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Wood-burning Stoves and Solid Fuel Fires - Could They Help Keep Your Home Warm in a Power Cut?

Wood-Burning Stoves and Solid-Fuel Fires: Could They Help Keep Your Home Warm in a Power Cut?

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With winter approaching, many householders are thinking about how to keep their homes warm without facing ever-higher energy bills. Recent discussions about heat pumps and the possibility of electricity outages have also prompted questions about how resilient our home heating systems really are.

One option worth considering is solid-fuel heating – burning wood, manufactured fuel or other suitable solid fuels to produce heat.

For some households, a wood-burning stove or traditional fireplace can provide welcome supplementary heating (this may be especially relevant in homes with heat pumps, as they can struggle to provide sufficient warmth if the weather gets really cold). It might also offer a degree of reassurance if the electricity supply fails during a cold snap.

Solid-fuel heating isn’t suitable for everyone, however. Installation can be expensive, fuel needs to be stored, and burning wood and other solid fuels has environmental and health implications. Some modern appliances also depend on electricity, meaning they may not work during a power cut.

So what are the options, and what should you consider before investing in one?

1. Wood-burning stoves

A modern wood-burning stove is probably the first thing many people think of when considering solid-fuel heating.

How it works: Logs are burned inside an enclosed metal or cast-iron appliance, with the smoke and combustion gases carried outside through a chimney or suitable flue. The stove radiates heat into the room, while some warmth also circulates through the surrounding air.

Wood-burning stoves are generally much more efficient than traditional open fires. They can provide substantial heat to the room in which they are installed, making them useful if you want to warm the main living area without necessarily heating every room in the house.

Advantages

  • Potentially independent of mains electricity. Many conventional log burners work without electricity, although you should check the specific appliance and installation.
  • Effective local heating. A suitably sized stove can make a living room feel warm and comfortable even if the central heating is turned down.
  • A renewable fuel option. Wood can be renewable when sourced from sustainably managed forests, although its overall environmental impact depends on how it is produced, transported and burned.
  • A degree of fuel flexibility. Householders who buy and store seasoned logs can have fuel available in advance rather than relying entirely on electricity or gas deliveries.

Disadvantages

  • Installation costs. A stove, hearth, flue or chimney alterations, ventilation and professional installation can add up to several thousand pounds, particularly where no suitable chimney exists.
  • Fuel storage. Logs need a dry, accessible storage space. Buying, moving and loading them can also be physically demanding.
  • Regular maintenance. Stoves need cleaning, servicing and chimney sweeping.
  • Air pollution. Even modern stoves release fine particles into the air. Dry wood and a well-maintained, efficient appliance help reduce emissions, but do not eliminate them.

A wood-burning stove is most attractive where a suitable chimney already exists, there is enough room for fuel storage, and the household expects to use it regularly.

If your main aim is simply to have a backup heating source for the occasional power cut, the installation cost may be difficult to justify.

2. Multi-fuel stoves

A multi-fuel stove looks similar to a wood-burning stove but is designed to burn a wider range of fuels.

Depending on the model, these might include logs, approved smokeless solid fuels and manufactured fuel briquettes.

The important point is that not every stove can burn every type of solid fuel. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and check the rules applying to your home.

Advantages

  • More choice of fuel, potentially useful if supplies or prices change.
  • Similar heating benefits to a wood-burning stove.
  • Many models can operate without mains electricity.

Disadvantages

  • Installation and maintenance costs are similar to those of a wood-burning stove.
  • Different fuels have different storage requirements, prices and environmental impacts.
  • Some fuels produce more pollution than others, and not all are permitted in every location.

In England, for example, smoke control areas restrict what you can burn. Wood and other unauthorised fuels generally require an appropriately Defra-exempt appliance, while authorised fuels can be used in accordance with the rules. Check with your local council before purchasing an appliance.

You can find further information in the government’s guide to smoke control area rules.

3. Traditional open fireplaces

Many older British homes have an open fireplace, even if it has been covered over or rarely used.

If you already have a working fireplace and chimney, you might wonder whether reopening it would provide a useful source of backup heat.

An open fire can certainly produce warmth, and it may be possible to use it without electricity. However, it has significant disadvantages compared with a modern enclosed stove.

Advantages

  • You may already have the fireplace and chimney, reducing the initial outlay if they are suitable and safe to use.
  • An open fire can provide heat without relying on mains electricity.
  • It offers a familiar and attractive focal point in a living room.

Disadvantages

  • Much of the heat can escape up the chimney rather than warming your home.
  • Open fires are generally less efficient than enclosed stoves.
  • They produce substantial smoke and fine-particle pollution.
  • Sparks and embers can escape into the room, creating additional fire risks.
  • The chimney must be inspected and maintained before use.

If you have an existing fireplace, it is worth having it assessed by a suitably qualified professional before lighting a fire in it.

For someone planning a new installation, a modern enclosed stove will generally be a better heating choice than a traditional open fire.

4. Pellet stoves and biomass heating

Another option is a wood-pellet stove. Instead of logs, it burns small compressed pellets made from wood or other suitable biomass materials.

Pellet stoves can feed fuel automatically from a hopper and regulate their output, making them more convenient than manually loading logs.

However, there is an important drawback if your concern is electricity outages.

Most conventional pellet stoves need electricity to operate their electronic controls, fans and fuel-feeding mechanisms. They may therefore stop working during a power cut unless a suitable backup power arrangement is available.

Larger biomass boilers can also burn wood pellets or other biomass fuels to provide central heating and hot water. These are more complex installations and commonly rely on electricity for pumps and controls.

Pellet stoves and biomass boilers can be worth investigating if you want a more automated form of solid-fuel heating. But if your priority is to keep one room warm during a power cut, a conventional stove that can operate without electricity may be more appropriate.

5. What about coal and other solid fuels?

Solid-fuel heating has a long history in Britain, and coal fires were once commonplace. Today, however, traditional house coal is no longer a practical option for most householders in England, following restrictions on its sale for domestic use.

Manufactured smokeless fuels and certain other authorised fuels remain available, subject to the rules governing the appliance and location.

These fuels may be useful in a compatible multi-fuel stove or fireplace. Some can be easier to store than logs, although their cost and environmental impact vary.

It is important not to assume that a fuel advertised as smokeless produces no pollution. Nor should you burn household rubbish, painted or treated wood, old furniture or other unsuitable materials. These can release harmful pollutants and may damage your appliance or chimney.

For more information on choosing appropriate fuels, see the government’s Burn Better, Breathe Better guidance.

Could a solid-fuel fire keep you warm during a power cut?

This is an important question, particularly if you are concerned about winter electricity outages.

A conventional wood-burning stove or suitable open fire can continue producing heat when the electricity supply fails. That can be a real advantage if your normal heating system depends on electricity.

However, there are several qualifications.

First, not every solid-fuel appliance is independent of electricity. Pellet stoves and systems with powered fans, pumps or controls may stop working. Check the manufacturer’s instructions rather than assuming that burning fuel means the appliance will work without mains power.

Second, a stove heats a particular area rather than automatically heating the whole house. If you have a stove in your living room, it may keep that room reasonably comfortable while bedrooms and bathrooms remain cold. Heat will travel to other rooms to some extent, but this depends on your home’s layout and insulation.

Third, a power cut can affect other parts of your heating system. If a solid-fuel boiler or stove is connected to radiators or a central heating circuit, pumps and controls may require electricity. Some systems need specific arrangements to operate safely during a power failure. Never assume you can simply continue firing a boiler or stove connected to a water circuit when the power stops.

Finally, a fire is not a substitute for a wider emergency plan. You will still need lighting, a way to prepare food and hot drinks, and a means of keeping warm if the fire cannot be used safely.

For a household that already owns a suitable stove, keeping an adequate supply of dry fuel may be a sensible precaution. Installing one solely to prepare for a hypothetical outage is a much bigger decision.

The costs: is solid-fuel heating economical?

The cost depends heavily on what you already have.

If you own a home with a sound, suitable chimney and an existing stove, the main expenses may be fuel, servicing and chimney sweeping.

If you are starting from scratch, the cost can be considerably higher. You may need a stove, a suitable flue, a hearth, ventilation improvements and building-regulations compliance. A straightforward installation can cost a few thousand pounds, while more complicated projects may cost substantially more.

You should also budget for the fuel itself. Logs need to be properly dried, and buying enough to last a winter can involve a sizeable initial outlay. Storage space, delivery charges and the effort involved in handling the fuel all matter.

It is worth comparing the cost of useful heat rather than simply comparing the price of a bag of logs with the price of a unit of electricity or gas.

A stove may be economical when it regularly heats a room that would otherwise require expensive heating. But if you only light it occasionally, the cost of installation and maintenance may outweigh any savings.

And if you already have an efficient heat pump, adding a stove will not necessarily reduce your overall heating costs. The result depends on the cost of the fuel, the efficiency of the equipment and how you use it.

Environmental and health considerations

Solid-fuel heating has benefits and drawbacks that are sometimes overlooked in discussions about energy security.

Wood can be a renewable resource, but burning it releases carbon dioxide and other pollutants. The overall climate impact depends on factors including how the wood is sourced, whether forests are sustainably managed, and the time taken for replacement trees to absorb carbon.

There is also a more immediate issue: air quality.

Domestic wood burning is a significant source of fine particulate matter in the UK. These tiny particles can affect respiratory and cardiovascular health, and the risks are particularly relevant to people with existing health problems.

Modern, well-designed stoves generally produce less pollution than older stoves and open fires, but they do not eliminate the problem.

If you choose to burn wood:

  • Use properly dried wood with a moisture content of 20% or less, ideally carrying the Ready to Burn certification.
  • Never burn painted, treated or chemically contaminated wood.
  • Use an appliance designed for the fuel you intend to burn.
  • Have the appliance serviced regularly and the chimney swept at least annually, following the advice appropriate to your appliance and fuel.
  • Ensure the room has adequate ventilation.

You should also consider your neighbours. Smoke from a domestic chimney can affect nearby homes, particularly in built-up areas.

Safety must come first

Any appliance that burns solid fuel needs to be installed and used correctly.

If you are considering a new stove, use a competent installer who can ensure the installation complies with the relevant building regulations. In the UK, HETAS is one recognised source of information and a directory of registered installers.

A suitable carbon monoxide alarm is essential, alongside working smoke alarms. Follow the manufacturer’s guidance on alarm placement and testing.

Never use a barbecue, camping stove or outdoor fire inside your home as an emergency heating or cooking device. These can cause dangerous carbon monoxide build-up.

Also remember that a stove or fire needs appropriate ventilation and a properly functioning chimney or flue. Modern homes that have been made more airtight may require particular attention to the air supply.

Finally, make sure you can safely manage the fuel, ash and maintenance. Carrying heavy logs, bending to load a stove and handling hot ash may not suit everyone, particularly as we get older.

Is solid-fuel heating right for you?

A solid-fuel appliance is more likely to make sense if:

  • You have a suitable chimney or can install an appropriate flue.
  • You want regular supplementary heat in a particular room.
  • You have enough space to store fuel safely and keep it dry.
  • You are comfortable with the work involved in lighting, tending and cleaning a fire.
  • You are prepared to meet the installation, maintenance and fuel costs.
  • You have checked the relevant local rules and considered the environmental implications.

It is less likely to be a sensible investment if you live in a flat without a suitable flue, have limited storage space, rarely need supplementary heat, or would find handling logs and maintaining a stove difficult.

It may also be unnecessary if your main concern is the occasional power cut. Other measures, such as warm clothing, blankets, draught-proofing and having a plan to stay elsewhere if your home becomes too cold, may be more practical and less expensive.

Final thoughts

Solid-fuel heating is not a universal solution to rising energy costs or concerns about electricity outages. It has real disadvantages, particularly in terms of installation costs, maintenance and air pollution.

Nevertheless, a suitable wood-burning stove or multi-fuel appliance can provide useful supplementary heat and, in the right circumstances, a source of warmth that does not depend on mains electricity.

For some households, particularly those with an existing fireplace or stove, it may be a worthwhile option to consider. For others, the costs and practical drawbacks will outweigh the benefits.

As with heat pumps, solar panels and home batteries, the best decision depends on your home, your budget and your priorities. The aim should not be to install every possible heating technology, but to find a safe, affordable and practical way to keep your home warm.

What do you think? Do you have a wood-burning stove or open fire, or have you considered installing one as a backup heating source? I’d be interested to hear about your experiences in the comments below.




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Beware of Going 'All-In' on Electricity

Why You Should Beware of Going ‘All-In’ on Electricity

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In my update today, I’m focusing on a topic that has become of growing concern to me.

Over the past decade, UK households have been encouraged to electrify almost everything. Cars are going electric. Gas boilers are being phased out in favour of heat pumps. Even cooking is increasingly moving from gas to electricity.

On paper, this all fits with the Government’s drive towards Net Zero. But there’s a growing issue that doesn’t get discussed nearly enough:

What happens if the electricity supply isn’t always there when you need it?

As we look ahead to the coming years, relying solely on electricity to power and heat your home could leave you exposed – financially and practically.

Growing Pressure on the UK’s Electricity System

Electricity demand in the UK is rising sharply. Two of the biggest drivers are:

  • Electric vehicles (EVs) – millions of households charging cars at home, often at similar times of day

  • Electric heat pumps – particularly air-source heat pumps, which draw large amounts of power in cold weather

At the same time, electricity generation is becoming increasingly weather-dependent. Wind and solar are growing fast, but they don’t always produce power when demand is highest – especially during cold, still winter evenings, when heating demand peaks.

The National Grid has so far managed to keep the lights on, but it has done so by relying on emergency measures, reserve power contracts and public appeals to reduce usage at peak times. That’s a sign of a system under strain.

The Risk of Power Cuts Is Increasing, Not Decreasing

While widespread blackouts are still relatively rare, the risk of localised or short-term power cuts is rising.

Reasons include:

  • an ageing electricity distribution network

  • rapid increases in peak demand

  • greater reliance on intermittent renewable generation

  • delays and cost overruns in upgrading grid infrastructure

For households that depend entirely on electricity for heating, hot water and cooking, even a short power cut in winter can quickly become a serious problem.

To be clear, I am not saying that widespread blackouts are inevitable. In fact, the latest assessment from the National Energy System Operator (NESO) is fairly reassuring. It expects Great Britain’s electricity supply to remain secure during winter 2026/27, with an estimated 5.5 GW surplus over expected peak demand. On the other hand, there are growing numbers of dissenting voices who believe that blackouts are increasingly probable.

When Electricity Goes Off, Everything Stops

If your home uses electric heating only:

  • heat pumps stop working

  • electric radiators go cold

  • immersion heaters stop producing hot water

  • induction hobs and electric ovens are unusable

By contrast, homes with non-electric power and heating options retain a degree of resilience. That resilience has real value, particularly for older people, families with young children, or anyone living in rural areas where power cuts tend to last longer.

Diversification Isn’t Just for Investments

Regular readers of Pounds and Sense will be familiar with the idea of diversification. You wouldn’t normally put all your savings into a single investment – and the same principle applies to household energy.

Having more than one way to heat your home reduces risk and gives you flexibility when prices spike or supplies are disrupted.

Alternative and Backup Heating Options to Consider

Here are some heating methods that can be used instead of, or alongside, electricity:

Gas Heating (Where Available)

Despite its declining popularity in policy circles, mains gas remains:

  • reliable

  • relatively inexpensive

  • highly controllable

  • independent of the electricity grid (for heat, though central heating boilers still need some power to operate)

  • much less polluting than other fossil fuels like oil and coal

A gas boiler can continue to provide warmth during electricity shortages if paired with a simple backup power source, such as a home storage battery or generator. In addition, many free-standing gas fires can operate without any need for electricity.

  • If you are considering a battery or generator to keep a gas boiler running during a power cut, make sure the equipment is suitable for the purpose and installed safely.

Wood-Burning or Multi-Fuel Stoves

A properly installed stove can provide useful independent heat during a power cut. It has the advantage of producing heat directly in the room without needing electricity.

There are, however, important qualifications. You need a suitable chimney and installation, somewhere to store fuel and a supply of appropriate fuel. There are also environmental and local air-quality rules governing the use of solid-fuel appliances.

For all of these reasons, a stove may not be a practical solution for everyone.

Oil or LPG Heating (Rural Homes)

For off-grid properties, oil or LPG systems offer:

  • independence from the electricity network for fuel supply

  • predictable heating performance in cold weather

They are often criticized on environmental grounds, but from a resilience perspective they remain useful options.

Simple Emergency Measures

There are also some cheaper ways to prepare for a short power cut. These might include:

  • rechargeable LED lights or lanterns
  • a couple of fully charged power banks
  • a battery or wind-up radio
  • torches
  • warm blankets and extra clothing
  • a thermos flask
  • keeping some food that doesn’t require cooking

Be particularly careful with portable gas heaters, camping stoves and other combustion appliances.

Never use a barbecue, camping stove or outdoor heater indoors because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire.

The aim isn’t to re-create normal life during a power cut. It is simply to make a few hours without electricity much less uncomfortable.

Balancing Net Zero with Common Sense

The Government’s rush towards Net Zero is placing enormous pressure on the UK’s energy system. Whether the huge cost and disruption caused can be justified is (in my opinion anyway) arguable. What’s in no doubt, however, is that the transition period will be messy, expensive and uncertain.

Households that move too quickly to an all-electric set-up may find themselves exposed to:

  • higher running costs

  • reduced resilience

  • greater vulnerability during supply disruptions

That doesn’t mean rejecting electrification entirely – but it does mean thinking very carefully before putting all your power and heating eggs in one basket.

My Personal Situation

I live in a detached house built about 40 years ago in semi-rural Staffordshire. I have gas central heating and an electric cooker. I also have a free-standing gas-fire in the lounge. I have solar panels on the roof and a Givenergy home-storage battery, which I bought three years ago.

When I first heard about heat pumps I did look into the possibility of getting one. I soon realised, however, that I didn’t want to go down this route. As discussed above, I didn’t like the thought of becoming too reliant on electricity, especially with the growing likelihood of power outages. Also, the heating pipes in my house are quite narrow and I have been advised that if I were to get a heat pump, the existing pipes would all have to be taken out and replaced as well. Needless to say, that would add considerably to the cost, not to mention the disruption.

In addition, heat pumps generally operate at lower flow temperatures than gas central heating, meaning they have to be kept on most of the time to ensure the house remains at a comfortable temperature. I have also heard it said that in very cold weather they may not be able to provide adequate warmth on their own. So you really do still need a back-up heating option anyway.

With all these considerations (and others), I therefore plan to stick with my present set-up for the foreseeable future. If at some point gas boilers are banned and/or gas is cut off completely, I will obviously have to rethink this. But as I am now 70, realistically that’s unlikely to happen in my lifetime. In the improbable event that it does, I would think about switching to an electric boiler, which could be installed instead of my old gas boiler without all the pipes in the house having to be torn out and replaced. This would be a lot cheaper to buy and less disruptive than switching to a heat pump (though possibly more expensive to run). Looking to the future, other non-heat-pump alternatives are very likely to appear as well.

Obviously, all of this is just my personal opinion. You may disagree, but I thought it might be helpful to explain my thinking on these matters as they stand now.

The Bottom Line

Electric heating will undoubtedly play a major role in the UK’s future. But in my view relying on electricity alone for heating is increasingly risky.

Where possible, having an alternative or supplementary non-electric heating source provides:

  • peace of mind

  • practical resilience

  • protection against both power cuts and price shocks

As always, I’d be interested to hear your views. Have you deliberately kept a non-electric heating option in your home, or have you gone completely electric? And if you have solar panels and a home battery, does your system provide backup power during a power cut?

This is a fully updated version of an article from 2025.




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Get Your Will Written Free of Charge in October

Get Your Will Written Free of Charge in October

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Did you know that October is Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month brings together a group of well-respected charities to offer members of the public aged 55 and over the opportunity to have their wills written or updated free using participating solicitors across the UK.

The charities involved include the NSPCC, Dogs Trust, British Heart Foundation, Mind, Age UK, The Stroke Association, PDSA, and many others. Free Wills Month happens twice a year, in March and October.

The scheme covers simple wills only, including ‘mirror wills’ for couples. In the latter case, only one member of the couple has to be 55 or over. If you need a complicated will (most people don’t) you can still have this done but may have to pay a top-up fee.

I have talked about the importance of creating a will and why you should get it done by a properly qualified solicitor previously on PAS. An up-to-date will written by a solicitor will ensure that your wishes are respected and will avoid causing legal complications for your loved ones after you are gone.

Free Wills Month means what it says. There are no catches, although the organizers hope that you will choose to leave a donation to charity in your will. There is no obligation to do this, however.

To take part in Free Wills Month click through to the website during October and fill in your details. You can then pick a solicitor from the list of companies taking part and contact them to book an appointment. Appointments are limited and on a first come, first served basis, so it’s best to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

  • Free Wills Month October 2026 starts officially on Thursday 1st October 2026 but you can sign up now on the FWM website to be notified when when the campaign starts in your area.

If you have any comments or questions about this subject, as ever, please do post them below.

Note: This is a revised and updated version of my original post on this subject.



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How Eating a Handful of Nuts Each Day May Help Lower Your Blood Pressure

How Eating a Handful of Nuts Each Day May Help Lower Your Blood Pressure

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Today I have a syndicated guest post for you from Shireen Kassam, University of Winchester and Dagfinn Aune, Imperial College London.  It’s on a subject I believe many older readers of this blog (in particular) may find of interest.

This article was originally published in The Conversation and is republished here under a Creative Commons licence.

More than 1.4 billion people worldwide live with high blood pressure (hypertension). It’s the single biggest metabolic risk factor for early death – driving diseases such as heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure and dementia.

Most of these cases of high blood pressure are shaped by how we live and what we eat. This means that making changes to your diet can have a big impact on your risk of developing high blood pressure.

Even small changes can help, as our latest research shows. We found that adding just one serving of nuts into your daily diet is linked with lower hypertension risk.

It’s well known that eating more plant foods is associated with a lower risk of hypertension – but research on the impact of nuts has been limited to date.

Fruits and vegetables are associated with a lower risk of hypertension, with consumption of 800g (ten portions) per day reducing the risk by 11%.

Whole grains – brown rice, oats, wholemeal bread – are similarly linked to lower risk of hypertension. Our research found that the people who consumed the highest amount of whole grains each day had a roughly 26% lower risk compared to people consuming the least.

We have also shown that legumes and soya are associated with a 16% and 19% lower risk of hypertension respectively.

Our latest analysis published in the British Journal of Nutrition, now shows the clear impact eating nuts can have on hypertension risk.

Our study pooled data from 143,000 people – including 20,665 people who had hypertension. We found that eating around a handful of nuts daily (between 30-35g) was linked with a 26% lower risk of hypertension compared to not eating any nuts.

Why plant foods work

Plant foods share a few key characteristics, which may explain why they’re beneficial for the heart.

They are an excellent source of potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure by shedding sodium and relaxing blood vessels.

Plant foods also provide fibre that feeds gut bacteria so they can produce short-chain fatty acids – compounds that are linked to lower blood pressure.

Many plant foods also contain L-arginine and nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide in order to widen blood vessels. Plant foods are rich in polyphenols, which have also been associated with lower blood pressure.

Despite nuts being energy-dense, they’re linked to lower obesity rates – thus helping to mitigate another risk factor for hypertension.

These overlapping mechanisms all nudge blood pressure down, and help explain the link between plant-rich diets and lower risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Eating a well-balanced diet that contains plant foods will have the greatest heart health benefits.

But as tempting as it might be to call nuts a heart health “superfood,” their real power lies within a broader pattern of healthy eating. While reductions in hypertension risk are observed with intake of even just one daily serving of nuts, a diet built around several whole plant foods may provide even further benefits.

This is exactly what Dash, Mediterranean and plant-based diets prove. They all work because they put these different plant-based foods on the same plate.

However, it’s worth noting that the studies included in our analysis are observational. This means they show that people who eat more nuts tend to have lower blood pressure, but they cannot fully prove that nuts are the cause.

People who consume more plant foods in their diet also tend to follow other healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical activity. Although our analysis adjusted for many of these factors, we cannot fully rule their impact out.

But the randomised controlled Dash diet trials, where diet is actually changed to include more vegetables, whole grains and lean protein, are what give us confidence the link is real. Similarly, intervention trials, which compared the effects of multiple different plant-based diets, also show benefits for blood pressure reduction.

There are knowledge gaps to note, too. The nut studies we included in our review did not separate salted from unsalted. Since salt raises blood pressure, the true benefit of unsalted nuts may even be larger than reported.

Most of the data also came from Europe, the Americas and East Asia. Little evidence came from Africa and India. More large studies conducted in a variety of regions will help sharpen the evidence base.

The takeaway is practical and affordable. You don’t need supplements or fads. Fill half your plate with fruit and veg, choose whole grains, build meals around beans and tofu and add a handful of unsalted nuts. These are small habits that add up to a significant reduction in one of our biggest health risks.The Conversation

Shireen Kassam, Visiting Professor, Health and Wellbeing Research Group, University of Winchester and Dagfinn Aune, Research Fellow, School of Public Health, Imperial College London

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

As always, if you have any comments about this article, please do post them below.

 




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My short break in Portmeirion

My Short Break in Portmeirion

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I recently enjoyed a three-night break in the lovely Welsh village/resort of Portmeirion. This is about two miles from Porthmadog in NW Wales. It was the first time I had stayed in Portmeirion, though I have visited many times before. Here’s a map from Google Maps.

Portmeirion is a beautiful Italianate village created by the architect Clough Williams Ellis. These days it’s probably best known as the location for the 1960s cult TV series The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan.

Portmeirion is privately owned and you have to pay a fee to enter during the day. Of course, if you are staying there, as I was, this is included in the price you pay.

  • You can also get free admission (in the afternoon) by booking a minimum two-course lunch at Castell Deudraeth; this is part of the Portmeirion estate, a short walk from the village itself. Free admission to the village is also available if you book a spa treatment or afternoon cream tea there.

Accommodation

There are various accommodation options in Portmeirion. You can stay in the main hotel in the village or at Castell Deudraeth. You can also stay in one of the many self-contained cottages and apartments in the village itself. I did the latter, staying in one called The Neptune Suite. This is in the heart of the village, directly over the ice cream parlour. Here’s a photo…

Neptune Suite Portmeirion

I was quite surprised how spacious The Neptune Suite was. The front door opened into a good-sized lounge with comfortable chairs and sofas and (of course) a TV. There was also a sink in the corner with an electric kettle, coffee and teabags, mugs and glasses, and so forth. There were no cooking facilities but there was a small fridge with complimentary bottled water and a bottle of champagne (definitely not complimentary). The fridge came in very useful for storing milk and snacks for the evening (see below).

Next to the lounge was a double bedroom, with a large bathroom off it. The latter had a separate bath and shower, which felt quite a luxury. A good selection of freebies such as bath/shower gel, shampoo and conditioner, soap, shower caps and even miniature shoeshines were provided.

I stayed on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Breakfast was provided in the hotel, which was about five minutes’ walk away. The hotel breakfasts were excellent, with a self-service buffet and a choice of cooked breakfasts, which were brought to you. During the day I ate at one of the cafes and restaurants in the village (I particularly recommend the Italian-themed Caffi Glas).

There are fewer options for eating in Portmeirion in the evening. Basically you can book a table at the hotel or Castell Deudraeth. These both have highly rated restaurants, with prices to match! They would be good if you were celebrating a special occasion, but a bit pricey to eat at every day. Personally, after a big hotel breakfast and lunch in the village (or out exploring) all I wanted in the evening was a light meal anyway. So I brought my own bread and cheese, fruit, biscuits and so on. Along with a cold drink or a pot of tea, that was fine for me! But otherwise you could always take a short drive into Porthmadog, which has plenty of shops and eateries.

The apartment had free wifi which worked perfectly during my stay (not always the case in my experience). The location was quiet and peaceful (there was a low-key buzz from the ice cream parlour during the day but that closed at 4 pm) and I slept very well during my stay.

Financials

As Pounds and Sense is primarily a money blog, I should say a word about this.

Portmeirion is a bit more expensive than most places I visit on short breaks. For my three-night stay with breakfast, I paid £640, which works out at around £213 per day. I thought that was actually quite reasonable bearing in mind the standard of the accommodation and the other amenities on offer. I got a 10% ‘Genius Discount’ from Booking.com, which may have reduced the cost a bit.

I did notice as well that prices vary somewhat from week to week, I assume due to supply and demand. A bit of trial and error here may pay dividends!

One other thing I should say is that I opted for a ‘Village Double Room’ and didn’t know exactly what accommodation I would get. I guess that’s like staying in a hotel, when you aren’t normally told your room number beforehand. If you have a particular preference you can always try asking, but there’s no guarantee you will receive it. I did email a few days before to ask where I would be staying and discovered then that it would be The Neptune Suite.

Things to Do

There are various things you can do in or around Portmeirion. On my first full day I stayed in the village itself. I enjoyed walking the coastal path from the village and back through the woodlands behind. I also spent some time enjoying the heated outdoor pool. This is available to residents only (not day visitors). I was lucky with the weather and made the most of this facility. The changing rooms are pretty basic, but as my accommodation was just a couple of minutes’ walk away that really wasn’t an issue for me.

On my other full day I took a five-minute drive to Porthmadog and enjoyed a trip on the Ffestiniog Railway.

Ffestiniog Railway

This heritage steam railway has two separate lines, both of which run from Porthmadog. The Welsh Highland Railway takes you on a scenic two-and-a-quarter hour trip through the heart of Snowdonia to Caernarfon, while the original Ffestiniog Railway takes you on a one-hour trip to Blaenau Ffestiniog. On this occasion I took the shorter journey, but I have done the Welsh Highland Railway trip before and recommend it as well. You can get more info on both (and book in advance) via the Ffestiniog Railway website.

The harbour station in Porthmadog has a small car park for people with disabilities only, but there is a free car park for people travelling on the railway at the back of the public car park opposite (Llyn Bach). I used that myself on this occasion. There were plenty of spaces when I arrived at around 9.30 a.m. but I noticed it was full later. So my top tip if going by car is to book a ticket on a morning train rather than leaving it until the afternoon!

Final Thoughts

As you may gather, I enjoyed my short break in Portmeirion and am happy to recommend it for a relaxing short break (though not an especially cheap one!).

Portmeirion is a great place to kick back and chill out. It has good road and rail connections, and there are also other high-quality tourist attractions nearby, including the Ffestiniog Railway, Harlech and Criccieth Castles, and so on.

Portmeirion itself isn’t somewhere to go if you want to be ‘entertained’. The gardens and buildings are beautiful and highly photogenic, and there are some lovely little shops and cafes. You can also enjoy scenic walks alongside the estuary and through the woodlands. And, as mentioned above, there is an outdoor pool you can use (or sunbathe beside, weather permitting!).

To be honest, Portmeirion isn’t going to suit everyone. If you want a holiday with lots of activities and entertainment laid on, it won’t fit the bill. And children and teenagers (especially) might find it a bit limited. For older people and couples looking to relax and recharge their batteries, though, it might be just the thing. There are also some special events (e.g. The Prisoner Weekend) held there throughout the year.

One other point to note is that dogs (apart from guide dogs) are not allowed anywhere in the village. So if you normally take a canine companion on holiday with you, Portmeirion may not be the place for you.

As always, if you have any comments or questions about this post, please do leave them below.

Be Seeing You

 




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Pounds and Sense - Personal Update

Pounds and Sense – A Personal Update

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Today I wanted to share some information about my personal circumstances and my plans for Pounds and Sense (in particular) going forward.

As you may know, I’ve been running PAS for nearly 10 years now and during that time have published over 560 blog posts. Most of these are still available to view via the sidebar on the right (or below if you’re reading this on a mobile). They cover the entire period during Covid, and some in particular make quite poignant reading now.

Nothing is forever, though, and as I’m now 70 I’ve decided the time has come to wind down the blog. My health remains reasonable (touch wood) but I have other interests I want to devote more time and energy to.

In addition, I am now officially retired and no longer registered as self-employed. In fact, Pounds and Sense hasn’t made a profit for some time. As other bloggers will testify, it has become much harder to make money this way in recent years – especially if (like me) you’re a one-man – or one-woman – band.

A major cause of this – in my view anyway – is the rise of AI in online search. In the past you could attract traffic by targeting certain keywords and phrases and hoping Google (or whoever) would rank your article high in search results for the keyword/s in question. With most people nowadays going no further than the AI answers at the top, that method of attracting readers no longer works nearly as well as it used to.

For this and (no doubt) other reasons, the last few years have seen a big fall in the number of other UK personal finance blogs. The ones left are mainly those run as a full-time business, often with a team of staff. Really these are personal finance websites rather than blogs in the traditional sense. There are still a few brave solo bloggers left, and more power to them. But from comments I have seen, I know many of them are struggling as well.

Meanwhile, the costs keep on rising. Pounds and Sense is a self-hosted WordPress website, so I have to pay annual fees for the domain name and (in particular) the hosting service. In total I am now paying over £200 a year for this, which in the last year or two is more money than I have made (directly) from the blog itself. There are other costs  as well such as accountancy services and even electricity bills. I also have to pay for the graphics service I use (PicMonkey) to create the cover images for my blog posts.

For all these reasons, then, I am winding down Pounds and Sense. I won’t stop immediately, but my posts will likely be less frequent in the coming months. In April next year my hosting service (the largest expense I have to pay) comes up for renewal, and at that point I plan to allow it to lapse. So after that date, all past and current content will cease to be available here. If there are any articles you particularly want to save for future reference, therefore, I recommend that you copy them sooner rather than later.

I should also say that as I will be closing PAS, I won’t be taking on any further sponsored posts or other commercial partnerships or arrangements. I don’t think it would be fair to take on such projects knowing that the blog will in all likelihood cease to exist a few months later. I am still happy to consider guest posts but on the understanding that they may not be up here very long.

With all that said and done, I do enjoy blogging, and it’s possible I might continue Pounds and Sense in some shape or form using a free or low-cost hosting service such as Blogger or WordPress.com. I might also copy over some content to this. Using this type of service has its drawbacks, but of course it has the big attraction of being cheap or free! Obviously I will let PAS readers know nearer the time if I decide to proceed with this.

In closing, thank you for reading this far; and particular thanks to my regular readers, some of whom have been with me for many years. I wish you all a happy and prosperous future in these increasingly uncertain times.

As always, you are very welcome to leave a comment below if you wish.




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Caravan Fire Safety

Caravan Fire Safety: How to Protect Your Holiday Home and Your Finances

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My post today is brought to you in association with Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance. It concerns an important subject all caravan owners need to be aware of.

With the UK experiencing a prolonged period of hot and dry weather this summer, and drought now declared across large parts of England for the third time in five years, it’s vital that all caravan owners take extra precautions to reduce the risk of fire.

Static caravans are particularly susceptible to fire damage. Their fixed position, close proximity to neighbouring units, and structural materials – often made of plastic and thin cladding – mean that a fire can spread rapidly and with devastating effect. The use of LPG gas cylinders adds further risk if they are not stored and handled correctly.

In August 2025, a wildfire on the North York Moors came within a few hundred metres of a holiday park near Dalby Forest before a shift in wind and swift action from North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss.

Less than a year later, in late July 2026, a major wildfire broke out at Dunwich Heath on the Suffolk coast, forcing more than 200 caravans to be evacuated from the nearby Cliff House Holiday Park as flames spread across over 150 hectares of heathland. More than 100 firefighters battled the blaze over several days after a major incident was declared, a stark illustration of how quickly fire can threaten caravan parks during sustained hot, dry conditions.

Nationally, the trend is stark: the UK recorded 117 wildfires in 2025, more than double the total seen in 2023 and a 32% increase on 2024, second only to the record 207 wildfires recorded during the 40°C heat of 2022.

2025 was officially recorded as the hottest UK summer to date, and 2026 has already brought comparably extreme conditions, meaning the risk of fire-related incidents in caravans remains high. This is reflected in Compass’s fire claims data, which peaked between January 2024 and December 2025 at £881,982 – more than five times the total from the previous year.

With this summer already matching the extremes of 2025, and incidents like Dunwich Heath showing how fast a wildfire can take hold, taking proactive fire safety precautions in caravans is more critical than ever.

Common causes of static caravan fires include:

  • Careless use of barbecues near units

  • Improper disposal of cigarettes

  • Unattended cooking

  • Faulty gas appliances or heating systems

  • Electrical overloads and damaged wiring

According to fire safety data, a fire in a mobile home or caravan is significantly more likely to result in death or serious injury compared to conventional housing.

Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, explains: “Caravans are fantastic for enjoying the outdoors, but they come with serious fire risks, especially in dry conditions. What we saw as a near-miss on the North York Moors last summer, and now a major incident at Dunwich Heath this year, tells us this isn’t a one-off. It’s a pattern, and with the UK in the grip of a prolonged drought, the risk of fire has never been greater.

“As insurers, we see the aftermath of caravan fires all too often, with families losing not only their cherished holiday homes but valuable personal belongings as well. We’re reminding everyone to stay vigilant, follow basic safety practices, and help prevent fires before they start.”

Top Tips to Stay Safe in Your Caravan This Summer

  • Always use barbecues well away from caravans, awnings and dry grass. Never use them inside or on decking, and ensure coals are fully extinguished before disposal., and always follow your park’s barbecue rules and designated areas.

  • Do not smoke inside caravans. Always use a proper ashtray and ensure cigarettes are completely stubbed out and disposed of properly.

  • Store gas bottles outside in a secure, upright position and never in direct sunlight. Turn them off properly after use and have them checked regularly.

  • Every caravan should have at least one working smoke alarm fitted. Test it weekly and change batteries regularly.

  • Avoid open flames indoors; candles and gas lanterns can ignite furnishings or nearby materials in seconds. Use battery-powered alternatives instead.

  • Fit a fire blanket inside your caravan and make sure you have a fire extinguisher, so you are prepared should the worst happen.

  • Avoid overloading plug sockets and have electrical systems checked regularly.

  • Ensure all escape routes are accessible and exits are not blocked.

Insurance Advice for Static Caravan Owners

In the unfortunate event of a fire, adequate insurance cover can be the difference between financial recovery and long-term loss. Caravan owners are advised to:

  • Review your policy to ensure it covers fire damage comprehensively.

  • Keep an up-to-date inventory of contents.

  • Notify your insurer immediately in the event of a fire-related claim.

  • Check whether your cover includes temporary accommodation or replacement of personal effects.

Fire spreads extremely quickly in caravans – even a small spark can have devastating consequences, especially during dry spells.

Kevin Minnear adds: “Prevention is always better than cure. We’re encouraging all caravan owners to make safety a top priority this summer. Fire can devastate a caravan in minutes, but by being proactive and following these simple steps, you can help safeguard your property.”

Many thanks to my friends at Compass for their assistance with this article. For more info on specialist caravan and leisure insurance, please visit compass.co.uk

As always, if you have any comments on this article, please do post them below.




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Why Every Older Adult Should Consider the Shingles Vaccine (Shingrix)

Why Every Older Adult Should Consider the Shingles Vaccine (Shingrix)

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Getting older has some advantages – but one downside is that our risk of developing certain illnesses increases. One of these is Shingles, a painful condition that can have long-lasting effects.

I recently had my second Shingrix vaccination, completing the recommended course. Like many people, I experienced some short-term side effects afterwards, mainly fatigue and exhaustion for a day or two. It wasn’t especially pleasant, but it soon passed. In my view, it was a small price to pay for the protection the vaccine offers.

If you’re eligible for the shingles vaccine, here’s why I think it’s well worth having.

What Is Shingles?

Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Even after you’ve recovered from chickenpox – perhaps many decades ago – the virus remains dormant in your nervous system.

As we age, our immune system naturally becomes less effective, allowing the virus to reactivate. When it does, it causes shingles.

The condition typically begins with tingling, burning or pain on one side of the body, followed by a blistering rash. While many people recover within a few weeks, others suffer much more serious complications.

It’s More Than Just a Rash

Many people underestimate shingles, assuming it’s simply an uncomfortable skin condition.

Unfortunately, it can be far more serious.

Complications can include:

  • Severe nerve pain (known as post-herpetic neuralgia) that can last for months or even years.
  • Eye infections that can threaten sight if shingles affects the face.
  • Hearing or balance problems.
  • Rarely, more serious neurological complications.

The risk of these complications increases significantly with age, particularly after 65.

How Effective Is Shingrix?

Shingrix is the vaccine now offered by the NHS. It replaced the older Zostavax vaccine because it provides much stronger and longer-lasting protection.

Clinical trials have shown that Shingrix is over 90% effective at preventing shingles in older adults, and it also greatly reduces the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia.

Protection remains high for many years after vaccination.

The vaccine is given as two injections, normally two to six months apart. It is a non-live vaccine that uses deactivated fragments of virus to create an immune reaction.

What About Side Effects?

Like any vaccine, Shingrix can cause side effects.

The most common include:

  • Soreness at the injection site
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches
  • Mild fever or chills

As mentioned earlier, I felt unusually tired and lacking in energy after both doses. People often find that the side effects after the second jab are worse than the first, though that wasn’t true in my case. Fortunately, the side effects both times only lasted a couple of days.

Although the side effects can be inconvenient, they’re generally short-lived and are a sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine.

In my opinion, they’re a small inconvenience compared with the possibility of developing shingles itself.

Could It Also Help Protect Against Dementia?

One particularly interesting area of research has emerged in recent years.

Several large studies have suggested that people who receive the shingles vaccine may have a lower risk of developing dementia compared with those who remain unvaccinated.

Researchers are still trying to understand exactly why.

Possible explanations include:

  • Preventing shingles may reduce inflammation that could contribute to dementia.
  • Vaccination may produce beneficial effects on the immune system.
  • Preventing viral reactivation may help protect brain health.

It’s important to stress that Shingrix is not approved as a treatment or prevention for dementia, and more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.

Nevertheless, the findings have attracted considerable interest within the medical community and provide another potentially encouraging reason to accept the vaccine when it’s offered.

Who Can Get the Vaccine?

The NHS is gradually expanding eligibility for Shingrix.

Currently, it is routinely offered to older adults as they reach the eligible age (70 in most cases) along with certain people who have weakened immune systems.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth asking your GP surgery or checking the NHS website.

Even if you’re not yet eligible, knowing about the vaccine means you can arrange to have it when the time comes.

  • I’d also add, be sure to get both jabs, not just the first, as this will give you much better protection. If necessary, chase up your health provider if they haven’t called you back for your second vaccination after six months. I had to do this myself.

My Verdict

Having now completed both doses, I’m very pleased that I decided to have the vaccine.

Yes, I felt washed out for a couple of days afterwards.

But compared with the possibility of suffering weeks of severe pain – or months of lingering nerve damage – it seemed a very worthwhile trade-off.

And while the possible link with a reduced risk of dementia still needs further investigation, it’s certainly an intriguing bonus.

Final Thoughts

As we get older, prevention becomes increasingly important. Vaccination is one of the simplest and most effective ways of protecting our future health.

Shingles can be an extremely unpleasant illness with long-lasting consequences, but fortunately we now have a vaccine that offers excellent protection.

If you’re invited to have the Shingrix vaccine, my advice would be simple: take up the offer. 

Your future self may well thank you.

Have Your Say

Have you had the shingles vaccine? Did you experience any side effects? Or have you unfortunately had shingles yourself?

Please share your experiences in the comments below. As always, I’d love to hear from you.




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How to Know When Fruit and Vegetables Are Still Safe to Eat

How to Know When Fruit and Veg Are Still Safe to Eat – And When They Should be Binned

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Today I’m sharing a guest post by Primrose Freestone, a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology at the University of Leicester. It concerns a subject that many older people (in particular) on tight budgets may find of interest. It’s certainly something I have wondered about myself in the past.

This article was originally published in The Conversation and is republished here under a Creative Commons licence.

 

Whether it’s trimming off a piece of mushy parsnip or cutting away a slightly mouldy bit of apple, many of us have used produce long after their peak of freshness.

While fruits and veggies are important for our health, they’re also highly susceptible to bacteria, fungi and other pathogenic microbes. Overripe fruit and veg can harbour E coli, Salmonella and Listeria bacteria, all of which can cause food poisoning. Understanding how to properly store fresh produce can maximise their freshness and keep them safe to eat for longer.

The use-by dates printed on packaging are usually a useful indicator of how long fresh produce can safely be stored and eaten. But the environment fresh produce is stored in can affect the shelf-life of produce – so use-by dates may not always be accurate.

Fruit and veg are living – so things like humidity, temperature, atmospheric gas, light, how long it’s been in storage and any potential microbial contamination can all affect how long produce can be stored.

The ideal storage conditions will also be different for each fruit and vegetable.

Fruit

Apples have a shelf-life of around one week at room temperature, and three to four weeks in the fridge. These should ideally be stored in the fridge’s veg drawer and washed before eating.

Apples which are a little bruised are safe to eat but don’t consume if they’re mouldy.

Bananas can last around two to seven days, depending on how ripe the bunch was when bought.

Store bananas at room temperature until ripe, then refrigerate to extend shelf life. Brown or mushy bananas are safe to eat so long as they aren’t mouldy.

Berries have a shelf life of around 3-7 days if refrigerated. Store them in their original packaging. Only wash before eating, as washing may spread fungal spores.

Again, don’t eat if mouldy. Even if only one berry in the punnet has mould and the rest look fine, they may still contain mould. This is because the toxins produced by moulds and other fungi – called mycotoxins – are invisible and directly penetrate food and can spread to adjacent foods.

Mycotoxins, such as the Aspergillus aflatoxin, can cause serious damage to the liver and have been linked to liver cancer.

A punnet of mouldy berries.
Even just one rotten berry can spoil the bunch. vfhnb12/ Shutterstock

 

Citrus fruits are usually good for around one week at room temperature, and up to one month in the fridge. Keep the fruits whole and store in the fridge in a mesh bag that allows airflow. Cut citrus can be kept in an airtight container for up to five days.

Grapes can last several days at room temperature, and up to two weeks when refrigerated. Store them in their original ventilated package to enable airflow, and wash only before eating. As with berries, if any of the grapes have gone mouldy it’s best to bin the bunch to avoid mycotoxin contamination.

Tomatoes should be allowed to ripen first at room temperature, then stored for up to two weeks in the fridge. Slightly soft or mushy tomatoes can be eaten so long as there’s no mould present.

Vegetables

Carrots and parsnips can be stored for up to two weeks in a cool pantry, and for more than a month in the fridge. Just make sure they’re stored in perforated bags to allow airflow.

Sprouted carrots or parsnips can still be eaten, but if they’re mushy or mouldy that means bacteria or fungi are already growing so throw them away.

Cucumbers can be stored in a plastic bag or container for up to a week in the fridge. Cut cucumbers should be placed in a clean plastic bag or container and eaten within 1-2 days, as microbes will start growing quickly.

Lettuce is usually okay to refrigerate for three to seven days if left whole. For mixed lettuce leaves, it’s best to follow the use-by date on the package. Whole lettuce should be stored in breathable packaging in the fridge’s salad drawer. Wash only before use. Any lettuce that has become mushy or turned brown shouldn’t be eaten.

Mushrooms have a shelf life of only one day at room temperature, and three to seven in the fridge. Denser mushroom species – such as shiitake or button – tend to keep longest. Store mushrooms in breathable bags in the middle of the fridge.

Onions can sometimes last more than six weeks when stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Do not wrap in plastic, as a lack of air flow reduces shelf life. You also shouldn’t store them with potatoes or other veg that release moisture, as this will cause fungus to grow. Sprouting onions can still be eaten if no mould is present.

Potatoes can also last more than six weeks when stored in a cool, dark, dry place.

Do not eat green or sprouting potatoes, as these often contain natural toxins which can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Even if you cut off the sprouted or green bits, the toxins may still have spread throughout the entire spud. Importantly, these toxins are not destroyed by cooking.

Exposure to light greatly increases the formation of these toxins.

Maximising shelf life

Storing certain produce together can also affect shelf life.

Certain fruit and veg produce gases during when ripening – most notably ethylene. This gas acts as a ripening hormone, accelerating the process and reducing the shelf life of other produce nearby.

Bananas are high ethylene producers, while apples are even stronger ethylene releasers. Both can prematurely accelerate ripening of other fruit and veg, which can lead to over-ripeness, spoilage and mould growth. It’s therefore a good idea to avoid storing these fruits near other produce.

To minimise wastage, also consider buying only as much produce as you’ll eat within a few days.The Conversation

Primrose Freestone, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, University of Leicester

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

As always, if you have any comments about this article, please feel free to post them below.




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Are River Cruises Suitable for Solo Travellers

Are River Cruises Suitable for Solo Travellers?

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My recent posts about cruise holidays and river cruises have generated quite a bit of interest among PAS readers. One asked if I could say something about the suitability of river cruises for solo travellers. I thought that was an interesting question (and one that’s relevant to me personally). So today I shall be addressing this particular topic.

River cruising has traditionally been seen as a holiday for couples or groups. But in recent years, more solo travellers – especially active retirees and budget-conscious explorers – have been asking if it’s a good fit for them too. The short answer to this is Yes – but with some important things to consider before you book.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons…

👍 Pros of River Cruises for Solo Travellers

1. Built-In Social Opportunities

With smaller ships and communal activities like guided excursions, happy hours and shared dining, solo travellers often find it easy to strike up conversations. If you’re someone who enjoys meeting new people, river cruises can be surprisingly good in this respect.

2. Guided Excursions Take Out the Guesswork

Instead of navigating a new city on your own, excursions included in many packages let you explore in a group — perfect if you want cultural immersion without logistical stress.

3. Special Solo Cabins Are Growing

More cruise lines are introducing single-occupancy cabins (or reduced single supplements) to prevent solo travellers paying double the fare for a standard cabin. This makes solo travel more financially appealing.

4. Safety and Ease

Especially for older solo travellers, river cruising provides an added layer of comfort and security:

  • Onboard support staff.

  • Port stops often right in town centres – no long transfers.

  • Lectures, entertainment and shared experiences that make connecting with others easier.

👎 Cons of River Cruises for Solo Travellers

1. Single Supplements Can Be Pricey

Even with growing options for solo cabins, many river cruise packages still charge a single supplement — a surcharge for solo travellers that can significantly increase the overall cost. Always compare total price (not just headline fare).

2. Smaller Ships Mean Fewer People

If you’re a social butterfly craving variety in company, the smaller onboard population might feel a bit limited. Some people thrive on that atmosphere; others miss larger group dynamics. If there are some fellow passengers you really don’t like, on a river cruise it may be harder to avoid them.

3. Some Shore Excursions May Require Good Mobility

While many tours are gentle, some exploring old towns can involve walking on uneven cobblestones. Plan ahead if you have mobility concerns.

💡 Money-Saving Tips for Solo Cruisers

If you decide a river cruise is your kind of holiday, here’s how to make it better value…

1. Seek Out Reduced (or Zero) Single Supplements

Some operators – especially those targeting UK solo travellers – offer promotional periods with no single supplement on selected departures. Check specialist sites like RiverCruising.co.uk or GlobalRiverCruising.co.uk regularly and sign up to any email newsletters they offer.

2. Book Early

New solo cabins and low-supplement departures often sell out quickly. Booking up to a year in advance can secure better rates.

3. Compare Inclusions Carefully

A lower headline price isn’t always better. Packages that include drinks, excursions and transfers may cost more upfront but save you money overall.

4. Consider Shared Shore Excursions

If mobility isn’t an issue and you’re comfortable exploring with others, opting for group excursions rather than private tours may save money.

5. Travel Outside Peak Dates

Shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – usually come with lower prices and fewer crowds, giving you a more relaxed experience at a better price point.

6. Check for dedicated solo departures

Some operators like Riviera River Cruises occasionally run solo-only cruises with no supplement – ideal for meeting other solo voyagers.

7. Compare direct vs agent pricing

Sometimes booking directly with the cruise line is cheaper; other times a specialist agent will have better exclusive rates.

8. Fly from Regional Airports

River cruise packages often include flights. Compare prices from regional UK airports – you may find cheaper deals than London departures.

9. Use Loyalty Programmes & Travel Agents

Cruise line loyalty programmes can bring discounts, upgrades or onboard credits. Specialist cruise agents often know about promotions that aren’t publicised online.

🛳️ River Cruise Operators Friendly to Solo Travellers

1. AmaWaterways – Offers a range of solo traveler specials, including reduced single supplements (as low as 10% on select sailings) and even waived single supplement on specific ships with dedicated single occupancy cabins. It’s one of the more flexible mainstream lines for solo travellers in Europe.

2. Riviera River Cruises – This UK-focused operator has expanded its solo traveller options by eliminating the single supplement on a number of European river cruise departures (especially on the Rhine and Rhone). These sailings often have multiple cabins available with no supplement for solo bookings.

3. Avalon Waterways – Known for no single supplement on selected departures, Avalon runs dedicated sailings where solo travellers pay just the standard fare with no extra charge. These promotions are seasonal and vary by departure date and cabin category.

4. Tauck – Offers no single supplement in its lowest category cabins on European river cruises, making it a strong choice for solo travellers looking for a fully guided and inclusive experience without hefty extras.

5. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises – Frequently runs reduced or waived single supplement offers on selected sailings and cabin grades, appealing to solo travellers who want a boutique, luxury river experience.

6. Scenic – Provides significant single supplement discounts — on some sailings up to 75% off the usual extra charge — which can make luxury river cruising much more affordable for those travelling alone.

7. Emerald Cruises – Often offers solo-friendly specials including waived single supplements on select itineraries and dedicated single cabins. This gives solo cruisers the chance to book at twin-share prices for certain departures.

8. CroisiEurope – Another line regularly mentioned in travel roundups for offering single occupancy cabins or reduced single supplements on selected routes, helping solo travellers avoid paying double fares on all departures.

🧠 Final Verdict: Is River Cruising Good for Solo Travellers?

Yes – but it depends on your travel style and budget.

  • If you enjoy engaging with fellow travellers, appreciate guided experiences, and want a secure, stress-free way to see multiple destinations, river cruising can be a fantastic solo holiday.

  • Just be mindful of pricing structures like single supplements and cabin availability – and do your homework before booking.

For many UK solo travellers, the combination of cultural discovery, social opportunities and value-focused packages makes river cruising a very attractive option.

As always, if you have any comments or questions about this article, please do leave them below. And if you’ve been on a river cruise yourself (solo or otherwise), I’d love to hear what you thought and if you have any other tips for making the most of them.




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