Travellers hoping to escape the Northern Hemisphere’s shorter days and long, cold nights this winter have a new destination: the South African city of Durban with the start of British Airways’ new direct service.

From October 29 holidaymakers will be able to surf their heart out along the Golden Mile, explore the lush green garden province and enjoy golden sun kissed beaches with three direct flights a week from Heathrow to the spectacular South African city.

The three-weekly service will be the only non-stop link between Europe and Durban and will be operated by the Boeing 787-8. The timetable will have a morning arrival into Durban and an evening arrival into Heathrow.

The new route comes as British Airways rolls out a £4.5 billion, five-year customer investment plan, with a focus on excellence in the premium cabins and more choice and quality for all its customers.

Durban is a year-round destination, with sultry summers and mild, dry winters. It has long been a favourite holiday playground for South Africans but will soon be easier than ever for international visitors to enjoy too.

In addition to the new service, British Airways operates a twice daily service from London Heathrow to Johannesburg and once daily to Cape Town. It also flies three times a week from Gatwick to Cape Town during the winter season.