UK Travel Tips

Land of hope and glory, the United Kingdom is a country misunderstood by many. More than simply England, a unique cultural blend of English, Scottish, Welsh and Irish bathes the land in spirit and excitement.

From the bustle of the streets of London to the silence of the valleys of Snowdonia, the UK is full of adventure. Enjoy the brisk weather and bracing winds as you traverse the mountains of the Scottish Highlands or the Lake District before enjoying a craft ale next to a fireplace in a quaint English village.

Soak up the culture of major historical cities like Edinburgh and Belfast or meccas of music culture like Manchester or Liverpool. Never far from a coastline, enjoy the wonderful wild terrains often written about in novels and get active in the waters surfing in the Gower or sailing in the Solent.

Explore Vibrant London

The bustling capital city has to be at the top of your list of things to do in the UK, even if your budget has to stretch for it! With a plethora of history and culture all wrapped up in this beguiling place, you could spend days wandering the streets, discovering the local markets and parks, and absorbing the life of the city by visiting the famous museums.

While you’re here, don’t forget to see the ceremonial changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, visit the Tower of London, and check out one of the many local pubs for a cold pint of beer and a delicious British meal.

For the best things to do in the city, see our London City Break Guide! If you fancy doing a few adventurous things while you’re in the capital city, why not try ice climbing, stand up paddling, or going on a speedboat ride down the River Thames.

Get Your Fill of the Scottish Culture

You can’t get a proper idea of the melting pot of British cultures without visiting Scotland.

The UK’s most northernmost country, Scotland is full of natural beauty from its impressive glacial glens (valleys) to its bewildering lochs (lakes), home to ancient castles, the highest UK peak (Ben Nevis) and mythical monsters. As well as the stunning Scottish Highlands, Scotland also boasts two major cities: medieval Edinburgh and cultural Glasgow.

Challenge Yourself in Snowdonia

Impressive Snowdonia National Park is a diverse region in Wales, home to glacial landforms and Wales’s highest mountain: Mount Snowdon.

Offering breathtaking views of Wales and across the sea to Ireland, this challenging mountain lures in many hiking enthusiasts year after year. With an extensive network of trails, stunning nature, and the longest zip line in Europe and the fastest in the world, is there any wonder why this is a top attraction while in the UK?

The outdoor activities in Wales are some of the best in the UK, so why not check it out?

Get Active in The Lake District

For outdoor enthusiasts, the beautiful Lake District is not to be missed. Located in northern England, this stunning destination is the perfect place for hiking the mountains, cycling through the forest or sailing on the lakes. Although crowded during the summer, the weather makes for a truly magical visit.

Travel Around Charming Towns in England

England is a place that is full of charming and quaint places.

From the rolling hills and small fishing towns of Cornwall to the bustling port cities of Southampton and Portsmouth, you can be sure that you will soak in all the best aspects of British culture whilst also enjoying some of the best views.

Other recommended places to add to your itinerary would be a visit to the many castles in Dorset and the chilled Isle of Wight in the South, which offers stunning nature and some of the best foods in the country.

Discover the Beauty of the Gower

An under-appreciated region of Wales, the Gower is a hidden jewel just waiting to be discovered.

With some truly amazing surf surrounded by beautiful rolling sand dunes and hills, this place is an adventurer’s paradise. A perfect location for enjoying the quiet and quaint Welsh countryside, the Gower also isn’t far from the up and coming coastal city of Swansea.

Festivals and Celebrations

England is known for its festivals, so if you can plan your travels around some of the biggest such as the Glastonbury Festival, then you’ll be in for a treat! If you love music whilst drinking beer and traipsing around a muddy field in your wellies, then you need to experience a true British festival in all its glory.

Travel Must: We love renting cars whenever we travel — it just gives you so much freedom to explore at your own pace. Click here to compare car rental prices. You’ll be surprised at how affordable it is!

Due to the temperamental (and often cold!) weather in the UK, the food reflects what the British people want in those times: warm, comforting, and hearty grub! Bringing a whole new meaning to comfort eating, these classic dishes have now become increasingly popular and are widely eaten throughout the whole of the country.

To get your hands and taste buds on some of the best, here are a few traditional dishes you need to try:

Fish and Chips

The most popular British meal and a staple diet for a Friday night is the much-loved fish and chips! You will find this delicious dish in almost every pub and restaurant and, of course, fish and chip shop, so don’t leave without trying it with a lot of salt and vinegar.

Roast Dinner

A long-standing tradition for a Sunday is the classic roast dinner. Also known as Sunday Dinner or Sunday Roast, you will see this in every pub and restaurant on a Sunday for those people who want to venture out for their hearty fix. With a plate full of meat, stacked with vegetables and potatoes, and smothered in gravy, you can be sure that you will never forget your first and it won’t be your last.

Full English Breakfast

Yes, the warmth and heartiness begins at breakfast too! Wherever you are in the UK, imagine your plate piled with greasy goodness comprised of sausages, eggs, beans, toast, hash browns, tomatoes and more!

Steak and Ale Pie

Another British favorite is the belly-warming steak and ale pie. With a crispy and flaky exterior packed full of meat, cheese, and Guinness, this generous dish is the food equivalent of a cozy blanket and a roaring fireplace.

Chicken Tikka Masala

Apparently invented in Glasgow, this creamy Indian dish is always packed with flavor and served with a savory rice and herby naan bread. You can find this in every Indian and every pub and you can be sure it will be amazing!

Bangers and Mash

There is nothing like a ‘stodgy’ meal like sausages and creamy mash to warm your insides and give you that truly satisfied smile! Although one of the simplest meals to make, you won’t be disappointed with this dish whether at a pub or at a local’s home. In fact, you will definitely be going up for seconds!