix holds the record for the shortest F1 race – although the record in question was actually set in Adelaide, the previous home of the event. Torrential rain led to it being cancelled after 24 minutes and Ayrton Senna was declared the winner.

Checklist collaborated with Holidu, the search engine for holiday rentals, to create this list.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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Know when to strike

Prices tend to be at their lowest or at a more negotiable rate during certain times of the year. 

In September and March, people are more likely to part exchange their old vehicles for the latest models. To cope with the sudden influx of stock, many dealers are more open to haggling as they want to shift the surplus of used cars as quickly as possible. 

October to December is also an excellent time to buy a new car as salespeople are looking to smash their final year targets and get as many quick sales in as possible. This gives you the upper hand when it comes to negotiating. 

Do your research

You should also find out all the relevant list prices for your chosen model and make of car. This will put you in a better position, especially if you know the average current price, expected mileage and what sort of condition the vehicle should be in. 

In recent years, car finance has become the most affordable, convenient and less expensive way to purchase a vehicle. It allows you more perks, a wider range of choices and a decent warranty package to match. 

Look outside the box

But, it’s not just dealerships that offer car finance deals. 

Before stepping onto the forecourt, Carvine recommends comparing finance deals ahead of time. That way, you know what the best deals are for your situation and if the dealer is willing to budge on price according to what they can offer to match. 

Take a test drive

Nothing can stop you from getting approved for car finance beforehand. 

Booking a test drive and getting a feel for the car, while listening to the engine and noticing how well the car handles on the road are all essential. If you notice anything untoward: an oil leak, blue, black or dense white smoke, staining or rust and scratched on the bodywork, you have more power for negotiation. 

Alex Thomas, a marketing executive for Carvine, commented: “Haggling is your ticket to getting the best deal possible at the dealership, no matter if you’re looking at a new or used car. With a bit of research under your belt, you can instantly place yourself in a better position to negotiate.”

There’s never been a more prudent time to save yourself some money at the car dealership. With a few industry secrets up your sleeve, you could save hundreds on your next vehicle. 

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Tips to save money at the car dealership with these industry secrets appeared first on Checklists.

Sometimes, some cars can be an investment, and others are money down the drain. While the majority of secondhand cars will depreciate in value the moment they become ‘secondhand’, some will do so considerably more than others.

Then there are those rare few that become collector’s items (BMW Z8), or simply are highly sought after due to their customisable design features (VW Transporter). Either way, some will keep apace with inflation, some will hold value, and some will drop like a stone.

1. Volkswagen Beetle

Resale value: £8,000 to £30,000

With over 21 million built between 1938 and 2003, the original Beetles were simple beasts. More than 420,000 units were sold in the 1960’s, thanks to its debut in Disney’s The Love Bug.

However, the changing tastes and trends of the global car market has meant that VW, like most manufacturers, has needed to shift their focus elsewhere, releasing the New Beetle in 1997, drawing inspiration from the design of the original.

Original Beetles now fetch serious numbers on the secondhand market and can make great investments.

2. Jaguar E-Type

Resale value: £40,000 to £300,000

Described as ‘the world’s most beautiful car’ by Enzo Ferrari, the E-Type came first in a national newspaper’s ‘100 most beautiful cars of all time’ listings and was manufactured by Jaguar Cars Ltd between 1961 and 1975.

Its combination of beauty, high performance, and competitive pricing established the model as an icon of the motoring world, capturing the hearts of motoring enthusiasts the world over.

As an absolute classic, the E-Type will always fetch good numbers on the secondhand market, and as such varies in price considerably.

3. Aston Martin DB9

Resale value: £60,000 to £90,000

Produced between 2004 and 2016, the DB9 was first debuted in 2003 at the Frankfurt Auto Show and was the first model produced at Aston’s Gaydon facility in Warwickshire.

Production of the DB9 ended in 2016, having been replaced by the DB11, however the DB9 was so iconic and well-received that its style became the basis for future designs and is still highly sought after on the secondhand market, ensuring prices for models remain high.

4. BMW Z8

Resale value: £100,000 to £200,000

Produced by BMW from 2000 to 2003 and one of, if not the, most sought after and best-looking BMW ever made, the Z8 first captured hearts and minds in James Bond’s 1999 outing The World is not Enough, in which the car was showcased prior to its release onto the market.

In order to promote the Z8 to collectors and reinforce media speculation about the car’s ‘instant classic’ potential, BMW promised that a 50-year stockpile of spare parts would be maintained in order to support the Z8 fleet.

All this means that secondhand models can now fetch more than their original sale prices.

5. Volkswagen Polo

Resale value: Around £15,000

Volkswagen’s Polo, and the Golf listed below, are two of the most popular and best-selling cars in the UK, and also retain the most value after three years’ ownership. They lose less than 10% of their original value, according to the Motoring Depreciation report (zutobi.com/uk).

Produced by Volkswagen since 1975, the Polo is a perennial favourite, especially among first-time car buyers. Available in hatchback, saloon, and estate versions, the sales of the Polo have set a benchmark for Volkswagen, which has sold more than 12 million cars globally.

6. Volkswagen Golf

Resale value: Under £18,000

Another ubiquitous VW, and one which probably most people have owned at some point. The Golf is a very familiar sight on our roads, and with good reason. Available in numerous variations since its birth in 1974, the VW Golf has been marketed worldwide across eight generations and under various names – including the ‘Rabbit’ in the US and Canada, and the ‘Caribe’ in Mexico.

Still a firm favourite, and with numerous awards over the years, an average Golf will depreciate around £2,000 over three years of ownership.

7. Porsche Macan

Resale value: Around £40,000

The Porsche Macan ‘crossover SUV’ holds one of the best resale values in the sports-utility genre. Originally released in 2012, the Macan helps keep Porsche in the top-three best resale value luxury brands for cars.

Losing only around 13% of its value, the 5-door compact Macan can still command a respectable price tag on the secondhand market, with an average resale value of £40,543, depending on condition.

8. Range Rover

Resale value: Around £75,000

An absolute classic vehicle from a classic British maker, the Queen’s favourite car unsurprisingly holds its resale value very well, with good-condition models averaging a £75,000 resale, only losing around a tenth of their value over three years.

The Range Rover line was launched in 1970 by British Leyland and is now in its fourth generation. Additional model lines are being launched under the Range Rover name due to its success, including the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, and Range Rover Velar.

9. VW Transporter

Resale value: £2,000 to £65,000

Very popular among the re-modifying crowd, secondhand Transporters are snapped up and kitted out as campervans, with a host of varied additions. Renowned for their reliability, economic engines, and high-build quality, Transporters are one of Europe’s most popular vans, a popularity which has skyrocketed during the pandemic.

With travel restrictions in place and Airbnb and domestic hotel spaces booked up, the UK population has been looking to alternatives in order to take their holidays and some of the older converted VW Transporters have seen more than 30% added to their value overnight.

Prices can vary considerably depending on age, condition, model and spec, but look out for the usual signs: low mileage, quality of conversion, general wear and tear and MOT or repairs information.

10. BMW 6 Series Gran Turismo

Resale value: Around £40,000

The G32 BMW 6 Series was officially unveiled at the Frankfurt International Auto Show in 2017. It’s the fourth generation of the BMW Gran Turismo range of fastback mid-size luxury cars and has proven to be perennially popular among buyers on the secondhand car market.

Depreciating little more than 10% over three years, this car can be a solid investment and should yield a good return if you choose to sell.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Top 10 secondhand cars that can hold their value appeared first on Checklists.

1. Charlotte Sefton

The communications manager at the McLaren F1 team is no stranger to being seen behind the cameras, protecting the two drivers – Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo, from the media.

The familiar face in the paddock is responsible for maintaining the high-quality reputation of the team during race weekends and helps deal with the press, making sure that the drivers act on their best behaviour (well she tries her best to keep them under control!).

The goofy and amusing relationship between herself and Lando that is portrayed on McLarens YouTube page and interviews, has proven to be popular amongst the fans, making her a well-known figure within the sport.

2. Susie Wolff

The team principal of the Venturi Formula E team, Susie Wolff, helped lead them to success, allowing them to win three races and 11 podiums during the 2021 season.

Having started her motorsport career in karting and then progressing through the rankings, she took part in the first practise session in Silverstone for Williams in 2014.

Her husband is the other famous Wolff (Toto – team principal of the Mercedes F1 team) and alongside driving the team to victory, she also juggles her other job as mother to her young son.

3. Sophie Eden

Sophie joined the Williams F1 team in 2011 and is the head of communications. In charge of keeping the team connected, she is a loyal member who plays a vital role in managing the day-to-day communications between the team, drivers, and fans.

Having always had a passion for motorsports, she knew from a young age what she wanted to do and made sure she did everything possible to achieve this. From volunteering at local tracks to creating a PR agency, her determination, dedication, and success is admired.

4. Claire Williams

The legacy that follows Claire with the famous surname ‘Williams’, makes her a familiar face in the world of Formula 1. With her father, Sir Frank Williams, being a revolutionary figure within the sport, she took over as deputy team principal at his team (with her father holding onto the main title) at Williams, in 2013.

Her optimism, dedication and need to succeed reflected on the team alongside her hard-working drivers Nicholas Latifi and George Russell (whose talent landed him as the second Mercedes driver in 2022, partnered with 7x world champion Lewis Hamilton).

Halfway during the 2020 season, Claire withdrew from her title, however her ideologies and passion remains with the team.

5. Natalie Pinkham

The Sky Sports F1 presenter has been covering, reporting, and gracing the sport on our screens since 2012.

Before working for Sky, some may remember listening to her on BBC Radio 5 where she commentated the live F1 coverage and was a familiar face presenting Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Alongside travelling the world, appearing on TV’s during Formula 1 Grand Prix Weekends, and informing us on the latest F1 related news, she is a mother to two children and has recently gotten involved with a campaign in attempts to encourage more women into playing golf.

6. Jessica Hawkins

The British, W Series driver started her driving career karting at the young age of eight. Throughout the years, she progressed and became the British Karting Champion at age 12 and the Honda Cadet British Open Champion in 2008.

Not only is she a talented racer, but she is also a pro stunt driver in major films and holds a world record for driving the ‘world’s fastest lawnmower’.

In May 2021, she became a Driver Ambassador for the Aston Martin F1 team where she works closely with the team and their partners.

7. Angela Cullen

Angela Cullen is a familiar face on the Instagram pages of Lewis Hamilton and the Mercedes F1 team.

The performance coach from New Zealand has built up her own social media following where she expresses her love for nature whilst maintaining a healthy, vegan lifestyle.

Being Hamilton’s sidekick, she is no stranger to being spotted on race weekends, taking him to the track, helping him out and just being a friendly face for him during what can be stressful weekends.

8. Sabine Schmitz

The two-time winner of the 24-hour race at Nürburgring and friend of the show Top Gear, was an influential figure in the growth of women in the sport. She competed and won in multiple different races which lead to the opportunities of guest starring on Top Gear in 2004 to then present it in 2016.

The ‘Queen of the Nürburgring Ring’ sadly passed away in March 2021 after nearly a four-year long battle with cancer. She is greatly missed by everyone involved with the sport.

9. Laia Sanz

Laia grew up in Spain, being no stranger to the roaring sound of engines due to her family’s passion for motorbikes. The love she had for the need of speed grew and she eventually made her racing debut at age seven.

Since then, she has won many motorcycle championships and has recently ventured into Extreme E racing, where she is partnered alongside rally legend and father of Ferrari driver, Carlos Sainz for the team Acciona | Sainz.

10. Jamie Chadwick

Jamie started her racing career with karting at 11-years-old, where she achieved multiple podiums and wins. Since then, she has won racing scholarships and has been a part of the Aston Martin Racing Driver Evolution Academy. In 2019, she was crowned champion of W series and is once again fighting for the title in 2021.

In 2019, it was announced that she would be the development driver for Williams F1 team where she works with the team at Grand Prix’s and back at their headquarters in Oxfordshire.

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post The 10 inspiring women in motorsport appeared first on Checklists.

Scotland

Time: 433 miles, 3 – 4 days.

This route starts in the city of Edinburgh, which is home to countless locations that are rumoured to be haunted, including Edinburgh Castle, as well as numerous ancient graveyards with famous graves.

Next, you’ll head to Culzean Castle before travelling up the country, visiting the famous Stirling Castle, before stopping at Crathes Castle. You’ll then head to Cruden Bay, and finish the route at Culloden Moor.

Spooky Sightings:

• Edinburgh: The ghosts of Edinburgh Castle, ancient graveyards, and famous graves
• Culzean Castle: Home to a ghostly piper and mysterious lady.
• Stirling Castle: Several ghosts including a spectral highlander.
• Crathes Castle: Haunted by the ghost of The Green Lady.
• Cruden Bay: Where Bram Stoker wrote large sections of Dracula.
• Culloden Moor: Ghostly sounds of battle from the 1746 Battle of Culloden.

Why not visit: Culloden Moor – Inverness

The battle of Culloden Moor took place on 16 April, 1746, and, with all the odds stacked against them, the Highlanders were easily defeated by the British troops. Any Highlanders that managed to flee from Culloden Moor to neighbouring villages were hunted down by the Duke of Cumberland’s troops and slaughtered, along with innocent women and children, burning homes, barns and out-buildings.

With this much tragedy it’s easy to see why their restless spirits still roam the land, reliving the battle and their deaths. Some witnesses have heard the clash of steel on steel and the cries of the wounded. Some legends of Culloden Moor include that birds do not sing over the site of the battle or at the graves of the slaughtered – or the local heather which grows nearby will never grow over the graves.

Northern England

Time: 247 miles, 3 – 4 days.

Beginning your journey at the imposing Bamburgh Castle, you’ll then travel through Northumberland to Chillingham Castle before heading down into Yorkshire and the next destination, Whitby.

From there you’ll go to York, visiting Treasurer’s House and staying the night in the haunted Black Swan hotel. The following morning, you’ll travel into Lancashire to finish your journey at Pendle Hill.

Spooky Sightings:

• Bamburgh Castle: A filming location for the 2015 film adaptation of MacBeth.
• Chillingham Castle: Claims to be the most haunted castle in Britain.
• Whitby: Where Dracula first came to England in Bram Stoker’s novel.
• York: Treasurer’s House, where ghostly Roman legionaries have been spotted, and the haunted Black Swan hotel.
• Pendle Hill: The site of the 1612 witch trials and said to still be haunted by their ghosts.

Why not visit: Steynton route – Pembrokeshire

When it comes to the route along the A4076 to Johnston, motorists will need to keep their wits about them! This particular route has been associated for hundreds of years with sightings of a dark and mysterious woman who suddenly walks into the paths of drivers, before vanishing.

Many drivers have stopped and rushed from their cars to her aid, but then returned, bewildered, finding no sign of the young lady, or of damage to their cars. This supernatural occurrence has been said to have been experienced by at least seven people over the years. Are you ready to be next?

The Midlands

Time: 136 miles, 2 days.

Starting at Croft Castle, you’ll then travel to Kidderminster to visit the Drakelow Tunnels, a haunted military bunker, before visiting Dudley Castle. The route then travels to Birmingham and the famous Aston Hall.

Finally, you’ll travel to the Leicester Guildhall, before visiting Kelham Hall in Nottinghamshire. Both locations have featured on the TV series, Most Haunted.

Spooky Sightings:

• Croft Castle: Haunted by the seven-foot ghost of Owain Glyndwr.
• Drakelow Tunnels: Visitors experience mysterious mists and hear ghostly wartime music.
• Dudley Castle: Haunted by The Grey Lady and others.
• Aston Hall: Home to The White Lady, the imprisoned daughter of a former owner.
• Leicester Guildhall: Featured on Most Haunted.
• Kelham Hall: Home to numerous ghosts.

Why not visit: Aston Hall – Birmingham

Aston Hall is a Grade I listed Jacobean house built between 1618 and 1635, and today it is used as a museum. It is said to be haunted by the ghost of Sir Thomas Holte, amongst several others.

Perhaps the most famous of the spooky spectres that inhabit the house is that of Mary, the ‘white lady’, his daughter, who was imprisoned in her room as Sir Thomas disapproved of her choice of lover. Unable to leave and unable to be with her one true love, she descended into madness and died of heartbreak.

Other ghosts include the serving boy who hung himself in the staff quarters in strange circumstances, and the ‘green lady’, said to be Holte’s housekeeper, of whom he was charged with her murder, but never found guilty.

Wales

Time: 269 miles, 2 – 3 days.

Starting in the medieval castle town of Conwy, North Wales, you’ll then travel to the famous prison Ruthin Gaol, before heading to Abergavenny, where you can spend a night in the famous Skirrid Mountain Inn.

Travelling into South Wales, you will pass through the village of Crickadarn before visiting Craig-y-Nos Castle. Finally, you will visit Tenby for its famous ghost walk.

Spooky Sightings:

• Conwy: The ghost tour of the medieval town.
• Ruthin Gaol: An old jail, experience slamming doors and mysterious whispering voices.
• Skirrid Mountain Inn: Ancient inn with a dark history and the most haunted pub in Wales.
• Crickadarn: Appeared as the Yorkshire village in An American Werewolf in London.
• Craig-y-Nos: Said to be haunted by several ghosts.
• Tenby: The area is rumoured to be home to fairies, witches and ghosts.

Why not visit: The Skirrid Inn – Black Mountains

Situated among the foothills of the Black Mountains in South Wales, the Skirrid Inn is thought to be the oldest, and most haunted, public house in the country. The first floor of the inn was often used as a courtroom where offenders often received capital punishment, with local legends claiming that hundreds of criminals have been hung from an oak beam over the staircase there – with the rope’s markings still visible to this day.

Widely regarded as one of the most haunted buildings in the UK, supernatural happenings have included flying glasses, the strong smell of perfume, and even of guests feeling as if they were being strangled!

Northern Ireland

Time: 121 miles, 2 days.

Beginning your journey in Donaghadee, you will visit Grace Neill’s, said to be the oldest pub in Ireland, before visiting the Giant’s Ring, near Belfast. Also in Belfast, the Crumlin Road Gaol is possibly the most haunted location in Northern Ireland.

Ballygally Castle is the next destination on the journey, followed by Ossian’s Grave before travelling to the final stop, Springhill House.

Spooky Sightings:

• Grace Neill’s Pub: The oldest pub in Ireland and haunted by the Grace herself.
• The Giant’s Ring: An ancient religious site said to experience strange, unnatural mists.
• Crumlin Road Gaol: An old prison and the most haunted site in Norther Ireland.
• Ballygally Castle: Home to several ghosts.
• Ossian’s Grave: An ancient burial site, Ossian himself is said to be waiting to rise again.
• Springhill House: Haunted by the former owner.

Why not visit: Belfast – Smithfield area

Biddy is the haunting manifestation of a local woman said to roam the area where she drank herself to death after inheriting two hundred and fifty pounds. Her ghost is said to wander the area late at night, trapped for eternity, drowning her sorrows.

It is also Smithfield where, in 1900, a tragic accident killed 13 women and girls at J. J. Herdman’s Mill. Today sightings of their ghosts and strange happenings are still regularly reported at the site.

Southern England

Time: 233 miles, 2 – 3 days.

You will start your journey in the village of Pluckley, Kent, before heading to London to visit The Tower of London. You can then head across the capital to All Saints Church in Fulham, before visiting Hampton Court Palace.

The next stop is Stonehenge, ahead of your final destination at Dunster Castle.

Spooky Sightings:

• Pluckley: A small Kent village, home to a reported 12-16 ghosts.
• The Tower of London: Home to many ghosts, including royalty and famous historical figures.
• All Saints Church, Fulham: Appeared in the 1976 horror film, The Omen.
• Hampton Court: Haunted by royal ghosts like Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII.
• Stonehenge: An ancient and mysterious pagan monument.
• Dunster Castle: Home to ghostly soldiers and where visitors feel an ominous presence.

Why not visit: Jay’s Grave – Dartmoor

Dartmoor folklore is filled with spooky tales of ghosts, pixies, headless horsemen and witchcraft, which lends the bleak, unforgiving landscape of the moors an even more sinister edge. There is one spot in particular that combines a scenic drive for motorists with tales of the supernatural, and that is Jay’s Grave.

Situated about a mile from the famous Hound Tor, there’s old burial mound situated by the road and which is believed to be the resting place of a suicide victim dating back to the 18th century. It has been a subject of numerous local legends for hundreds of years, with the spookiest tale involving passing motorists who have seen a kneeling figure beside the grave in the night.

So, there we have it, some fun and fantastic destinations for you and your family this half-term.

And, if you’re looking for any tips on how best to plan and prepare for road trips safely, then visit eurocarparts.com

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post The UK’s top spookiest road trips for your family appeared first on Checklists.

While electric cars are still relatively new to the market, with 80% of car sales are still being petrol or diesel, the production of EV has come along immensely and is set to only improve as more people make the switch. Hybrid cars are also another choice for people who aren’t ready to make the complete switch, which combines a combustion engine with electric power batteries.

With that said, here is a roundup of the best electric and hybrid cars on the market in terms of price, environmental impact, and lifespan.

1. Tesla Model 3

From £40,990

With their striking design and Elon Musk’s eccentric Twitter presence, Tesla’s are probably the most recognisable electric cars on the market today. However, there’s more to them than a flashy design and outspoken owner. With the standard Tesla Model 3 you can enjoy 0-60mph in just over five seconds or as little as three seconds with the Performance Model 3. There’s also a range of high-tech customisation options including auto lane change, enhanced autopilot, and self-driving capability.

The downside is the high price tag. At £40,990 for the standard Model 3 this is the second most expensive car included in the list and this is one of the cheaper models, a Model S will set you back £83,980 minimum. However, while a Tesla may seem out of your price range now it won’t be forever. The company have announced they are working on an affordable hatchback Model 3, unfortunately there is no official price or release date as of yet.

Find out more at tesla.com

2. Fiat 500

From £25,495 (hatchback) and £30,495 (cabrio)

The easily recognisable Fiat 500 is well known for its stylish design and compact size. It’s now had a revamp as an electric car for the environmentally conscious, equipped with either a 15-mile range or a 42kWh battery that gives it a 199-mile range which places it well amongst its competitors. The Fiat 500 can be charged publicly or at home and if you choose to upgrade to a charging station Wallbox the car can be recharged in less than 4 hours.

The Fiat 500 comes with an optional connected wall box for to make at home charging much simpler. What’s more, you can charge the car remotely through the use of Bluetooth, 4G and Wi-Fi. With its compact size will make it easy to drive and par around cities. However, the downside is also the size. Like it’s engine powered cousins; the three-door electric 500 is on the small side in terms of back seats and boot space.

Find out more at fiat.co.uk

3. Nissan Leaf

From £25,995

One of the first popular electric cars, the Nissan Leaf has been one of the best-sellers since it arrived on the market and remains a strong choice for EV buyers. The standard Nissan Leaf can drive around 168 miles between charging or 239 between charging for a Leaf e+. Quick time charge from 20 to 80% is 60 minutes for the Leaf and 90 for the Leaf e+ due to having a larger battery.

Charging the Leaf from home will cost you around £5.76 which works out at 3p per mile compared to a petrol which costs around 12p per mile. What’s more, charging at off-peak times is cheaper – costing around £4 to charge overnight. The Leaf comes with Sat-nav, smartphone mirroring and a digital driver’s display as standard as well as four different driving modes. As a five-door car, the Nissan Leaf will be more comfortable for backseat passengers compared to the Fiat 500 or Mini, making it the choice for carrying more people.

Find out more at nissan.co.uk

4. Volkswagen ID.3

From £32,300

With its simple and classic design, the Volkswagen ID.3 is commonly billed as the electric version of the Golf. Well rounded, compact, and clean looking the five-door ID.3 combines the space smaller cars lack without looking oversized and clunky.

Setting the ID.3 aside from its counterparts is the choice in battery size. The options of small, medium, and large battery sizes allows customers to cater the car to their driving needs. The ID.3 can reach 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds and has a maximum speed of 99 mph meaning the VW is well placed amongst its competitors in terms of speed and acceleration. One of the strongest features of the ID.3 is the range. With up to 336 miles of range on a completely charged battery, depending on size, and driving conditions, makes the car a strong and well-rounded choice for an electric vehicle.

Find out more at volkswagen.co.uk

5. Renault Zoe

From £27,595

The Renault Zoe is another solid choice for a midrange electric car. The car has a good range. With a 52-kWh capacity, the battery in Zoe electric allows you to drive up to 245 miles between charges, making the car suitable for both daily commutes and longer trips. Using a public charger, the Zoe can reach 75 miles of range within one hour or 90 miles in 30 minutes using a DC 50kW rapid charger. The car comes with 5 years (or 100,000 miles) warranty.

The Zoe is a great and more affordable option but like the Fiat 500, and many other three door cars, it doesn’t have great backseat space. It’ll be fine for a school run but three adults would struggle to fit in the back.

Find out more at renault.co.uk

6. Mini Electric

7. KIA Soul

From £33,795

KIA’s latest remake of their Soul model shows a vast improvement on their original model, both in style and spec. The biggest selling point for the newest KIA Soul is the improved range. With drivers being able to get 280 miles of driving on a single charge thanks to the improved 64 kWh Lithium-ion battery pack the new KIA Soul sees an improved range of around 150 miles.

The Soul also has around 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds and features such as smart cruise control and lane follow assist to improve the driving experience. Style wise, the KIA is a large, spacious five door SUV suited for families. With reviewers highlighting how the Soul is easy to drive despite its large size, the car is a strong choice and shows KIA’s commitment to improving their electric vehicles.

Find out more at kia.com

8. Toyota Prius Active

From £24,880

The Prius has definitely cemented itself in history being of the most popular petrol-electric car. As a hybrid the Prius uses an internal combustion engine with an electric motor, making it the midpoint between petrol/diesel cars and electric.

The Prius comes with five doors, a 0-62 mph in just over 13 seconds and low running CO2 emissions. Toyota says the Prius battery will last between 100,000-150,000 miles or between 8-10 years. Equipped with a 1.8 petrol hybrid, automatic engine and front wheel drive the Prius is a neat car meaning there’s no wonder it’s widely popular. The only downside is that as a hybrid, the Prius is not eligible for the government EV grant.

Find out more at toyota.co.uk

9. BMW iX3

From £55,850  

With the latest BMW electric vehicle release developers have focused on giving the car a cosmetic uplift. Unlike its predecessor the i3 which was unusual and clunky looking, the newer iX3 looks almost identical to the petrol versions. Blending the pros of having an electric vehicle while looking no different to a regular petrol BMW SUV, the iX3 is for those who want an electric car without looking as though they do.

Equipped with a 279-mile range per charge and 0-62 mph in 6.8 seconds, the iX3 is a solid and practical choice for drivers. The car comes with a spacious interior as well as driving and parking assist built in (these include steering and lane control, cruise control, speed limit assist). The BMW also comes with comfort and sport programmes allowing you to adjust any given driving situation, the sport edition has the noise and pitch similar to what a petrol engine would create.

Find out more at bmw.co.uk

10. Porsche Taycan 4S

From £83,580

Busting the myth that electric cars are plainly practical, the Porsche Taycan 4S is the upmarket choice for an electric vehicle. The Taycan, like Tesla, is a luxury car for the environmentally conscious. With an impressive 254-mile range, dependant on driving conditions, the performance battery makes the Porsche suitable for long haul journeys.

Mixing supercar with practicality, the Taycan is a four-wheel drive and a low centre of gravity. While the Taycan is much heavier than its petrol cousins due to battery weight, a larger battery is needed for the long range, the weight is focused low down in order to preserve the car’s agility. Equipped with safety tech, such as lane assistance and emergency braking as well as an eight-year warranty for the battery. In terms of charging, Porsche provide a RFID card or app, allowing users access to a network of Porsche charging centres.

Unsurprisingly, the biggest negative with the Porsche Taycan is the price. If the Taycan is in your price range it’s a good option, but it’s also worth considering that the Tesla has similar features for a lower price.

Find out more at porsche.com

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