Europe is peppered with ancient castles, many of them wonderfully fairy-tale in appearance. Others, however, are possessed of a more mystical appeal, with some hiding dark secrets and a violent past.

Red tape, soaring costs and Nimbys – it’s no wonder Britain’s dreams of modern infrastructure never seem to leave the station ...

Swerve the beaten track and and discover some of the quiet but sensational holiday locations for a getaway this year, says ...