TAB2527-Enter-here.png

Take a Break – Issue 27

TAB2526-Enter-here.png

Take a Break – Issue 26

Screenshot-2025-07-03-at-16.44.45.png

MAKE ME A WINNER: WIN £542,000!

FIC2507-Enter-here.png

Fiction Feast – Issue 7

TSS2506-July-Enter-here.png

Take a Break July

TSS2505-June-Answers-Cover.png

Take a Break June Answers

TAB2523-Enter-here.png

Take a Break – Issue 23

FIC2506-Enter-here.png

Fiction Feast – Issue 6

TAB2510-Answers-Cover.png

Take a Break Issue 10 Answers

welcome-offer-1920x1080-1.jpg

Take a Break Bingo is welcoming you with a £50 bingo bonus!

TAB_27_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 27’s cover stories

TAB_26_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 26’s cover stories

TAB_24_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 24’s cover stories

TAB_19_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 19’s cover stories

TAB_18_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 18’s cover stories

TAB_13_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 13’s cover stories

TAB_11_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 11’s cover stories

TAB_10_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 10’s cover stories

TAB_09_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 9’s cover stories

TAB_07_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 7’s cover stories

TAB_06_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 6’s

TAB_05_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 5’s cover stories

TAB_04_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 4’s cover stories

TAB_03_COVER_lowres_pdf.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 3’s cover stories

TAB_02_COVER_lowres_pdf_1.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 2’s cover stories

TAB_01_COVER_lowres_pdf_1.jpg

Sneak peek at issue 1’s cover stories

Homepage

Real Life

Stories

Advertorial

Craft

latest

Competitions

Latest Competitions

Winners

Answers

Lifestyle

Health

Brainwaves

Savers

Food & Recipes

Preview Only

Staging Mode

Holidays

Take a Break Holidays

Magazine

Latest Issue

Take a Break Makes

Take a Break Pets

Pets

Dogs

Cats

Advice

Care

brainwaves

2021 Issues

2022 Issues

2023 Issues

Apple Portal

Top Tips

SocialMobility.jpg

It's time to talk about CLASS...

best-cat-tracker-1.jpg

Keep your cats safe with the best cat trackers on the market

Closing date for issue 27 is midnight 21 July 2025. Only one entry per person


<div class="competition-form">
  <form action="https://competitionform.bauersecure.com/formhandler.php" method="post" accept-charset="UTF-8" name="competition-form" onsubmit="return validateCompetitionForm()">


        <input type="hidden" name="brand_code" value="TAB" />
        <input type="hidden" name="issue_number" value="TAB2527" />
        <input type="hidden" name="channel" value="web" />


        <fieldset class="competition-form-details">
          <legend>Your Details</legend>
          <div>
            <label for="first_name" required >First name</label>
            <input type="text" id="first_name" name="first_name" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="name fname" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="last_name" required >Last name</label>
            <input type="text" id="last_name" name="last_name" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="name lname" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="email" required >Email</label>
            <input type="email" id="email" name="email" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="email" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="phone">Phone</label>
            <input type="text" id="phone" name="phone" value="" size="40" maxlength="128"  pattern="[0-9 \+]{10,}" autocomplete="tel" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="address_1" required>Address: Building and street</label>
            <input type="text" id="address_1" name="address_1" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="shipping address-line1"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="address_2">Address: Area</label>
            <input type="text" id="address_2" name="address_2" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" autocomplete="shipping address-line2"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="city" required >Address: Town or city</label>
            <input type="text" id="city" name="city" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="shipping address-level2"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="state">Address: County</label>
            <input type="text" id="state" name="state" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" autocomplete="shipping address-level1"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="postcode" required >Address: Postcode <sub>(UK: Please include space. ROI: Please enter Eire)</sub></label>
            <input type="text" id="postcode" name="postcode" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required pattern="([a-zA-Z0-9]{2,4} [a-zA-Z0-9]{3,4}|[eE][iI][rR][eE]) ?" autocomplete="shipping postal-code"/>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-answers">
          <legend>Competition Answers</legend>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 3</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108317">10 x £20 4-Squared</label>
              <input type="text" id="108317" name="108317" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 5</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108307">10 x £20 Mega Snap</label>
              <input type="text" id="108307" name="108307" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 12</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108287">£1000 Big Bonanza</label>
              <input type="text" id="108287" name="108287" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 14</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108207">2 x £100 And Then Sum</label>
              <input type="text" id="108207" name="108207" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 14</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108247">2 x £100 Now 4 Something Different</label>
              <input type="text" id="108247" name="108247" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 20</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108227">2 x £100 Find The Money!</label>
              <input type="text" id="108227" name="108227" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 22</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108257">£1500 Big Relax</label>
              <input type="text" id="108257" name="108257" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 28</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108237">2 x £100 Code Breaker</label>
              <input type="text" id="108237" name="108237" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 38</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108217">2 x £100 Question Time</label>
              <input type="text" id="108217" name="108217" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 43</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108277">£1500 cash</label>
              <input type="text" id="108277" name="108277" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 44</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108327">2 x £100 Picture Pointer</label>
              <input type="text" id="108327" name="108327" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 46</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108267">10 x £20 Starscope</label>
              <input type="text" id="108267" name="108267" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 47</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108337">2 x £200 Supermarket Spree</label>
              <input type="text" id="108337" name="108337" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 50</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108297">£6000 Big Cash Stash</label>
              <input type="text" id="108297" name="108297" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-optins">
          <legend>More Competitions, Offers and News</legend>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="brand_opt_in" name="brand_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="brand_opt_in">Opt in to Take a Break Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="group_opt_in" name="group_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="group_opt_in">Opt in to Bauer (publisher of "Take a Break") Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="partner_opt_in" name="partner_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="partner_opt_in">Opt in to Partner Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-legal">
          <legend>Competition Terms & Conditions</legend>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="terms_and_conditions" name="terms_and_conditions" value="accepted" required />
            <label for="terms_and_conditions" required >Tick to confirm that you have read and accepted our <a href="http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html" target="_blank">competition terms and conditions</a></label>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <input type="submit" name="submit" value="Enter" />
    </form>
</div>


Closing date for issue 26 is midnight 14 July 2025. Only one entry per person


<div class="competition-form">
  <form action="https://competitionform.bauersecure.com/formhandler.php" method="post" accept-charset="UTF-8" name="competition-form" onsubmit="return validateCompetitionForm()">


        <input type="hidden" name="brand_code" value="TAB" />
        <input type="hidden" name="issue_number" value="TAB2526" />
        <input type="hidden" name="channel" value="web" />


        <fieldset class="competition-form-details">
          <legend>Your Details</legend>
          <div>
            <label for="first_name" required >First name</label>
            <input type="text" id="first_name" name="first_name" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="name fname" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="last_name" required >Last name</label>
            <input type="text" id="last_name" name="last_name" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="name lname" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="email" required >Email</label>
            <input type="email" id="email" name="email" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="email" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="phone">Phone</label>
            <input type="text" id="phone" name="phone" value="" size="40" maxlength="128"  pattern="[0-9 \+]{10,}" autocomplete="tel" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="address_1" required>Address: Building and street</label>
            <input type="text" id="address_1" name="address_1" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="shipping address-line1"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="address_2">Address: Area</label>
            <input type="text" id="address_2" name="address_2" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" autocomplete="shipping address-line2"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="city" required >Address: Town or city</label>
            <input type="text" id="city" name="city" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="shipping address-level2"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="state">Address: County</label>
            <input type="text" id="state" name="state" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" autocomplete="shipping address-level1"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="postcode" required >Address: Postcode <sub>(UK: Please include space. ROI: Please enter Eire)</sub></label>
            <input type="text" id="postcode" name="postcode" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required pattern="([a-zA-Z0-9]{2,4} [a-zA-Z0-9]{3,4}|[eE][iI][rR][eE]) ?" autocomplete="shipping postal-code"/>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-answers">
          <legend>Competition Answers</legend>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 3</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108316">10 x £20 4-Squared</label>
              <input type="text" id="108316" name="108316" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 5</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108306">10 x £20 Mega Snap</label>
              <input type="text" id="108306" name="108306" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 12</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108286">£1000 Big Bonanza</label>
              <input type="text" id="108286" name="108286" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 14</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108206">2 x £100 And Then Sum</label>
              <input type="text" id="108206" name="108206" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 14</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108246">2 x £100 Now 4 Something Different</label>
              <input type="text" id="108246" name="108246" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 20</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108226">2 x £100 Find The Money!</label>
              <input type="text" id="108226" name="108226" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 22</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108256">£1500 Big Relax</label>
              <input type="text" id="108256" name="108256" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 28</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108236">2 x £100 Code Breaker</label>
              <input type="text" id="108236" name="108236" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 38</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108216">2 x £100 Question Time</label>
              <input type="text" id="108216" name="108216" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 43</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108276">£1500 cash</label>
              <input type="text" id="108276" name="108276" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 44</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108326">2 x £100 Picture Pointer</label>
              <input type="text" id="108326" name="108326" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 46</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108266">10 x £20 Starscope</label>
              <input type="text" id="108266" name="108266" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 47</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108336">2 x £200 Supermarket Spree</label>
              <input type="text" id="108336" name="108336" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 50</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="108296">£5500 Big Cash Stash</label>
              <input type="text" id="108296" name="108296" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-optins">
          <legend>More Competitions, Offers and News</legend>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="brand_opt_in" name="brand_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="brand_opt_in">Opt in to Take a Break Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="group_opt_in" name="group_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="group_opt_in">Opt in to Bauer (publisher of "Take a Break") Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="partner_opt_in" name="partner_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="partner_opt_in">Opt in to Partner Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-legal">
          <legend>Competition Terms & Conditions</legend>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="terms_and_conditions" name="terms_and_conditions" value="accepted" required />
            <label for="terms_and_conditions" required >Tick to confirm that you have read and accepted our <a href="http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html" target="_blank">competition terms and conditions</a></label>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <input type="submit" name="submit" value="Enter" />
    </form>
</div>


Based on the beloved French comic book series Asterix, this theme park, located 40 minutes from Paris, will appeal to kids and nostalgic adults alike. Asterix tells the story of a Gaulish village which, thanks to a magic potion that enhances strength, resists the forces of Julius Caesar's Roman Republic Army. The story has been revived for a modern audience with a new animated series on Netflix, but you don't need to be a fan (I knew nothing about Asterix prior to my visit) to enjoy this charming theme park, which opened in 1989. Spanning 83 acres, it is home to some of Europe's best rollercoasters, including the record-breaking Toutatis, and boasts unique accommodation options. If you're looking for a theme-park experience that has something to offer all ages and allows you to sample a taste of French culture, then Parc Astérix is the place for you.

I visited with my two young sons, Odhran, 9, and Reuben, 6, for a two-night break over the May half term holidays. We visited with a group that included a toddler and teens. Parc Astérix typically opens in early April and closes early January. Opening hours vary depending on the season. Typical opening hours are 10am-6pm or 7pm, but from 12th July until the end of August, the theme park is open 10am to 10pm. But there's more on offer than long summer evenings of thrills. During the Halloween season, from 4th October - 11th November 2025, the park will be transformed into a show around monsters and terrifying creatures, as part of its Fear on the Park event, with scary late nights running from 7pm to 1am. And from 20th December to 4th January, the park hosts a festive event, inviting you to discover a Gallic Christmas. So it's always a good time to visit.

There are 50 attractions and shows on offer, and the park is divided into six areas, inviting you to journey back in time to the cartoon worlds of Asterix, his best friend Obelix, and their fellow Gauls. The areas include - Gaul, The Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, Egypt, the Vikings, and Through Time. If you're visiting with little ones, there are plenty of rides and activities for kids under five to enjoy. Take a short trip among the centuries old oak trees on a little train ride, ride the mini carousel, take flight on the mini plane ride, or get splashed on a little water ride.

I had Reuben measured when we entered the park, and he was given a wristband to show that he was scraping in at 1.2m - this saved him having to get his height checked at each ride. Reaching this milestone, he was ecstatic to be able to go on more thrill rides than he's ever been on at a theme park. A little thrill-seeker, he's always looked longingly at chair swings that go high into the air. At other attractions, we've found the height restrictions on these to be a bit arbitrary. So Reuben was delighted to find that he could ride on Les Chaises Volantes - chair swings that whipped round at speed and lifted him high into the air.

But he was beside himself with excitement when he discovered that he was the right height requirement to ascend 40 metres into the air on La Tour De Numérobis - you're in for a blustery ride on this chair swing, which offers a view over the whole park. I had to take my glasses off for fear they'd blow off my face. Reuben also loved the thrill of Discobélix - where you whirl around on a giant disk that swings back and forth towards a cauldron that releases a flame so hot you can feel the heat on your face as you're hurled up towards it.

Meanwhile, Odhran was getting his thrills on Tonnerre 2 Zeus, but I found this wooden rollercoaster too rickety for a second ride - my head rattled enough first time round. Le Cheval de Troie, which spins you 12m above ground on a magic carpet ride, was another of Odhran's favourites. He ran towards Oziris, one of the park's biggest thrill rides, but changed his mind at the last minute. I hopped on, and enjoyed the loops, twists and hairpin turns of this exhilarating ride.

There are also lots of fun shows at Asterix that are not to be missed. We particularly enjoyed Les Plongeons De L'Olympe. In honour of Zeus, four Roman and Greek athletes compete in a diving competition. I won't give too much away, but it's a hair-raising spectacle.

We felt smug in our wise decision to ride on Menhir Express at the end the day. During the summer months, you might appreciate the opportunity to get a cool soak on this fun log flume ride, but no amount of time in one of the coin-operated heated booths afterwards was going to get us comfortably dry. Ponchos at the ready for this ride! Or, like us, you can leave the water rides until the end of the day and then make your way straight back to the nearby hotel to change.

There were other low-key enjoyable moments, such as sipping on a refreshing beer, while the kids chased each other round one of the playgrounds. We loved visiting the Asterix village, the meet and greets with characters, and the daily parade.

We had two days to fully explore Parc Astérix, and it's a park that is wonderfully themed and really is suitable for all ages.

We'll go so far as to say this was our favourite attraction at Parc Astérix, as kids only need to be 100cm to ride with an adult, so it's a great thrill rollercoaster for families. We rode on Pegasus Express four times during our visit to Parc Astérix. We loved the theatre of coming face to face with Medusa before being flung backwards along the track. It's replaced The Dragon rollercoaster at :a[Legoland]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/legoland-family-break/' } and Runaway Mine Train at :a[Alton Towers]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/alton-towers-theme-park-review-how-to-make-the-most-of-your-visit/' } (which we love!) as our new favourite family-friendly coaster.

Reaching a height of 51 metres, and a speed of more than 66mph, Toutatis is the fastest multi-launch coaster in France. It boasts a world record of 23 instances of airtime - where riders experience a floating sensation as their bodies momentarily lift from their seats. This steel coaster attracts thrill-seekers from around the world. I loved the high powered launch, the steep climbs and the sensation of suddenly being propelled backwards. Mostly, I appreciated being able to enjoy the thrill without getting rattled around, as this is a nice smooth experience. It's also a decent ride time, which makes it worth the queue. You can purchase various fast track options at Parc Astérix, but on the day of our visit, the wait for Toutatis at around midday was only 15 minutes. At busiest times, you might be queuing for 45 minutes. But even that is significantly shorter than the queue times reached for thrill rides at other theme parks, such as :a[Alton Towers]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/alton-towers-hotel-review/' }. Visitors must be at least 1.3m to ride on Toutatis.

Odhran and Reuben held their arms out like they were flying, on this chair ride that lifted them 10m above the ground. While they also loved the 40m high chair ride, we're choosing Les Chaises Volantes as one of our top three rides at Parc Asterix for the fact that it's the first high chair ride Reuben has been tall enough to go on, and the boys enjoyed it so much, they went on it four or five times during our two day visit to the park.

There are three hotels to choose from for a :a[family short break]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/butlins-bognor-regis-review-its-launched-all-inclusive-breaks-and-opened-a-huge-new-15m-attraction-we-visited-and-here-are-our-thoughts/' } - Les Trois Hiboux, La Cité Suspendue, and Les Quais De Lutèce. They are all a short walking distance to the park, and guests can enjoy 30 minutes early access.

Designed to resemble the ancient city of Lutetia (a Gallo-Roman town and predecessor of modern-day Paris) on the banks of the Seine, Les Quais De Lutèce is a magical setting. It's like walking on to a movie set, and the boys loved chasing each other across the wooden bridges and along the little river that runs through this charming recreation of a Roman town.

Alternatively, guests can enjoy an enchanted :a[woodland stay]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/center-parcs-adventure-nets/' } at La Cité Suspendue - The Hanging City. We nested at Les Trois Hiboux - The Three Owls, where we enjoyed the elegant theming. Our room had a cosy cabin feel, and a little balcony, looking out on to trees for a sense of peace and tranquility. The boys enjoyed their separate bunk bed area.

There was plenty of wardrobe space for unpacking bags, and free wifi. But there was no mini-fridge or kettle in the room, and there was no air-conditioning - it's only in hindsight that I realised this, as it wasn't too hot during our stay so we didn't need it. But there was a big powerful fan in the wardrobe, as I used this to try and dry clothes after the water rides. My bed was super comfy and it might sound like a small thing, but I really appreciated the heavy curtains that allowed for a good night's sleep without the light creeping into the room in the early hours of the morning.

Guests at each of the three hotels can enjoy :a[character meet-and-greets]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/drayton-manor-review/' } before breakfast, and Reuben was quick to jump in line. Another highlight of our stay was the games room at Les Trois Hiboux. I think these might be classic French games, as we'd never come across them before. One involved tossing small metal disks into holes on a wooden table to try and get the highest score, with bonus points if you got it through the mouth of a metal frog, sat on the board. Another game involved carefully manoeuvring two pieces of string to guide a small wooden ball along a wiggly path to the top of the board, without dropping it. This was harder than it looked! The boys also enjoyed playing table tennis outside. You have to give your room number at the reception desk in order to get a loan of the equipment to play these games.

Meanwhile, the lounge at the back of the hotel lobby was a lovely place to relax with a chilled wine or a tasty cocktail at the end of a day in the park.

Whether you're after yoghurt and cereal, pastries and pancakes, or a hearty cooked breakfast, the buffet at Les Trois Hiboux had plenty on offer to fill hungry tummies before hitting the park. I was pleased to see self-service juice and hot drinks machines with a variety of tea bags on offer, as I can't start my day without at least two cups of English Breakfast tea. Odhran and Reuben loved stacking up pancakes and smothering them in Nutella. Breakfast is including in the price of the stay.

We also enjoyed the dinner buffet at Les Trois Hiboux, where there was a variety of fish, meat, pasta, vegetables and salads on offer. The boys loved the novelty of a buffet and being able to come and go and try a little of this and a little of that. The mini doughnuts and the self-serve ice-cream machine, with a choice of sweet toppings, were a hit! For a family of two adults and two kids (aged 3-11) the dinner buffet will cost around £85 in total.

During our visit, we also enjoyed an evening all-you-can-eat buffet meal at Les Berges De Seine at Les Quais De Lutèce, where there was a huge selection of food on offer. There was lots of seafood, a massive cheese station, and a large dessert counter. There were even snails, which the boys weren't brave enough to sample, but enjoyed hiding on each other's plate.

During our stay we also visited Le Cirque, within the theme park grounds for lunch. This is an all-you-can-eat buffet in the unique setting of a circus big top. This costs around £30 for an adult, and close to £11 for a child. The boys got value for money at the sweetie counter alone, where their eyes nearly popped out of their heads when they saw the giant jars filled with marshmallows and jellies. Odhran piled his plate so high with sweets that I had to wrap a couple of handfuls in a napkin for later! They also enjoyed the variety of fresh fruit on offer.

As a vegetarian, who doesn't eat fish, I found myself filling my plate with a somewhat odd combination of dauphinoise potatoes and green beans, alongside a slice of pizza, pasta salad and corn on the cob. But the food was tasty and I enjoy sampling of different flavours.

Whether you're after a buffet, a sandwich, or a fast food burgers and chips option, there are lots of food outlets within the theme park to suit all tastes and budgets. When it comes to snacks, you're looking at a cost of around £3 for a small bottle of water, around £3.50 for a soft drink and around £3.70 for an ice-lolly.

Budget airlines easyJet and Jet2 fly direct to Paris from the UK. But we travelled by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Gare du Nord. From here, a taxi will take about 30 minutes, and cost around £55 to £70. The best way to get to Parc Astérix by public transport is to take the RER B from Gare du Nord, and get off at the stop Aéroport Charles De Gaulle 1.

At the airport, the park operates a shuttle that runs every 30 minutes every day the park is open. Staff at bus information will be able to guide you. A single ticket costs under a tenner. Free for under 3s.

Find out more about your options in how to get to the park :a[here]{href='https://www.parcasterix.fr/en/infos-pratiques/getting-park' }

One night, plus theme park entry tickets, costs from £57 per person for a stay at Les Trois Hiboux, based on two adults and two children sharing. Buffet breakfast is included. Book :a[here]{href='https://www.parcasterix.fr/en/offres/sejours' }

Parc Astérix has such a unique identity and we loved the theming of this park - the attention to detail and the character meet-and-greets and parade. The accommodation does that rare thing for a theme park, of catering not only for kids but also considering the comfort of parents. It steers away from garish decoration and instead offers an experience that feels tranquil and relaxing. The bar at our hotel was a cosy setting that offered a selection of lovely wines and cocktails. It was a place to sit back and chill out, and the games room and outside table tennis helped to bring the sense of a :a[family break]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/we-went-on-our-first-haven-holiday-if-youre-thinking-of-booking-heres-everything-you-need-to-know/' } designed for everyone to unwind. When it came to the food offerings at Parc Astérix, it was refreshing to see more than the standard offerings of nuggets and chips, pizza and tomato pasta on the menu for kids. The boys enjoyed a varied selection of fish, meats and veg during our stay.

The theme park is easy to navigate and really does have plenty to offer all ages. It has world class rides and Pegasus Express and Toutatis are two of the best theme park rides we've experienced. Another thing we loved about this theme park is that we never lost the sense of being in :a[France]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/enjoy-a-family-holiday-on-the-french-riviera-for-less-than-the-cost-of-a-week-in-centre-parcs/' }. It maintains a French identity and the boys were throwing out any French words they'd learnt at school and asking me to check phrases on Google Translate. Parc Astérix is easily accessible with a shuttle bus service. So, keep an eye for low-cost flights or a deal on the Eurostar, as this world class theme park is a family break away the kids won't forget in a hurry.

Parc Astérix: This charming gem of a theme park near Paris offers a thrilling but relaxing alternative to Disney…

**Take a Break** has teamed up with **Win Happy** to bring you their iconic ‘MAKE ME A WINNER’ competition!

This week you have the chance to win an incredible **£542,000 cash prize**! It’s tax-free cash, and there’s a guaranteed winner every Friday!

Whether you want to clear your mortgage, take the holiday of a lifetime, or set yourself up for the rest of 2025 and beyond, this is your chance to make it happen.  
Entry is quick and easy, using the form below – and every entry has an equal chance of winning.

There's no special phrase or amount to remember, and you don't even have to pick up within five rings.

Simply answer your phone if Gemma Atkinson calls after the competition closes at 5pm on Friday, 11th July, and you will instantly win £542,000, paid directly to your bank account before the end of the day!

This competition closes on Friday, the 11th of July at 5pm. Good luck!

All the terms for this network competition can be found :a[here]{href='https://winhappy.com/campaign/MAKEMEAWINNER?utm_campaign=T&amp;C-page&amp;utm_source=TVC&amp;utm_medium=website' }

Looking for a fun and rewarding way to relax this summer while keeping your mind active? Look no further than our range of **:a[Puzzle Magazines]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/subscriptions/puzzle-magazines?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }**. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach, enjoying a peaceful moment in your garden, or simply taking a quiet break with a cup of tea, these magazines are the ideal companions for your summer downtime.

### :a[Take a Puzzle]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/take-a-puzzle-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Take a Puzzle offers an exciting mix of puzzles to suit every mood and skill level. From number puzzles, sudoku to word searches to logic challenges and codebreakers, there’s something for everyone. Whether you have just a few minutes or a leisurely hour to spare, you’ll always find the perfect puzzle waiting for you.

### :a[Take a Crossword]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/take-a-crossword-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

If crosswords are your favourite, Take a Crossword delivers a fantastic range of puzzles that will keep you hooked. From quick, light-hearted crosswords to more challenging cryptics, each issue is packed with clever clues and satisfying solves. It’s the perfect way to give your brain a workout without feeling pressured - just pure puzzle enjoyment.

### :a[Mega Monthly Wordsearch]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/mega-monthly-wordsearch-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Each issue is packed with Over 150 wordsearches, featuring a wide range of fun, seasonal themes. Wordsearches are more than just a fun pastime - they can help improve focus, boost memory, and give you a break from screens. It’s that perfect mix of mental stimulation and satisfaction, ideal for quiet mornings, sunny afternoons, or laid-back evenings.

### :a[Arrowwords]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/arrowwords-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Each issue is filled with clever arrowword puzzles that blend wordplay, trivia, and logical thinking. With a variety of difficulty levels - from quick wins to trickier challenges - Arrowwords offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned solver or just starting out, you’ll find plenty to enjoy with every puzzle. Designed to fit seamlessly into your day, Arrowwords makes the perfect screen-free break.

### :a[Picture Arrowwords]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/picture-arrowwords-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Each issue is full of arrowwords with a visual twist, using picture clues to keep things fresh and interesting from start to finish. And there’s more than just a good challenge waiting. Every issue gives you the chance to win a share of £3000 in cash prizes, so you could end up with more than just a completed grid.

There's a chance to win **CASH prizes** in every issue of our Puzzle Magazines! Plus, get **FREE UK delivery** straight to your door. Enjoy our summer offer and receive **3 issues for just £6** today!

## :a[Click here to see more]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/subscriptions/puzzle-magazines?utm_source=takeabreak&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Your summer puzzle companions are here!

**_Here's a sneak peek at issue 27's cover stories_**

Closing date for issue 7 is midnight 7th August 2025. Only one entry per person.


<div class="competition-form">
  <form action="https://competitionform.bauersecure.com/formhandler.php" method="post" accept-charset="UTF-8" name="competition-form" onsubmit="return validateCompetitionForm()">


        <input type="hidden" name="brand_code" value="FIC" />
        <input type="hidden" name="issue_number" value="FIC2507" />
        <input type="hidden" name="channel" value="web" />


        <fieldset class="competition-form-details">
          <legend>Your Details</legend>
          <div>
            <label for="first_name" required >First name</label>
            <input type="text" id="first_name" name="first_name" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="name fname" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="last_name" required >Last name</label>
            <input type="text" id="last_name" name="last_name" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="name lname" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="email" required >Email</label>
            <input type="email" id="email" name="email" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="email" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="phone">Phone</label>
            <input type="text" id="phone" name="phone" value="" size="40" maxlength="128"  pattern="[0-9 \+]{10,}" autocomplete="tel" />
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="address_1" required>Address: Building and street</label>
            <input type="text" id="address_1" name="address_1" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="shipping address-line1"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="address_2">Address: Area</label>
            <input type="text" id="address_2" name="address_2" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" autocomplete="shipping address-line2"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="city" required >Address: Town or city</label>
            <input type="text" id="city" name="city" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required autocomplete="shipping address-level2"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="state">Address: County</label>
            <input type="text" id="state" name="state" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" autocomplete="shipping address-level1"/>
          </div>
          <div>
            <label for="postcode" required >Address: Postcode <sub>(UK: Please include space. ROI: Please enter Eire)</sub></label>
            <input type="text" id="postcode" name="postcode" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" required pattern="([a-zA-Z0-9]{2,4} [a-zA-Z0-9]{3,4}|[eE][iI][rR][eE]) ?" autocomplete="shipping postal-code"/>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-answers">
          <legend>Competition Answers</legend>


          <fieldset>
            <legend>Page 15</legend>
            <div>
              <label for="109152">Picture Pointer</label>
              <input type="text" id="109152" name="109152" value="" size="40" maxlength="128" />
            </div>
          </fieldset>


        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-optins">
          <legend>More Competitions, Offers and News</legend>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="brand_opt_in" name="brand_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="brand_opt_in">Opt in to Fiction Feast Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="group_opt_in" name="group_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="group_opt_in">Opt in to Bauer (publisher of "Fiction Feast") Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="partner_opt_in" name="partner_opt_in" value="true" />
            <label for="partner_opt_in">Opt in to Partner Competitions, Offers and News alerts (You can opt out again at any time)</label>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <fieldset class="competition-form-legal">
          <legend>Competition Terms & Conditions</legend>
          <div>
            <input type="checkbox" id="terms_and_conditions" name="terms_and_conditions" value="accepted" required />
            <label for="terms_and_conditions" required >Tick to confirm that you have read and accepted our <a href="http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html" target="_blank">competition terms and conditions</a></label>
          </div>
        </fieldset>
        <input type="submit" name="submit" value="Enter" />
    </form>
</div>



Bounce, balance, leap and climb, as family adventures are taken to new heights at Center Parcs.

An exciting :a[treetop experience]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/we-visited-the-world-famous-gardens-where-you-can-take-a-walk-through-the-trees-59-feet-off-the-ground/' } has opened today (1 July) among the redwood canopy of the Longleat holiday park.

Adventure Nets features a series of treehouses connected by a network of suspended nets, seven metres in the air.

Fun-seekers, who love an :a[adventure playground]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/blenheim-palace-review-everything-you-need-to-know-when-visiting-this-unesco-world-heritage-site-with-kids/' } can navigate their way through tunnels, rope bridges, and a trampoline area.

The course also includes TAG Active technology, which allows guests to ‘tag’ beacons around the course and play TAG games such as treasure hunts during their hour-long session.

Sarah Deverill, Village Director at Center Parcs, said: 'We're thrilled to launch our first-ever Adventure Nets attraction, which will allow kids to connect with nature in a daring way, building their confidence and sense of adventure, immersed amongst the stunning redwood at Longleat Forest.'

This fun :a[outdoor adventure activity]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/holidays/take-a-break-holidays/throw-yourself-into-an-adrenaline-fuelled-day-out-read-our-full-review-of-gripped-here/' } is available to pre-book for all Longleat Forest guests and is available for children aged three years old and over.

Let the treetop adventure score battle begin!

Center Parcs has launched a new treetop family activity in time for the summer holidays…

Our book club special is the unmissable new edge-of-your seat thriller from the bestselling author of _The Mother_ and _The Dream Home_. You can get a MONEY OFF voucher for _The Daughter_ by T.M. Logan in this week's Take a Break (issue 27), ON SALE NOW!

Lauren can't wait to see her daughter again, to pick her up from university at the end of her first term. But when she arrives at her hall and knocks on the door to her room, a stranger opens it.

At first, Lauren thinks she must have the wrong room, or the wrong floor. Maybe even the wrong building.

But she soon realises the truth: Evie's not there. She hasn't been there for weeks. _So where is she?_

Lauren's family find themselves in a desperate race against time as one terrifying moment unravels into a living nightmare.

_The Daughter by T.M. Logan_ is available now in paperback priced £9.99 from Bonnier Books, but you can pick up the book for £5 at Morrisons with the £1 off voucher in this week's Take a Break, ON SALE NOW!

Take a Break BOOK CLUB special offer!

Flicking through the job adverts, I sighed.

For five years, I’d been working my way up the career ladder in marketing.  
But office life wasn’t for me — I hated the mundane routine and the poor pay.  
I’ll apply for this one, I thought, clicking on a marketing manager role.  
A few weeks later, I made my way to their office for my first day.  
I was introduced to the team and my line manager.  
Everyone was nice and I started getting to grips with my new role.  
But by day two, I was bored.  
‘I’m going upstairs to film some bits,’ I said to my mum as  I arrived home.  
As well as my job, I’d recently started an OnlyFans account after seeing girls online talking about earning £15,000 a month.  
It began as a way to earn some extra money so I could finally move out of my family home, and start saving for a house.  
But I loved it.  
Stripping down to nothing, I snapped a few pics and uploaded them on the site.  
The likes and comments flooded in, and soon so did the requests for pay per view videos.

You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, one fan wrote.  
OnlyFans felt like such a safe space for me, everyone was lovely and never sleazy.  
My fans made me feel confident and empowered.  
‘I wish I could do OnlyFans full-time,’ I told a friend.  
‘It’s such a risk, Annie. Give the new job a bit longer before you make any decisions,’ she suggested.  
I knew they were right.  
The next day, my fifth in the new job, I was sat at my desk clicking though spreadsheets when an email pinged in my inbox.  
Are you making any money through other businesses? the HR department had asked.  
I’d had a bikini brand a few years before, but I’d shut it down.  
And I didn’t consider OnlyFans a business, I wasn’t even making enough to pay tax, so I said no.  
Just two hours later, another email arrived.  
Your contract has been terminated, the subject line read.  
Clicking on the email, I read that the company believed I’d falsely advertised myself to them, and explained they’d found nude photos and explicit videos of me online, which was against their company policy.  
They’d even attached a screenshot of my OnlyFans account — a direct violation of OnlyFans’ terms.  
At first, I was angry.  
How dare they go behind my back! I thought.  
My account was something I did outside of work, I’d never let it impact my job.  
But the anger quickly dissipated and a wave of relief washed over me.

Now I could do what I really wanted and go full-time with  my OnlyFans.  
I felt free.  
‘I’m going for it!’ I texted my friend.  
Since then, my OnlyFans account has really taken off.  
I have more than 7,000  loyal subscribers who love  my content.  
In my first month, I made £15,000.  
OnlyFans isn’t my long-term plan, but for now, I’m loving it.  
My followers range from 18-year-olds to 70-year-olds, who are all respectful and kind.  
I make around £100,000 a month, way more than I  could have possibly earned  in marketing.  
And I’m never bored with my job any more.  
Although I was angry at  the time, I’m now glad I got  fired, because it’s allowed me to do what I always wanted to do.

You’re FIRED! When work found out about my side hustle, they let me go. But it gave me the freedom to follow my dreams…

**_Time with our daughter Violet was running out, and there was a memorable moment we needed to share before it was too late.  By Emily Taylor, 30_**

My partner James  took my hand as  we got ready to have another glimpse of our baby on screen.

We already had two boys, Theo and Logan, and now I was 20 weeks pregnant with their baby sister.  
‘How’s she doing?’ James asked.  
There was a pause and then the doctor said: ‘Your baby has a potential brain abnormality.’  
In an instant, all the excitement we’d felt when entering the room, evaporated.  
‘She’ll be OK, won’t she?’ James asked.  
‘It’s too early to tell what the effects are, if there are any,’ he said. ‘But they appear to be mild.’  
As we left to go home, we clung to that word — mild.  
‘It’s probably nothing to worry about,’ I said.

I was closely monitored for the rest of the pregnancy, and at 38 weeks I went into hospital for a planned Caesarean.

When they placed  baby Violet on my chest, I felt a huge wave of love and relief.  
‘My precious little girl,’ I said, holding her.

We were kept in for two days while doctors monitored Violet. But despite their fears, she seemed fit and well, so they let us go home to Caerphilly, Gwent.  
Her big brothers were instantly besotted with her too, and we began to settle into life as a family of five.  
But over the next weeks, Violet ended up back in hospital twice — first with an infected saliva gland and then with bronchiolitis.

Although our little warrior bounced back both times, I began to notice a few things that worried me.  
One day, as I played with Violet, I noticed her eyes weren’t following my movements.  
Picking up a flashing toy,  I moved it around in front of her, but it made no difference.  
Her development seemed delayed compared to her brothers.  
‘The boys were both smiling by six weeks,’ I fretted to James when Violet was two months old.  
‘Maybe we should get her checked out,’ he agreed.  
We took her to the hospital where she underwent genetic testing, but the results were inconclusive.  
‘I still think something  isn’t right,’ I said anxiously.  
Over the next months, Violet was back and forth to hospital. First with Covid, and then with what the doctors thought were reflux issues.  
She was admitted again when her blood-oxygen levels dropped, causing severe episodes of sleep apnoea.  
Then, while she was in hospital, Violet caught chickenpox and had to be isolated.  
Although it was a wrench to be away from the boys, we needed to be by her side. So they went to stay with our parents while we remained  at the hospital.

But now, as we spoke to the doctor about everything our little fighter had been through in the eight months since she’d been born, it felt like someone was finally listening and trying to join the dots between all the seemingly different issues.  
And after further genetic tests, Violet was diagnosed with  a rare neurogenetic disorder called TBCK.  
‘There are only  100 cases worldwide.’ the doctor explained. ‘Violet is the first person in Wales ever to be diagnosed with it.’  
For a moment, I felt relieved to have a name for what was causing our little girl all these problems.  
Now, there’ll surely be  a clear way to treat it,  I thought.

But my relief quickly vanished when James asked: ‘What does it mean for Violet?’  
‘Unfortunately, it’s life-limiting,’  the doctor replied. ‘And Violet has a severe form of the condition.’  
‘How has this happened?’ I asked, tearfully.  
The doctor explained  that both James and I were carriers of the gene mutation that Violet had inherited.  
Our parents brought Theo and Logan to visit Violet.

They were still only six  and four, so we didn’t want to scare them, but I sat them down and said: ‘Violet is  very poorly.’  
My heart broke as I watched them gently cuddle and fuss over their baby sister.  
Over the next weeks, we sat with our little girl, talking to her and holding her hand.  
There were more tests while doctors tried to work out what they could do for her.  
But in the end, we had to accept her needs were  too complex.  
Anything they could try might only keep her alive for a little time, but likely cause her more suffering.

As she couldn’t remain on  a ventilator for much longer, we began talking about things we wanted to do,  like taking footprints and hand casts.  
Then James said: ‘Let’s  get married.’  
‘Are you serious?’ I replied.  
‘Of course,’ he said.  
We’d often thought about it, and I knew I couldn’t do it without Violet being there.  
So we spoke to the hospital, who threw themselves into planning  a little ceremony and reception for us there.  
Days later, we got married at the local register office. Then we headed to the hospital where they’d dressed Violet in a beautiful little white dress and a crown, and decorated her cot with fairy lights and flowers.  
As I took her little  hand in mine, I fought back tears.  
Then we gathered around her cot and, led by the hospital chaplain, James and I made our vows.  
Afterwards family joined  us for a reception, complete with cake.  
It meant so much for us  to share that moment with Violet.  
But we couldn’t stop time and just days later, doctors told us: ‘There’s nothing more  we can do.’  
Violet was moved to a hospice, where she was  taken off the ventilator and machines keeping her alive.  
There, we were able  to share a bed with her, snuggling close as we watched TV together.  
Out of intensive care, Violet finally began smiling too. But as her condition deteriorated, we knew it was time.  
‘I think we should give her a cuddle now,’ I whispered  to James.  
He held Violet for about an hour, and then I had a  long cuddle.  
Holding her to my chest, I felt her breathing slow, until she took one last breath.

Although my heart was breaking, having her in my arms felt like the gentlest way for her to go.  
When we held her funeral soon after, it felt fitting that the hospital chaplain who’d blessed our marriage led the celebration of Violet’s life.  
We all placed purple flowers on her coffin.  
Afterwards, the grief felt overwhelming, but we carried on for the boys’ sake.  
Now, it’s been 10 months since we lost Violet. And while she opened our eyes  to how much pain and suffering is in this world, she also showed us how much kindness exists too.  
Her strength and bravery inspired us to fundraise for the charities that have helped us so much.  
We share her story and everything we’re doing in her name on our Facebook page, which we’ve called ‘Violet’s Wildflowers’.  
And while we miss her immeasurably, we are so grateful for the 11 months  we had with her — and we’ll treasure that time forever.

● To find out more, search ‘Violet’s Wildflowers’ on Facebook.

Mummy’s little flower girl: My baby girl was slipping away. So we created a special memory to last forever…

**_Hearing my kids’ voices was causing me severe pain. What was happening to me?_**

There was a feeling of fullness or pressure in my ears that wouldn’t go away.  
I worked for an airline as  crew, so it wasn’t unusual to have that feeling just before my ears ‘popped’.  
It lasted for a couple of days before it finally went. But then, three weeks later, it was replaced by something else — a ringing sound that seemed to be coming from inside my ears.  
I could barely hear it in silence but, when I was listening to music or watching TV, the noise got louder. It competed with other sounds, too, like the car engine, the wind and other people’s voices.  
I was sent to a specialist for a hearing test, but I was told everything was fine.  
Four months later, however, I suddenly felt a burning sensation in my ear.  
I went back and forth to the doctor, but was told  I had anxiety from the tinnitus I’d developed.  
‘Your brain will eventually adjust to it,’ one doctor  told me.  
In the meantime, I was offered antidepressants. But I knew there was more to it than that.  
I said to my husband Nick: ‘Something isn’t right.’  
I started experiencing a migraine-type pain behind my eyes soon after. It got so bad I had to give up my job and became housebound.  
Worse, the sound of Nick’s voice and our two boys laughing became torture, so I had to shut myself away from them.  
I missed being a mum and enjoying family life.  
There were no more family outings. Instead it was like Groundhog Day.  
‘It feels like I’ve lost my best friend,’ Nick said, struggling to understand what I was going through.  
I researched my symptoms online and one condition kept on appearing.  
It was called pain hyperacusis, which was when everyday sounds were accompanied by pain.  
I went back to the doctor and told him what I’d found, but I was given the same diagnosis as before.  
With no treatment on offer, I tried lots of different things from pain medication to holistic therapies, but nothing worked.  
I started wearing ear plugs and ear defenders all the time and communicated to family and friends through whispers or written notes.  
But it was very hard and my mental health suffered.  
In time, I got in touch with two medical professionals in the UK, and after I met them, they diagnosed me with something called severe pain hyperacusis, sometimes called noxacusis.  
Finally, I had validation that alongside tinnitus,  I also had another sound-related disorder.  
Nick began to understand what I was going through.  
One professional I saw believed my condition could have been the cumulative result of childhood ear infections, operations and noise trauma from a deployed car airbag.  
Now, I hope someone may read my story, and be able to help me get back to leading a normal life with my family again.

**_From Karen Cook, 49, of Southport, Merseyside_**

● Karen has donated her fee to Hyperacusis Research and Tinnitus UK

**What is it?** A condition  in which everyday sounds seem much louder and cause discomfort and pain.  
**What are the symptoms?** Ear pain, ringing in the ears, a feeling of fullness or pressure. Mental health can be affected.  
**What’s the treatment?** There is no standard medical treatment. Earplugs and earmuffs may manage the pain  and prevent it worsening.  
**Where can I find  out more?** Visit hyperacusisresearch.org, a charity funding research into sound-induced pain.

I couldn’t stand the sound of my boys’ laughter, and had to shut myself away. What on earth was going on?

Summer’s here - and it’s the perfect time to slow down, put your feet up, and enjoy a bit of time for yourself. And that’s where :a[Take a Break Monthly]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/take-a-break-monthly-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' } comes in. Each issue is packed with inspiring true stories, brilliant puzzles, and exciting prizes – just right for a sunny afternoon or a quiet cuppa in the garden. It’s the ideal summer reading companion for anyone looking for real-life stories and brain-boosting entertainment.

**Real-life reads you won’t want to put down**

Every issue is full of true stories from real people. Some will make you laugh, others might bring a tear to your eye – and plenty will have you saying, “No way, that actually happened?” These captivating stories are perfect for summer reading, whether you’re relaxing at home or on holiday. Best of all, they’re short and snappy, so you can pick up the magazine any time and dive straight in.

Love a good crossword? Or maybe sudoku’s more your thing? If you like giving your brain a workout with fun brain games and puzzles, you’re in the right place. Each issue is packed with all kinds of puzzles – from word games and codebreakers to number challenges and logic teasers. They’re fun, satisfying, and perfect for a quiet moment in the sun or a cosy evening indoors.

Who doesn’t love a prize? Every issue is full of chances to win cash, holidays, and loads of other brilliant goodies. It only takes a moment to enter - and you never know, you could be one of our lucky winners! These competitions add an exciting extra to your summer magazine experience.

:a[Subscribe now and enjoy every issue]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/take-a-break-monthly-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Make your summer even better with :a[Take a Break Monthly]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/take-a-break-monthly-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }. When you subscribe, each issue is delivered straight to your door - ready whenever you are.

## :a[Click here]{href='https://www.greatmagazines.co.uk/take-a-break-monthly-magazine?utm_source=takeabreak.co.uk&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=summer_all&amp;utm_content=article' }

Get 6 issues of Take a Break Monthly for £14.99

Latest on Take A Break

Latest Competitions

Latest Magazine