travelling great britain topic

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• Visas and immigration
• Travelling to the UK

Entering the UK

Your identity document (for example your passport or identity card) will be checked when you arrive at a UK port or airport to make sure you’re allowed to come into the country. It should be valid for the whole of your stay.

You may also need a visa to come into or travel through the UK , depending on your nationality.

Check which documents you’ll need to come to the UK .

You do not need to take any COVID-19 tests or fill in a passenger locator form. This applies whether you’re fully vaccinated or not.

What you can bring with you

What you can bring with you depends on where you’re travelling from. You must declare to customs:

• anything over your duty-free allowance
• banned or restricted goods in the UK
• goods that you plan to sell
• more than €10,000 (or its equivalent) in cash, if you’re coming from outside the EU

You and your baggage may be checked for anything you must declare.

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21 things everyone should know before visiting Britain

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written by Eleanor Aldridge

updated 25.08.2021

Brits can be a funny lot. The country might be small, but you could spend a lifetime learning its quirks and idiosyncrasies. Regional pronunciation, strange road rules and its renowned drinking culture can all prove hazardous to the first-time visitor. Here’s our guide to surviving in Blighty.

1. There are three nations in Britain

2. tea is central to the national psyche, 3. brits rarely say what they mean, 4. a “swift half” will always end in the early hours, 5. you can drink on the street, 6. brits really do talk about the weather – a lot, 7. compliments make people nervous, 8. there are some astonishingly strange place names, 9. measurements are baffling, 10. queue jumpers will not be treated kindly, 11. stand on the right, 12. there are more weird traditions that you can count, 13. british food is world class, 14. that said, brits aren’t afraid of a bit of offal, 15. you might hear about a chain called nando’s, 16. in london, never make eye contact, 17. outside london, always make eye contact, 18. pronunciation is important, 19. london is not the centre of everything in britain, 20. britain has some of the world’s most gorgeous countryside, 21. a trip to britain is unforgettable, travel ideas for scotland, created by local experts.

20 days  / from 3042 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

6 days  / from 622 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

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Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

First things first. The most important thing to know is that Britain is home to not one but three patriotic nations: England , Scotland and Wales .

Expect to be offered tea in any eventuality. Celebrations, commiserations, rainy days, sunny days and everything in between all call for a good cuppa. Fierce debate rages as to whether the milk or tea should be poured first.

© Shutterstock

Unfailing politeness is observed in all circumstances. “Sorry” runs the gamut from a genuine apology to a passive aggressive warning that you’re about to be pushed out of the way. Use this handy guide for translations.

The pub, one of the greatest British traditions, comes with its own set of rules. Drinks are bought in rounds and you should stick to beer, ale and wine – never shots or cocktails. If you’re invited out for a quick one, prepare to crawl back home at closing time having eaten nothing but half a pack of salt-and-vinegar crisps.

Related articles from the blog

If you’re coming from the US, you might be surprised to see people with drinks on the pavement (sidewalk). Not only is this allowed, but given the faintest hint of sun Brits will congregate on any patch of concrete, grass or pavement going.

When it changes this much, there’s always something to say. And there really is nothing lovelier than the cloudless skies and gentle sun of a perfect British summer day.

London aerial view seen from London Eye, heavy fog hits London. Image include Westminster Palace, Big Ben, Victoria Tower, Westminster Abbey © Bikeworldtravel/Shutterstock

Compliment a Brit and they’re likely to brush it off or make a self-effacing remark, however pleased they are. Don’t even get onto boasting. “Self-praise is known as “blowing your own trumpet” in the U.K. and is tantamount to treason” according to the BBC.

Bottom Flash, Cock Alley, Booty Lane, Nether Wallop and Sandy Balls are all British places. Yes, really. There are so many odd place names, we even made a quiz of the best ones .

Distances on roads are calculated in yards and miles. Objects are measured in centimetres and metres. Height is stated in feet and inches. Food is weighed in grams and kilos. People are weighed in stone and pounds. Are you following?

Street view of the historic Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland © f11photo/Shutterstock

After tea drinking, queuing is the other national pastime. “Queue-barging is the worst solecism a foreigner can commit” say the bastion of traditional British values, Debretts.

If you value your life, stand on the right when you step on an escalator. If you want to walk up or down, stick to the left.

From cheese rolling to bog snorkelling, there’s no end to Britain’s weird and wonderful festivals and traditions . Eccentricity is among the most celebrated British traits.

British food has shaken off its poor reputation. You’ll find innovative fine dining everywhere from Cornwall to Edinburgh , hearty roasts and posh pub grub aplenty and exceptional Indian, Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine among others. These days Britain even has its own vineyards .

Traditional british fish and chips © neil langan/Shutterstock

Aside from the classics like haggis (sheep’s stomach filled with sausage meat oats and spices) and black pudding (blood sausage), look out for a resurgence of nose-to-tail eating.

Everyone under the age of 25 has gone a bit nuts for a restaurant called Nando’s. The hype doesn’t really translate outside the country, and if you were drawn into the Tumblr furore, you'll find this summary helpful.

No matter how crowded the train or strange the situation, Londoners will steadfastly ignore eye contact at all costs. Striking up a conversation with a stranger on public transport is practically unheard of.

Hampstead Heath during the summer months in London © Chris Seddon/Shutterstock

Outside the capital, Brits are generally a friendly lot and happy to chat. Expect people to greet you with anything from “alright, pet” in Newcastle to the occasional “ey’up duck” in Derbyshire.

You’d better get familiar with “Worcestershire”, “Marylebone” and “Gloucester”. If you want to get ripped off by a London cabbie, there’s no better way than asking to go to “Lie-ces-ter” rather than “Less-ter” Square.

Unless you’re talking to a Londoner, in which case Britain solely exists within the M25 motorway.

Bucolic views don’t get much better than those you’ll find in the Scottish Highlands , the Brecon Beacons and the Lake District . If you want to get away from it all, there are numerous places to choose from .

There’s a reason it’s one of the most visited countries in the world. Check out our lists of things not to miss in Scotland , England and Wales for starters.

Explore more of Britain with the Rough Guide to Britain. Compare flights , book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before you go.

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Visiting England for the first time (15 things every visitor should know)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 10, 2023

If you are visiting England for the first time you may be wondering what you need to know before you arrive. What things should you do (or not do) when you are visiting the country.  To help you plan your first trip to England I have put together some of the best tips I know to ensure you have the best time and avoid any faux pas along the way.

I was born in England and have spent most of my life living in the country (the North-East/Midlands and London) as well as traveling the world. This (hopefully) gives me a great perspective on things visitors should perhaps avoid doing when visiting. 

If you are traveling to London for the first time you may also be wondering how to start planning your visit to make the most of your time in the nation’s capital – find out my tips and top things to know in my “ Tips for visitors traveling to London for the first time ” – I have actually lived and worked in London so have lots of insider information and experience.

I also have a guide to planning your trip to the UK which includes lots of practical tips and advice to ensure you make the most of your visit it really is the “Ultimate guide to planning your trip to the UK” and answers common questions such as 

• When is the best time to visit the UK?
• What is the best way to get around the UK?
• What are the best things to see and do in the UK?
• UK Travel Planning Podcast

The UK Travel Planning Podcast is full of practical tips and advice to help you plan your dream trip to the UK whether you are visiting England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. 

Travel expert Tracy Collins shares years of knowledge and experience of travelling to, and around, the UK to help you plan your UK itinerary. 

Listen to special guest interviews full of travel inspiration and practical tips for popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Learn more about the best ways to travel around the UK (including by train), about British culture and history and much more! 

Tune in and let us help you plan your perfect UK itinerary with all the places and experiences you have been dreaming of. UK Travel Planning – helping YOU plan YOUR perfect UK vacation.

UK Travel Planning Facebook Group

Visiting England for the first time? Why not check out my UK Travel Planning Facebook group – come and join us! It is a great resource to help plan your UK trip – come and chat, ask questions and find out more about the UK.

• 1. Don't push in (or invade personal space)
• 2. Don't underestimate the English love of tea and tea breaks

3. Avoid travelling during rush hour

4. understand the difference between the uk and great britain and england.

• 5. Don't attempt our regional accents
• 6. Don't just stay in London
• 7. Know how to respond when someone says, 'You alright"
• 8. You probably won't come across football described as "soccer" in the UK and other different terms
• 9. Don't stand on the left side on escalators

10. Be prepared to talk about the weather (a lot!)

11. some english place names are not pronounced the way you may expect, 13. tipping is generally voluntary (tip 10% for good service).

• 14. Don't talk too loudly in restaurants
• 15. Don't forget to drive on the left (or hop on a train)

More to read about UK travel

Things to know if you are visiting the uk for the first time, 1. don’t push in (or invade personal space).

A big no-no in England is to push in. We have mastered the art of queuing patiently and expect everyone to follow the rules. Join the back of the line and wait!

If you do accidentally push in chances are no one will directly challenge you but there will be a lot of tutting and stares!!

2. Don’t underestimate the English love of tea and tea breaks

Coffee may be popular in England but tea still rules supreme. If you are working in England you will find that everyone takes turns to make the tea. Don’t go and make a cuppa without asking the rest of your workmates – it is not the done thing!

If you are visiting make sure to book an afternoon tea at Betty’s Tea Rooms (York/Harrogate) or perhaps at the Ritz in London for an extra special treat.

Learn more – Best afternoon teas in London to suit every budget

If you can avoid travelling during peak times (in London) or any major city it will not only save you money on fares but also possibly your sanity.

If you have to travel when it is busy make sure you have a ticket (* an Oyster Card in London ) and take note of point 9 below!

Learn more – Essential tips for visitors travelling to London for the first time

England is part of the UK and Great Britain. So is Scotland and Wales. They are all countries.

Northern Ireland is part of the UK but NOT Great Britain. It is also a country.

The UK is basically a political union between the four nations.

Complicated isn’t it!!

5. Don’t attempt our regional accents

Unless you are a world class mimic you may try but you will fail!

Also please don’t try to guess where our accent comes from (unless you are fairly sure!!) If I had a £1 for every time someone asked if I was Scottish I would be living a life of luxury right now.

There are many different regional accents in England and some of them you may struggle to understand particularly when speaking to an elderly person. I remember my friend from Liverpool staying with me in the North East and struggling to understand a word my Grandfather said!

You may hear Brummies. Yam Yams, Scousers, Geordies, and Cockneys amongst others. If you are in the UK long enough you should be able to identify the different accents after a while.

Check out the video to give you a flavour of the accents you may hear!

6. Don’t just stay in London

There are so many wonderful places to visit in England so please don’t stay in the capital for your entire holiday.

If you are looking for ideas there are lots of posts to read in this blog including my ultimate UK bucket list which has 100 places to visit and is a great starting point for planning.

My top recommendations?

• For history lovers (Hadrian’s Wall/Castles) –  Northumberland or perhaps the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath?
• For nature lovers –  The Lake District (Lake District National Park)
• For walkers/hikers –  Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in Yorkshire or perhaps the Peak District around Bakewell in Derbyshire
• For history/architecture/garden lovers – Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds
• For train lovers – Take one of these fantastic day trips by train from London
• For those seeking quintessentially English places to visit – 12 of the prettiest English villages and towns to add to your itinerary
• For city lovers – My guide to 12 cities in England  
• For everyone – Tips for visitors travelling to London for the first time
• For a seaside town – Visit Whitby
• For ancient history lovers – Visit Stonehenge
• For fossils – the Jurassic Coast

7. Know how to respond when someone says, ‘You alright”

You will hear this in a few different contexts!

• As a greeting. Expected response – Yes thanks!
• To enquire if you have been served at a bar/shop. Expected response – depends if you have already been served!!
• To ask if you are feeling ok. This will sound like a question which it is. Expected response – depends on how you are feeling!!

I have had great fun in Australia with this one and have had to explain it is a greeting not the Spanish inquisition about their aches, pains and general health.

8. You probably won’t come across football described as “soccer” in the UK and other different terms

Although the term soccer originates from the UK it is generally not a term used that often. Everyone will of course know what you mean if you call it soccer but it’s one of those word differences between American and British English that can be confusing.

Other examples include:

• Ground floor
• First floor

9. Don’t stand on the left side on escalators

This is important if you want to avoid basically annoying the entire population of London.  Keep to the right so the fitter, younger or late commuters can rush past you at 100 miles an hour.

Some of the stations are deep underground and the escalators are steep and long. With the chaos of rush hour and hundreds of busy commuters, it pays to know exactly where to stand so you aren’t in the way.

Oh and don’t make eye contact with anyone on the tube. If you are travelling alone take a book or pick up a free newspaper to ensure no unnecessary eye contact with your fellow passengers!

The English are pretty obsessed with the weather and will talk about it on a fairly regular basis.

If temperatures rise above 16 degrees expect to see people in T-shirts and shorts and above 23 its a heatwave and people will tell you a million times a day that it’s too hot. Take an umbrella. Most days you will need it.

Also be prepared for the weather to change rapidly . Sunshine one minute and snow and wind the next. And that is just in summer.*

(*Note that this is a joke – even though it is fairly obvious it doesn’t actually snow in the UK in summer someone wrote to me recently to correct me LOL!)

Whether you are visiting Scotland in summer or London in winter be prepared for the weather to be predictably unpredictable!

Think carefully about your packing list for visiting the UK – in fact, you can read my recommendations in this post “How to prepare for visiting the UK – a complete packing list for every season” or check out my packing list for visiting London and the UK in winter which will ensure that you know exactly what to pack (so you don’t freeze to death outside or boil to death in a shopping centre! Believe me these are things I have learnt the hard way.)

Some of these places I have to think twice about myself. If you pronounce the names the way they are spelt you will probably hear a few giggles. The list is pretty extensive but here is the correct way to pronounce the following:

• Torquay – Tor/key
• Leamington Spa – Lemington Spa
• Loughborough – Luff/burrah
• Cambois – Cam/iss
• Alnwick – Ann/ick
• Bicester – Bister
• Plymouth – Plim/uth
• Stroud – Strowd
• Morecombe – Mork/um
• Berwick – Ber/ick

PS If you are an Aussie and places in Australia have the same spelling as above there is no guarantee you are pronouncing it properly!!!!

12. Don’t talk about money

Brits aren’t particularly comfortable talking about money. It can seem quite brash and show-offy if you share how much you earn/have spent etc.

And definitely don’t do it in the north of England. We really don’t like it.

Tipping is voluntary in most places in England. If you want to leave a tip for good service in a restaurant a 10% tip is generally the rule of thumb. Sometimes you will find that a service fee of 10 – 12.5% has already been added. If this is the case a tip will not be expected.

If you are taking a London cab just round up the fare as appropriate depending on the length of your journey.

14. Don’t talk too loudly in restaurants

Just a little suggestion but visitors from some countries have a reputation for being a little too LOUD . Best to try to keep the conversation with your friends/family/partner between yourselves and not share it with the entire restaurant.

Pubs can be a lot more relaxed though with music, quizzes and a more relaxed atmosphere.

15. Don’t forget to drive on the left (or hop on a train)

If you decide to take a road trip around the UK make sure that you stick to the left! You will find that most cars in the UK are manual transmission and not automatic, roads can be very narrow (Cornwall in summer can be interesting!) and motorway driving is not for the fainthearted.

We recommend preparing for your trip – the BEST resource we have found for that is Tripiamo .

Their virtual guides will teach you everything you need to know about driving abroad, from reading road signs to avoiding fines. And they are MUCH MORE More than just a list of driving tips – their guides include instructional videos and interactive 360-degree driving tours too!

Click here for more info about Tripiamo and start preparing to drive in the UK.

The public transport system in the UK is pretty good and I would recommend considering travelling by train at some point.

There are some fantastic train journeys to take in the UK and even if you are based in London there are day trips by train to lots of beautiful cities and sights .

Learn more – Ultimate guide to travelling the UK by train

Do you feel more prepared for your UK adventure?

If you are soon heading to England (the UK or Great Britain) hopefully these tips will give you some idea of the things to do/not do.

One little bonus extra point to remember is that most of us actually don’t know the King. In fact I haven’t even seen him in real life and have never been invited around to the Palace for a cuppa. Not yet anyway.

Why not join my UK Travel Planning Facebook group ? Come and chat about your plans and ask for any advice – we are a friendly bunch and will be happy to help.

I have lots of great posts to read about travel in England to help you plan your visit. Lots of practical tips and information about the best places to visit!

• For food lovers check out my top 20 dishes to try when you visit.
• For book lovers take a look at my top 9 recommended reads which cover the best fiction, non-fiction and travel books.
• If you prefer to watch TV then check out my guide to the best of British TV series
• If you have an interest in UK UNESCO World Heritage Sites I have a number of posts offering tips and advice for visiting some of the best-known places including Stonehenge , the Lake District , Kew Gardens and Blenheim Palace.
• Travellers to the Northeast can find lots of information about the Northumberland Coastal Route (a great road trip) as well as things to do in this beautiful part of the country.

30+ England Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: February 29, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

If you’ve clicked over to this frighteningly long list of England travel tips, that must mean you’re soon headed to England for the first time… and I won’t lie – I’m irrationally jealous of you.

My first visit to England was a glorious mix of bucket list check-offs, giggling at things like “spotted dick pudding”, and trying not to accidentally die while crossing the street. It was an incredible time, and I still nostalgically look back on that trip fondly.

Now, years later (thanks largely to my English boyfriend) I’ve spent the better part of a decade exploring all corners of this scenic country, and I’m condensing that experience into this list of travel tips for England.

So, if you want to travel England with my sage (and weirdly specific) wisdom on your side, read on. In this post, I’ll share all sorts of England travel tips that your typical travel guides might not include, from all the words/names you’re saying wrong to where locals actually eat on a budget.

… I hope you find it helpful!

NOTE: It goes without saying that these England travel tips are written from a North American perspective, so apologies if some seem like common sense. I just wanted to cover all our bases!

Save this list of England travel tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Know the difference between England, Great Britain and the UK 

First off – you might have noticed that this post is titled “England travel tips” rather than UK tips or Great Britain tips.

… And there’s a good reason for that!

These names are oftentimes used interchangeably, but there actually is a difference. And because I’m an annoying nerd, I’m going to tell you all about it.

Put simply, the UK (United Kingdom) is an umbrella term that includes England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as seen here:

In contrast, Great Britain refers to just the island, i.e. the piece of land that includes England, Scotland and Wales. (Essentially the UK, minus Northern Ireland).

And then of course England refers to one of the constituent parts of Great Britain – the part that houses all those famous English places you’ve no doubt heard of, from South Coast towns like Bournemouth , Brighton and Poole to Northern hotspots like Liverpool and Durham Cathedral (as seen in Harry Potter).

Why am I rambling about this? Well, culturally, there’s MANY differences between the different parts of the UK, so just be mindful of that and don’t do silly things like ask English people if they wear kilts.

2. Beware the variation in accents 

For my fellow period drama bingers, I have some bad news: the so-called “British accent” that we’ve collectively swooned over for years? Yeah – that doesn’t really exist.

Or, more accurately, there’s hundreds of “British accents” out there, only a small percentage of which sound like the generic sort of posh accent we’ve come to label as “THE British accent”.

In reality, people across England have wildly different accents and dialects. You can watch this video for an example of 20 different ones.

So, just be prepared for the fact that you may have difficulty understanding/keeping up, depending on where you are, and try to avoid complimenting people on their “British accent” because that term in itself doesn’t really mean anything.

3. Understand there’s way more to England than just London

London is one of the most visited cities in the world, and in fairness, I do think it’s an absolutely incredible place to go, whether you only have three days there or more.

BUT – there’s so much more to England than just London.

I’ve already written about all my favourite places in England besides London, but just a few of my favourite favourites include…

• The South Coast, with its soft sandy beaches and dramatic coastline
• The gorgeous villages of the Cotswolds
• The hilly hikes of the Peak District
• The droolworthy scenery of the Lake District

… and the list goes on.

Luckily, England is quite compact, so you can definitely fit in a lot of destinations in one trip if you wanted to. So… want to. Please 🙂

4, Learn where to find budget-friendly stays

Now in terms of booking places to stay, there are of course a ton of options, with a wild range from backpacker hostels and cozy inns to the most opulent of castles and manor houses.

Trust me when I say in England, there’s something for every budget.

But if you’re reading this article right now, I’m assuming you’re not a Swiss billionaire with limitless ‘castle’ money, so I’m going to focus more on budget-friendly accommodation tips for England. If I’ve assumed wrong…. call me.

Now, you can check out my step by step process for booking cheap accommodation if you want a more thorough overview, but here are some quick tips for England budget accommodation.

Firstly, one very cheap hotel chain to look out for is Premier Inn. They have locations all around the UK and tend to be some of the more reliable budget-friendly options, and they famously don’t make themselves available on 3rd party sites so be sure to check them directly for availability.

Another option if you’re on a budget is pubs! A lot of first time visitors are surprised to see that you can stay in pubs, but many pubs actually have a few rooms they rent out upstairs or on the property so don’t be afraid of trying those out on your trip.

5. Before you leave, make sure you have a good credit card 

Remember that old adage “cash is king?”

Sadly, in England, that throne has been usurped by contactless card payments.

Over the past few years, I’ve found that there are increasingly places that do not accept cash, so if you don’t have a good credit card with minimal fees, get one.

I highly recommend Wise for that purpose. They offer a free card that allows you to “send and spend money around the world at the real exchange rate”, avoiding hidden fees in the process, plus two free ATM withdrawals per month overseas.

You can use my referral link here to transfer your first $500 fee-free.

NOTE: I’ve also had a good experience with Revolut when I lived in Germany, but they don’t offer services for Canadians so I can no longer use them.

6. Be careful crossing the street

Here’s a very unique and unheard of England travel tip: don’t get run over.

No. Seriously. Be careful.

The prospect of ‘left side driving’ might seem quirky and fun if you’re not used to it, but the oft forgotten consequence for pedestrians is that cars will be coming from a different direction than you’re used to, so your natural instincts when crossing the street will be thrown off.

So, be sure to properly check both directions before crossing.

7. Prepare for some common vocabulary differences

It’s no secret that North American English and UK English can differ a lot, not just in terms of accents but also in the words we use.

So here are some basic must-knows that you might encounter:

• the loo or the toilet = washroom or bathroom
• lift = elevator
• boot (of a car) = trunk
• queue = line-up
• pavement = sidewalk
• petrol = gas
• football = soccer
• quid = pound/unit of currency (e.g. 5 quid = 5 pounds)

Now oftentimes especially in more touristy areas, they’ll still understand if you use the wrong word, but quite often they won’t… And you may get publicly mocked by a pub employee for asking where the washroom is (sad true story).

… So yes, adapt to British English wherever possible. It’ll make your life much easier (and less embarrassing).

8. Know that “You alright? You okay?” is a greeting

Upon your first trip to England, you may discover that people are suddenly very concerned with your well-being.

Choruses of “Are you okay?” and “Are you alright?” are sure to feature prominently in your day to day.

Well, here’s some good news: they don’t think you’re in danger. They’re genuinely just saying hi. These phrases are common greetings, and don’t ask me how long it took me to realize this.

Think of it as a British “hey what’s up?”

9. Beware that many names aren’t pronounced how they look

British English is a trap. There – I said it.

Often first-time visitors are embarrassed to discover they’ve been saying famous place names wrong, and (in meaner cases) are even mocked for it once they arrive.

But it’s not you! It’s the letters! They’re confusing. And yes, I intend to start a “British place name confusion” support group soon.

But to prioritize more… preventive measures, here are some common traps for you to keep in mind so you don’t sound silly and can properly ask for directions:

If there’s a place name that ends in -ham, the H is almost always silent, and it’s more like an mm sound, rather than Ham (like the cured pork). Similarly, “-heim” is usually an mmm sound as well, like in Blenheim Palace.

If there’s a place name that ends in -shire, it’s usually not pronounced shy-er (like the Shire in Lord of the Rings), it’s shurr. A lot of counties will end like this, like Hampshire. Not Hampshire.

If you see a W in the middle of the place name, often it’s silent. So, Norwich is Nor-itch, not Nor-witch. Similarly, Greenwich is Gren-itch, not Green Witch.

If a place name ends in -mouth, it’s almost never mouth (like the thing you stuff food in), it’s usually pronounced myth, so Bournemouth is not Born-mouth, it’s Born-myth.

Lastly, one of the trickiest ones, if you ever see a name ending with -cester, very rarely is it pronounced like that. It’s almost always something shorter, like Bicester is “Bister”, Leicester is “Less-ter”, not Lay-sess-ter and Worcester is “Wuster”.

PS: As a bonus, London’s famous River Thames is pronounced “Tems”, not “thay-ms”.

10. Respect England’s queuing culture

Another important cultural etiquette must-know is to abide by England’s queuing culture. 

Queuing or lining up is essential in England, so make sure you don’t accidentally cut queues or budge. That’s the easiest way to instantly anger an English person (that and making tea in a microwave, I guess).

11. And stand on the right side of escalators

Another great way to make English people angry? Blocking their way on the escalator.

Remember: in England, the right side of escalators is for standing, while the left side is reserved for people who are walking.

12. Avoid public transport during rush hours… and during big events like sports games

When you’re a tourist, you have the luxury of flexibility so don’t try to cram into public transport with all the locals during their commute to/from work. It really is the worst.

… Especially if you get stuck on transport while there’s a big football game on. Oof – I can smell it now.

As an added bonus, peak vs. offpeak pricing for transport is quite common, so you’ll actually save money if you choose to travel during offpeak periods (usually early in the morning, in the afternoon, or later at night – basically whenever people aren’t trying to get to/from work).

13. Prepare yourself for scaffolding and restorations

England’s lengthy history is responsible for a lot of things: fascinating ruins, majestic palaces, museums aplenty and… a booming scaffolding industry.

Yes, sadly the downside of England’s old age is that many of its monuments are regularly undergoing restoration work, which involves unsightly scaffolding in the best of cases, and complete coverage in the worst of cases.

For instance, here’s what London’s famous ‘Big Ben’ looked like for a few years:

And here’s what the majestic Manchester Town Hall looked like on my recent visit:

Of course, there’s not much that can be done about this (unless you’re that aforementioned Swiss billionaire) but it’s good to keep in mind just so you can temper your expectations a little bit.

14. Keep your phone out of easy reach at all times

I’ve previously written all about how to avoid pickpockets in Europe , and while pickpocketing does happen in England, the more prevalent threat these days in big cities is actually phone snatching.

… and if you’re like me and consider your phone the closest thing you have to a child, then you’ll want to take special care and attention to ensure it doesn’t get phone-napped while you’re out exploring.

This means not having your phone out in easily grabbable situations (e.g. texting next to a bike lane, where someone could just take it) or leaving it out in easily grabbable places (e.g. on a terrace table).

Avoid having your phone out unless you absolutely need it, and your baby will be fine.

15. Give English food a chance

Thanks to revolting-sounding foods like “beans on toast” and that “spotted dick pudding” I mentioned earlier, English food has suffered some pretty bad bullying over the years.

But don’t listen to the haters – English food can actually be super delicious, especially if you’re into hearty comfort food (usually) slathered in a biblical flood of gravy.

So if you’re looking for England food tips/recommendations, here are my non-negotiable must-tries:

• Full English Breakfast
• Sunday Roast / Roast Dinner
• Fish and Chips (preferably by the sea)
• (Savoury) Pie 
• Sausage Rolls
• Bangers and Mash
• Sticky Toffee Pudding
• Shepherd’s Pie/Cottage pie

16. And give International cuisines a try too 

As we all know, the British Empire once covered a quarter of the world’s population.

The history there is dark but one (more positive) consequence has been that England is home to some amazing food from around the world, especially in big cities like London and Manchester.

So, don’t feel like you need to stick to solely English food.

Overwhelmed? Indian food in England is an especially popular choice, but you can always try to find a food market or hall (of which there are many in the big cities) and sample a bunch of cuisines at once.

17. Beware of the many meanings of “pudding”

In North America, pudding refers to a creamy type of dessert, usually served in a little cup, which acts as a beacon of nostalgia and deliciousness for kids across the continent.

In England, the word pudding has a different meaning. Multiple different meanings, actually.

In fact, I might argue it’s one of the more confusing words in British English, but allow me to illustrate my point with a few examples:

• Generally, pudding is a word that means dessert, so if someone asks if you want pudding, they’re asking if you want dessert, to which I hope you answer “absolutely”
• Yorkshire pudding however refers to a deep fried dough thing that’s served with roast dinners – it’s literally pancake mix prepared differently, but it’s SO good with gravy
• Black pudding is a blood sausage sometimes served with a Full English breakfast
• There’s also bread pudding which is basically stale bread with eggs and milk, but… also good

In summary, pudding has a lot of different meanings depending on the context, so don’t be too thrown off by this.

18. Know where to find cheap eats

Now, while the choices are endless and enticing, the truth is it can be kind of pricey to dine out in England…

Fret not however, there’s a few easy ways to save.

First off – Meal Deals are a lifesaver. A lot of big chain places in England do them – you basically get a main, a snack, and a drink for a set small price like 4 or 5 pounds. And it’s a great way to fill up quickly and on a budget!

Another place to get cheap snacks is bakeries or chains like Greggs, where you can get pastries and sausage rolls for less than 2 pound each.

For a “nice” sit-down meal with drinks, look into lunch specials or early dinner specials. Many places in England offer special deals if you dine early, which works out well for North American visitors because our meal times tend to be a bit earlier than England’s anyway.

Lastly, if you’re looking for a VERY cheap sit-down meal with drinks, there’s a chain of pubs across the UK known as Wetherspoon, or Spoons.

It’s a bit controversial for a lot of reasons I won’t get into, but there’s literally almost 900 of them across the UK and they’re super popular because their prices are astoundingly cheap for both food and drink. 

19. Learn how to tip in England

In terms of tipping, tipping culture isn’t as big in England as in North America. People tend to only tip for good service and it’s typically around 10%. 

When ordering at the bar, it’s not even the norm to tip at all (although a bit in a tip jar would always be appreciating).

It’s worth noting however that these days, a lot of restaurants are starting to add something called a Discretionary Service Charge of 10-12.5%. You will see this added to your bill, and they will assume you’re paying it unless you say otherwise.

If however you don’t want to pay the charge (and you lack my social awkwardness/anxiety) you can simply say so and they will remove it.

20. When visiting pubs, it’s common to order at the bar

If you come from a non-pubby culture like mine, this may be new information to you: in England, it’s very common to order up at the bar (meaning where the beer taps, etc. are) rather than wait for table service.

This goes for both drinks and food (if the pub you’re visiting offers it).

Usually this ensures quicker service because you get your drinks instantly, and you don’t need to wait for a server to come along.

… This also means that you don’t need a table to be served drinks, which is why it’s quite common to see people sipping pints out on the street during busy periods.

NOTE: If you plan to order food at the bar, take note of your table number so that you can give it to them when they ask.

21. Avoid renting a car unless you’re going to small villages or nature spots

Alright, now let’s talk about some transport tips for England, and how to get around.

To start, I would say for (most) first-time visitors, it doesn’t make sense to rent a car.

Not only is driving on the left side of the road going to be a challenge for a lot of newbies, it can also be quite pricey and you’ll find that most big cities and towns are well serviced by public transport.

That said, there’s of course a few exceptions. If your itinerary includes a lot of smaller villages or nature spots, then renting a car is probably the best way to see those more remote parts of England… but generally speaking, if you’re just visiting big cities, you won’t need a car rental.

Still considering it? Here is a post to help you figure out how much renting a car in Europe really costs .

NOTE: Renting a car isn’t the only way to see more remote places in England! There are many companies that offer day tours from larger towns/cities so you can enjoy all the scenery without worrying about endangering the British public with your left side driving.

22. Know the difference between individual train companies and “National Rail”

Another common way to get around England is by train.

If you’re unfamiliar with taking trains, you should probably read my step by step guide to train travel in Europe , because it’s actually not that intuitive.

But with the UK, there are some additional confusing things for first time visitors, so I’ll go through them now.

Overall, what you need to know is there are about two dozen different companies offering rail service in the UK, all with their own names (e.g. Southwestern Rail, Avanti West Coast, etc.

However, the term you’ll encounter more often is “National Rail”, which is an umbrella term mainly used for branding and consistency that includes many different train companies.

So, just know that there is no such thing as “National Rail” branded trains – when you are booking tickets or boarding your train, you’ll want to look for the specific company you’ve booked with.

23. Use Trainline to easily look up trains

Of course, you can use the National Rail website to search up trains OR one app I prefer is Trainline.

I love using them to search and book so I can have all my bookings in one place, plus they do other handy things like remind me when I’m entitled to compensation for delayed trains (more on this later), send me notifications when my platform is announced, and more.

NOTE: They do take a small service fee so you can book directly with the specific train company if you want, but I don’t mind paying a bit extra for the convenience.

Another alternative for finding split tickets is TrainPal. Their main selling point is they don't charge a booking fee and they also track the carbon emissions from your trip and allow you to participate in tree planting projects within their app.

Use the code HAPPYTOWANDER for 33% off Railcards & 5% off for EUR/UK rail tickets for new customers and 2% off for existing customers.

24. Buy rail tickets in advance to save big

Now, a huge shock for first time visitors is how expensive train travel can be in the UK.

Yes, especially if you wait last minute for the longer distance trains, the prices are… eye-watering.

BUT, if you plan in advance, actually the prices can be decently reasonable. Trains never get cheaper closer to the travel date, so the sooner you book the better.

There are of course some other tricks as well that you can use to save money on trains, which I’ll explain below.

25. Look into buying a RailCard

If you’re between the ages of 16-30 years old or aged 60 and over, one way to save money on train tickets in England is buying something called a RailCard.

This might only make sense if you plan to take the train a lot, but basically it’s a card that you buy for a set price that then gives you 1/3 off rail fares for the year. 

If you’re visiting London, you can also link a RailCard to your Oyster card and save 1/3 on public transport journeys in the city as well.

Because trains in the UK can be so pricey, often you can get the value of the RailCard back within one or two journeys, so it can definitely be a huge money saver!

If you plan to travel by train a lot in the UK, consider buying a RailCard that will save you 1/3 off all fares. This is the ultimate money saving hack if you travel often enough, and it can even be linked to an Oyster Card to be used for London Tube journeys!

Buy through TrainPal and you can use the discount code HAPPYTOWANDER to save 33% off your RailCard!

26. Consider getting a BritRail Pass 

Another potential way to save on the train is getting something called a BritRail pass . With it, you can get unlimited train journeys for a set period, whether that’s a consecutive few days or a set of days within a certain time period. 

This is a great option if you need a bit more flexibility and don’t want to buy tickets in advance. It’s also great if you plan to do a lot of day trips.

There’s a few BritRail passes but in my opinion the best value is the London Plus pass, which includes London and pretty much every popular London day trip destination. 

Of course, it’s honestly probably cheaper to just book train tickets early to secure the best deals, but if that’s no an option or you want to be flexible, BritRail passes are great for that. 

27. Claim compensation for late trains

Now, while I acknowledge I have a (frankly, unhinged) obsession with train travel, I can see its flaws too, and I must admit that trains in England can often be delayed or worse, cancelled with little notice.

BUT before you all start sipping tea angrily, there is a silver lining. As I mentioned above, it’s actually VERY easy to claim compensation if your train is delayed.

A lot of train companies have this thing called Delay Repay and you can file claims and get refunds online if your train is as little as 15 minutes delayed. Often if it’s over an hour delay, you get a full refund.

Again, this varies depending on the train company, but I’ve filed claims on  Southwestern Railway, Southeastern Railway, Chiltern Railways, and Northern, all of which were super easy.

… So keep that in mind the next time you’re confronted with this dreaded notice:

28. Look into bus travel (AKA coach travel) if you’re on a budget

Besides trains, another common way to travel around England is by bus, or as they call them in England, by coach.

These are usually much more affordable than trains, and super common as well, with plenty of coverage across the country.

Here are some of the main companies to look into:

• National Express 

I would personally search up your route on Omio , which shows you different options, and then from there you can assess what the best choice would be.

29. Always hold onto your tickets

Whether you’re travelling by longer distance train or just catching a quick trip on the London underground, make sure to always have your ticket handy.

At bigger train stations, there are fare gates so you’ll have to scan your ticket on the way out, and the same applies for underground trains like the tube in London – you have to tap out in order to leave.

There can also often be ticket controls on board (even after you’ve tapped in or scanned your ticket), so don’t throw your tickets away or accidentally misplace them!

30. Remember to flag buses down and always press for your stop

On a random cultural note, you have to flag buses down here if you’re using public transport.

I wasn’t used to this because in Canada the buses automatically come to your stop if you’re standing there, but in England you generally have to wave them over and flag them down so they know to stop.

31. Know where to find free things to do in England

Looking for some more money-saving England tips? Well, here’s some beautiful budget-friendly news: I honestly think some of the best things to do in England are free.

In most major cities for instance, you’ll find many museums that are by donation. Out in the countryside, there are plenty of great walks that are free to enjoy (including national parks!)

And, all over the country, churches are for the most part free to visit as well. So, if you are looking for tips to travel England on a budget, remember just how many free things there are to choose from.

This is one of my top Europe backpacking tips – do not sleep on the many free things to see and do in England!

32. Learn the tricks to saving on paid attractions

That said, while there are tons of great free things to do, if you are visiting a place that is heavy on attractions like London, it might be worthwhile getting a sightseeing pass that includes many attractions for one set price.

Again, this is usually only worth it if you plan to visit a LOT of paid attractions, but if you do, then you can easily save a ton of money. I’ve used the London Pass in the past for instance and the value was unreal.

Of course, if you’re planning a longer stay in England, and you plan to cover a lot of the country, then it might also be worth looking into an annual membership for either National Trust , English Heritage or Historic Houses.

These are organizations that look after hundreds of historical attractions across the country, and when you’re a member, you get unlimited access for the year. 

But again, this is only really worth it for those planning longer trips.

33. Don’t bring any suitcases you can’t carry

England is not a country well built for rolling suitcases.

Sure, there’s the big modern hotels that have functional elevators (lifts), and cities with smooth sidewalks (pavement)…… but more often than not, you’ll encounter rickety cobblestones, and older hotels which are converted from centuries-old houses which have unstable stairs and not a single lift to be found.

This is why I’d highly recommend bringing only suitcases that you can carry. This is especially crucial if you plan to use a lot of public transport, because there’s often situations where you have to lift your bag to go up stairs, to get on the train, to lift onto train luggage racks, etc.

So yes, make sure you can carry your suitcase!

My best tip for packing things into a smaller bag: Use Packing Cubes to squeeze more into your suitcase/backpack.

PS: If you’re overwhelmed with what to pack, I’ve already made some packing lists that you can use as a starting point!

• My Europe winter packing list
• My Europe summer packing list
• My versatile minimalist packing list
• My toiletries packing list
• My free International Travel Checklist

35. Bring a universal adapter

Power sockets in England are Type G, and if you’re visiting from overseas, odds are you’ll need an adapter for your plugs to fit.

I’d strongly recommend buying a universal adapter  like this one  if you don’t have one already.

It’s cheap, can be re-used for every trip, and covers you in all situations. Definitely some of the best money I’ve ever spent!

PS: In England, you often also need to turn “on” the power outlets for them to work – simply flip the switch that’s next to it.

36. Pack a waterproof/windproof jacket

It rains a lot in England. You’ve probably heard that before…

But instead of just bringing a clunky umbrella and calling it a day, I’d highly advise packing a waterproof and windproof jacket, especially one with a hood.

This is because English wind can be as fierce as English rain, and getting your umbrella flipped inside out by wind is one of the most humiliating things on Earth. That and calling Greenwich “Green witch”, I suppose.

37. Get a mobile data plan

I feel like this England travel tip goes without saying, but in case you were on the fence about getting a data plan for England, get one. Please, for the love of pudding, get one.

These days, there are so many things in England that are dependent on Internet, like restaurant menus accessible only via QR code, or places that require you to register before entering (side eyeing you, BOXPARK Shoreditch).

Luckily, data is super cheap in the UK. If you want something cheap and easy, Three is great.

You can order their cards online in advance from Amazon or they also have stores all over the UK and even vending machines at the airport when you arrive. You can get a month 10 GB data pack with unlimited calls and text, for only 10 GBP so it’s really worth it!

38. Try to not speak too loud

In England, North Americans generally have a reputation for being… loud.

And once you hear it yourself, you really can’t unhear it.

So if you’re out in public, try to lower the volume of your voice to closer match what’s around you (easier said than done, I know, but something to be mindful of).

39. Binge on movies set in your destination before your visit

Last tip, it’s dorky but in advance of your trip, watch as many movies and TV shows set in the England as possible. Period, modern, Love Actually – whatever floats your boat. I promise it will make your visit a thousand times more magical.

After all, I could binge travel quotes all day but nothing will put me in more of a wanderlusty mood than a good piece of media with swoonworthy accents and idyllic scenery.

So, if you’d like to do the same before your trip, here are some travel movies or shows set in England:

• If you’re visiting London, watch Paddington, Paddington II, Notting Hill, Bridget Jones’s Diary
• If you’re visiting Bath, watch Bridgerton
• If you’re visiting Manchester and/or Liverpool, watch Peaky Blinders (I know it’s set in Birmingham, but it films mostly in other places)
• If you’re visiting idyllic little villages, watch The Holiday or Hot Fuzz (for something a little different)
• If you’re visiting Dorset, watch Broadchurch
• In general, watch Pride & Prejudice (or your Jane Austen adaptation of choice), Harry Potter, or your period dramas of choice

I hope this list of England travel tips was helpful!

Quite frankly, if you made it this far, you deserve some kind of medal! This was a VERY long list of tips for England, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Introduction

From our bustling cities and striking coastline to inspirational outdoor adventures, there are so many things to see and do in Britain and Northern Ireland.

England is renowned for its iconic landmarks, as well as historic castles, world-leading museums, diverse festivals and top-notch sport.

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Explore Scotland’s stunning lakes, highlands, and wildlife-rich islands, as well as lively cities bursting with character.

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Wales sparkles with scenic beauty, rich history and adventure, from its magnificent castles and National Parks, to rolling hills, mountains and coastline.

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Northern Ireland

Discover World Heritage sites and Game of Thrones filming locations, dramatic coastlines, historic castles, and thrilling outdoor adventure in Northern Ireland.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Discover world-leading museums and galleries, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a city brimming with history and culture.

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Explore Edinburgh, capital of Scotland, the world’s leading festival city and home to 10 international festivals.

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Explore Wales’ capital city Cardiff, famed for its iconic rugby stadium, Victorian shopping arcades, and thriving food scene.

Belfast is a vibrant cultural hub on Northern Ireland’s east coast, packed with lively pubs, a diverse food scene and proud industrial heritage.

Tourism Northern Ireland

Famed for its Roman spa and Georgian architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bath has long been celebrated as a wellness and cultural retreat.

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Britain’s second largest city, Birmingham is an industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart.

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Brighton rocks as a seaside town with cool shops, diverse cuisine, and inclusive celebrations bursting with south coast Pride.

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Bristol is a creative city with a rich maritime heritage, and home to legendary street artist Banksy.

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The city of Cambridge is a hub for innovation and creativity, with a famous university dating back more than 800 years.

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Explore Coventry, birthplace of 2-Tone Music, Britain’s motor industry, and Peaky Blinders filming locations.

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Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is full of character, with striking architecture, abundant green spaces, and a music scene as vibrant as its people.

VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan/Sophie Cave

The Lake District is Britain’s largest National Park at 912 square miles (2,362 square km) and is recognised by UNESCO for its beauty – its stunning lakes and mountains have inspired artists and writers for centuries.

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Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with more museums and galleries than any city outside of London.

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Home to Manchester United and music legends, Manchester is one of Britain’s most dynamic cities, with an industrial history matched by its modern-day appeal.

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Nottingham 

Steeped in legends that surround Robin Hood to literary greats, discover what this city has to offer.

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Oxford is known as the 'City of Dreaming Spires', in honour of the architecture of Britain’s oldest university.

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Rich in history and royal traditions, Windsor is home to Britain’s largest inhabited castle and has been home to royalty for centuries.

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Newcastle-Gateshead

The city of Newcastle stands on the north bank of the River Tyne, connected to the neighbouring town of Gateshead by seven bridges.

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York is a medieval walled city with Viking and Roman heritage, famed for its magnificent cathedral and abundance of museums.

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Countryside

Peak district.

Home to some of Britain’s most dramatic scenery, the Peak District, east of Manchester, is a place of rolling hills and rugged moors, with picturesque market towns and adventure galore.

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Lake District

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Brecon Beacons

From rolling valleys and sweeping peaks to dramatic waterfalls, the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) National Park in South Wales is overflowing with natural wonders, culture and heritage.

South Downs

The South Downs in Southern England is Britain’s newest national park, bringing together ancient woodland, seven rivers, historic castles and spectacular coastal trails.

Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the area packs the punch for outdoor adventure, with miles of cycling and hiking trails, paddleboarding and numerous golf courses.

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North York Moors

The North York Moors National Park, in North Yorkshire, stretches from countryside to coast and is home open moorland, sandy beaches and harbour villages.

Snowdonia (Eryri)

From its peaks and tumbling waterfalls, to charming villages and 200-miles of beautiful coastline, Snowdonia (Eryri) is Wales’ largest national park.

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Northumberland

Northumberland features historic castles, coastal trails and spectacular scenery within its National Park.

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Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire National Park, on the western edge of Wales, covers an area of 240 square miles (621 square km) and is home to sandy beaches, wildlife-filled islands, and medieval castles.

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Surfing image

The New Forest National Park in Hampshire, southern England, is a region of forest, open countryside and coastline, famed for its free-roaming ponies.

This vast, untamed national park in the heart of the Scottish Highlands is home to impressive mountains and castles, ancient forests, rare wildlife, and exciting year-round activities.

VisitBritain/Graham Niven

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park is 30 miles (48km) from Glasgow and is an adventure haven, home to 720 square miles (1,865 square km) of mountains, forests and lakes.

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Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales National Park covers 841 square miles (2,179 square km) of rolling hills, dramatic waterfalls, and is home to a spectacular network of 2,500 caves.

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Hugging the south-west, Devon is a playground for adventurers, explorers and food lovers.

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Dartmoor and Exmoor

The two national parks of Dartmoor and Exmoor in south west England combine to offer dramatic coastline, untamed moors, spectacular wildlife and miles of trails to explore.

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Explore England’s south-eastern county, affectionately known as the 'Garden of England'.

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Renowned for its glorious countryside, striking coastline and unique attractions.

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The Scottish Highlands

Located in the northern reaches of Scotland, the wild and awe-inspiring Scottish Highlands are all about scenic beauty and adventure.

The Broads National Park sits on the border between Suffolk and Norfolk, in the east of England.

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Embracing five English counties, the lush rolling countryside, pretty stone villages, and rambling rivers of The Cotswolds offer a quintessential taste of Britain.

North Wales

North Wales is brimming with UNESCO World Heritage sites, magnificent castles, stunning coastlines, rolling hills and adrenaline-fuelled adventure.

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Wales Coast Path

The Wales Coast Path takes in 870 miles (1,400km) of beaches, clifftop hikes, wildlife-filled islands, and historic castles along the nation’s coastline.

North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is an epic scenic route around the North Highlands of Scotland.

North Highlands

King Charles III England Coast Path

A coastal masterpiece, the King Charles III England Coast Path will be the world’s longest shore walk, spanning a remarkable 2,795 miles (4,500km) of beaches, cities and nature reserves.

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Jurassic Coast

At 200 million years old, the 96-mile (155km) stretch of south-west coastline known as the Jurassic Coast is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Causeway Coast

Wild waters and mythical landscapes, this stretch of the Atlantic coastline is home to Northern Ireland’s UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway, and the stunning 130-mile (212km) Causeway Coastal Route.

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Scottish Islands

The awe-inspiring Scottish Islands are full of character, with friendly communities and an abundance of wildlife.

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England Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 18, 2024

England is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. While most travelers tend to stick to London (which is understandable as it’s a great city!), the rest of the region has a lot to offer and sees a fraction of the crowds.

In fact, backpacking around England was one of the highlights of all my travels in Europe .

England’s smaller cities, like Bath and Oxford , are both fascinating and culturally rich. (And, since they aren’t as crowded as London, they’re a bit cheaper too.)

Liverpool , the birthplace of The Beatles, boasts a rich musical history while the countryside has fascinating estates and natural beauty. There’s the mountainous north, the rolling hills of Lancaster and Cornwall, Stonehenge , Hadrian’s Wall, and Tudor cities like Chester.

In short, there is a ton to see and do in England. This England travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time here!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on England

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Top 5 things to see and do in england.

1. Tour London

You can’t go to England without visiting London — it’s one of the most popular cities in the world. It’s home to charming pubs, world-class museums, tons of history, some of the best theater performances in the world, a diverse population, incredible food, and a wild nightlife. It might be a city that often breaks the bank, but fortunately, London has a plethora of free markets, museums are often free, and it has a ton of relaxing parks that you can enjoy on a budget. There are lots of free walking tours here too!

2. Drive the coast

England’s coastal towns make for a relaxing holiday (especially if you have a vehicle). The most popular destination is Brighton , well-known for its summer parties and festivals. But don’t overlook places like Weymouth, Salcombe, Dover, Hastings, St Ives, or Newquay — and that’s just a handful of them in the south of the country. You could literally spend months just discovering each new place. The towns offer everything from old-world traditional charm (think cobbled streets and Tudor houses) to bright lights and fun fairs (Brighton’s pier is similar to LA’s Santa Monica).

3. See Cornwall

Cornwall is like mini-New England — you can see why English settlers felt at home in the New World. Just like the USA’s New England , Cornwall has rolling hills, beautiful lakes, small towns, rural farms, wonderful hiking trails, tiny fishing villages, great food, and even a winery. The area has been populated since the Neolithic and Bronze Age. Eventually, the Britons (who were Celtic in origin) claimed the region, with the first written account of the region dating back to the 4th century BCE. It’s also been an important maritime region for centuries. The laid-back pace of life here is one of the reasons why it’s one of my favorite places in England. Don’t miss it!

4. Spend a day in Bath

Bath is named after the famous (and marvelously well preserved) ancient Roman baths located in the heart of the city that date back to 70 CE and were in use through to the 5th century. The audio guide by Bill Bryson is a must and adds a lot of context and details. The baths are the main attraction in town, though the abbey, Georgian and Victorian houses, and river are also nice to see. Literature buffs can also explore Jane Austen’s heritage as she lived in Bath for most of her life.

5. Explore the Lake District

Located in Cumbria, in Northern England, and about an hour from the border with Scotland, the Lake District is home to one of England’s best national parks. The lakes in the region are a result of the last ice age and receding glaciers cut the U-shaped valleys that are now filled with water. It’s perfect for hiking mountain passes and sailing around pristine lakes. It’s very popular (and crowded) during the summer. It is to northern England what Cornwall is to the south: a natural, rural paradise that embodies the best of England and, outside of Cornwall, it’s my favorite region in England.

Other Things to See and Do in England

1. see buckingham palace.

Buckingham Palace, home to the Queen of England, is a fascinating sight that’s only open to the public during the summer. If you can’t (or don’t want to) visit the palace, you can catch the changing of the guards at 11am four times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays). If you want to check out the palace, admission is 30 GBP when purchased online (33 GBP on the day), while exclusive guided tours are 90 GBP. Check the Royal Collection Trust website for details on other events happening throughout the year.

2. Visit the Tower of London

Built in 1070, the Tower of London has expanded many times over the years. It was built as a double-leaf bascule bridge in the middle (both sides lift up) to maintain river access to the Pool of London docks while easing congestion on each side of the river. You can visit inside the tower and walk along the glass walkways. Weapons, armor, and coins were made here until 1810 and today you can view the famous crown jewels, walk the battlements, wander recreated medieval palace rooms, see the iconic Yeoman Warders (known as the Beefeaters as they were allowed to eat as much beef as they wanted from King Henry VII’s table), and spot the legendary black ravens that live in the tower. Skip-the-line tickets are 29.90 GBP. Be aware that lines are long so it’s best to plan ahead.

3. Relax in Brighton

Brighton is a great little seaside resort town on the southern coast of England that’s perfect for a weekend getaway. Considered the hippest city in the UK, Brighton is known for being quirky, bohemian, artsy, and very LGBTQ-friendly. It’s a popular summer destination for locals who come here to relax on the beach, enjoy the fleeting summer sun, and wander the pier where there are amusement rides, carnival-style stalls, and street food.

4. Listen to music in Liverpool

Liverpool has spectacular museums, but as the World Capital City of Pop, the real reason to go is for the music, or more specifically, for The Beatles. The Beatles Story museum has all kinds of memorabilia and information about the famous band, who were from Liverpool. Besides the music, Liverpool has a rich history and culture as well as fun pubs, so don’t sell it short.

5. Check out Chatsworth House

Located in Derbyshire, this massive and lavish mansion was built in 1549 for the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. While there are many beautiful houses and castles throughout the UK, this is one of the most astonishing. It’s so striking in fact, that countless films and TV series have been filmed here (including Peaky Blinders, Jane Eyre , and of course Pride and Prejudice ). The home has played a role in popular culture since it was mentioned in Jane Austen’s book, Pride and Prejudice in 1813. On your visit, you can wander the 25 stately rooms, stroll the 105-acre gardens, and make new furry friends in the operating farmyard. Admission to the house and garden costs 26 GBP (just the garden is 15 GBP).

6. Tour Oxford University

Founded in the 11th century in Oxford , this university is one of the oldest in the world. You can visit the many beautiful colleges within Oxford for just a few dollars, or you can take a 90-120 minute guided tour of the entire university with Bodleian Libraries (20 GBP). You can even see the colleges in which they filmed parts of Harry Potter ! For art history buffs, stop in at the free Ashmolean Museum on campus for impressive Eastern and Ancient Egyptian art collections.

7. Attend the festivals

England is known for its festivals, especially during the summer. For music, be sure to check out the famous (and muddy!) Glastonbury festival or the Liverpool International Music Festival. Also, the UK has three huge annual Pride events in London, Brighton, and Manchester. This is just the tip of the festival iceberg though as every city and town has a lot on offer.

8. See Stonehenge

Stonehenge , located just 15 minutes from Salisbury, is one of the oldest man-made structures in the world (dating to 2,500 BCE!). You can’t go up to the stones anymore, but it’s quite a fascinating site, especially since we still have very little idea how they dragged the stones there. The audio tour is worth getting so you can get some historical context on the site. Admission starts at 22 GBP.

9. Visit Old Trafford

I highly recommend a visit to Manchester United’s home stadium. With over 74,000 seats, it is the largest club football stadium in the UK and the 11th largest in all of Europe. The tour is awesome and takes you below the stadium seating into the player’s lounge, and even into the pitch-side dugout. Dig deeper into some football (aka soccer) history at the onsite museum. Admission is 35 GBP.

10. Admire Ely Cathedral

Also known as the ‘Ship of the Fens,’ this cathedral is visible everywhere in the small city of Ely in Cambridgeshire (and from miles around too). Originally built in the 12th century, it’s renowned for its Romanesque architecture, complete with a stunning entrance and an octagonal lantern tower. The Lady Chapel is the largest in all of England. The cathedral is also home to the National Stained Glass Museum, whose collection spans 800 years and includes stained glass from across the UK and Europe. Visiting the cathedral only costs 9 GBP (online, or 10 GBP on the day), entry to the museum is 5 GBP. Booking in advance is recommended if you want to join one of the tours which cost between 1.50-12 GBP.

11. Relax in Greenwich Park

Considered to be one of London’s largest parks, it is also one of the most beautiful — and a perfect escape from the city’s bustle. There are several historic sights here as well as a rose garden, meandering pathways, a tea house, the Royal Observatory, the National Maritime Museum, a café, and even a deer park. It is the oldest enclosed royal park in London and a relaxing place to spend a few hours with a book.

12. Hike Hadrian’s Wall

Declared a World Heritage Site in 1987, Hadrian’s wall has been standing since the 2nd century. It was built by the Romans to keep the Celts out of Roman England (though that didn’t work so well). While you can make a brief visit to see the fortifications and ancient walls in many spots of the country, if you’re up for it, you can also hike the entire 83-mile (135-kilometer) length of the wall itself (most people do it in 6-8 days).

13. Go to Salisbury

Not far from Stonehenge is the beautiful town of Salisbury . Just 1.5 hours from London by train, it has a breathtaking 750-year-old cathedral that is home to the Magna Carta and tombs dating back to 1099. Salisbury is one of the few places that wasn’t bombed during the World War II Blitz so it is beautifully preserved. Cathedral Close and Market Square are both worth visiting in Salisbury as well as Old Sarum (what is thought to be the original site of Salisbury) and Salisbury Museum.

14. Stay in Chester

I love an under-visited destination and, for me, Chester is one of those places. Chester’s center looks like something out of an old novel by Charles Dickens. The homes in Chester are typically Victorian in design and the old taverns, hotels, and little shops all have retained their charm and original look. There’s plenty to do in Chester, including walking along the city walls and seeing the rows of medieval houses that showcase the historic architecture. Chester Cathedral is over 1,000 years old and well worth a visit (it has been added to and restored but has kept its medieval feel). For something a little more contemporary, go on a river cruise.

15. Visit the colleges at Cambridge University

Like Oxford, Cambridge University is made up of different colleges. Founded in 1209, the University is an architectural delight and wandering around the many buildings in the city. Most notable include the stunning buildings at Kings and Queens Colleges as well as the iconic quads at St. Johns and Trinity. There are lots of walking tours to choose from if you want to learn more about Cambridge’s history and some are even led by the students themselves. Expect tours to last around 90 minutes and cost 20 GBP.

16. Enjoy afternoon tea

Tea is a scene unto itself in England. With a history dating back through the centuries, this tradition can be enjoyed at every level of your budget. Starting with just the drink, you can find quaint tea shops literally all over the country. There you can try different types of tea and a selection of cakes to go with it should you need a sweet treat. In Devon and Cornwall, you can have cream tea which is tea with scones, cream, and jam (although these are now often served in other places too). Afternoon tea, or high tea, is a more lengthy affair and comes first with finger sandwiches and tiny savory pastries, then with scones (with cream and jam) and little cakes. Some places offer a glass of champagne to go with it. Most traditional tea houses offer afternoon tea but if you’re after more of a sense of occasion and your budget can stretch to it), the big hotels also offer it every day.

17. Visit Bristol

Many people only pass through Bristol on their way to Bath but it’s really worth a visit of its own. With a population of 500,000, Bristol is a hip college town with amazing eateries, great food, wonderful things to see, lots of green space, and plenty of things to do. Aside from taking a walking tour (my must-do in any city!), some of my favorite things to do include a tour of Bristol’s Romanesque Cathedral that was built in 1148, wandering King’s Street, and admiring Clifton Suspension Bridge. Bristol has a great museum and art gallery that is worth a visit and I also really enjoyed St Nicholas’ Market. Other things worth doing include the S.S. Great Britain, the Avon Railway, and Blaise Castle.

  For more information on specific cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Brighton Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

England Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels cost 10-30 GBP a night for a dorm room. Amenities usually include free internet, breakfast, a common room, TV, and kitchen facilities. Private rooms in hostels start at around 50 GBP and go up from there. Campgrounds can be found all around the country, and most have basic facilities (such as bathrooms, electricity, and Wi-Fi). Expect to pay 10-20 GBP per night for a place to pitch your tent.

Budget hotels offer similar amenities and start around 60-80 GBP per night for a twin room but can be more like 120 GBP in peak season. Apartment rentals (like Airbnb) cost anywhere from 35-90 GBP per night for a private room depending on the city, while entire apartments/homes start around 90 GBP per night but average 110-120.

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds in recent years, it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

A kebab costs around 5-6 GBP, burritos and sandwiches cost 6-10 GBP and traditional fish and chips cost about 10 GBP. Indian and Asian food can be purchased for 8-10 GBP. Pizza is usually 8-10 GBP. Fast food (think McDonald’s) is around 6-7 GBP for a combo meal.

A meal at a casual pub or restaurant costs 12-16 GBP and you can expect to pay at least 30-35 GBP for a three-course menu with a drink in a mid-range restaurant. A meal in a higher-range establishment costs upwards of 70 GBP.

Beer is around 6 GBP while a latte/cappuccino is 3-3.50 GBP. Bottled water is about 1.20 GBP.

A week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-60 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl, Aldi, Sainsbury’s, and Tesco.

Backpacking England Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget, you need at least 55 GBP per day. On this budget, you can stay in hostel dorms, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, use public transit to get around, take the bus between cities, and take advantage of all the free sites in the country (free museums, parks, beaches, etc.). It’s a tight budget so if you want some more wiggle room, I’d add another 10-15 GBP per day, especially if you plan on drinking while you’re there.

On a mid-range budget of around 135 GBP per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or private Airbnb, cook some meals and eat out at cheap pubs or fast food stalls, do some intercity travel by train (if you book early), have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi, and visit some paid attractions like Westminster Abbey or the Tower of London.

On a “luxury” budget of 255 GBP per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out wherever you want, drink more, take taxis and the train to get around, and do more tours and activities. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

England Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

England isn’t a cheap place to visit. You’re going to spend a lot of money here, especially if you stick to cities (and London will be about 30% more expensive than the rest of the country). However, there are plenty of ways to save if you know where to look. Here are my top ways to save money in England:

• Take advantage of the free museums – Public museums offer free admission in every city throughout England and the United Kingdom. It’s a great way to learn about influential artists, immerse yourself in the country’s history, and spend a rainy day without paying a cent.
• Book early – Book all transportation well in advance. You can find fares for around 2 GBP with a little planning. Megabus not only runs buses but also provides trains throughout England and is the best option for cheap travel throughout the country.
• Get a Taste of UK card – The Taste of the UK card offers up to 50% off and 2-for-1 deals at selected restaurants. You don’t need to be a United Kingdom resident to get the card and the first month’s membership fee is waived, which is perfect for most travelers.
• Eat pub food – Eating out in England can get quite expensive, but for good, cheap, and filling meals, visit the local pubs. Most serve food, and you can get a good meal for 10-15 GBP or less. Plus, the pubs are a great way to meet people!
• Take a free walking tour – Most major cities in England offer free walking tours. They usually last a few hours and are a great way to see the city. Some tours even have a specific focus, such as history, food, or architecture. Just make sure to tip your guide!
• Eat the lunch specials – Another way to lower your food expenses is to stick to eating out during lunch only. I typically do my eating out during lunch and then cook my dinner to lower my food costs.
• Visit the cathedrals – Many of England’s cathedrals are free to enter. It’s a wonderful opportunity to see some of England’s 15th to 19th-century architecture. just make sure to dress and act appropriately.
• Get a London tourist pass – If you’re planning to do lots of sightseeing in London, the London Pass provides access to over 80 attractions via its 1-10 day passes. Other passes available include the London City Pass from Turbopass (which includes an option to add transport costs), and the London Sightseeing Pass. Compare prices and activities to see which pass is the best choice for you and your budget.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in England

England has tons of awesome and budget-friendly hostels. Here are my favorite places to stay in England:

• Astor Hyde Park (London)
• St. Christopher’s (London)
• YHA Manchester (Manchester)
• The Full Moon Backpackers (Bristol)
• Seadragon Backpackers (Brighton)
• Embassie Liverpool Backpackers (Liverpool)

How to Get Around England

Public transportation – England has excellent transportation in nearly every town and city, including buses, trains, and trams. Getting a travel pass is often far cheaper than buying single tickets as well. For example, in London, a one-way fare on the tube in Zone 1 costs 6.30 GBP, but getting a Visitor Oyster Card reduces that to 2.50 GBP per ride.

Train – In the United Kingdom, the National Rail service is always expensive. It’s one thing the locals love to complain about. A journey from London to Liverpool can cost as little as 25 GBP or as much as 150 GBP! Who knows? Prices flucuate a lot! The earlier you book the better.

You can use the National Rail website or Trainline to research schedules and prices.

A Eurail Pass, which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option. For more information, here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work .

Bus – The cheapest way to travel around the country is via Megabus, where fares start at 1 GBP. You need to book at least a month in advance, but even if you miss that deal, fares are rarely more than 10-15 GBP. Flixbus also has cheap fares starting at just 3 GBP.

National Express is the other main bus company in England, and they offer great discount passes to full-time students and people under 26 years old. The passes cost 12.50 GBP and give 30% or more off adult fares.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Domestic flights around England are cheap when booked in advance. A flight from London to Manchester or Liverpool costs around 49 GBP and takes about an hour. However, once you factor in getting to and from the airport, it ends up almost always being faster to take the train unless you’re traveling far (such as from London to Scotland).

Car Rentals – Car rentals can be an affordable option in England, costing as little as 20-30 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. Don’t forget you have to drive on the left, and most cars are standard rather than automatic. Additionally, drivers need to be at least 21 to rent a vehicle here.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to England

Thanks to its temperate climate, visiting England year-round is enjoyable as there are very few weather extremes. Summer is peak tourism season, and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 30°C (86°F). Although tourist sites and attractions are teeming with people, there’s also a great atmosphere in the air. People make the most of the warm weather, and there are tons of events and festivals happening all over the country.

Spring (late April-May) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are still warm and the crowds are a bit thinner. Plus, with the seasons changing, you either see gorgeous spring flowers in bloom or the leaves turning color in autumn. Just be prepared for a little rain.

Winter lasts from December to February and tourism crowds thin out dramatically. You can still do plenty of sightseeing, although further north (or in mountainous areas) some attractions may be closed for the season. Temperatures dip below 5°C (41°F) so dress warmly. Snow is not uncommon.

Keep in mind that England is famous for its gloomy, dreary weather. It can rain a lot, so make sure you pack some weather clothes and some waterproof gear no matter when you visit.

How to Stay Safe in England

England is very safe and the risk of violent crime here is very low. Scams and pickpocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, however, especially in London around tourist attractions like the Tower of London. Pickpockets tend to work in teams, so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

Solo travelers, including solo female travelers, should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

While break-ins are rare, if you rent a car, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight just to be safe.

Scams here are rare, however, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

England Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of England.
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

England Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England

This 10-day england itinerary takes you on a tour of the most famous sights in the country, plus a few hidden gems.

If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, it’s hard to know where to start. The first big decision is do you fancy spending all of your time in England, or perhaps venture to Wales or Scotland too? While Britain isn’t a huge island (you could drive from Land’s End in the south to John O’Groats in the north in under 15 hours) the scenery is varied and you’ll want to take your time.

If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend focusing on England, and spending at least a week travelling around. You can move at a fast pace and visit a new place each day, but if you fancy a more leisurely trip, you’ll probably want to allow a minimum of 2 days in some of them, especially when you factor in the travel time.

Coming up is a 10-day England itinerary packed full of the best sights in the country. I’ll admit it’s been really difficult to choose where to include. There are SO many other places that are equally as beautiful, but this route gives you a nice variety.

From London’s museums and iconic landmarks, to the epic beauty of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Bath’s history and the landscapes of the Lake District, this itinerary has it all! If you want to wander through streets that could feature in Harry Potter or soak up the romance of where The Holiday was filmed, there are some iconic movie locations on this route too.

The easiest way to travel around England is by car. It’ll give you the flexibility to get off the beaten track, visit some unique destinations and pack as much into your trip as your time allows. However, if you’d rather use public transport, all of these locations are accessible by trains or buses too.

10-Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England

2 days in london.

There’s SO much to see in the UK’s capital, you could easily spend a week exploring the city. For this 10-day England itinerary I’ve suggested you spend 2 days in London and pack in as much sightseeing as you can.

If it’s your first time in London you can’t miss the key landmarks. Watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, see London from a different angle from one of the 32 pods on the London Eye, check the time at Big Ben, explore Westminster Abbey, wave to Nelson in Trafalgar Square, see Tower Bridge open for a tall ship, see the crown jewels sparkling inside the Tower of London and step inside St Paul’s Cathedral. It sounds like a lot, but you can see so many sights with a long walk along the River Thames.

One of the best ways of doing all of this is on a bus tour. We really like this vintage open-top bus tour which is just oh so quintessentially British. This tour has a guide explaining all the top sights.

Alternatively, another tour we love is this half-day bike tour . In 4 hours you get to ride around London taking in all the sights – it’s a really cool way of seeing London, especially on a bright sunny day.

If you love museums, take a trip to South Kensington and venture inside the impressive Natural History Museum and Science Museums. They both have lots of interesting interactive exhibits and are great for families.

For tasty food, take a wander through Borough Market or Camden Market. If you love architecture, how about a little tour of Notting Hill. The pastel coloured houses are like something out of a kid’s book. Or for a great view, walk to the top of Primrose Hill. It’s one of our favourite spots on a sunny day. 

The easiest way to get around London is using public transport. You can either pick up an Oyster Card (a contactless travel card) or use your own contactless bank card.

1 Day In Brighton

After a great few days in London, it’s time to escape to the coast. Brighton is one of the best seaside day trips from London by train (journey takes one hour) and a gorgeous place to explore on foot.

There’s the pier which is crammed full of fun rides, amusement arcades and food outlets wafting the sickly scent of donuts through the air. There’s a mammoth pebbly beach, lined with little art galleries, gift shops and restaurants.

For a great view of Brighton, you could take a trip on the i360 – a tourist attraction which offers great views of the area. Plus, there are some gorgeous hotels on the seafront if you want to stay overnight.

One of our favourite things about Brighton is the shopping scene. The Lanes and North Laine are full of character, and are THE place to visit for independent stores, quirky cafes and restaurants. This is a great place to shop for vintage jewellery and bohemian clothing.

Once you’ve done all of that, you’ll definitely have earned some fish and chips on the beach. Just watch out for the seagulls overhead – they’re always hungry!

1 Day In Dorset

I was debating whether to recommend two days in Cornwall, or break up the journey with one day in Dorset. Needless to say, Dorset won! I visited last year for the first time and would definitely suggest you include a stop there on your 10-day England itinerary.

Dorset is known for its dramatic coastline, known as the Jurassic Coast. I’d recommend the clifftop walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door – England’s iconic rock arch. If you have time, you could also do the walk from Studland Bay to Old Harry Rocks. It’s another beautiful spot, with huge chalk stones standing in the water.

Alternatively, if you fancy a more relaxing day you could drive to West Bay to see the enormous limestone cliffs, which show the falling sea levels from over 175 million years ago. Or enjoy the adorable English villages of Milton Abbas or Abbotsbury.

Both have main streets lined with charming thatched cottages, many decorated with pretty plants and flowers. It’s got a quaint English charm! 

Alternatively, if you’re basing yourself in London for your England itinerary, then this is an amazing 5 day tour of Dorset and Cornwall . On this tour EVERYTHING is taken care of for you, so you don’t need to worry about transport, tickets or anything else like that.

1 Day In Cornwall

Cornwall is one of my favourite parts of England. This southern region of mainland Britain is where you’ll find a spectacular rugged coastline, top surf beaches and some of the best fresh seafood in the country. It’s a walker’s paradise, and a great place for day hikes along the South West Coast Path .

The Cornish coastline is stunning – it’s no wonder it’s one of the top places for people to go on holiday in UK. For beach time head to Fistral Beach (Newquay’s famous surf beach), Bedruthan Steps (epic rock views), Pedn Vounder (might have you fooled for the Caribbean) or Kynance Cove (with its incredible rock formation).

Alternatively, you could focus on Cornwall’s food scene. There are lots of great restaurants dotted around the county, but the most famous town for gastronomy is Padstow .

Legendary chefs Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth have launched a culinary empire in the town, and there’s a nice mix of high-end to budget friendly options. Most of them involve fresh fish and seafood brought in daily by fisherman in Padstow Harbour. Read our guide to the 13 best places to eat in Padstow before you go! 

1 Day In Bath

Bath is one of England’s prettiest cities. Most buildings here are constructed from Bath stone – a beige limestone which gives the city a certain uniformity. It’s a very walkable city, and one of my top recommendations would be to get lost in the pretty streets.

There are a few highlights not to be missed. If you’re a lover of history, the city of Bath offers a lot. First time visitors must visit the Roman baths . It’s incredible to learn about the ancient ways of the Romans and their impact on modern civilisation.

For the best views, I’d recommend climbing the tower of Bath Abbey (bookable as part of a guided tour). It’s a tiring climb up, but well worth it once you see the stunning cityscapes from the top.

Alternatively, an evening cruise on the water with a glass of prosecco is a great way of seeing the city too!

If you’re craving relaxation after a busy few days of travelling, you could spend some time enjoying the soothing waters of Thermae Bath Spa. There are several pools, saunas and steam rooms. One pool is on a roof terrace and offers lovely views of the city too!

Bath is a sophisticated city, with great places to eat and drink, lovely independent shops and plenty of history, so it’s s great addition to your 10-day England itinerary!

1 Day In The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is one of the most picturesque regions of England. If you’ve grown up watching films set in cute English villages, you can bet 99% of the time they were filmed in this area! You know, the beautiful snowy Christmas scenes in The Holiday and Bridget Jones? Yep, they were filmed in the Cotswolds.

If you’re only spending one day in the area as part of a bigger 10-day England itinerary, I’d recommend visiting Bibury and walking down Arlington Row. After that, head to Moreton in Marsh, Bourton on the Water, Upper and Lower Slaughter and Broadway.

The best way to enjoy this area is on a little road trip, stopping off at towns and villages, then having a little country walk before enjoying a traditional cream tea. There are a number of beautiful accommodation options in this area too, from adorable B&Bs to huge country manor houses.

Alternatively, if you want everything taken care of for you, then this is one of the most popular tours of the Cotswolds from London . It is packed full of all the top things to do in the area, and it’s one of the most recommended Cotswold tours out there!

2 Days In The Lake District

After spending time in The Cotswolds, it’s time to head north. It’s a long journey, so it might be best to add in a travel day at this point if possible.

The Lake District is England’s largest national park and covers 912 square miles. It’s stunningly beautiful, with rolling hills, pretty lakes and some of the best restaurants in the country.

With just two days in the area, we’d recommend a mix of hiking, water activities and good food. There are lots of Michelin starred restaurants in the Lake District , so you could treat yourselves to an extra special meal. Our favourite was Cottage in the Wood, but there are a few others including Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume that we’d love to visit one day!

In terms of hiking, one of our favourite routes is up to Cat Bells. The views from up there are absolutely incredible. We also really enjoyed the hike from Pooley Bridge to Aira Force waterfall . The route passes high over the hills, with epic views of Ullswater from the top.

If you like getting out on the water, then there are plenty of opportunities in this area. You could kayak, hire a sailing boat, try stand up paddle boarding, go canyoning or enjoy a leisurely journey on board the historic Ullswater Steamer.

Another fantastic Great British tour is of 10 lakes in the Lake District . Here you get to hop from each lake seeing which one is your favourite – it’s a

1 Day In Cambridge

You’ve made it to the final day of your 10-day England itinerary, and it’s time for a trip to Cambridge. History lovers will adore walking the grounds of famous university colleges here. The architecture is amazing and feels very grand. The city centre has plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes to enjoy too.

One of the top things to do in Cambridge is go punting . It’s not an activity that goes on in other cities really – Cambridge is THE place for it. There’s nothing quite like gliding down the River Cam learning all about the history of Cambridge while on a punting tour.

As you relax on board the boat you get to see some of the sights that are tricky to view properly from the banks of the river, including the spectacular Bridge of Sighs, the Mathematical Bridge and the back of King’s College.

As another thing to do, it’s really popular to take a tour of the colleges too for that real Cambridge university experience.

It’s a beautiful city to explore, and a great place to round off an exciting and varied 10 days in England.

Fancy going further afield? Head to Scotland and visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile or venture out into the stunning Scottish Highlands.

Alternatively, you could cross the border into Wales and visit Snowdonia or the Gower Coast. There’s so much to see in Britain – who knows where you’ll end up!

Enjoyed this 10-day England itinerary? Pin it for later…

23 Things You Should Know Before Visiting the UK

There’s a great many things you should know before visiting the UK. That’s because visiting Britain can be a strange experience – I know this because I am British, and have had many strange experiences.

Things you should know before visiting the UK

But if Great Britain can be confusing for the British, what hope does anyone else have? Travellers from somewhat saner countries are often thrown by the small things of British life, the “why do they do that?” questions evident on their faces, as they’re faced with the most scathing of British rebukes – the tut. This is because Britain is a country of unspoken rules, social behaviours which are expected to be followed at all times, but which we never voice because that would feel like we’re being rude and confrontational. And then we’d have to apologise for it.

So here’s 23 things you should know before visiting the UK: what to expect, social faux pas to be avoided, and an explanation of the pure weird.

1. We have separate taps for hot and cold water

Mixer taps are becoming more of a thing in your fancy, posh bathrooms (I have one, obvs), but on the whole you can expect to be confronted by two separate taps. This is particularly true for public toilets (which usually last had an overhaul of their facilities in 1952, or so it may seem) and in places like pubs. This gives you a choice between scorching your hands with water which has been specially drawn from the centre of the earth, or something that feels like it’s been shipped in from the Arctic.

So why do we do this? Do we just get a perverse pleasure from watching people zip their sud-soaked hands from one tap to the other, howling as they do so? (maybe.) But the answer is actually rather straightforward.

Basically, British buildings constructed after the Second World War had a slightly different plumbing system, which meant that hot and cold water came from a different source. Cold water came directly from the mains – no problem there for drinking. Hot water, however, was stored in tanks, which was then heated. This water is  technically not safe to drink, as the cleanliness of the tank can’t be vouched for. So the taps are separate so that the undrinkable hot water doesn’t mix with the drinkable cold water. Simples!

And indeed, “simples” is another expression you may hear and wonder about – it comes from a popular insurance advert featuring a Russian-accented meerkat.

2. You need to order food from the bar in a pub.

I have seen many a visitor to Britain sit in a pub with an air of expectation, look around awkwardly for a bit whilst trying to catch the attention of the barman, and then complain about the service. Unsatisfied stomachs growl, tempers become frayed, sadistic locals watch, and an avoidable situation just becomes unpleasant for everyone.

This is one of the things you should know before visiting the UK, especially as it’ll save you a lot of hunger pangs. Pubs, unlike restaurants, require you to go to the bar in order to order your food. And you’ll need to remember your table number if you do. What’s the reason for this? Why is it so different from restaurants, who will tell you to sit down if you try the same thing?

Again, it’s quite straightforward. For a lot of pubs, serving food is still a fairly new thing (some pubs won’t offer any menu at all). Because your traditional pub is a watering-hole, with drinks bought and served at the bar, the method of ordering has stayed the same. Unlike a restaurant, it’s a case of sitting, checking the menu on the table, then heading to the bar to order. Queue politely (barmen are very good at becoming blind to anyone who’s a bit pushy), give and pay for your order. Your plates of hearty pub fare will be delivered to your table, hopefully sooner rather than later.

On the subject of pubs, remember that beer and bitter (a pale ale) are served warm in Britain. Also, if you want to smoke, you’ll have to do it outside.

3. Make sure that someone is English, before you call them English.

The United Kingdom is not  completely  united.

To some non-Brits, the word “England” has come to cover the whole of the British Isles (to be fair, this happen to some Brits, too). It’s an understandable mistake – England is the largest part of the United Kingdom when it comes to land size, and you have expressions such as “The Queen of England”, which itself is a bit of a historical leftover from the times before the Union.

But anyone from Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland will quite rightfully correct you if you call them English.  The other nations have their own proud histories, and don’t like being lumped under the English umbrella – you’re not likely to receive any ill-feeling though, especially as a visitor. Most people, however, will be happy to be called British – it’s the British Isles, after all. The exception to this is Northern Ireland, as some people will consider themselves British, whereas others will be proudly Irish.

If you’re feeling confused by all the different names for the country, think of it this way – it’s the  United Kingdom of  Great Britain (which is the large island containing  England, Scotland, and Wales ) and  Northern Ireland .

This is definitely one of the most important things you should know before visiting the UK, especially if you want to avoid causing offence!

4. Snow disrupts EVERYTHING.

Now, if you’re visiting from a colder climate which sees lots of snow, you will find this faintly ridiculous. Even the British find this ridiculous.

You’ll notice it if you watch a news bulletin in the winter, or pick up a newspaper. “SNOW IS ON THE WAY”, it’ll proclaim in a vaguely  Game of Thrones -esqe manner. There is a sense of foreboding about the article, like it’s just announced that a nuclear warhead is aimed at the country. News readers look grave. The newspapers will advise the stocking up of tinned goods.

Then the snowstorm hits. Howling blizzards. The natives lock themselves in their homes. Schools and businesses are closed. The country is undone by massive snowdrifts measuring a depth of… 2 inches.

Yes, one of the things you should know before visiting the UK is that a lot of areas are embarrassingly unable to cope with the slightest bit of adverse weather. The reason for this is that British weather is generally quite mild; we don’t really get any extremes, therefore the infrastructure to deal with wild weather just isn’t in place. Winters are cold and wet, but rarely life-threatening in any way. Spring and autumn are mild. And summer, if one actually arrives, are pleasant without being scorching. This is why the British are famously obsessed with talking about the weather; anything which is slightly unusual is immediately noticed and commented on.

So, on the whole, your trip is unlikely to be disrupted by the weather. Unless it snows. In that case, the best thing to do is paraphrase  Shaun Of The Dead , and go to the pub, have a nice cold pint, and wait for all of this to blow over.

5. Queue-jumping will result in your (social) death.

Another thing that Brits are famous for is queuing. It is a national sport; a point of pride. And queue-jumpers can expect to be reviled and shunned by their friends.

It all comes down to a sense of justice. In general, Brits believe strongly in a “first come, first served” theory, as that just seems the fairest way – if you’re first, you get seen first, if you’re second, you get seen second. Therefore, ignoring the queue, or trying to cut into the line, will instantly provoke a sense of injustice in the rest of the queue. At the very least, you’ll open yourself up to an avalanche of tuts; at the worst, you could even be manhandled out of the queue. Yes, queue-jumping even overrides the British sense of being non-confrontational. It’s that big an offence.

But there are other crimes you can commit whilst in the queue. One of these is trying to engage fellow queuees in conversation – generally, we don’t mind the occasional comment (especially if it’s sarcastic, which generally endears you immediately to any Brit), but a full conversation will instantly make most people uncomfortable. I’ve even known people to make an excuse to leave the queue (“oh dear, I think I left the gas on, must pop home”) even though they still really want whatever it was they were queuing for.

And, most puzzling for visitors, don’t accept if someone offers to let you go ahead of them in the queue. This is also seen as bad manners – yes, even though the person offered. The correct way to do this is as follows:

PERSON: Would you like to go ahead of me? You’ve only got two items.

YOU: Oh no, I couldn’t possibly! I’m fine, thank you though!

PERSON: Oh go on, go ahead!

YOU: No, no!

PERSON: Yes, yes!

YOU: Oh… are you sure? Are you sure you’re sure?

PERSON: Yes, love, go ahead of me!

ME: Ohh thank you! You’re very kind! (etc etc)

You may now move forward in the queue. And this brings us on to…

6. We sometimes say things that we don’t actually mean.

I don’t mean straight-up lying (though obviously some less-than-honourable citizens will do that), but occasionally a Brit will say something to you that they don’t really mean.

It’s less shady than it sounds. Basically, we generally pride ourselves on being quite polite, and we don’t like big fusses, or anything that’ll cause a scene in public. However, this well-intentioned practice often puts us into a little bit of a corner when it comes to social interactions. What do you do when someone is lovely, but they invite you to a party that you really don’t want to go to? Or they give you some advice from the heart, but you don’t quite have the guts to say that you’d rather submerge yourself in of a vat of camel diarrhea?

It’s simple: you reply with something polite, but that you don’t really mean. It’s kind of a conversational stop-gap – we’re actually saying “you’re so nice that I don’t want to hurt your feelings by being bluntly honest, so I’m going to leave it dangling in the hope that you forget about it.” Add this to your list of things you should know before you visit the UK, because it’ll save a lot of social awkwardness.

Some excellent examples include:

“I hear what you say” = I disagree, and want to end this line of conversation.

“That’s not bad” = I like it.

“By the way…” = let’s get back to what I wanted to talk to you about in the first place.

“I almost agree” = I don’t agree at all.

Sometimes, we do genuinely mean it, though. Unfortunately, the confusion this causes is part of being British, and must be endured.

7. We don’t like to refer to football as “soccer”, even though it’s the correct name.

British football fans take the sport very seriously. Whilst football hooliganism largely belongs to the past, rivalries between teams still remain, particularly if they both happen to be located in the same area – Manchester United and Manchester City, Rangers and Celtic, Arsenal and Spurs, West Ham and Millwall, Portsmouth and Southampton. However, there is one thing that all of these agree on.

It’s called football. Not soccer.  Never soccer. Even though that’s technically the correct name, and we are totally responsible for the confusion.

Back in the 1800s, the game now known as football was beginning to evolve into the form that we now know it. But at the same time, an offshoot version with egg-shaped balls, and a tendency to use hands as much as feet, was becoming popular in the prestigious Rugby school. To differentiate between the two, they became known as “association football”, and “Rugby football”, or “soccer” and “rugger” for short.  Soccer was THE name for the sport, which was exported across the globe to millions of adoring fans, including across the Atlantic to the United States.

In America, the sport was known as “soccer”, and never referred to as “football”, as that confused it with the American game of the same name. However, this then caused a mini-backlash in Britain, where both “soccer” and “football” were used, because it was considered that “soccer” sounded too American. Now, unsuspecting visitors who refer to it as “soccer” immediately mark themselves out for gentle ridicule by young football fans up and down the country.

America – we’re sorry. It’s completely our fault.

8. Some British foods have really vague names.

Some foods have beautiful, simple names. They describe exactly what they are, with no need for doubt, or questioning of a waiter. Steak and ale pie – classically simple. Fish and chips – wonderfully descriptive. Sticky toffee pudding – it’s exactly what it says.

And then there are foods that make you scratch your head. You may have no idea what they are, or you might order it and receive something completely different to what you expected. They are the potential minefields of British cooking, waiting for the unsuspecting visitor.

Yes, eating in the UK, a nation usually stereotyped for its plain food, can actually be a bit of an adventure. We’ve even got a cereal cafe in London’s Shoreditch – yup, they just serve cereal. But at least that’s straightforward! Here’s some of the confusing dishes, explained at last:

Black Pudding : Not a pudding. Black blood sausage, made from pig’s blood. Often found in a Full English (see below).

Yorkshire Pudding : Also not a pudding. Batter souffle, usually accompanying roast beef on a Sunday. Very tasty when filled with gravy.

Full English : Breakfast. Usually consisting of sausages, bacon, baked beans, egg, mushroom, grilled tomato, black pudding, hash browns, and toast. Will keep you full until the evening.

Brown sauce : Often found alongside ketchup. Made with tomato, molasses, dates, apples, tamarind, spices, and vinegar. Excellent on a bacon sandwich.

Welsh Rarebit : A nicer version of cheese on toast. Contains 0% rabbit.

Scotch Eggs : A boiled egg wrapped in sausagemeat, then rolled in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. Traditional picnic food. Varieties using black pudding instead of sausagemeat are available.

Haggis : National dish of Scotland. Sheep’s heart, liver and lung, mixed with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, and stuffed into a sheep’s stomach. Tastier than it sounds. Not popular with sheep.

Ploughmans : English cold meal containing bread, cheese, ham, salad, eggs, and a pickled onion. Contains 0% ploughman.

Toastie : British version of a grilled cheese sandwich.

Bangers and Mash : Sausages with mashed potato. Second World War sausages acquired the name “bangers”, as the water content was so high, they tended to pop when cooked.

Toad in the Hole : Sausages cooked in a bed of yorkshire pudding. Reason for the name is unknown; probably people just wanting to confuse future travellers.

Check out this guide to traditional British foods if you want to learn more about our cuisine – including more weird-ass items. Yes, we have plenty of them!

9. Holding the door open for the next person is practically compulsory.

It’s human nature to pass through a door, and to let it close behind you. After all, that’s why they put those nice hinges on the doorframe, which bring it into a pleasingly-controlled descent towards being closed. However, not holding the door for the person behind you is a massive no-no in Britain.

Much like queuing, holding the door open is one of the cornerstones of British society. Those who let go of the door, blithely getting on with their lives and potentially allowing a little old lady to get smacked in the face, are tutted at in the strongest manner. There are limits to this, however – one is not expected to hold the door open indefinitely. Allowing one or two people through is normal (extra if the elderly are approaching); any more than this, and you will identify yourself as a Canadian.

10. Be nice to strangers, and shockingly rude to the people you love.

Yes, Brits are a contradiction. We will usually attempt to be unerringly polite to people we have never met, and will probably never meet again. However, it will not be unusual for a British friend to introduce an acquaintance to you using a phrase similar to “this is my mate Bob, he’s a total dickhead.”

This is because, in the eyes of the British, when you become truly familiar with someone, it allows you to drop the formal politeness of the stranger and affectionately refer to them in appalling ways. It should never be taken as an insult, but as a sign of love. This is also commonly referred to as “banter”; particular experts in the art may be acclaimed as “the Archbishop of Banterbury”.

But beware! Affectionate insults are something that will only come with time. Insulting someone too quickly will possibly result in offence, and a darkening of a Brit’s brow. Allow the Brit to insult you first: then you know that your level of friendship has achieved the exalted level of ‘banter’. Expect vaguely insulting nicknames too; we like to nickname things, and even have nicknames for London .

Also be aware some words may be ruder than you think. For example, your author remembers watching a DVD of  Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (it’s the finest Star Trek series out there, folks), and being vaguely shocked when Chief O’Brien exclaimed “bollocks!” rather loudly. This particular word refers to testicles, and should not be shouted in polite company, even if you have just lost your daughter to a time portal. Similarly, “wanker” does not mean an idiot, but ‘one who masturbates’. If in doubt, consult  Urban Dictionary.

11. We don’t tip much.

This is one of the really useful things you should know before visiting the UK. There are actually relatively few situations where the visitor will be required to tip in Britain – for instance, if you try to tip your barman in a pub, you’ll generally be met with a blank look (if you really want to be nice to a barman or barmaid, offer “and one for yourself” when you’re ordering a drink).

In fact, the main situations in which you’ll be expected to leave a tip are:

Hotel porters:  Tip around £2.

Taxis:  Not a requirement, but most people will round their fare up to a round number. Also makes it easier for your taxi driver to give you change.

Restaurants:  A tip of  10% is the maximum needed. Some places will include service on the bill.

Hairdressers:  A tip of 10%, rounded to the nearest pound.

12. Cricket. You won’t understand the rules, but neither do we.

Cricket is as English as a church fete being held in a green and pleasant village green, but unless you’re talking to a passionate fan of the game, the chances are that any casual viewers will not have the faintest clue of the rules, or what is currently going on. You’ll occasionally hear scores announced on news bulletins, usually in an arcane code such as “England are 230 for 6”, which will draw appreciative murmurs or derisive tuts from those in the know, but the majority will simply look blank.

By all means, ask a local what the score is and how the game is going, but don’t expect a reply that’s any more in-depth than “I think that means they’re losing again”, unless you’ve been fortunate enough to locate a cricket fan.

I’d explain the rules to you myself, but I honestly haven’t a clue what they are.

13. Conversations about Brexit are better avoided, unless you know the person well.

Brexit remains a touchy subject in Britain, and unless you know the person you’re talking to fairly well, it’s usually better to completely avoid the topic. Tensions ran high after the vote in 2016, and it hasn’t yet abated – friendships, and even family relationships, have been broken simply by heated debates, especially if the arguers are on different sides. As a visitor, you probably won’t invoke anyone’s ire if you do ask about it, but you can certainly expect most people to talk fairly passionately about it.

However, whether the person you’re speaking to voted to Leave or Remain, most people will generally agree that the British Government made a complete mess of the Brexit negotiations, a process that would’ve made a group of four-year olds in a sweet shop look orderly and composed in comparison. If you’re unsure of whether your conversation partner voted for Leave or Remain, a statement along the lines of “Theresa May made a bit of a mess of Brexit, didn’t she?” accompanied with a sympathetic look will invariably ring true with either side of the debate.

Similarly, on topics it’s better not to touch, it’s never a good idea to criticise the NHS (National Health Service). There are a few things that the British are truly proud of, but one of them is certainly the free, compassionate care provided by the NHS. Complaining about any treatment you’ve received from the NHS will never go down well. Other emergency services, such as police and fire service, are equally appreciated by the population.

14. We like to blow stuff up on 5th November.

Yes, Britain has it’s own version of the 4th of July: a special day when we’ll gather the family together, put apple-cheeked youngsters into their warmest clothes, then encourage them to set light to a bonfire with an effigy of a tortured rebel on top, their eager eyes dancing with flames.

In 1605, the Gunpowder Plot occurred – a group of dissidents decided to blow up the House of Lords (part of Parliament) during the State Opening, and put an unlucky chap named Guy Fawkes in charge of the explosives. After an anonymous letter tipped off the authorities, Fawkes was found in the cellars of building, guarding 36 barrels of highly lethal gunpowder, where presumably he protested his innocence. However, it was to no avail, as the surviving plotters were all hung, drawn and quartered. ( Game of Thrones fans may want to look into Kit Harington’s ancestry for an interesting footnote to the Gunpowder Plot.)

In celebration of all this destruction, “Guy Fawkes Night” became a thing, commemorated each year on the anniversary of the plot.  Fireworks are shot into the air, bonfires are burnt, effigies are lovingly constructed and just as lovingly reduced to cinders. Visit the Sussex town of Lewes for the ultimate, hardcore Bonfire Night festivities.

16. We have a lot of accents

One of the things you should know before visiting the UK is that we have a lot of different accents on our little island. Nope, we don’t all sound like Hugh Grant or the Queen; apologies.

In fact, in addition to the well-known regional accents (watch the video above for an excellent demonstration of the main ones), you can also have a variety of accents within quite a small area. In my home county of Sussex, you can have people who sound terribly posh with a received pronunciation accent, right alongside people who sound much more rural and West Countryish. Or people like me, who fall somewhere in the middle.

You can even have different accents in a single town. My boyfriend is from a town in Essex where the people either sound quite RP, or have a stereotypically Essex accent which is very close to that of East London (the word “number” is generally pronounced as “numb-baaaaaah”).

Expect lots of accents. And expect half of them to be completely impenetrable.

17. Stand on the right

Much like queuing, this is an absolute must in the UK, if you want to avoid stares of hatred which could melt a blast door.

The London Underground can be a stressful place, to the extent that I wrote a guide on how to use the London Underground in order to save people the inevitable rage of trying to use it. The main trap, which opens beneath the unsuspecting visitor, is not the trains themselves, nor the navigation. It’s the escalators.

Yes, those innocent-looking moving staircases are a breeding ground for invoking the anger of Brits. That’s because people often fail to understand that you should always stand on the right of the escalator, in single file. Londoners are usually in a hurry on the Underground, especially at stations which connect to an overground train line (such as Victoria, Liverpool Street, or King’s Cross), and will quite often run up the escalator.

If you stand on the left, or most unforgivably, two people to a step, you can expect to be bellowed at by an onrushing commuter. Always stand to the right – it’s one of the most important things you should know before visiting the UK.

18. You can criticise the Royal Family as much as you want

Like all timewasters, I occasionally like to have a browse through Reddit, Quora, and other online forums. And one of the most common questions I see from people who are about to visit the UK is “will I get arrested if I say something bad about the royal family?”

Relax, my anti-monarchist friend. Although there  are some people in the UK who will get a little offended, your chances of meeting one are fairly slim. Most people in the UK won’t bat an eyelid if you criticise the royal family. Have you got a burning desire to say that Prince Charles’ ears stick out, or that Prince William was totes cuter when he had hair? Feel free to get it off your chest.

In fact, I don’t know a single person who watched the weddings of either Princes William or Harry; most people simply don’t care what the royals get up to. The only member of the royal family with a more protected status is the Queen herself: more people are fond of her than the rest of the family, but you certainly won’t get arrested if you want to badmouth her a bit.

19. People will greet you with “alright?”

One of the more confusing things you should know before visiting the UK is a simple greeting.

Now, if someone comes up to you and says “alright?” or “are you alright?”, it’s fair to assume that they’re enquiring how you are.

However, under no circumstances should you actually tell them how you are. An answer of “well, I’m okay, but I had a really long flight, and there was this really annoying child behind me who kicked my seat and threw on the back of my head. So I had to go to the toilet and wipe child vomit off my head, and the plane hit turbulence and I bonked my knee on a cabinet, and now I’m feeling tired and stressed” will result in a bemused Brit.

That’s because we Brits aren’t logical, and we use “alright?” as a greeting. We don’t actually expect a summary of the past twenty-four hours, and can feel slightly embarrassed and trapped if it launches us into a full conversation when we were being polite in passing. So, it’s usually safest just to reply “good thanks; you?”

Unless you’ve just been hit by a bus, in which case they’ll genuinely be asking if you’re alright, and feel free to tell them exactly how you feel.

20. Trains are pretty awful

If you take nothing else from this guide on things you should know before visiting the UK, then take this: our trains are often not as good as the ones you’ll find in the rest of Europe.

I take nothing away from the fine staff of the railroads, who in my experience (and I do a lot of train travel), are always friendly and helpful. But Britain’s railroads have been held back by a failure to modernise after the Second World War – something that the rest of mainland Europe cottoned on to very quickly, hence excellent rail systems in places like Germany and Italy – and a succession of cuts and bad governmental choices.

As a result, our trains are frequently late, often cancelled, usually a bit grubby around the edges, and freaking expensive . Rail fares rise at least once or twice a year, the dismayed mews of commuters ignored. Seriously, if you want to see the country by train, be sure to book ahead on the Trainline website in order to save yourself as much money as possible, because it’s really not going to be cheap.

21. Buy rounds at the pub

This falls into the social category of things you should know before visiting the UK, but it’s hella important!

You may, at some point on your trip, be invited to the pub by some lovely Brits. Feel free to take them up on their offer, because pubs are often at the heart of local society (especially in small towns and villages, where the pub is far more important than any kind of local government office), and it’s a good way to experience the local culture.

At first, you’ll think that these kind Brits are being  incredibly  kind. They keep buying you drinks! Free alcohol; awesome! And you’ll drink the night away, noticing that they increasingly give you a slightly frosty look. But how can that be, when they keep buying you drinks?

That’s because we buy rounds at the pub, if you’re in a gathering – you take it in turns to buy drinks for the whole party. If you keep taking all the drinks without buying a round yourself, then you’re quite possibly not going to get invited again. Make yourself popular by being eager to buy a round of drinks early on – the friendship is worth far more than the price of the drinks!

22. We apologise quite a lot

Sorry. We just can’t help it.

23. Add the tea before the milk.

• Select your tea.
• Boil the water. A good kettle is vital.
• Insert teabag into mug, Pour boiling water on to teabag.
• Remove the teabag.
• Add milk. Also add sugar at this stage.
• Congratulations! You are now prepared for life in Britain. Remember, ALWAYS tea before the milk!

Share this guide to the things you should know before visiting the UK!

Congratulations: you are now versed in the things you should know before visiting the UK! Are you now feeling confident enough to visit Britain without suffering the death of a thousand tuts? Were you an unwary visitor, and you think think that there’s something else you know before visiting the UK? Comment below!

Also, I’d be super-pleased if you could share this article using the buttons below, or pinning it to Pinterest! Remember: you could save a person’s life, especially if they’re a bit of a queue-jumper. You know how we Brits get about that stuff.

By the way! This article on things you should know before visiting the UK was originally published in March 2018, but it’s been updated for extra awesomeness and tips!

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19 comments.

My tea (milk in second, of course) chilled on the counter while I was enjoying this. As a fellow Brit, I wholly get all of the above. And for the separate taps, I’ll also raise you that particular delight of the Public Convenience (no restrooms, of course), which involves not only separate taps, but taps that require a push to operate. They then release an immediate blast of icy or molten water, ready to splash forth profusely, skirting the rim of the sink and soaking the unwary. The torrent will, of course, have trickled off by the time your freshly soaped hands are ready for a rinse.

I think I need Toad In the Hole. In fact, with a snowy forecast this weekend, I’ll go and check out the household stash of bangers.

Loved this!! As an American, I found this super interesting and insightful. We have some very odd customs as well. Thanks for sharing!

Loved this article! After being in Canada for over a year now after living in the UK my whole life I never realised how unusual we are! I do get asked about Brexit quite a bit and tend to give generic answers. I also get asked if I’m excited about the Royal Wedding … alot! Missing a proper english breakfast for sure!

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed reading this! Not only is it super useful as I’m headed there next month but your witty humor is so on point! Loved it! Absolutely loved it!

Kelly Mongan

Hahahaha I love this! As an American who married a Brit, I totally came across all of these at some point. Such a fun (but very useful) post!

Brilliant! As a Brit I just had to check this out and it’s all so true. I have a Dutch husband who tells me all the time we’re weird, and I know it’s true, but still like to argue it isn’t.

leanne scott

Great article and so so accurate! Queue jumping is one of my biggest bug bears!

Haha I loved this! As a Brit living in Iceland everyone finds my British habits strange (no one queues here, and they drink their tea black!!) I especially liked number 10 😂 my Icelandic boyfriend still doesn’t quite understand the concept of being horrible to friends affectionately!

I never knew the history behind the word soccer. this is super accurate. as an Australian living in the UK I am now super proud of my queuing abilities!

This is all SO true!! It’s a pain though when it comes to our over the top manners, especially now I live in another country because I’m expecting people to hold the door open or to queue and when they don’t I get so angry haha

Omg this is the best haha you crack me up Nicky! I haven’t been to Britain yet. I now look forward to spotting all these weird things. A separate tap for cold and hot water just makes no sense. I love a Full English breakfast but don’t know if I ever want to try Haggis judging from how it sounds…haha great job on the list!

I have never been to the UK, but I am already confused. Hahahaha

You have no idea how much I’ve enjoyed reading this. I hate exercise (as in any unnecessary movement, I’m a REAL American.) When I visited London for the first time this summer, my mind was blown that I had to walk up to the bar to order my food. Incredibly witty, funny, and insightful. You, my friend, are an excellent writer!

Love this! I’m heading to London in September, so these tips will definitely be useful!

Jessie Festa

Umm please be my tour guide next time I visit?! Amazing tips. 🙂

thatanxioustraveller

Of course I would be!! <3 Thank you so much!

Deepa Kartha

Hey, that’s a great pot. I will definitely follow when I plan to visit the UK in December. Thanks again & have a happy journey always.

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7 Tips For Travelling To The United Kingdom

• 16 Feb 2018
• Travel tips
• // 7 Tips For Travelling To The United Kingdom

Table of Contents

Last Updated on September 2, 2022

From visas and passports to accents and London Tube etiquette, here are our must-know tips to ensure a stress-free trip to the United Kingdom.

The  United Kingdom  is famous for many things… The Royal Family, Buckingham Palace, James Bond, real ales (or warm beer to many visitors), rolling green hills, welcoming country pubs are just a few things that come to mind.

The UK is actually short-hand for the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (Great Britain comprises of England, Scotland and Wales, whereas the UK is England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland), and understanding the lay of the land is a good starting point when visiting the UK – it’ll certainly help with understanding some of the accents!

Tourists flock here in the millions; in fact, it’s the world’s eighth biggest tourist destination. So if you’re heading over to ‘Old Blighty’, whether for business or leisure, we’ve gathered some tips from the Brits in the  Jayride.com  team to help you on your way. Use  this checklist  handy before you start packing.

1. Check your visa and passport requirements

Citizens from many English-speaking countries do not require a visa when travelling to the UK for tourism purposes, and can generally stay for up to six months visa-free. However, you must check your specific visa requirements prior to travelling. The UK Government website has a  tool  you can use to check what your visa requirements will be, depending on your country of residence.

Generally, you must hold a passport that is valid for the entire duration of your stay, but again this can differ depending on your country of residence and it is often advised that wherever you’re travelling in the world, you should always have at least six months validity on your passport after the date of your departure. Always stay up-to-date with the latest travel regulations before heading off on any trip.

2. Money, money, money

The UK’s currency is the Pound Sterling, and as with any trip it’s good to have some cash to hand for when you arrive. Having said that, ATMs are plentiful in the UK, and as long as you’ve told your bank that you’ll be using your card overseas, you shouldn’t have any problems withdrawing cash.

Just like countries such as  Australia  and the  US , paying with your card is extremely common, but it’s important to know what your pin number is if you use your card in the UK; ‘Chip and pin’ is the most common way of paying, where you need a debit or credit card with a chip and you must enter your pin number for security. ‘Contactless’ payments – where you hold your card to a card reader and pay without having to enter your pin – are common, but usually have a limit of around £30. Upwards of that, and you will usually need to know your pin.

While we’re on the topic of money, let’s tackle tipping. Unlike the US, where it is an unwritten rule that tipping 15-20% is expected in restaurants (read our  8 Things You Should Know Before Travelling To The USA  article if you want to know more about this), tipping is customary but completely discretionary in the UK. Most people will tip 10-15% in a restaurant for good service, though check if service charge has already been included on your bill, which is increasingly common. Tipping in bars is unusual, but Brits will often tip taxi or minicab drivers for good service, in which case it’s usually 10-15% of the fare.

3. Know your transport options

If you’re in  London , then public transport is your best friend. The capital’s busy, historic and narrow streets are a nightmare for many new drivers to navigate – plus, there are also Congestion Charge fees for driving within much of London, so it’s best avoided.

Trust us, you’ll want to take public transport. London’s network of trains, buses and Tubes is comprehensive and can get you all over the sprawling metropolis, even during the wee hours (the Night Tube now runs on many of the Tube lines on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the night, and London’s night buses are plentiful). Plus, a ride on an iconic red double-decker bus is a great way to do a bit of sightseeing – some of the buses have fantastic routes traversing across the whole of London.

If you’re travelling outside of London, trains or coaches are extremely plentiful and an easy way to get around. The rail network is extensive all over the country (you can get from London to Edinburgh in just over four hours on the train – that’s covering a ground of more than 600 kilometres!). Cross-country trains can be pricey though, so make sure you book in advance.

When travelling from the airport to wherever you’re staying, an airport transfer is your best bet – in London the Tubes and trains are connected to some of the main airports, but navigating them when you’ve just landed and carrying all of your luggage can be a nightmare. Pre-book your airport transfer on  Jayride.com  and you’re all sorted for your trip!

Handy hint:  Route 15 on the London buses is great for seeing some of the sights along the River Thames, including Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, Fleet Street and Trafalgar Square. Or try out route number 24, London’s oldest unchanged bus route, dating back to 1910!

4. Get savvy about the London Tube etiquette

While we’re on transport, there’s the little matter of Tube etiquette. The London Underground is a historic institution – it opened in 1863, making it the world’s oldest underground railway network. Today it has 11 lines covering 402 kilometres and 270 stations – phew! So a trip on the Tube is definitely something to tick off while you’re in London.

Whatever time of the day you catch a Tube, but especially so during rush hour, you’ll notice certain peculiarities. On the roads you drive on the left in the UK, but on the Tube escalators you must stand on the right (confusing!) as the left is reserved for those walking up. If you don’t, you may be faced with a grumpy commuter who asks you to move. With up to five million passenger journeys per day on the Tube, commuters and Londonders usually just want to get to where they’re going, quickly. The Tube carriages can get pretty jam packed too, so if you’re not fond of crowds, try travelling out of peak times. And also remember to mind the gap – a lot of the stations and platforms are very old, so watch the gap between the carriage and the platform as they can be surprisingly big sometimes.

In terms of tickets, paper tickets are still available, but if you’re going to be in London for a few days your best bet is to get an Oyster card, which you can top up and will cap your travel fees at daily limits – just remember to tap on and off through Tube barriers, and tap on to buses. Many visitors now also make the most of the contactless travel on London’s transport; if you have a contactless credit or debit card, you can tap in and out of Tube stations and buses with just your card – the correct fare will be taken from your account and fees will still be capped at daily limits.

5. Know your healthcare options

If you’re unlucky and need to see a doctor in the UK, firstly don’t worry – the health system in the UK is called the NHS (National Health Service) and you should easily be able to see a doctor if you need to. Some countries have reciprocal healthcare agreements with the UK, so check your government’s website for more information.

It’s always important to have adequate travel insurance that covers medical costs when you go overseas. Some credit cards come with travel insurance, but it’s worth doing some research into what you are and aren’t covered for; medical costs overseas can be sky-high, and travel insurance will usually also cover loss and theft of personal items.  Finder.com  is a great website for comparing travel insurance options that suit your needs.

If you feel unwell but it’s not an emergency, call 111 as this is the NHS non-emergency number. It’s free to call and you can speak to healthcare professionals. For urgent medical care while in the UK, go to the nearest hospital or dial 999.

6. Make the most of the free museums!

Most of Britain’s museums and galleries are free to enter, something which has been in place for well over a decade. And as a visitor to the UK, it really is something you should make the most of. Our favourites include the British Museum, Tate Modern and Natural History Museum in London, National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, Coventry Transport Museum, World Museum Liverpool, and that’s just scratching the surface.

7. Get to know the different accents

There are countless regional accents in the UK. Television may have you thinking that Received Pronunciation (The Queen’s English, in other words) is the common British accent. But that’s not true. From Cockney to Geordie, Liverpudlian to West Country, Midlands to Welsh, Scottish, Northern Irish… the list goes on. There aren’t many countries that boast as many accents in such a small land mass as the UK!

Other handy hints:

Be prepared for all weather… and talking about it:  Brits really do talk about the weather a lot, it’s not just a stereotype. And that’s largely because four seasons will often hit in one day.

Tea is indeed the national drink:  You’ll be hard-pushed to find a bad cuppa in the UK. Expect to be offered it all the time. If you want to get right in with the tea-drinking culture, know which side of the debate you sit on whether the milk or tea should be poured first.

You’ll see some of the most beautiful countryside in the world:  From the Brecon Beacons in Wales, to the Scottish Highlands, the Peak District and the Lake District, there’s a reason the bucolic views in the UK have inspired many writers and poets over generations.

Just because it’s interesting…:   Heathrow Airpor t is consistently placed in the top 10 busiest airports in the world, with an average of 1,400 flights arriving and departing a day, that’s one every 45 seconds!

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England With Kids: 10 Ideas for the Best England Itinerary for Families

Visiting the country of England with kids is a must for any family’s bucket list. With its rich history, culture, and outstanding natural beauty, an England itinerary for families is sure to be packed with all sorts of unique and interesting activities.

Our family absolutely fell in love with the country of England. We spent over a month and a half in England and thoroughly enjoyed the food, the culture, and the people we met during our stay in England.

If you’re planning a trip to England for your family, then you’ll definitely want to read up on our ideas for things to do in England with kids. Take some time to see our wonderful suggestions for an itinerary in England for families. And then get ready for your own wonderful adventure in England!

This post was originally published on November 9, 2021.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase something. But don't worry, this will not result in any extra costs to you.

Table of Contents

England with kids highlights

Don't have time to read the whole post? Browse through these highlights for England itinerary ideas for what to do in each featured city during your trip to England with kids:

• London: Markets tour
• Greater London: Harry Potter Studio tour
• Brighton: Walking tour
• Salisbury: Stonehenge tour
• Bath: Bridgerton walking tour
• Cotswolds: Village tour
• Birmingham: Walking tour
• Stratford-upon-Avon: City sightseeing bus
• Oxford: University walking tour
• Lake District: Ten lakes tour

10 ideas for the best England itinerary for families

We normally like to do slow tourism , but from time to time, we do like to do shorter trips as well. Our time in England was a mix of slow travel and quick trips. We essentially did a big road trip around the country!

As we traveled throughout England with kids, I couldn’t help but take note of our favorite parts of this country so that I could share it with you all. Eventually, I ended up with this list of ideas and travel tips for an itinerary in England for families.

This is by no means an extensive list. There are undoubtedly many places that we missed. But it’s certainly a good introduction to England. My hope is that you use this England itinerary to give your family ideas of where to explore on your own family vacation to England. 

Take a look at our ten suggestions for places to visit in England with kids. I’ve highlighted things to do in each location. And I’ve also added a suggested number of days, to give you an idea of how long to stay. 

You don’t need to do everything on the list. For example, if you’re trying to plan for a 10 day England itinerary, you can pick three spots to really deep dive into. Or if you’re planning to spend two or three months in England, you can expand your time in each location, and explore other destinations too.

London has many family friendly points of interest, so you’ll want to use your time wisely while you’re visiting this city in England with kids. I suggest at least a week in the city if your England itinerary allows it. But if you have 10 days in England, or fewer, then plan for at least two full days to visit London with kids .

Many museums are free, such as the British Museum , the Victoria and Albert Museum , the Natural History Museum , and the Science Museum . This is great news if you're trying to visit England with kids on a budget. Famous landmarks, such as the Tower of London , Globe Theatre , and Westminster Abbey , however, will have an admission fee.

There are plenty of unique markets to visit such as Borough Market and Camden Market . You can also visit parks like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens . We enjoyed walking along the River Thames, via the Jubilee Walk , or taking a boat ride along the Regent’s Canal .

For a good overview of London book one of these tours:

London In a Day: Tower of London, Westminster Abbey & Changing of the Guard

London in a Day - Private Custom Walking Tour

Camden Market, Borough Market and Covent Garden Market Private Tour

Suggested number of days in London for your England itinerary: 2-5

2. Greater London, England itinerary options

There are so many wonderful places to see outside of London as well. You should be sure to include spending time in this area while you're in England with kids. If you’re not limited to a 10 day England itinerary, you’ll want to plan for at least a day doing one or two of these things. Many of the places are accessible by train, or you can book one of the tours highlighted below, which includes transport.

The town of Windsor, to the west of London, is home to Windsor Castle . Visitors can stroll through the grounds and tour the home where the Queen of England spends most of her private weekends.

Book your Windsor Castle tour here:

Private Half-Day Windsor Castle, Park and Old Town Tour from London

If you’re more into a low key excursion during your time in England with kids, and you happen to be a Ted Lasso fan, take a visit to Richmond. Also situated west of London, Richmond is home to two beautiful parks: the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Richmond Park .

Book this tour of London, which includes a visit to Kew Gardens:

Amazing Kew Gardens & London Landmarks Tour

Harry Potter fans will want to book a walking tour of Harry Potter filming locations in London. And don’t miss visiting the Warner Brothers Studios in Leavesden, where you can learn how the movies were made. 

Book this tour to visit the Warner Brothers Studio, which includes transport:

Warner Bros. Studio: The Making of Harry Potter with Luxury Round-Trip Transport from London

If you have more time in the United Kingdom (and you absolutely love Harry Potter), then be sure to visit Edinburgh where you'll find even more Harry Potter tours .

Suggested number of days in Greater London for your England itinerary: 1-2

Get a 5-day itinerary to the city of London from our friends at Wanderlust Crew !

3. Brighton

Just south of London is the beach city of Brighton. This city is a must-visit for your England itinerary. However, if your time in England with kids is limited, you can also just spend a morning or afternoon here.

A popular beach holiday spot for Londoners, Brighton has the boardwalk atmosphere of Atlantic City, and the eccentricity of Venice Beach, with a touch of British charm thrown in the mix.

If you have time in your England travel itinerary, plan to spend at least one full day in Brighton. You’ll want to walk along Brighton Pier and also enjoy the beachfront path. Shelter Hall is a great food hall to enjoy a meal, with a diverse selection of cuisines that you can purchase through an app. Even though the weather wasn't too great when we were there, Brighton was definitely a highlight during our time in England with kids.

You also don’t want to miss walking through The Lanes, a collection of pedestrian lanes and small streets full of eclectic shops, cafes, and restaurants. There is bus service in Brighton, but we didn’t need to use it as the city is very walkable.

For a great overview of Brighton, book this walking tour:

The Brighton story - walking tour

Suggested number of days in Brighton for your England itinerary: 1-2

4. Salisbury

I like to think of Salisbury as the gateway to Stonehenge . The UNESCO World Heritage Site is only 9 miles away from Salisbury. But the city of Salisbury is interesting in its own right. And families who come to England with kids will enjoy visiting this ancient town. 

Stonehenge and Salisbury are great places to spend an afternoon if you have a limited 10 day England itinerary. But if you have more time, it’s worth adding a day or two to your England travel itinerary to explore Salisbury on its own.

The city of Salisbury is located west of Brighton and southwest of London. The Salisbury Cathedral is home to one of the best surviving original copies of Magna Carta. A historic legal document drafted in 1215, Magna Carta led to the establishment of Parliament and laid the groundwork for documents like the US Constitution.

Central Salisbury is fun to explore when you're in England with kids, with shops and restaurants along the River Avon. On Tuesdays and Saturdays, be sure to visit the Salisbury Market . The city is walkable. And if you have a car, you can park in one of the public car parks located in the center of the city.

Book this private tour to experience Salisbury and Stonehenge with your kids: 

Bespoke private tours of Stonehenge and Avebury by car with local guide

Suggested number of days in Salisbury for your England itinerary: 2-3

Ready for a change? Take the first step to living a life of full time travel.

If you’re a fan of Roman history (or a fan of the show, Bridgerton), then you’ll definitely want to include Bath in your England itinerary. The city of Bath dates back thousands of years. But it’s most well-known for the Roman baths that were created in 60 AD. 

Today, Bath remains a popular tourist destination for families who come to England with kids. The city is not just known for the Roman baths, which you can still visit and tour, but also for its beautiful architecture and parks. If you’re limited to a 10 day England itinerary or shorter, plan to spend a morning visiting the Roman baths.  

But if you have more time to spend in Bath, be sure to visit the Royal Crescent, a set of homes built in the 1700s laid out in a crescent overlooking a well-manicured park. The homes feature prominently in many scenes in Bridgerton . You can take a tour of one of the homes at No. 1 Royal Crescent .

Also while in Bath, spend an afternoon having tea at one of Bath’s many tea rooms and cafes. This is a must and gives you a glimpse into Britain’s tea culture while you're in England with kids. And don’t forget to visit Bath Abbey , located near the Roman baths and built over a thousand years ago.

Book one of these tours of Bath to fully experience all the city has to offer:

Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide (90 Minutes)

Private Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tour Guide

2-Hour Bath Walking Tour of Bridgerton Filming Locations

Suggested number of days in Bath for your England itinerary: 1-2

6. The Cotswolds

One of the most picturesque parts of England is the Cotswolds. This part of the country was once famous for its wool, from sheep that were introduced to this part of the world by the Romans. 

Today, though, the Cotswolds are known for its well-preserved small villages that look like they’re straight out of a storybook. Wool is still an industry in the Cotswolds, but so is tourism. And no trip to England with kids is complete without a visit to the Cotswolds.

If you are on a limited 10 day England itinerary, plan to spend an afternoon at the Cotswolds. But if you have more time, it’s worth spending a day or two exploring the many small villages that make up the Cotswolds. 

We enjoyed Bourton-on-the-Water, with its shop-lined river running through the village. There’s also the Model Village , a 1:9 scale replica of Bourton-on-the-Water that’s well-worth visiting.

To explore the Cotswolds, book one of these tours:

Private Cotswold Village Tour

Tour of the Cotswolds from Moreton-in-Marsh

Suggested number of days in the Cotswolds for your England itinerary: 1-2

7. Birmingham

While Birmingham might not be an obvious choice to include in an itinerary for England with kids (unless you’re a fan of the show, Peaky Blinders ), it’s definitely a city not to be missed. Even if you’re limited to a 10 day England itinerary, I highly suggest including one full day in this city.

The second largest city in England, and located in the West Midlands region of the country, Birmingham played a large role in the Industrial Revolution. This is primarily due to its close proximity to the Black Country, named because of its many coal mines. Because of the coal mines of the Black Country, Birmingham became the epicenter of industry and metal crafts. 

For worldschooling families visiting England with kids, Birmingham is a great destination for learning about science, technology, and history. You can learn about the area’s industrial history by visiting the Black Country Living Museum , just outside of the city. And within the city, you can visit museums like the Pen Museum or the more popular Think Tank Birmingham Science Museum .

Birmingham is also near to two places of interest: Warwick Castle and Cadbury World . Warwick Castle is a Medieval castle constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068. And Cadbury World is a family-friendly exhibition tour run by the Cadbury Company showcasing the chocolate-making process.

Book one of these Birmingham tours to really get a feel for this unique city:

Discovering Birmingham Afternoon Walking Tour

From Canals and Victorians to Today's City: Birmingham Walking Tour

Suggested number of days in Birmingham for your England itinerary: 2-4

8. Stratford-Upon-Avon

For literary buffs, a visit to Stratford-Upon-Avon is a must in your itinerary for England with kids. The town of Stratford-Upon-Avon is the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of England’s most famous writers. Plan to spend a morning in Stratford-Upon-Avon if you’re on a 10 day England itinerary, and at least a day if you have more time and flexibility. 

The town is small enough to walk around. There are shops around the town center, and you can tour Shakespeare’s actual house . Additionally, you can also visit the home of Anne Hathaway , Shakespeare’s wife. 

For a different activity, take a visit to the Stratford Butterfly Farm . Kids will especially enjoy seeing the wide variety of butterflies included at the butterfly farm.

To experience Stratford-Upon-Avon during your visit to England with kids, book this tour:

City Sightseeing Stratford-upon-Avon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Suggested number of days in Stratford-Upon-Avon for your England itinerary: 1-2

For worldschooling families who love to incorporate learning into our travels , a visit to the town of Oxford during their time in England with kids is not to be missed. Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, the University of Oxford. And it’s also host to the Bodleian Library , the second largest library in the United Kingdom. 

The town of Oxford is referenced in countless pieces of literature and film. Most recently, Oxford has been the setting for several Harry Potter film scenes. If you’re on a limited 10 day England itinerary, spend an afternoon here. But if you have more days to spare on your England itinerary, then plan at least one full day.

We were unfortunately not able to explore Oxford during our England itinerary, although we did drive through the city. But we intend to come back and visit the next time we come to England with kids.

Book one of these tours of Oxford to experience the town and all its beautiful attractions:

Oxford University Walking Tour With University Alumni Guide

Private Oxford Walking Tour for the Discerning Traveler

Harry Potter 2 hour PUBLIC Tour + Self Guided Entry to Christ church

Suggested number of days in Oxford for your England itinerary: 1-2

10. Lake District

If your England itinerary allows, take a visit to the northern part of England to the Lake District . This area of England is filled with beautiful lakes, mountains, national parks, and small villages. It’s a wonderful option for experiencing the natural beauty of the country while visiting England with kids.

If you’re limited to a 10 day England itinerary, I wouldn’t suggest visiting the Lake District due to its distance from London. This was what happened during our first England itinerary. We simply didn't have time!

But the second time we were in England with kids, we did have a chance to visit the Lake District, and it didn't disappoint. This part of England is beautiful. The best time to go is in the summer, where you can fully experience the outdoors, and maybe even do some camping while you’re there.

Book this tour of the Lake District to fully experience the beauty of the area:

The High Adventure: Full Day Ten Lakes Tour of the Lake District

Suggested number of days in the Lake District for your England itinerary: 1-2

Want to explore other parts of Europe ? Click here for more posts.

Basic information for your England itinerary 

As you're preparing for your trip to England with kids, take some time to get acquainted with some basic travel information. England is part of the larger country of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. There are four countries within the United Kingdom: England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Out of these four countries, England is the largest.

The language spoken in England is English, but each region of England has their own distinct accent. During our time in England with kids, we loved chatting with locals and hearing their accents! 

In terms of lodging, you'll be able to find plenty of Airbnbs and vacation rentals throughout England. You can also use Booking to find hotels across all budget ranges for your trip to England with kids. Alternatively, consider doing house sitting with kids to SAVE BIG on accommodations.

Before your trip, you and your kids can learn about England and the United Kingdom with this book: 

The Big Book of the UK: Facts, folklore and fascinations from around the United Kingdom

I also suggest buying a guidebook for your England with kids trip. We like this one from Rick Steves:

Rick Steves England

Best time to visit England with kids

If you’re planning to visit England with kids, the best time for your England itinerary is between the months of April to October. This is when the weather is the warmest.

However, be aware of when British children go on school holidays as that will impact the crowds during your trip. August is the summer vacation month for British school kids. But during the year, there are also one to two week-long breaks between school terms in April and December. Additionally, there are also week-long breaks in the middle of the term (called half term) during the months of February, June, and October.

As you’re planning your best England itinerary, be mindful of these school holidays so that you know what crowds to expect.

What to pack for your England itinerary

Depending on the time of year, you’ll want to make sure you’re packed for the weather for your England with kids trip. Having a lightweight sweater or cardigan may come in handy. 

Because England’s climate can be rainy, even in the summer, you’ll want to pack a waterproof jacket to prepare for the weather. We like bringing these jackets along for our trip to England with kids:

Columbia Kids & Baby Rainy Trails Fleece Lined Jacket

Additionally, you also want to make sure you have things like cloth tote bags for when you visit farmer’s markets or go souvenir shopping. Many stores in England, especially grocery stores, now charge for the use of plastic bags, so having your own tote bag is helpful. You can also consider bringing other eco-friendly travel products to make your trip more sustainable.

If there's a holiday or a birthday coming up, take it as an opportunity to give travel gifts for your kids that can prepare them for your England trip.

Take a look at our favorite backpacks for travel with kids to bring along for your trip.

Getting around England with kids

It’s surprisingly easy to get around England with kids. The country has an extensive rail system. And you can get to most cities and towns by train. Additionally, there are over 30 airports in England.

However, in our opinion, the best way to get around England with kids in tow is by car. International rental companies that service England include Hertz, Enterprise, Budget, and Thrifty. Use Expedia to find great England car rentals .

When driving around England, remember that drivers drive on the left-hand side of the road. This is different from other European countries that we’ve been driven through, such as Spain , Italy , or France . 

British roads and speed limit signs use miles, just like in the United States. Additionally, British roads will often use roundabouts instead of stop lights, so you’ll need to be familiar with how to get in and out of a roundabout. 

Get prepared for any emergency with the insurance made for digital nomads!

Making memories with your England itinerary

We had such an amazing time visiting England with kids. We feel like even a month and a half is not enough time to really experience this country and do all the England kids activities we wanted to do. Next time, we want to plan for a longer England itinerary, to really get a feel for what England has to offer.

If you’re planning a trip to England with kids, feel free to use this England itinerary as a starting off point for making your own memories of England. Whether it’s for a short 10 day England itinerary, or a longer three month stay, England is well worth a visit. This country is full of so much history, culture, and beauty, we know that you’ll love it as much as we did. 

Have you visited England with kids? What was your experience like? Share your family and kids England itinerary with me in the comments below.

Planning to use England as a starting off point for a family gap year? Use my ebook, Hey Kids, Let's Go Travel! for family travel advice on planning and prepping for a family gap year.

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19 Best Places to Visit in the UK

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Jun 8, 2023

Consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom (UK) has long been one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. For most travelers, like me, the country's appeal has as much to do with its diverse scenery as it does its rich cultural heritage. In fact, the best places to visit in the UK include everything from beautifully preserved country estates and picturesque castles to its many big city art galleries and museums.

You'll find one of the greatest pleasures of a UK vacation, however, is just how easy it is for you to explore this fascinating, diverse, and relatively small country. The UK could easily fit into the state of Texas with room to spare, so you can base yourself in a couple of cities and simply take a train, bus, or ferry to explore other areas.

One of my favorite day trips from London , for example, is to take the 90-minute train ride to beautiful Salisbury . Once there, you're only a short bus ride or tour away from one of the country's most recognizable attractions, Stonehenge. Want to hop between the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow ? A one-hour train ride will deposit you in the heart of either city.

Sure, the UK can seem like a very busy travel destination. But plan your sightseeing adventures carefully with my list of the best places to visit in the UK and you'll have no problem making the most of your time.

1. London: The UK's All-in-One Destination

2. edinburgh: scotland's capital, 3. roman-era bath, 4. ancient stonehenge and medieval salisbury, 5. royal windsor, 6. idyllic england: the cotswolds, 7. the magical lake district, 8. medieval york and its minster, 9. the university towns of cambridge & oxford, 10. england's pilgrimage city: canterbury, 11. loch ness and inverness, 12. northern ireland's giant's causeway, 13. liverpool: home of the beatles, 14. manchester: england's football mad city, 15. cardiff: the capital of wales, 16. the channel islands, 17. glasgow & loch lomond, 18. snowdonia: wales' biggest mountains, 19. belfast.

While it's possible to plan a trip to the UK without actually visiting London, it's certainly not a recommendation I'd make. I typically begin my UK visits by spending a few days in the nation's sprawling capital while getting over my jet lag before venturing out to my planned final destination (or destinations).

There are plenty of attractions to keep you busy. Want to learn more about the UK's rich history? You're literally spoiled for choice here as London boasts more than 200 world-class museums and art galleries to explore.

In the City of London, the heart of the old Roman city, you'll find evidence of pretty much every period in history ever since. Some of the top attractions in London are located here, including the Tower of London .

Located beside the spectacular Tower Bridge on the banks of the River Thames , this former palace and prison includes highlights such as the iconic 1,000-year-old White Tower, with its fascinating displays of armor and weaponry, and the Jewel House, home to the Crown Jewels. I always make a return visit at sunrise or sunset to grab an iconic photo of the Tower of London framed by Tower Bridge.

If you're a fan of Britain's Royal Family, you'll want to head to Buckingham Palace , London's Royal home since Queen Victoria's reign. Here, you can enjoy the colorful pomp of the Changing of the Guard or even take a tour of the Palace's State Rooms. Spaces are limited, so be sure to book in advance as they're only open for a few weeks each year.

From here you can wander along the Thames to the city's Whitehall Road area. Here you'll find Big Ben and the Parliament Buildings , as well as Westminster Abbey, the scene of many a royal wedding.

Another area to visit in London is South Kensington, home to the city's best museums, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum , as well as the famous Harrods department store. Also check out Trafalgar Square , home to the iconic Nelson's Column and the National Portrait Gallery.

And be sure to make the most of London's excellent transport system. Whether you go by bus or by underground, the system's now so good that you can simply use a debit or credit card to tap in and out as you go. It really is very easy, and once you've mastered that famous map of the city's "Tube" network you'll be traveling like a Londoner.

One of the UK's most attractive cities, the capital city of Edinburgh is also one of the UK's most visited destinations. Popular for its many well-preserved historic buildings, Edinburgh is perhaps best known as the home of the majestic Edinburgh Castle .

Perched high above the old city on a rocky promontory, this 13th-century royal fortress includes highlights such as the famous One O'Clock Salute, held daily at Half Moon Battery, as well as the Scottish Crown Jewels in the Royal Palace . Also worth seeing are the Scottish National War Memorial and the famous Stone of Destiny , the Stone of Scone, which only returned to Scotland after being held for 700 years in London.

From the castle, I always find it easy to explore the other most important historic sites in the city. Follow your nose downhill from the castle to the Old Town via the famous Royal Mile , a delightful medieval cobbled street that's immensely fun to walk. Sure, there are plenty of the usual tacky tourist and souvenir shops, but skip these and look out for the area's fine old architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, as well as trendy art galleries and studios.

Edinburgh Old Town is also where you'll find the splendid old Palace of Holyroodhouse . From here, I usually make my way to Princes Street and New Town before looping back around to the castle. This broad, more modern avenue was planned in the late 18th century and is extremely popular for its shopping and dining opportunities. It's also where you'll find attractions such as the Royal Botanical Garden and the National Gallery of Scotland.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Although one of the UK's smaller cities, Bath more than makes up for its diminutive size with a multitude of things to see and do . Named after its famous Roman Baths, this beautiful city has been luring visitors like you and me to its healing waters for more than 2,000 years.

Gushing from three hot springs, the water-known to consist of 43 different minerals, hence its curative properties-travels upwards some 3,048 meters at a rate of 275,000 gallons per day, before spilling out at a consistent 46.5 degrees Celsius. It's a truly awesome sight, and also a little eerie to think that you're standing just feet away from the very hot springs that Romans and early Britons enjoyed some 2,000 years before you got here.

While it's not possible to bathe in the original Roman Baths (try it and you'll be arrested!), a number of nearby spas, most notably the modern Thermae Bath Spa , offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the city's famous waters. This must-do experience features a stunning rooftop pool using the same waters as the Roman Baths, and all with incredible views of city landmarks such as Bath Abbey .

In addition to its ancient history, Bath is also famous for its lovely Georgian architecture. The best examples can be seen along the magnificent, curved Royal Crescent, with its palatial townhomes. One of them, No.1 Royal Crescent , is now a museum that offers a fascinating peek into life during Georgian times.

While Bath is served by the same London rail service as the neighboring port city of Bristol , it's one of those increasingly forward-thinking cities that makes it easy for car drivers, too. My most recent visit in the summer of 2022 was via car, and I avoided traffic and hassle by parking at the extremely affordable Landsdowne Park and Ride facility on the outskirts of the city. Not only is it inexpensive with plenty of availability, but regular bus services will also whisk you away to the heart of the city in just 10 minutes.

Read More: From London to Bath: Best Ways to Get There

One of the planet's oldest World Heritage Sites , Stonehenge has been a place of pilgrimage for more than 4,500 years. It was believed to have been erected as a place of worship, but these days, the crowds consist of tourists drawn by the sheer scale of this magnificent monument to mankind's ingenuity.

It's a sprawling site, covering an area of more than 20 square kilometers and boasting a state-of-the-art visitor center. Here, you can catch a fascinating glimpse not only into the construction of Stonehenge but also its history since then.

But it does get busy, so be sure to plan well ahead and purchase a timed ticket for the day of your visit. Better still, splurge a little on one of the attraction's new VIP admission packages . This unforgettable experience guarantees your spot on a fun "Stone Circle Experience" that includes free time to wander the site on your own. The verdict? It's a must-do.

Be sure to also spend time exploring the nearby medieval city of Salisbury , located just 16 kilometers south of Stonehenge. You'll be rewarded with a chance to visit one of the country's most famous cathedrals, dating back to 1220 and home to an original Magna Carta .

Afterward, spend time wandering the old city center with its many fine churches and historic medieval architecture. Not only are there a number of first-rate places to stay here (I'm partial to the Mercure Salisbury White Hart Hotel for its central location and 4-star quality and cleanliness), but great little intimate eateries like the Cosy Club on Crane Street. The food here is home-cooked, locally sourced, tasty... and served in an extremely patriotic British setting.

Read More: From London to Stonehenge: Best Ways to Get There

The historic town of Windsor, conveniently located a short train ride west of Central London, offers plenty of fun attractions for tourists . In addition to its lovely Thames-side setting and the many medieval half-timbered buildings along its quaint old cobblestone laneways, it's also home to spectacular Windsor Castle , the most famous of the UK's royal castles.

This grand old castle has served as the summer residence of British royalty for more than a millennium. It was started by William the Conqueror in 1078 and is the world's largest inhabited castle. Highlights include the splendid State Apartments containing the Queen's Gallery and dining hall, each with magnificently painted ceilings and woodcarvings, and St. George's Chapel, famous as the home of the Knights and Ladies of the ancient Order of the Garter.

When you've had your fill of these historic buildings, be sure to also spend time exploring the castle's large and beautiful grounds, almost 10 kilometers long. You'll enjoy some truly memorable panoramic views over Windsor and its castle, and a number of picnic areas, some with barbecue grills, are available if you want to stop awhile.

Traveling with kids? Another area attraction worth visiting is Legoland Windsor . This fun family resort, set on 150 acres of parkland and just a short bus ride from Windsor town center, even boats a modern Lego-themed hotel if you're looking to make a weekend of it.

Also worth seeing is Royal Ascot , the UK's most famous horse-racing venue. While you might want to try to time your trip to coincide with the Royal Meeting held each June, you'll find yourself fighting often huge crowds, all dressed to the nines, here for what is after all one of the most important events on the country's social calendar.

Read More: From London to Windsor: Best Ways to Get There

Covering almost 1,287 square kilometers of charming countryside, the beautiful Cotswolds is undoubtedly one of the most photographed corners of England. Its unrivaled pastoral scenery has earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful places in the UK, ranking highly on many a traveler's bucket list.

Easy to get to from London and close to the popular tourist attractions of Bath and Bristol , the Cotswolds includes some of the best parts of the counties of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire, Warwickshire, and Worcestershire.

Why visit? Well, if you're anything like me, you're here to experience a true taste of rural English life and explore its many quaint villages . You'll want to include the idyllic village of Bourton-on-the-Water on your Cotswolds itinerary. Nicknamed the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this popular vacation spot boasts a charming river setting and countless well-preserved cottages, some dating back to the 15th century, and all just begging to be photographed.

One of the most popular ways to do this is via the area's extensive trail network, including the excellent 164-kilometer-long Cotswold Way. Other fun things to do include horseback riding and biking, or simply soaking up the history of popular market towns such as Castle Combe or Tetbury.

Located in the northeast of England not far from the border with Scotland , the spectacular Lake District in Cumbria covers an area of 1,448 square kilometers. Not only is it considered one of the most magical places to visit in the UK for its beautiful scenery, its reputation as a place of romance and great culture will forever be associated with its most famous former resident, Beatrix Potter.

It was Potter who in fact led the way with the conservation efforts that have preserved so much of the Lake District when she bequeathed her estate to the National Trust. Her one-time home near Sawrey, Hill Top , can and should be visited for its exhibits and artifacts.

Her legacy also set the stage for the establishment of Lake District National Park . Encompassing 12 of the country's largest lakes including Windermere and Ullswater, the two biggest and best known, this beautiful region is another famous place in the UK that's great to explore on foot. All told the park boasts more than 3,218 kilometers of hiking and walking trails, so be sure to pack your hiking boots.

Other things to do in the Lake District include visiting Scafell Pike , at 978 meters the highest mountain in England. And, of course, there is no end of picturesque towns and villages to explore, including Grasmere .

Read More: From London to the Lake District: Best Ways to Get There

One of northern England's most popular tourist destinations, the medieval city of York, long the ecclesiastical capital of the Church of England, boasts one of the country's most magnificent cathedrals. The country's largest medieval church, York Minster can trace its roots back to the spread of Christianity in the 3rd century, although the splendid present Gothic structure was built almost 1,000 years later.

One of the best ways to get to see this historic landmark is via an official guided tour . I recommend you book in advance, and spend a little time reviewing the available choices to find one best suited to your interests. I opted for the fascinating "Tower Trip" option, a little more expensive but well worth the cost for the magnificent city views.

Other highlights of a visit to York Minster include seeing its spectacular 14th-century stained glass windows, plus the richly decorated interiors of the choir and north transept. You'll also want to visit the crypt, which contains parts of the original 11th-century church the cathedral now stands on.

Another York landmark worth exploring is the historic City Walls . I make a point of strolling this nearly five-kilometer-long structure each and every time I visit the city. Not only is it good exercise, but it's also a fun way to circle around the old medieval city center without the crowds.

Along the way, you'll enjoy excellent views over The Shambles , a narrow 14th-century roadway that's famous for its fine old timber-framed buildings, many of which hang over the street below. It's also an area known for its many restaurants and tearooms, as well as its many boutique shops and galleries.

York also boasts a number of major museums, the most popular being the National Railway Museum . Highlights of this museum's vast collection include many fine old steam engines dating as far back as 1820, plus a unique collection of Royal Trains. The museum also offers an excellent afternoon tea experience in the historic Countess of York railway carriage, bookable in advance.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in York, England
• From London to York: Best Ways to Get There

The UK has long been a center of learning, with two of its most famous university towns also ranking highly as tourist destinations. An easy commute north of London and just 128 kilometers apart, Cambridge and Oxford have for centuries been rivals for the title of the country's top academic establishment, a rivalry celebrated during the famous rowing event, The Boat Race , which takes place each spring on the River Thames .

Despite this generally good-spirited rivalry, each location offers plenty of attractions to make them worthwhile additions to your UK travel itinerary. Highlights of a visit to Cambridge include the chance to wander the UK's largest collection of preserved historic buildings, many of them located within an easy walk of Cambridge University ' s 31 colleges, the oldest of which was founded in 1284.

In addition to touring the stunning college grounds (only a handful of the university's buildings offer tours), you should also take a punt along the River Cam. This must-do activity is something of a Cambridge ritual, and chances are you'll even be "punted" along by a university student willing to share a little of their college experiences.

As with most popular tourist destinations, however, a little advance planning will ensure you find a reputable company for your punting tour. Licensed operators to consider include Cambridge Punt Company , which also offers a private romantic evening tour; and Scholars Punting , which features a fun picnic hamper package worth considering. In both cases, you can keep the cost down by joining a shared tour.

Oxford University's 38 colleges are equally fun to explore. These historic old places of learning are each set around a quadrangle and several inner courtyards along with chapels, dining halls, libraries, and student residences, some of which offer unique tourist accommodation packages, too. Like most UK tourist sites, they do get extremely busy in summer so be sure to book your visit in advance if you can to avoid disappointment.

Other Oxford highlights include the Carfax Tower, with its fine views over the city center, and the many fine old buildings of the town's High Street .

Pay a visit to historic Canterbury in Kent, and you'll soon discover why this beautiful city continues to be such a draw for visitors to the UK.

An easy hour's train ride from central London, Canterbury has been a draw for visitors for centuries. The first visitors were religious pilgrims who have in fact been visiting for more than 1,500 years, ever since St. Augustine first started converting pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity here in AD 597.

The city's most famous attraction is Canterbury Cathedral , the home church of the Archbishop of Canterbury. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral offers plenty to see, from the intricately carved masonry of its exterior to its magnificent interior, a highlight of which is the beautiful choir with its statues of six English kings. Also of note are the exquisite Miracle Windows, dating from the 12th century and depicting scenes from the life of murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket .

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the pedestrianized area of Old City Canterbury with its many preserved, historic timber-framed buildings, particularly along Mercery Lane. Be sure to include the excellent Canterbury Roman Museum on your itinerary. It was built around the remains of an original Roman townhouse and its unique mosaic.

Read More: From London to Canterbury: Best Ways to Get There

Despite the fact that the legends of mythical monsters have largely been debunked (just don't tell the locals), spectacular Loch Ness remains an extremely popular tourist attraction for travelers heading to Scotland. While it's unlikely you'll encounter any monsters, you will, however, be rewarded with seeing some of the UK's most beautiful scenery.

Highlights of Loch Ness include the ruins of Urquhart Castle . Set overlooking the loch, it's one of Scotland's largest fortifications, with the current structure dating from the 14th century. For those wanting to learn more about the area's many legends, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition recounts its history, along with that of its monster, including details of ongoing searches for the elusive creature.

A little farther north is Inverness. This lovely city boasts numerous excellent attractions, including Inverness Castle, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, and the late 19th-century St. Andrew's Cathedral.

History buffs should also check out the Culloden Battlefield and Visitors Centre . It was in Culloden in 1746 that the English and Scots fought their last battle and where the fate of Scotland as a British dominion was determined. Also of interest are the gravestones of warriors from the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle.

• From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Best Way to Get There
• From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Best Ways to Get There

It's sometimes a little too easy to forget that the UK includes a tiny little piece of Ireland . Northern Ireland, consisting of the northeast corner of the "Emerald Isle," can easily be included on a trip to either country and is well worth taking the time to explore.

My favorite among the many Northern Ireland attractions worth visiting is the magnificent Giant's Causeway, a stunningly beautiful natural feature that looks anything but natural. Just a short drive from the capital of Belfast , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of unusual columns of layered basalt that jut upwards out of the sea and shoreline like some giant's staircase, hence their name.

All told, there are some 4,000 of these polygonal-shaped steps to see and clamber over. Formed over 60 million years ago during a period of intense volcanic activity, it's a truly impressive sight, and easy to see how local legends of giants could so easily have sprung up as a result.

A modern visitor center has been opened here and provides fascinating details about the reality and the myths behind this bucket-list attraction. Guided tours can be arranged, and be sure to make use of the audio guides that are provided with admission. Tickets can be booked online in advance to avoid disappointment.

Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland

Read More: From Dublin to Giant's Causeway: Best Ways to Get There

Liverpool , under three hours away from London by rail, offers plenty of cultural excitement for the curious traveler. It's also well-known for its role in giving rise to the English music legacy, not least because of its association with the Beatles .

Music fans are drawn here first and foremost for "Fab Four"-related attractions, such as The Beatles Story located in the renovated Albert Docks area. Also worth seeing are the famous Cavern Club, where the band made its debut in 1961, as well as the former homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Numerous walking tours and bus tours of Beatles sites are also readily available.

Other great reasons to visit Liverpool include its many historic buildings, lovely gardens, and parks, as well as great museums such as the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Museum of Liverpool , and world-class art galleries like the Walker Art Gallery and the Tate Gallery . These are all located in the city's revitalized Royal Albert Dock area, an historic area enjoyed exploring on foot.

Thanks to its international airport, Manchester is often the first stop for many visitors from North America planning to explore northern England, Scotland, or Wales. It's especially popular for fans of the sport of football (that's soccer to those from the US, including Ted Lasso!).

Manchester is, in fact, home to two top football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Both are well represented in the must-visit National Football Museum , as are other popular teams from around the UK. Along with displays of memorabilia, trophies, and clothing, fun short movies explain the history of the sport and capture many of its defining moments.

Be sure to also visit at least one Manchester club's stadium, too. The best known is Manchester United's Old Trafford grounds, though Manchester City's Etihad Stadium is also worth seeing. Both offer fascinating tours and behind-the-scenes access. Better still, try to visit when there's a game on!

Other notable places to visit in Manchester include Castlefield , popular for its well-preserved Victorian houses, canals, and Roman ruins. It's also popular to explore on foot for its many old warehouses now serving as trendy shops, hotels, and restaurants.

If you've got time left in your Manchester itinerary, be sure to include Manchester Cathedral and the historic Town Hall. There's also a rich cultural scene that includes museums (Museum of Science and Industry), galleries (Manchester Art Gallery), and entertainment (Chinatown).

Despite being much smaller than both Scotland and England, Wales is home to some of the UK's top attractions. Interesting things to do here range from exploring the breathtaking scenery and enjoying outdoor adventures in its national parks to visiting its historic castles.

One of the best places to sample a little of everything that Wales has to offer is the country's capital, Cardiff , with most travelers beginning their visit at Cardiff Castle . Located in the middle of the city and built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fort, parts of the current structure date as far back as 1090, with much of it restored in the 1800s. Highlights include the State Apartments, the Clock Tower, the Chapel, and a spectacular Banqueting Hall with its fine murals.

Afterward, be sure to spend time wandering the city's many old Victorian shopping arcades, the best of which can be found around The Hayes. You'll find everything from second-hand record stores to boutique clothing shops and custom jewelers to browse.

Also worth checking out is Cardiff Bay. One of the UK's largest redevelopment projects, this vast area is now home to numerous fine restaurants, theaters, galleries, and shopping opportunities, many of them housed in former warehouses on lovely Mermaid Quay.

Read More: Top-Rated Day Trips from Cardiff

Although just 14 miles away from mainland France , the Channel Islands have been a British territory since 1066. One of the most picture-perfect destinations in the country, these attractive small islands not only boast a milder climate but offer great places to visit that don't get the large crowds like other parts of the country.

The Channel Islands comprise Jersey (the largest island), Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, and Herm (the smallest), along with numerous even tinier islands. The intrepid traveler will also be rewarded with everything from quaint seaside towns and villages to explore, historic castles and ruins (sometimes one and the same), as well as outdoor adventures and wildlife spotting.

As for getting here, the Channel Islands are well served by ferries from mainland England, as well as short flights from most major British airports.

Read More: Exploring the Top Attractions of the Channel Islands

The Scottish city of Glasgow is a great place to visit for those who enjoy a mix of cultural attractions and the great outdoors. Once you've had your fix of historic sites such as Glasgow Cathedral and the museums of the University of Glasgow, among others, head out to explore nearby Loch Lomond .

Loch Lomond was dubbed "The Queen of Scottish Lakes" by famed writer Walter Scott, and it's here you'll see Ben Lomond and the beautiful Trossachs countryside. Trossachs National Park now includes Loch Lomond itself and covers some 720 square miles of prime hiking and biking country.

It's also popular for its fishing and boating, including sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. For true outdoor enthusiasts, Loch Lomond is the perfect spot for a "wild camping" adventure. Not only is it safe, you're never too far away from people if you need them. And, of course, you'll agree that the scenery here is even more beautiful when you have it all to yourself.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Glasgow

Not only does the Snowdonia region of Wales boast some of the country's most remarkable scenery — and that's saying something, as it really is a beautiful country — it's also home to the UK's second largest national park: Snowdonia National Park. Spread across nearly 830 square miles, the park is as big a draw for adventurers as it is for those seeking a pleasant and not-too-exhausting day trip.

If you're a hiker you can choose from a variety of trails that wind their way up (and down) Mount Snowdon itself, spending a full day tackling as difficult a route to the top as you desire. And those like me who want to see the spectacular views from the top without all the hard work can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway .

Considered one of the world's top scenic railways, the journey starts in Llanberis before tackling steep inclines up to the "Eryri" visitor center at the top of Snowdon.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Snowdonia

Once omitted from the itineraries of most travelers to the UK, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, has in recent years become something of a must-see destination. Not only are there numerous historic attractions and cultural experiences to enjoy, but the city's people have the same welcoming attitude that the European nation of Ireland to the south is known for.

One of the city's top claims to fame was its role in the building of the ill-fated ocean liner, RMS Titanic . This connection is celebrated and memorialized in the city's Titanic Quarter , home to the impressive Titanic Belfast attraction. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits that deal not only with the vessel, but the thousands of people involved in its construction and, ultimately, its sinking.

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Introduction

Whether its lush green countryside, dramatics coasts, cute villages or bustling cities, you’ll find all you need on the different ways you can get around Britain.

Travelling around London

Britain’s busiest, most populated and diverse city is England’s capital: London. While lots of the central areas are easy to explore by foot, you will no doubt need some form of transport during your stay. If you know where you want go to, you can find the quickest routes for your journeys in and around London using Transport for London’s (TfL) handy journey planner .

Transport tickets and Oyster Cards

The cheapest way to get around is by using a Visitor Oyster Card , a pre-paid electronic card that can be used on buses, the tube, the tram and most rail services within London’s travel fare zones (zones 1 to 6).  You can save time by ordering your card before you arrive.

One-day paper travelcards (which cover bus, tube and inner-city rail services) are also available from all London Underground stations and are a good choice for short breaks. To charge or ‘top up’ your Oyster Card (known locally as an oyster), visit travel information centres, newsagents showing the blue Oyster symbol, and all London Underground stations. You can also use the Oyster Card app .

Contactless bank cards, Apple Pay and Android Pay can also be used on London’s transport system – there are daily caps meaning you can take unlimited journeys in a day for a set price, though these caps change depending on which zones you travel through.

The London Underground

The legendary London Underground network, often just called the tube, has more than 270 stations, each marked with the famous London Underground roundel logo.

Tubes run daily, apart from Christmas Day, from around 5:30am until midnight. Some lines run throughout the night at weekends. There are also fewer services on Sundays and public holidays.

Each tube line is represented by a different colour. Colour-coded maps can be found at every tube station and maps of the central section of the network are displayed on each tube carriage.

If you get lost, flag down a TfL staff member for help or simply ask fellow passengers – most Londoners will be happy to help.

Find out more about travel on the London Underground .

The London Overground and suburban rail services

The London Overground and a number of traditional rail services also operate out of London’s major hubs, such as Waterloo, Liverpool Street and Victoria, and travel to more suburban areas of London, particularly parts of south London which aren’t reachable by tube.

Oyster Cards and contactless bank cards can be used on many services up to certain stations (within the London fare zones). To be sure check the stations you use operate within these zones before travelling.

London buses

London buses come in all shapes and sizes – from double-deckers to single-deckers and Routemaster buses (with doors at the front, centre and rear) and operate all over the city. Check out bus routes with TfL’s handy bus map .

London buses don’t take cash - instead you need to touch your Oyster Card or a contactless bank card against the reader when you board the bus, and a set cost will be deducted from the card, regardless of how long the journey takes. Paper travelcards can also be used on buses - just show this to the driver when you board.

London has the most extensive night bus system in the world, with a number of buses running 24- hours-a-day, meaning you can go clubbing into the small hours without worrying about getting home. 

Cycling is an increasingly popular and green ways to get around London and with hundreds of cycle lanes throughout the city, it’s easy.

Santander Cycle can be hired (and dropped off) from docking stations throughout the city. Just turn up, pay and cycle away.

Folding bikes are allowed on all forms of public transport, while non-folded bikes can only be taken on some services at specific times .

The famous London black cabs (officially known as Hackney Carriages) are as much as an institution as big red buses. Black cabs are safe and reliable and drivers have to undergo strict tests to get a licence. All are wheelchair accessible and accept credit and debit card payments, and some are now electric, making travelling around London even greener.

There are fewer black cabs outside central London, but you will find that plenty of mini-cab companies or check out minicab apps such as Uber or Bolt.

While it’s possible to drive around London, it can sometimes end up being the most time-consuming and expensive way to travel. London is congested, and cars are charged for entering certain central areas. This is known as the Congestion Charge , which is charged per day, and payable online. It applies to drivers who use the congestion zone Monday to Friday between 7am and 6pm, although black cabs are exempt. Certain vehicles will also have to pay to drive within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) , which is in force 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This zone covers a larger area of London than the Congestion Charge.

Guidance for non-UK registered vehicles

If you intend to bring a vehicle from Europe and it is registered outside of the UK, you will need to register it with Transport for London before driving in the capital. More guidance can be found via the official Transport for London website .

You can also check if your vehicle meets emissions and safety standards. You can check your vehicle here .

London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)

The London ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ) costs £12.50 per day (from midnight to midnight) for non-compliant vehicles. It was expanded to cover all London Boroughs in August 2023. It operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year, except Christmas Day (25 December).

A failure to pay the ULEZ for a non-compliant vehicle could result in a penalty charge notice of £180. This can be reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days but can also be increased should you fail to pay or successfully challenge it. Both UK and non-UK registered vehicles can be given penalty charge notices.

Find out more about the London ULEZ .

The Congestion Charge

The Congestion Charge covers central London and is a daily £15 charge. All vehicles driving in the zone are required to pay. It applies from 07:00 – 18:00 Monday to Friday, and 12:00 – 18:00 at weekends and bank holidays. There is no charge from Christmas Day to New Year’s Day bank holiday, inclusive.

A failure to pay the Congestion Charge could result in a penalty charge notice of £180. This can be reduced to £90 if paid within 14 days but can also be increased should you fail to pay or successfully challenge it.

Find out more about the Congestion Charge .

London low emission zone (LEZ)

The low emission zone (LEZ) covers most of Greater London and operates 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The LEZ is not the same as the Congestion Charge zone in Central London and the ultra-low emission zone (ULEZ).

If your vehicle is registered outside of the UK, you will need to register it with Transport for London to ensure that it meets the LEZ emission standards.

Find out more about the low emission zone .

Do driving charges apply to rental cars?

The Congestion Charge in London applies to all drivers. The requirement to pay the ULEZ fee will be dependent on whether your rental car meets emission standards. As most hire fleets are relatively new, the majority of vehicles will be exempt. Check with your car rental company when booking or picking up your vehicle to ensure it is compliant.

Travelling around other British towns and cities

Using public transport is an easy, economical way to travel around Britain’s cities and towns, and is a great way to experience local life.

Local buses

In most UK cities, you can buy bus tickets directly from the driver when you board a bus. Large areas like the West Midlands and Greater Manchester also have their own regional travel cards which are valid on all public transport within their area.

Check local tourist websites for timetables and more information. Regional bus operators may also have their own apps, which can be downloaded via the main app stores.

City tram networks

Edinburgh, Birmingham, Sheffield, Manchester, Newcastle and Nottingham operate tram services – you can purchase tickets for the tram either from an on-board conductor or from ticket machines at tram stops. Get more information from local tourist offices and local tourist board’s websites.

Taxis and minicabs are available in cities and towns across Britain. Taxi ranks can be found just outside most busy train stations or you can phone for one in advance. Minicab apps, such as Uber or Bolt, also provide services in many of the major towns and cities.

Many city roads have cycle lanes and even dedicated traffic lights. Most destinations have somewhere you can hire bikes, and increasingly scooters.

The National Cycle Network , managed by Sustrans, also covers many different parts of Britain, providing signed routes and paths.

Travelling around Britain by train

Travelling by train is a green, scenic and relaxing way to discover Britain. The rail network here covers whole swathes of Britain, with more than 2,000 stations serving England, Scotland and Wales. It’s an easy and efficient was to travel, with different train companies serving different parts. You can plan your journey using the National Rail Journey Planner  and before you know it you could be in Brighton or Scotland or almost anywhere else. Journey lengths aren’t too onerous either - hop on a train in London you can be in Scotland within four hours.

It’s easy to travel within regions and towns too. Plan your journey and buy tickets from large travel agents,  online ticket providers, and at all railway stations.

Buying your ticket further in advance can save you money  and sometimes it’s even cheaper to buy two separate singles than one return, so it pays to check this before booking.  If you opt for a BritRail pass – exclusively for tourists – it offers unlimited journeys and various discounts, giving you the freedom to travel around at your own pace.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Travelling around Britain by car

What do you need to drive in britain.

You’ll need a current valid driving licence, and if required, an international driving permit.

You must keep proof of ownership or a rental agreement in your vehicle, plus any insurance documents.

Find out more information on what you’ll need to drive in Britain .

How to hire a car in Britain

With lots of hire car comparison sites, make sure to do your research in advance to find the best price.

You’ll find major car rental company desks at airports and coastal ports as well as others conveniently located in city centres and major towns.

All rental companies should include insurance cover and breakdown cover with car rental, so check this when you book.

You’ll also need to have a credit card in the name of the main driver to hire a vehicle.

Electric vehicles are also available to hire at many large rental companies.

Electric vehicles and charging points

Driving electric vehicles makes travelling around Britain more sustainable. Most major car rental companies will hire them. There’s some advantages with parking not afforded to petrol or diesel powered cars too.

Britain has an extensive and growing network of electric vehicle (EV) charging points with more than 20,000 locations in operation and more being added all the time. Some charging points are free to use while others require payment using an app or a credit or debit card.

Use the Zap Map website or app to find your nearest charging points.

Fuelling stations in Britain

Most petrol stations are self-service and instructions at the pump are easy to follow.

You’ll often pay for your fuel at the counter or at the pump itself using a bank card.

Clean air zones and low emission zones

What is a clean air zone (caz) or low emission zone (lez).

In a bid to reduce air pollution, some cities in the UK have clean air zones (CAZ) or low emission zones (LEZ). Vehicles that do not meet emission standards may be charged for entering the zones. The minimum emission standard can be found in your vehicle logbook or checked via your vehicle manufacturer.

England’s clean air zones

Seven cities in England have clean air zones (CAZ) – Bath, Birmingham, Bradford, Bristol, Portsmouth, Sheffield, and Newcastle/Gateshead. However, charges may only apply to non-compliant cars and motorcycles for the zones in Birmingham and Bristol.

The CAZ minimum standard for cars and vans is Euro 6 (for diesel vehicles) and Euro 4 (for petrol vehicles), motorcycles are Euro 3.

The zones operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year (midnight to midnight).

Find out more about England’s clean air zones .

Scotland’s low emission zones

Unlike England’s clean air zones, non-compliant vehicles cannot enter Scottish low emission zones at any time. There is no daily charge, just a £60 daily penalty.

The Scottish LEZ minimum standard for cars and vans is Euro 6 (for diesel vehicles) and Euro 4 (for petrol vehicles). The LEZ in Glasgow has been enforced from June 2023. Further zones in Dundee, Edinburgh and Aberdeen will be enforced from late May/early June 2024.

Find out more about Scotland’s low emission zones .

Toll roads and tunnels

Some toll roads, bridges and tunnels on the UK road network will require you to pay a charge. What you will need to pay varies by location and is dependent on the vehicle you are driving.

A full list of UK toll roads can be found on the official government website .

Tips for driving in Britain

Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Speed is measured in miles per hour and distances on road signs are displayed in miles.

Most hire cars will include GPS or offer a satellite navigation system as an extra, but it’s also a good idea to keep a map handy.

Take a look at the Highway Code for an up-to-date guide to all the current British driving regulations and traffic signs.

It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving.

There are some toll roads, bridges and tunnels within the UK road network. For information on toll road charges see GOV.UK .

Travelling around Britain by coach

If you’re on a budget, travelling by coach is a great alternative to train or car, but journey times can be longer. 

If you know where you want to go, plan ahead and book your coach in advance from major operators like National Express or Megabus . You can also take a coach tour of places of interest - lasting anything from a couple of hours to couple of weeks. Choose from seaside towns to chocolate-box villages, historic sites to buzzing cities. It’s a good idea to book coach excursions or longer coach trips before you arrive here.

VisitBritain/Jon Attenborough

Travelling around Britain by air

If you’re short on time, then major cities and some towns are well connected by airports. This is an expensive option and once you’ve factored in getting to and from the airports, not always the most time efficient.

You can catch domestic flights from major cities like London to Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen in around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Travelling around Britain by boat

Britain has thousands of miles of inland waterways and hundreds of islands scattered along its coastline, many of which can be explored by cruising in a canal boat or by hopping on a ferry.

You can hire canal and narrowboats, or take an organised boat tour. For more information of Britain’s canals, rivers and lakes, visit the Canal & River Trust website .

Ferries in Scotland sail to a myriad of destinations including the Isle of Skye, Stornaway and Lochboisdale in the Western Isles. Most of the ferry companies offer a variety of different ticket types including island-hop passes.

River ferries are an interesting alternative to the more usual forms of transport, like the ferry across the Mersey River between Liverpool and Birkenhead and the London river boats that run from Westminster to Greenwich and beyond. You can discover more about ferry routes and timetables by visiting local destination websites.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

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Travel About Britain

You are welcome to browse the site for information on towns and cities , local history, British heritage, popular places to visit and local attractions . Click on an area of the map or use the links below to begin your tour.

With around 300 miles of spectacular coastline, Cornwall is renowned for its amazing scenery, world famous surfing beaches, rugged cliff tops, luscious gardens and warm climate.

A blend of small towns and rugged mountain scenery that provides a mecca for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Everything about Wales offers relaxation and escape from urban living.

Rich in history and tradition, and boasting some of the most spectacular scenery in Britain, Scotland is a truly magical place to visit.

With over 2000 square miles of scenic countryside, rolling hills and picturesque coastlines, Devon offers a more peaceful and much slower pace of life.

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The best ways to travel around in England

Jul 19, 2023 • 7 min read

Find your way around England with this guide to the country's transporation network © Justin Lambert / Getty Images

Despite its myriad attractions , England is a fairly compact country with decent roads and a wide rail network so getting around isn't difficult, no matter what the season .

The first big decision when visiting England is whether to travel by private car or use the extensive public transportation system. Having your own car means you can make the best use of time and reach remote places, but rental, fuel costs, tolls and charges can be expensive, and there are always traffic delays to contend with. Public transportation, which includes a somewhat reliable system of trains and coaches (buses), is often the better choice for getting around in the UK. Aside from London , England’s city centers are very walkable too.

From the cheapest travel passes to the best forms of transportation to get you where you're headed, here's our guide to getting around England.

Choose the train for fast long-distance travel

For long-distance travel around England, trains are generally faster and more comfortable than buses, but are usually much more expensive. The English like to moan about their trains, but around 85% run on time (and the 15% that see delays mostly impact commuters) and major stations are well-equipped, with helpful staff, a range of food outlets and decent amenities.

The main headache for train enthusiasts these days is the cost . If you leave booking your ticket to the last minute, fares can be extortionately high, so it's always worth booking as far in advance as you can – tickets tend to come available 12 weeks in advance of travel. Sometimes buying two single tickets can be cheaper than buying a return.

About 20 different companies operate train services in England, while Network Rail operates tracks and stations. For some passengers, the range of different train operators can be confusing at first, but information and ticket-buying services are mostly centralized.

If you have to change trains, or use two or more train operators, you can still buy one ticket, valid for the whole journey. The main railcards and passes are also accepted by all train operators – and can offer good savings .

Your first stop for planning journeys should be National Rail Enquiries , the country's nationwide timetable and fare information service. The website advertises special offers and has real-time links to station departure boards and downloadable maps of the rail network.

You can also buy tickets from the rail companies directly, or through other ticket retailers, who often have easy-to-navigate websites and apps; options include Rail Easy and The Trainline . The ticket-splitting service Tickety Split is a great way of saving money on fares, particularly on one-way journeys.

Buses are usually the cheaper long-distance option

Long-distance buses are known as coaches in the UK, and services run between most major towns and cities. If you're on a tight budget, coaches are nearly always the cheapest way to get around England, although they're also the slowest – sometimes by a considerable margin.

If you book early or travel at off-peak periods – ideally both – coach tickets can be very cheap, although if you’re going to the airport then take a faster train or taxi for peace of mind that you'll make it in time for your flight. The two major coach companies are National Express and Megabus .

Tip for taking a coach: Many towns have separate stations for local buses and long-distance coaches; make sure you go to the right one!

Hire a car if you’re heading to remote locations

Traveling by car or motorcycle around England means you have more independence and flexibility, and you can reach more remote parts of the country. Downsides for drivers include regular traffic jams (even on motorways), the high price of fuel, the cost of insurance, congestion charges and parking fees in cities and tourist towns.

Compared with many countries (especially the USA), car-hire is expensive in England and fuel costs can be eye-watering. The smallest cars start from about £130 per week, while entry-level motorcycles cost from £215 per week. If you have time, using a mix of train, bus, taxi, walking and occasionally hiring a bike, you can get almost anywhere in England without having to drive.

Tip for renting a car: There are several major car-hire providers, but you may get a cheaper deal using a smaller company local to your starting point, or go through a comparison site. Rental companies at airports can be good for deals, and they're easy to access via public transport, even if you're not flying into a city.

Save cycling for exploring the great outdoors

Hiring a bike – for an afternoon, a day, or a week or longer – is a great way to really explore a small region or see England’s great outdoors. Some cities have bike-share schemes (as well as e-scooters), while others have longer-term bike-rental shops. England also has a growing network of signposted long-distance cycling routes that may inspire you to explore more of the country by bicycle.  

Bikes are often available for hire in national parks or forestry sites, particularly at locations used for leisure activities such as Kielder Water in Northumberland and Grizedale Forest in the Lake District . In some areas, disused railway lines are now bike routes , most notably routes in the Peak District in Derbyshire and the Bristol and Bath Railway Path in Somerset . 

England is still a notoriously car-centric country however, and most cities are not very cyclist-friendly. Only a handful of cities have an adequate system of dedicated bike lanes, so it’s best to enjoy cycling in more rural locations, particularly during the summer.

There are a few domestic airlines

England doesn’t have a big network of domestic flights due to its small size, but there are some long cross-country routes that are awkward, costly and time-consuming if you travel by train (eg the trip from Exeter or Southampton to  Newcastle ).

However, you’ll still pay at least £100 for one of these flights, and the time saved becomes less beneficial once transit times and the journey to and from the airport are factored in. England's domestic airline companies include British Airways , Loganair ,  easyJet and Ryanair , but considering the short distances and high carbon cost, many prefer not to fly.

Take a boat ride to the Isle of Wight or Scilly Isles

The only major ferry routes within England are from Portsmouth or Southampton to the Isle of Wight , and from  Penzance to the Scilly Isles . If time isn't an issue, you could see some of England by canal boat; narrowboat hire companies are concentrated around the Oxford Canal and the Grand Union Canal near Rugby. 

Local buses and trains get you around and between towns and cities

English cities usually have good public-transit systems – provided by a combination of buses, trains and sometimes trams – although these services can be run by a confusing number of separate companies. There's usually good information at each stop or station, including route maps and ticketing information, and staff in tourist offices are always happy to help.

Local bus services year-round in cities and towns except on Christmas Day and sometimes also Boxing Day, when services either stop or run on limited timetables. Sundays also see fewer services. CityMapper is a handy app for planning the quickest journey between points, especially if you're combining transport options. 

Buses run in rural areas year-round, although timetables are designed to serve schools and businesses, so there are fewer services in the middle of the day and at weekends. Services may stop running during summer school holidays, or buses may link local villages to a market town only one day each week. It pays to do your research before traveling around rural England relying on bus transport alone. 

In tourist areas (especially  national parks ) there are usually more frequent services from Easter to September. However, it's always worth double-checking at a tourist office before planning your day's activities around a bus that may not actually be running.

How to catch a taxi in England

There are two kinds of taxis in England – licensed cabs with meters that can be hailed in the street, and "minicabs," which are cheaper but can only be booked by phone. In  London and some other large cities, official taxi services are provided by the famous black cabs, which charge by distance and time. Ridesharing apps such as Uber are also an option in cities and most major towns.

In rural areas, licensed taxis usually need to be booked by phone; look up the numbers for local taxi companies online as you plan your journey, or ask at a local pub or your accommodation. You'll often find taxis waiting for fares at country train stations, or a cab office nearby. 

Tip for taking a taxi: The Traintaxi website is a database that pairs up minicab providers with train stations, helping you "bridge the gap" between the station and your final destination.

This article was first published Mar 31, 2021 and updated Jul 19, 2023.

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