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What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.

Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

Whether it’s getting a feel for our vibrant cultural cities, embarking on a coastal adventure, or discovering locations made famous by film and TV, it’s time to experience Britain differently.

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Explore different

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Glen Coe, Scotland

Spilling the tea on GB

We’re spilling the tea on the hottest experiences – and it’s not just a good old brew that we’re mad about.

Cardiff, Wales

Key sporting moments in 2024

Grab your tickets, or a spot by a screen, and join the atmosphere of brilliant British sport.

VisitBritain/Simon Anderson/Royal Pavilion//Nutkhut and Dr Blighty

Day trips from London

Britain packs a punch when it comes to the eclectic range of destinations within close proximity to London.

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Parc national de Sowdonia (Eryri), Pays de Galles

How to see Britain differently

From gastronomic adventures to eco-friendly stays, there’s always more to explore on Britain’s shores.

VisitBritain - The official tourism website of Great Britain

Providing you with inspirational activities and experiences, from those in the know.

Your guidance and information about travelling to Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Helping the travel industry showcase the best of Britain.

Cultural hotspots

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

From palaces to cobbled alleys and even a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

Oh Me Oh My

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Pushing the boundaries of art and culture, with a heart that beats through its people.

VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

West Midlands Growth Company

Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

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Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

Tourism Northern Ireland

Discover annual events

James Bridle

Celebrate in Britain

Find out what’s happening across the nations with our round-up of annual events.

Planning a trip? We're here to help

Your trip to england is just around the corner.

Discover the land of Big Ben, Banksy and bangers and mash. From its bustling cities to its blooming beautiful gardens, it doesn’t disappoint.

Discover Great Britain’s northern reaches

Imagine a country where ancient castles guard mysterious lochs and emerald glens, and where the local spirit is as warm as the welcome.

Discover a land of adventure and mythical creatures

Delve into a world of dragons, renowned choirs, championship rugby, and some of the most spellbinding scenery Britain has to offer.

Your trip to Northern Ireland has never looked more magical

Get swept up in a world of ancient myths and modern-day legends, from the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones to the vibrant buzz of Belfast.

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What are you looking for?

Research and insights.

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Gain a deeper knowledge of travel and tourism with our industry-leading data and analysis. We provide expert research into the inbound and domestic visitor landscape across the nations – designed to help inform your business decisions, expand your expertise and identify key growth markets.

These resources cover a wide range of topics, trends, regions, visitor types, businesses and international markets. Discover the latest releases, browse historic reports and examine the data through our visualisations. You can also keep up-to-date with news and insights from our industry experts by subscribing to our fortnightly newsletter .

Latest releases

2023 ips total uk summary (published 17th may 2024), 2023 ips nations and regions summary (published 17th may 2024), lighthouse - short term rentals mar 24.pdf, gb and england domestic overnight trips q4 2023 and 2023, report: domestic day visits q4 2023 and 2023 overall (published 12th march 2024), domestic sentiment tracker - april 2024, england hotel occupancy - march 2024, explore our research and insights.

VisitBritain/Rama Knight

Visitor economy in England/Britain

The value of tourism in England   2024 inbound tourism forecast

VisitBritain/Getty Images/Roy James Shakespeare

Volume and value of domestic tourism

Great Britain domestic overnight trips: latest results   Great Britain domestic overnight trips: archive   Great Britain domestic day visits: latest results   Great Britain domestic day trips: archive   Great Britain domestic overnight and day trips: subnational data

Peter Dazeley / The Image Bank / Getty Images

Volume and value of inbound tourism

About the international passenger survey   Inbound visits and spend: monthly, UK   Inbound visits and spend: quarterly, regional   Inbound visits and spend: quarterly, UK   Inbound visits and spend: annual, regional   Inbound visits and spend: trends by UK town   Inbound visits and spend: annual, UK

Why visitors choose Britain/England

British culture and heritage   British transport (IPS)   Motivations, influences, decisions and sustainability research   UK’s image overseas   Discover England Fund research: archive   British food and drink   Football   Shopping   Perception of Britain overseas

VisitBritain

England tourism business insights

England Visitor Attractions: latest   England Visitor Attractions: archive   England Accommodation stock audit   England Hotel Occupancy: latest   England Hotel Occupancy: archive   UK short-term rentals    England Tourism Business Monitor

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Domestic and inbound visitor insights

Domestic sentiment tracker   Domestic Bank holiday trip tracker   Activities and experiences   Inbound COVID-19 sentiment tracker    

Getty Images/E+/JohnnyGreig

Inbound market insights

France   Germany   Saudi Arabia   Spain   United Arab Emirates (UAE)   United States of America (USA)   See all inbound markets

VisitBritain/Brynn Hauxwell

Other related topics

Accessible and inclusive tourism   Business events research   Impact of crises on holiday taking behaviour: archive

Explore different datasets using our visualisations

Use our visualisations below to explore different datasets in detail. 

Upcoming releases

Useful contacts, research and insights.

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Frequently asked questions

Browse our responses to key FAQs. For more information on these topics, please contact our research team at [email protected] .

How many inbound visitors come to the UK each year and how much do they spend?

You can explore the latest inbound statistics for the UK by month , quarter and year .

How many GB adults take a domestic trip and how much do they spend?

Please refer to our data for domestic tourism, which is split into day visits and overnight visits .

What are the latest insights on domestic trip intentions?

Please view our Domestic Sentiment Tracker , where we share data on overnight and day trip intentions, motivations to take a trip, activities planned for that trip, as well as barriers to taking a trip.

Where can I find insights and data on the UK’s overseas visitors?

You can explore global market data using our interactive visualisations by quarter and by year , where you can specify the data you need and see trends over time. You can also visit our inbound market pages .

Do you have any insights on accessible and inclusive tourism?

Yes, our Accessibility and inclusion page has various reports and insights, as well as links to external resources relevant to the topic.

What activities do inbound visitors and domestic trip-takers like to do on their holidays?

We have published insights from a range of sources and projects on our Holiday activities and experiences page.

What are the most popular visitor attractions in England?

Every year, we conduct a national survey of visits to  visitor attractions . You can find visitor numbers for almost 2,000 attractions in the detailed survey reports, while separate ‘Top 20’ listings show the most popular attractions nationally and regionally.

How do inbound visitors to the UK research and book their trips?

We explored the trip-booking journey in our MIDAS research ; please see the Full Report, chapter 9, from page 139.

I am setting up a tourism business, do you have any insight that would help me?

Our Discover England Fund included a programme of strategic research, covering travel product development, case studies, insights into a range of destinations and activities, market opportunity guidance and travel trade research. While it is dated 2019, most of its information and insights remain valid.

What are your predictions for Inbound Tourism over the coming months?

Please see our inbound tourism forecast .

How can I stay up-to-date with the latest research, insights and statistics?

To find out when the next updates will be published, please refer to our release timetable , which includes publication dates for all our major surveys. You can also subscribe to our newsletter .

I've looked at your website and I still can't find the information I need.

Please contact us directly ; we will do our best to help.

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Everything you need to inspire your clients. Discover new products, experiences and itinerary ideas – plus useful resources and the latest market insights.

Reach new customers and increase your profitability. Drive sales with our tools, events and training, find out about quality assessment and get expert guidance from the England Business Advice Hub.

Build sustainable and valuable growth. Learn about England’s new destination management structure, find expert advice, and boost your proposition with our training and toolkits.

Access resources for business events to support your business development and event strategy. Discover England, Scotland and Wales' business event offering for your next conference, incentive, exhibition or event.

Discover our media centres, image and video library and latest press releases, plus contacts for our corporate and consumer press teams.

Studying tourism at school, college or university? We’ve gathered essential resources and data for students of tourism, plus information about our internships.

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VisitBritain

VisitBritain (VB) is the national tourism agency, responsible for marketing Britain worldwide and developing Britain’s visitor economy. It works with UK Trade & Investment as well as airlines, travel operators, global brands and the official tourism bodies for London, England, Scotland and Wales.

VB is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport .

News and communications

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Research and statistics

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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!

11 days  / from 1087 USD

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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Ready to travel and discover scotland, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

UK – United Kingdom

Rich in tradition, complex in culture and endlessly diverse… it’s partly down to its unique constitution that the UK is such an endlessly fascinating place to discover. 

Visit UK destinations

Whether you’re in the United Kingdom (UK) for the first time, or have lived here your whole life and are looking for new places to visit, UK travel is all about variety.

It’s about unearthing a mixture of iconic sights and hidden gems, ticking famous landmarks off your bucket-list one day and stumbling across a quirky local museum the next. 

It’s about taking the plunge into a vast wealth of activities, whether you’re an adrenaline-junkie, a die-hard hobbyist or simply fancy trying your hand at something new – from abseiling and mountain-biking to hiking and pony trekking, seal spotting, bird watching and more. 

And, of course, the UK’s diversity is mirrored in its landscape too. From its rugged coastline studded with gold sand beaches and secret coves, to rolling countryside dotted with patchwork fields and crops of ancient woodland, to vertiginous peaks set above glistening meres and heather-clad moors, via kitschy seaside resorts, pretty-as-a-postcard villages and handsome market towns, there’s no shortage of places to visit in the United Kingdom. 

Meanwhile, UK city breaks offer something to satisfy all wallet sizes and tastes, be it fascinating history and heritage, cutting-edge culture and museums, indulgent retail therapy or decadent dining and nightlife.

Places to visit

For many visitors to the UK, their first port of call is England – home of Shakespeare, Sherlock Holmes and ‘Pride and Prejudice’. 

There’s energetic and ambitious London, steeped in iconic landmarks, world-class museums and royal parks, whilst Cornwall’s balmy climate and surf-ready beaches promise a more chilled-out stay. 

Up north, Northumberland’s starry skies and vast, unspoiled landscape stretch endlessly before you. Manchester hums to the sound of its football chants and a stomping nightlife, whilst friendly Liverpool impresses with its Beatles heritage and jaw-dropping architecture. 

Places to visit in England (UK)

• Things to do

There are enough things to do in the UK to keep each day fun-packed, whatever your holiday style. 

Lovebirds in search of romantic breaks may look towards countryside and coast – strolling hand-in-hand along the beach, gazing up at star-studded skies or packing a picnic basket for a riverboat cruise. Prefer city breaks? You’ll find just as much romance amongst the bright lights, Michelin-star restaurants and dazzling entertainment venues of England’s vibrant cities. 

School holidays are a breeze thanks to any number of family-friendly activities. Kids can learn outside of the classroom whilst fossil hunting on the beach or discovering how the Tudors and Victorians lived at one of the UK’s evocative castles and stately homes. There’s plenty for youngsters with boundless energy as well, be it swinging through the forest on a treetop adventure or learning to kayak. 

As England’s weather gets warmer and a blanket of colour falls across the landscape, spring breaks are an ideal time for finding things to do in the great outdoors. Put the wind back in your sails with a sailing holiday, strap your walking boots on for a ramble along country paths or take your pick from amongst the UK’s spring festivals. 

Things to do in England

Planning your UK stay

The UK has a tremendous range of accommodation to choose from so it’s worth pinpointing your budget and the type of experience you’d like. 

As well as hotels and B&B’s, there are some quirky options too, ranging from farm stays to log cabins, canal boats to tipis. Or if you simply want something that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, then you can’t beat a youth hostel or campsite for value for money. 

B&B’s are a great choice for visitors craving that home-away-from-home feel, run by hosts who pride themselves on delivering a personal touch. You’ll find them scattered across the UK in all manners of guises, be it a cosy country cottage or elegant Georgian townhouse. 

Hotels enjoy equal variety for those willing to splash a little more cash. You may find yourself huddled beneath the sheets in a haunted castle, treating yourself to a spot of pampering from the comforts of an elegant Grade-listed mansion or gazing out onto a stunning cityscape from a contemporary boutique hotel set in a buzzing, central location. 

Whilst your accommodation will be happy to provide you with tourism information, you might want to check out the local tourist information centre (TIC) as well. 

Planning your stay in England

Other places to visit in the UK

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10 Great Reasons to Visit the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a great place to visit. In fact, England, Scotland, Wales and the Offshore Islands all offer great vacation and holiday destinations with something for everyone—singles, couples, and families .

Whether you plan to cross an ocean, take a cross-country train trip or simply drive down the motorway for your next trip holiday, here are some good reasons to visit England and the rest of the UK.

Great Views and Terrific Scenery

The forces of nature—of wind, seas, and ice—have combined to give this relatively small, island kingdom an amazing variety of landscapes—all within reasonably short distances of each other. No one in the UK is ever more than two hours from the sea. There are mountains and ranges of majestic hills, rolling farmlands, wild heaths and moors, exquisite lakes and lochs and gentle, lovely valleys and streams. Start with some of these:

• The Lake District
• The Most Beautiful Beaches of England and Wales
• The Jurassic Coast
• A Quick Guide to Orkney
• Glencoe—Scotlands Most Romantic Glen
• Mount Snowdon and Snowdonia National Park

Urban Adventures in Great Cities and Towns

Everybody knows that London is one of the world's great cities, but it's just the tip of the iceberg. The UK's cities and towns have a lot to offer visitors—from the hip, indie scene of Manchester to the amazing Balti food of Birmingham, from the dreaming spires of Oxford and medieval passageways of York to the lively art scenes of Glasgow. Edinburgh Castle looks down on the vibrant capital of Scotland and Liverpool rides a tide of history beside the Mersey. Check out these cities and towns:

• Edinburgh Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Birmingham  
• Manchester Travel Guide
• An Oxford Walk
• Finding Medieval York
• Top UK 20 Cities to Visit

The Multi-Layered Great British History

From the prehistoric Britons, Gaels, Celts, and Picts through Vikings, Romans, and Normans, wave after wave of conquerors and migrants have shaped the United Kingdom—and most have left fascinating traces for visitors to explore. Consider these for starters:

• Stonehenge as You've Never Seen it Before
• Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The Castles of William the Conqueror
• Roman Ruins in Britain
• Top UK Stone Circles and Ancient Sites

The Great British Pub

The best British pubs are more than places to eat and drink; they are landmarks of continuity that have existed in the same spot for hundreds of years. Their names tell stories, often linked to local history, outlaws, wars, and customs. Their architecture—whether half-timbered, thatch-roofed or built of brick—adds to the character of their villages. But not all pubs are equal and some are, frankly, dreadful if you aren't a local.

Find out how to pick a pub that suits you , then check out a few that we've liked:

• The Turf Tavern
• Ten Recommended Pubs for Christmas Lunch
• An Easy Walk to the Five Horseshoes

Great World Class Festivals and Events

Some of the world's greatest set piece events draw visitors to the UK year after year. In England, just about everything stops for a fortnight for Wimbledon , tennis's biggest grand slam tournament. Up in Scotland, everything seems on the go, 24/7, for the whole month of August, as thousands reel from one event to another during the Edinburgh Festivals, the world's biggest performing arts party. And there are more:

• Wimbledon Fortnight
• The Edinburgh Festivals
• Royal Ascot
• The Glastonbury Festival
• The Chelsea Flower Show
• The Henley Regatta
• The Grand National

Great Traditions and Eccentricities

The British are masters of the weird and wacky. From cheese rolling in Gloucestershire and fireball whirling in Scotland to Morris Men dancing and banging sticks, or hobby horses terrorizing villages on May Day, there are wonderfully eccentric traditions all over the British Isles. Most have origins lost in antiquity. No one cares how they got going—the point is to have a good time:

• The Olney Pancake Race
• The Fire Festivals of Scotland

Great Storybook Architecture

Thatched cottages, fairytale castles , soaring cathedrals , stately mansions—the UK has them all. The half-timbered streets of Chester look like something out of Disney—but they are real and they are really old. So much of what gives the UK its unique appeal for visitors is the look of its heritage buildings—the stuff of dream and story:

• The Romantic Castle Hotels of England, Scotland, and Wales
• Anne Hathaway's Cottage
• Windsor Castle
• York Minster
• Longleat House
• Waddesdon Manor
• Top 10 Stately Homes in England

The Rise of the Great British Chefs

In the space of a few decades, Britain has shaken off its dire food reputation and become a center of fine dining. London actually rivals Paris and outclasses New York for Michelin stars. And the rest of the UK is not far behind. Television "cheffing" has turned the best chefs around the country into mega-celebrities. They've created a demand for superb dining and inspired even more talented chefs to open cafes, bistros, and restaurants around the country.​

These are just a few:

• Tom Kerridge's Hand and Flowers in Marlow
• The Roux Family at the Waterside Inn
• 8 Celeb Chefs Worth Leaving London For
• The Sportsman in Seasalter near Whitstable
• The Feathered Nest in the Cotswolds

The World's Greatest Gardens and Gardeners

From as early as the 17th century, the gentlemen—and lady—horticulturalists of the British Empire explored exotic locales to bring back unusual plant specimens. A traditional interest in plants, the UK's relatively mild climate, an early taste for landscapes as works of art and the fortuitous genius of ​18th-century landscape gardener Lancelot "Capability" Brown have produced an abundant bouquet of beautiful and fascinating gardens all over Britain. 

• The Best Gardens to Visit in England
• RHS Wisley Garden
• Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden
• The Glorious Gardens of Argyll and Bute
• Bodnant Garden
• Powys Castle and Garden
• Blenheim Park and Gardens

The Great British Royals

The power of the Royal Family is mostly symbolic these days but it is certainly impossible to forget that the United Kingdom is a monarchy—it's part of the name for heaven's sake. Love them or loathe them—and in Britain, you get both opinions, sometimes uttered in the same sentence—they are woven into the fabric of life. Their comings and goings, their homes and the events they traditionally attend are a fine spectacle for visitors and natives alike. When you visit the UK, Royal watching is a must.

• Plan a Visit to Balmoral
• Princess Diana's Childhood Home
• Buckingham Palace
• Windsor Great Park

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

The Top 20 Things to Do in the UK

Top 20 Most Popular UK Cities for International Visitors

The Best Time to Visit the United Kingdom

The 16 Most Beautiful Natural Features in the UK

Your Trip to the United Kingdom: The Complete Guide

10 Little Known Roman Ruins in England, Scotland and Wales

12 "Must-See" Places in England, Scotland and Wales

Fairy Tale Cottages Under Thatch

Useful Maps of Europe for Planning a Trip

5 Things to Never Do in the United Kingdom

18 Top Things to Do for Easter Weekend in the United Kingdom

Do Pre-Paid Touring Passes Give You More Bang for Your Buck?

25 Best Free Things to Do in the United Kingdom

Every UNESCO World Heritage Site in the UK

A Handy Guide to the Top British Department Stores

16 local tips to know before traveling to England

Jul 13, 2023 • 7 min read

These top tips will help you be prepared for anything on your trip to England © SolStock / Getty Images

Such is England’s reach on popular culture, you may think you already know the country before you visit.

Though if you’re expecting to be surrounded by a bunch of well-heeled James Bonds or a gaggle of eccentric Monty Python characters, then think again.

While the everyday English aren’t quite the same as how they’re portrayed in film, television and books, this is a country with a number of peculiarities that are good to know before visiting, especially when venturing outside of London . From practicalities like train prices to etiquette tips on how the English approach queueing, it’s always important to be ahead of the game when visiting this wonderful and varied country.

Here are a few key things to know before traveling to England.

1. You should pack a jacket, even in summer

Preparing for all types of weather is an essential part of the English experience. England’s maritime location in the wild North Atlantic means that even in summer , biting winds and untimely rain showers can unexpectedly scupper a balmy afternoon. 

That doesn’t mean you need to take an umbrella everywhere, but you do need to put a jacket in your suitcase and always check the conditions on your favorite weather app before venturing out. As a rule, London is usually a couple of degrees warmer than other parts of the country.

2. Be ready to discuss the weather 

Talking about the weather is in the English blood and a part of the national psyche. And the more lamentable the forecast, the more likely people are to talk about it. Come rain or shine, prepare to offer an opinion on the day’s weather, and express that it’ll hopefully brighten up/cool down as the week goes on. 

3. Train prices are steep

Unlike some other countries in western Europe , England’s train system was privatized many years ago, and this, along with other factors, has lead to some of Europe’s highest train prices.

Try to book ahead of time (around 12 weeks before travel for the best rates) and look out for cheap advance fares. While not as quick as train travel (and certainly not as romantic), coaches such as National Express and Megabus offer far cheaper prices when traveling across the country and are highly recommended for those on a budget. 

4. There’s a whole world outside of London

London’s big, bold, and full of iconic English landmarks and experiences . But it isn’t everything. If you have the time to explore beyond the capital, you’ll discover a variety of landscapes, people and cultures, and some wonderful things to do . 

From the wild coastlines of Cornwall to the soaring hills of the Lake District , there’s much to see in this ancient land. 

5. Crossing the English Channel means different plug sockets

Yes, England is in Europe, but it doesn’t always play by European rules (in more ways than one, with Brexit still something that people can't agree on seven years after the vote). If you’re backpacking around Europe, remember that the UK and Ireland use type G plug sockets (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern), so make sure you have the right power adapter when arriving in England as it differs from the rest of the continent. 

6. Many museums are free

England is home to many of the world’s greatest museums , and you won’t need to pay a penny to enter some of them. Especially great for rainy days in London, you can peruse dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum or masterpieces by Turner at the National Gallery and spend the money saved at the pub later on.

7. Pronouncing place names will be a challenge

Alongside some truly bizarre place names, England also has several towns and counties that aren’t pronounced the way they are spelled. Names with a -ter suffix are particularly notorious for this.

Bicester is pronounced biss-ter rather than bi-ces-ter, Gloucester is pronounced gloss-ter rather than glou-ces-ter, Leominster is pronounced lem-ster rather than Leo-minster. You get the picture. 

8. Hit the beer garden when the sun comes out

The English need no excuse to go to the pub on a sunny summer afternoon, and sitting indoors is almost unthinkable. Find a table in the beer garden at the local boozer and order in a few cold pints. Job done.

9. Expect to hear a different accent in each region

Traveling just a few short miles in England can often mean a change in accent, so train your ears to prepare for this. Regional accents are hugely diverse, and while they’re still English, they can sometimes be difficult for even fellow England residents to understand. 

The accent you’ll hear in Birmingham ("Brummie") differs wildly to what you’ll hear when you arrive in Newcastle ("Geordie"). London is a separate case as it’s so cosmopolitan that you can expect to hear a variety of different accents and languages throughout the day.

10. Never jump a queue

Sometimes polite to a fault, the English are very orderly when queueing, and those who jump a line can expect stern looks and grumbling at the very least. So get in line and patiently wait your turn to avoid any awkward situations.

11. You’ll hear "sorry" a lot

Even in situations where the fault lies with you, you might receive an apology. Only Canadians say sorry more than the English, so get used to hearing it and, eventually, saying it.

12. English food does not deserve its negative reputation

Stereotypes about the English are often amusing and sometimes painfully true, though the one about the poor standard of English food can be comfortably consigned to history’s trashcan. 

Towns and cities across the country are now dotted with superb restaurants offering a strong emphasis on fresh and locally grown produce. Alongside traditional dishes , you’ll find cuisine here from all over the world amid an ever-growing list of Michelin-starred restaurants. 

13. Beer standards are high too

The pub is a rite of passage here, and the English love a pint of beer. But England has grown out of its cruel 1970s caricature of warm stale beer, and these days, there are myriad styles to sample, up and down the country. 

From real ales at historic Victorian pubs to craft beer at bright modern taprooms, choose from sours, stouts, saisons, New England IPAs and beyond. 

14. Summer is festival season

From Glastonbury in June to Reading and Leeds in August and everything in between, there are lively music festivals running throughout the summer in England. No matter what week you’re here, there’s bound to be a festival on somewhere. Getting tickets for the big events is a challenge, though – you'll need to look out for those around nine months in advance.

There are also a plethora of smaller festivals that are often great value and easier to navigate too, such as Birmingham’s superb Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival .

15. If you encounter any health issues, you’ll be in good hands

Visitors from EU countries will be covered for some treatment on the National Health Service (NHS) if they fall ill during a visit by using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Visitors from non-EU countries with a reciprocal health care arrangement with the UK may also be covered for some treatment needs, particularly emergencies.

16. Measurements can be confusing

Don’t be surprised if you get into a metric muddle. For some things, the English use metric measurements, and for other things, they use imperial. Though metric measurements became legal in the UK back in 1875, Britain has never fully transitioned to using metrication in all situations. Roads are still measured in the imperial unit of miles, for example, and height is often discussed in feet and inches.

This article was first published Jun 26, 2022 and updated Jul 13, 2023.

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Travel and tourism in the United Kingdom - statistics & facts

How many tourists visit the uk, travel planning and behavior of british tourists, key insights.

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Inbound tourist visits to the UK 2002-2022

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• Basic Statistic Travel and tourism's total contribution to employment in the UK 2019-2022
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Travel and tourism's total contribution to GDP in the UK 2019-2022

Total contribution of travel and tourism to GDP in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2022 (in billion GBP)

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2022, by type

Distribution of travel and tourism expenditure in the UK 2019-2022, by tourist type

Distribution of travel and tourism spending in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2022, by type of tourist

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Total contribution of travel and tourism to employment in the United Kingdom (UK) in 2019 and 2022 (in million jobs)

Median full-time salary in tourism and hospitality industries in the UK 2023

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CPI inflation rate of travel and tourism services in the UK 2023

Consumer price index (CPI) inflation rate of travel and tourism services in the United Kingdom (UK) from May to December 2023

Inbound tourism

• Basic Statistic Inbound tourist visits to the UK 2002-2022
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Number of overseas resident visits to the United Kingdom (UK) from 2002 to 2022, with a forecast for 2023 and 2024 (in millions)

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Number of overseas resident visits to the United Kingdom (UK) from 2019 to 2022, by purpose of trip (in millions)

Leading inbound travel markets in the UK 2019-2022, by number of visits

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Leading inbound travel markets in the UK 2023, by growth in travel demand on Google

Leading inbound travel markets in the United Kingdom (UK) over the previous 30 and 90 days as of June 2023, ranked by growth in travel demand on Google

Number of overnight stays by inbound tourists in the UK 2004-2022

Number of nights spent by overseas residents in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2004 to 2022 (in millions)

International tourist spending in the UK 2004-2024

Spending of international visitors to the United Kingdom from 2004 to 2022, with a forecast for 2023 and 2024 (in billion GBP)

Leading inbound travel markets for the UK 2019-2022, by spending

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Outbound tourism

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Leading outbound travel markets in the UK 2023, by growth in travel demand on Google

Leading outbound travel markets in the United Kingdom (UK) over the previous 30 and 90 days as of June 2023, ranked by growth in travel demand on Google

Number of outbound overnight stays by UK residents 2011-2022

Number of overnight stays abroad by residents of the United Kingdom (UK) from 2011 to 2022 (in 1,000s)

Outbound tourism expenditure in the UK 2007-2022

Total expenditure on visits abroad from the United Kingdom (UK) from 2007 to 2022 (in million GBP)

Domestic tourism

• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight trips in Great Britain 2010-2022
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• Premium Statistic Number of domestic overnight trips in Great Britain 2023, by destination type
• Premium Statistic Number of tourism day visits in Great Britain 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Total domestic travel expenditure in Great Britain 2019-2022
• Premium Statistic Domestic overnight tourism spending in Great Britain 2010-2022
• Premium Statistic Expenditure on domestic day trips in Great Britain 2011-2022
• Premium Statistic Average spend on domestic summer holidays in the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2023

Domestic overnight trips in Great Britain 2010-2022

Number of domestic overnight trips in Great Britain from 2010 to 2022 (in millions)

Domestic tourism trips in Great Britain 2018-2022, by purpose

Number of domestic overnight trips in Great Britain from 2018 to 2022, by purpose (in millions)

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Number of domestic overnight trips in Great Britain in 2023, by destination type (in millions)

Number of tourism day visits in Great Britain 2011-2022

Number of tourism day visits in Great Britain from 2011 to 2022 (in billions)

Total domestic travel expenditure in Great Britain 2019-2022

Total domestic tourism spending in Great Britain from 2019 to 2022 (in billion GBP)

Domestic overnight tourism spending in Great Britain 2010-2022

Annual domestic overnight tourism spending in Great Britain from 2010 to 2022 (in billion GBP)

Expenditure on domestic day trips in Great Britain 2011-2022

Annual expenditure on domestic tourism day visits in Great Britain from 2011 to 2022 (in billion GBP)

Average spend on domestic summer holidays in the United Kingdom (UK) 2011-2023

Average spend on 'staycation' summer holidays according to Britons in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2011 to 2023 (in GBP)

Accommodation

• Premium Statistic Number of accommodation businesses in the United Kingdom (UK) 2008-2021
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Number of accommodation businesses in the United Kingdom (UK) 2008-2021

Number of enterprises in the accommodation industry in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2008 to 2021

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Turnover of accommodation businesses in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2008 to 2021 (in million GBP)

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Turnover of accommodation services in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2015 to 2021, by type (in million GBP)

Number of hotel businesses in the United Kingdom (UK) 2008-2021

Number of hotel and similar accommodation businesses in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2008 to 2021

Most popular hotel brands in the UK Q3 2023

Most popular hotel brands in the United Kingdom (UK) in 3rd quarter of 2023

Consumer expenditure on accommodation in the UK 2005-2022

Consumer spending on accommodation in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2005 to 2022 (in million GBP)

Travel behavior

• Premium Statistic Attitudes towards traveling in the UK 2024
• Premium Statistic Travel frequency for private purposes in the UK 2024
• Premium Statistic Travel frequency for business purposes in the UK 2024
• Premium Statistic Share of Britons taking days of holiday 2019-2023, by number of days
• Premium Statistic Share of Britons who did not take any holiday days 2019-2023, by gender
• Premium Statistic Share of Britons who did not take any holiday days 2019-2023, by age
• Premium Statistic Leading regions for summer staycations in the UK 2023
• Premium Statistic Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday in the UK October 2022, by age
• Premium Statistic Travel product bookings in the UK 2024
• Premium Statistic Travel product online bookings in the UK 2024

Attitudes towards traveling in the UK 2024

Attitudes towards traveling in the UK as of March 2024

Travel frequency for private purposes in the UK 2024

Travel frequency for private purposes in the UK as of March 2024

Travel frequency for business purposes in the UK 2024

Travel frequency for business purposes in the UK as of March 2024

Share of Britons taking days of holiday 2019-2023, by number of days

Share of individuals taking days of holiday in the United Kingdom from July 2019 to May 2023, by number of days

Share of Britons who did not take any holiday days 2019-2023, by gender

Share of individuals who did not take any days of holiday in the United Kingdom from July 2019 to November 2023, by gender

Share of Britons who did not take any holiday days 2019-2023, by age

Share of individuals who did not take any days of holidays in the United Kingdom (UK) from July 2019 to November 2023, by age

Leading regions for summer staycations in the UK 2023

Leading regions for travelers' next summer staycation in the United Kingdom as of May 2023

Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday in the UK October 2022, by age

Preferred methods to book the next overseas holiday among individuals in the United Kingdom (UK) as of October 2022, by age group

Travel product bookings in the UK 2024

Travel product bookings in the UK as of March 2024

Travel product online bookings in the UK 2024

Travel product online bookings in the UK as of March 2024

• Premium Statistic Travel & Tourism market revenue in the United Kingdom 2018-2028, by segment
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• Premium Statistic Revenue forecast in selected countries in the Travel & Tourism market in 2024
• Premium Statistic Number of users of package holidays in the UK 2018-2028
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Travel & Tourism market revenue in the United Kingdom 2018-2028, by segment

Revenue of the Travel & Tourism market in the United Kingdom from 2018 to 2028, by segment (in billion U.S. dollars)

Travel & Tourism market revenue growth in the UK 2019-2028, by segment

Revenue growth of the travel and tourism market in the United Kingdom (UK) from 2019 to 2028, by segment

Revenue forecast in selected countries in the Travel & Tourism market in 2024

Revenue forecast in selected countries in the Travel & Tourism market in 2024 (in billion U.S. dollars)

Number of users of package holidays in the UK 2018-2028

Number of users of package holidays in the United Kingdom from 2018 to 2028 (in millions)

Number of users of hotels in the UK 2018-2028

Number of users of hotels in the United Kingdom from 2018 to 2028 (in millions)

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8 AMAZING Reasons To Visit Great Britain

From scotland’s epic landscapes and wales’ fresh produce, to england’s rich history, there are so many reasons to visit great britain. so what are you waiting for.

When it comes to deciding where to go on holiday, Great Britain is a popular choice with tourists. It’s a destination which offers tonnes of variety crammed into a relatively small island.

You can drive from Land’s End on the southern tip of Cornwall, right up to John O’Groats on the northern edge of Scotland in around 14 hours. The route is only 837 miles – not huge compared to many European destinations.

During that journey you’ll pass from rugged coastlines, through buzzy cities, past picturesque villages, historic ruins and discover beautiful mountains, hills and lakes.

The variety of sights and activities in Great Britain is a huge reason to visit. Then there’s the food. Great Britain has great conditions for growing fruit and vegetables, rearing animals, and has even become a hit with wine and spirit producers.

Many visit Great Britain to immerse themselves in history. From Romans and Tudors, to the current monarchy, there are hundreds of ruins, palaces, castles and stately homes to explore across England, Scotland and Wales.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg though. It’s time to dive a little deeper and find out why you should visit Great Britain.

8 Amazing Reasons To Visit Great Britain

The landscapes.

One of the big reasons we love travelling in Great Britain is to explore the beautiful scenery. As mentioned, the island isn’t huge, yet it encompasses a huge variety of landscapes.

Visit Dorset , Devon and Cornwall for spectacular coastlines, perfect for family holidays. Take a trip north to the Scottish Highlands for lochs, fells and a little bit of magic.

And that’s just the start! From mountains and waterfalls, to forests, lakes, estuaries and beaches, the landscapes are one of many reasons to visit Great Britain.

Incredible Architecture

From enchanting castles and ancient cathedrals, to charming thatched cottages, Great Britain’s architecture is second to none.

Take a trip to the cities of Canterbury, Norwich, Durham, Lincoln and York to admire their incredible cathedrals. Climb up the tower at York Minster and you’ll be able to take in the cityscape from a different angle.

Visit Oxford, named ‘the city of dreaming spires’ by Victorian poet Matthew Arnold, to wander its ancient streets, admiring its impressive university buildings and churches.

England, Scotland and Wales are home to several impressive castles with long histories, some still inhabited today. For an exciting day out, take a tour of Windsor Castle in England, the oldest occupied castle in the world, built in the 11th century.

Up in Scotland, explore the rugged Eilean Donan Castle in the Scottish Highlands, built way back in the 13th century. Or head off on a road trip around Wales and tick off Conwy Castle and Caernarfon Castle, also constructed in the 13th century.

If you fancy something totally different, enjoy the old-world charm of Britain’s prettiest villages. With thatched cottages, beamed farmhouses and rustic barns, you’re guaranteed to be snap happy on a trip in this part of the world!

British Food And Drink  

Somewhere in history, Britain has picked up a bad reputation for its food scene…but it’s entirely unjustified and does not represent how things are today. This small island nation is home to some of the best fresh produce in the world.

Wheat, potatoes, fresh green vegetables, tomatoes, asparagus, apples… the list goes on.

In the north of England, Scotland and Wales, cattle and sheep farming are popular, while in the south of England, the rich grass helps make dairy cows strong.

In turn, this produce has been transformed into an exciting gastronomic cuisine by chefs around England, Scotland and Wales. Forget fish and chips wrapped in newspaper, or a hearty pie and mash in the pub… in pubs across Great Britain you can expect to see rack of lamb with celeriac puree, smoked mackerel with fennel and orange and succulent venison with a bitter chocolate sauce.

The drinks scene has changed over the last 10 years too. As a result of global warming, the south of England is becoming popular with winemakers. Temperatures in regions of France are increasing at an alarming rate, so counties like Sussex, Dorset, Kent, Essex and Hampshire have become popular alternative locations for vineyards. The result? Top class English sparkling wine, that has beaten Champagne in taste tests!

Meanwhile, Scotland and the north of England boasts a thriving gin scene, with distilleries like Rock Rose and The Lakes Distillery flying high in competitions around the world.

Oh, and it goes without saying that Scotland is synonymous with whiskey too! Don’t forget to have a wee dram on your travels.

Memorable Experiences In Great Britain

If you visit Great Britain you’re opening yourself up to enjoying some memorable experiences that are unique to this part of the world.

Head to Go Below in Wales for an adventurous underground experience, which includes zip-lining and climbing through the abandoned slate mines of Snowdonia.

You could hop in the car and drive the North Coast 500 – one of the most popular road trips in Great Britain, which takes you on a 500-mile journey along Scotland’s glorious coastline.

Or how about traversing the circumference of the stone circle at Stonehenge in England, all while being transported back over 4,000 years as you learn about our Neolithic ancestors.

There are plenty more unique experiences to enjoy in Great Britain – don’t forget to take a look at our recommendations in England , Scotland and Wales .

Exciting British Cities

One of the top reasons to visit Great Britain is for its fabulously vibrant cities. London is a mega beast of a city, with a population of over 8 million and a diverse range of things to do.

However, we love flying the flag for the less-visited spots too. Take a trip to Birmingham for its expansive network of canals (it actually boasts more miles of canals than Venice!), historic Jewellery Quarter and its Balti Triangle, famed for its flavoursome Indian food.

Take a trip to Glasgow in Scotland and dive into its buzzing art and music scenes, world-class museums and learn about celebrated architect and designer, Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Visit Wales’ biggest city Cardiff, and watch a gruelling game of rugby at the Principality Stadium, then let your hair down in one of the city’s amazing bars or clubs.

Learn about Norwich’s printing heritage, indulge your inner Potterhead in Edinburgh, admire the stars at Winchester Planetarium and enjoy a fun day at the seaside in Barry in Wales. Great Britain’s cities are varied, vibrant and shouldn’t be missed.  

British History

When it comes to history, the United Kingdom is an absolute treasure trove. Along with the royal castles we’ve mentioned, and the ancient stones of Stonehenge, there’s so much more to get stuck into.

We’d recommend a trip to St Albans for a flavour of Roman England, as you get to know the ancient Roman city of Verulamium. If you’re interested in learning more about the Romans, how about a day trip to Bath to see the Roman Baths?

You could hike some of the 73 miles of Hadrian’s Wall, which stretches from Wallsend through Carlisle to Bowness-on-Solway.

For something a little different, head to Holy Island, just off the Northumbrian Coast, where monks settled in AD 635. These days you can see a priory built all the way back in the 12th century!

How about spending the day at a palace or stately home? From Buckingham Palace’s summer opening to Holyrood Palace in Scotland, Britain has plenty to choose from.

Or for a full historical experience, take a trip to London’s British Museum or the Museum of London, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow or the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff. You’ll come out with plenty of facts which will complement your travels around Britain.

British Weather  

What do you mean, all we talk about is the weather?! Ok, while there may be a little bit of truth in this, it isn’t for the reasons you’re thinking. It doesn’t rain all the time and the sky isn’t always grey. Contrary to popular belief, the weather in Great Britain is pretty good, most of the time.

The fact we live on an island does bring a lot of variety though. In general, our summers are warm (reaching highs of around 30 degrees) and our winters are cool (snow and frost are common).

The weather varies by region, with more rain and cloud in the mountainous regions or Wales, Scotland and northern England, and the warmest weather in the southeast of England.

Our favourite months to travel in Great Britain are May, June and September. Temperatures are usually warm, with plenty of sunshine and blue skies. Plus, the schools aren’t on holiday yet, so you can enjoy a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds at popular tourist spots.

British Culture And People  

Welcome to the land of village fetes, problems being solved with cups of tea, and more pubs than you could visit in a lifetime!

Great Britain is lovable place, and a lot of that is down to its quirks and the attitude of the people.

The cities tend to offer a feeling of openness – anything goes, within reason! Meanwhile smaller towns and villages are known for being warm and friendly places to visit. In particular, places in the north of England and Scotland are famous for their hospitality. Order a cuppa in a café and you’ll spend half an hour chatting the waitress!

Brits have a dry sense of humour too, based on sarcasm, observation and wit. Outsiders may find it hard to ‘get’ at first, but once you’re in the club, you’ll be rolling on the floor in fits if giggles.

We love Britain for its eccentricity too. From town mayors wearing huge gold chains, to local events with maypoles and morris dancing, and the fact we have bizarre traditions that just keep going – cheese rolling in Gloucestershire anyone? We wouldn’t want to live anywhere else in the world.

We hope you’ve enjoyed hearing our top reasons to visit Great Britain. It’s an incredible place, with so much variety, so what are you waiting for?

If you’re looking for other travel inspiration, don’t forget to see where else we’d recommend in England , Scotland and Wales .

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30 Fun & Unique British Traditions You Should Know About

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1. the changing of the guard ceremony .

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2. It is common to have afternoon tea in Britain

3. the britain people have a traditional dance called morris dancing.

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4. The Bonfire Night is an annual event

5. rolling of the cheese down the hill.

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6. Maypole dancing on the first of May

7. the traditional highland games .

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8. There is a theatrical entertainment called pantomime

9. the tradition of well dressing.

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10. The annual Straw Bear festival

11. the annual light festival – blackpool illuminations.

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12. The famous horse racing – Royal Ascot

13. celebration of the ‘beating the bounds’ ceremony , 14. the gurning championships.

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15. Wassailing in the apple orchards

16. the sporty event that is bog snorkeling.

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17. The tradition of haggis hunting

18. the caribbean notting hill carnival.

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19. The delicious pancake day

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20. The regal Knighthood Ceremonies

21. the significant royal maundy service, 22. the fire ceremony of up helly aa.

Photo by ella peebles on Unsplash

23. The famous Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling and Wake

24. may morning celebrations in anticipation of summer.

Photo by Mateo Giraud on Unsplash

25. Driven Grouse Shooting for the wealthy

26. royal henley regatta rowing competition.

Photo by Lucas Kovačević on Unsplash

27. The famous Padstow’s ‘Obby’ Oss

28. the tradition of caber toss, 29. cheese rolling – cooper’s hill wake, 30. beating retreat ceremony.

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Diane C. has been captivated by the cultures and traditions of people across the globe ever since she went backpacking through East Africa for her 22nd birthday. The customs and cuisine she experienced in Zanzibar instilled in her a desire to travel more and explore. Diane loves writing about the traditions and cultures of different countries and analysing the various laws and customs. When she is not on the move or immersed in a good book, she enjoys savouring a cup of masala tea. Diane is currently a trainee lawyer.

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70 fascinating facts about the Queen

As we pay tribute to the remarkable life and reign of HM Queen Elizabeth II, we look back at 70 fascinating facts about Her Majesty

For more fascinating facts about the late Queen, order a copy of Happy & Glorious , your essential Platinum Jubilee souvenir, which brings Her Majesty’s remarkable story to life through colourful features, lavish images and archive photos.  

Royal rights & privileges – week one

• The Queen didn’t have a passport. As British passports are issued in her name, she didn’t need to possess one.
• The Queen had two birthdays. Her Majesty was born on 21 April 1926, but she celebrated her ‘official’ birthday in June with the annual Trooping the Colour parade. There is more guarantee of good weather then…
• The Queen was the only person in Britain allowed to drive without a license plate on her car. She didn’t need a driver’s license either, as these were issued in her own name.
• The Queen didn’t have an official surname. Her official title was ‘Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and of her other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith’. No last name needed.
• Queen Elizabeth could choose Britain’s Poet Laureate, who alongside an annual salary also gets paid with a barrel of sherry. In 2019, Simon Armitage was appointed Poet Laureate and he will serve for ten years.
• According to royal etiquette, when the Queen finished eating, the meal was over.
• The Queen couldn’t vote, but under what is known as royal prerogative, she could dismiss a prime minister.

The Queen on duty – week two

8. The Queen received over 3.5 million items of correspondence over the course of her reign, and sent out over 37,500 Christmas cards over the course of 70 years. 9. Queen Elizabeth sent her first email in 1976, from a British army base. 10. The Queen used her handbag to send signals to her staff. If she switched her handbag from one hand to another, it meant she was ready to wrap up her current conversation. 11. The Queen was known for wearing brightly coloured ensembles for official events. This is so that she could always be seen from the crowd. 12. The Queen sat for 129 portraits during her reign. 13. Princess Elizabeth made her first radio broadcast in October 1940, during the Second World War. 14. The Queen made at least 260 official overseas trips since taking the throne. You can read a timeline of Her Majesty’s reign here. 

The Queen in private – week three

15. The Queen was an Arsenal fan. Although in her position as monarch she had to be above politics, that didn’t stop her from having a favourite football team… 16. The Queen spoke fluent French. 17. The Queen only carried cash in her purse on Sundays, when she donated money to her church. 18. The Queen wore the same nail polish since 1989. She wore Essie’s classic pale pink shade, Ballet Slippers. 19. Her Majesty had a famously fun sense of humour, and was reportedly able to imitate the sound of a Concorde jet landing. 20. The Queen only ever gave one sit-down interview, with the BBC in 2018, and was dubbed ‘Elizabeth the Silent’ by historian David Starkey. 21. The Queen and her sister Princess Margaret went out incognito to join the celebrations of the end of the Second World War on 8 May 1945.

The Queen’s love of animals – week four

22. The Queen’s love of horses began at the age of four when she was given her first pony, a Shetland named Peggy, by her grandfather King George V. 23. The Queen was gifted an assortment of rare animals during her reign, including an elephant, a jaguar and a pair of beavers. Whenever she was given a rare animal she donated it to London Zoo. 24. The Queen owned all of the unmarked swans in the UK. During the annual ‘Swan Upping’, the official royal Swan Marker counts all the swans along a portion of the River Thames. 25. The Queen owned around 200 racing pigeons. 26. The Queen bred horses, and had about 25 horses training at the royal studs every season. 27. The Queen loved corgis and owned 30 during her time as monarch. The Queen was also the accidental owner of a ‘dorgi’, when one of her corgis mated with Princess Margaret’s Dachshund, Pipkin. 28. The Queen’s racing colours were a purple body with gold braid, scarlet sleeves and black velvet cap with gold fringe.

The Queen’s Wedding – week five

• There were 10,000 encrusted pearls on the Queen’s wedding gown, designed by Sir Norman Hartnell; the design was approved less than three months before the wedding.
• The Queen’s tiara snapped on her wedding day and the court jeweller had to be summoned immediately to repair it. Luckily it was fixed in time for the ceremony.
• The Queen paid for her wedding dress with ration coupons, as the country was still recovering from the Second World War. She saved up her own coupons and received 200 from the government to pay for her iconic wedding dress. Hundreds of people sent the Princess their coupons, but they had to be returned as it would have been illegal to use them.
• The wedding took place just four months after the engagement was announced.
• Before the wedding, Prince Philip was created The Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merioneth and Baron Greenwich of Greenwich in the County of London.
• The bridal bouquet consisted of white orchids and included a sprig of myrtle, a tradition that was started by Queen Victoria. The day after the wedding, the bouquet was sent back to Westminster Abbey where it was laid on the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, another royal tradition.
• The wedding ring was made from a nugget of Welsh gold from the Clogau St David’s mine, near Dolgellau.

The Queen as head of the Royal Family – week six

36. Queen Elizabeth had 30 godchildren, from Princess Diana’s brother to the Crown Prince of Yugoslavia. 37. Queen Elizabeth and her husband Prince Philip were third cousins. 38. The Duke of Edinburgh affectionately called his wife, the Queen, ‘cabbage.’ 39. The Queen had eight grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. 40. As well as being the longest-serving monarch in British history, the Queen was also the longest-married monarch, having been married to Prince Philip for 73 years. 41. The Queen holidayed in Balmoral in the Scottish Highlands every summer, and many of the Royal Family would join her. 42. The Royal Family exchange presents on Christmas Eve, in keeping with the family’s German heritage, and are said to give each other joke presents rather than lavish items.

The Queen in history – week seven

43. There were six Roman Catholic Popes during the Queen’s 70-year reign. 44. The Queen saw 14 different British prime ministers come into power during her time as monarch, from Winston Churchill to Boris Johnson. 45. The Queen was the first British monarch to visit China, paying a visit to the country in 1986. 46. 39 monarchs preceded Queen Elizabeth since William the Conqueror in 1066. 47. The Queen reigned for so long that 4/5 of UK residents were not alive when she ascended the throne. 48. In 1969, the Queen, along with other world leaders, sent messages of goodwill to the moon. These were transferred onto a silicone disc, which still sits on the moon’s surface today. 49. During her visit to Australia in 1970, the Queen set a precedent of the royal ‘walkabout’, shaking hands with the public rather than appearing at a distance, changing the way official visits were conducted.

Life at the Palace – week eight

50.The Queen hosted an average of 50,000 people at Buckingham Palace every year at receptions, banquets and garden parties – that’s an awful lot of washing up! 51.The Queen drank a glass of champagne every night before bed. 52.There is a private ATM in the basement of Buckingham Palace. 53.The Queen’s breakfast table was laid with cereals – she reportedly favoured Special K – in Tupperware containers. 54.The Queen was not a fan of garlic, and so garlic is one thing you’ll never see on the menu at Buckingham Palace. 55. Buckingham Palace was bombed in the Second World War while King George VI and the Queen Mother were in residence, on September 13, 1940. 56. Buckingham Palace’s clockmaker maintains over 350 clocks and watches, while two horological conservators wind the clocks at the Palace every week.

The young Princess

57. Princess Elizabeth was evacuated to Windsor Castle with her sister Margaret during the Blitz. 58. The Queen became a homeowner at just six years old, when the people of Wales gifted her a house in the grounds of Windsor’s Royal Lodge. It was named Y Bwthyn Bach, which means ”little cottage”. 59. Outdoorsy Princess Elizabeth started her survival-skills training as a Girl Guide. She was also a Sea Ranger as a teenager. 60. Princess Elizabeth first met Philip Mountbatten, later her husband, when she was just eight years old. 61. The Queen is a fully trained mechanic, having signed up to the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service, and worked as a mechanic and truck driver during the Second World War. 62. The place where the Queen was born, 17 Bruton Street in Mayfair, is now a Chinese restaurant. 63. The Queen used the London Underground for the first time in May 1939, accompanied by her sister Princess Margaret and her governess Marion Crawford.

The Coronation

• The Queen’s coronation on 2 June 1953 was televised to 27 million viewers around the world.
• 8,251 guests were invited to the Coronation.
• The Coronation ceremony – in six parts, the recognition, the oath, the anointing, the investiture (including the crowning), the enthronement and the homage – lasted almost three hours.
• The Anointing Oil – used to anoint the Queen at one of the most sacred parts of the ceremony – contains oils of orange, roses, cinnamon, musk and ambergris.
• Prince Charles was the first child to witness his mother’s Coronation, and received a special hand-painted invitation to the ceremony. Princess Anne did not attend as she was thought to be too young.
• The Imperial State Crown, which was worn by the Queen after the ceremony during her return to Buckingham Palace, contained four pearls traditionally believed to have been Elizabeth I’s earrings.
• The Queen was crowned in St Edward’s Chair, made in 1300 for Edward I and used at every Coronation since that time.

Platinum Jubilee Souvenirs

Here at BRITAIN, we couldn’t let such an important royal occasion go by without an appropriate fanfare, so we are offering you the chance to purchase your own Limited Edition Platinum Jubilee mug, designed by Susan Rose China. 

There are three different sizes and designs on offer, each hand-drawn and each inspired by the life and service of Her Majesty The Queen.

Buy your Platinum Jubilee mug here. 

10 of our favourite anecdotes about Her Majesty The Queen. 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are expecting a baby 

Win a royal stay in Edinburgh

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