Finding new places to visit in the UK never gets old – I grew up here and still discover new corners every year. A weekend in the Yorkshire Dales revealed villages I had somehow missed for decades. A road trip through the Scottish Highlands in autumn offered landscapes that rivalled anything I have seen abroad. The UK suffers from familiarity for those who live here, but visitors see what locals often overlook – the density of history, the variety packed into a small island, the way you can go from London’s chaos to rolling countryside in under an hour. It rains more than we would like, but that green has to come from somewhere.
The United Kingdom is four countries in one: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each has its own character, landscapes, and even legal system. You can cover a lot of ground in two weeks, but most visitors focus on a region rather than trying to see everything.
Where to Go
England
London is where most visitors start, and for good reason. The museums are world-class and mostly free – the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, and Natural History Museum cost nothing to enter. The royal palaces, West End theatres, and historic pubs fill the gaps. London deserves at least 3-4 days.
Beyond London:
- Bath – Georgian architecture and Roman baths. Easy day trip from London.
- Oxford and Cambridge – Historic university towns with stunning college buildings.
- Cotswolds – Honey-coloured villages and rolling hills. Best with a car.
- York – Medieval walls, York Minster, and Viking history.
- Lake District – Mountains and lakes in England’s northwest. Good for hiking.
- Cornwall – Rugged coastline, fishing villages, and beaches.
Scotland
Edinburgh is compact enough to explore on foot, with the castle dominating the skyline and the Royal Mile connecting historic sites. The August festival season is spectacular but expensive and crowded.
Glasgow has better nightlife, more contemporary art, and a grittier feel than Edinburgh. Often overlooked but worth a day or two.
The Scottish Highlands are the main draw for nature lovers – Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye, and the North Coast 500 driving route. Public transport is limited outside cities; a car makes a difference.
Wales
Snowdonia offers the best hiking in Wales, with Snowdon itself accessible by train for those who don’t want to walk. The Pembrokeshire Coast has excellent coastal paths and beaches.
Cardiff is a small capital with a castle, a good rugby atmosphere, and Victorian arcades. Half a day covers the highlights.
Northern Ireland
Belfast has transformed since the Troubles – the Titanic Quarter, murals, and black taxi tours explain the complex history. The Giant’s Causeway on the Antrim Coast is the natural attraction most visitors come for.
Getting Around
Trains connect major cities efficiently. London to Edinburgh takes 4.5 hours, London to Manchester 2 hours. Book in advance for cheaper fares – walk-up prices are often double.
Coaches (National Express, Megabus) are slower but much cheaper than trains. Good for budget travellers with time.
Domestic flights make sense for long distances (London to Edinburgh or Belfast) if booked ahead. Regional airports are less convenient than train stations.
Driving is worthwhile for rural areas – the Cotswolds, Lake District, Scottish Highlands, and Wales are best explored by car. Remember: you drive on the left.
London transport uses the Oyster card or contactless payment. The Tube is the fastest way around but expensive without a daily cap.
Costs
The UK is expensive, particularly London. Budget roughly:
- Budget accommodation (hostels): £20-40/night
- Mid-range hotel: £80-150/night
- Pub lunch: £10-15
- Dinner at a decent restaurant: £25-40/person
- Pint of beer: £5-7 (more in London)
- Train (booked ahead): £30-60 London to Edinburgh
- Train (walk-up): £100+
London is 30-50% more expensive than the rest of the UK for most things.
Entry Requirements
Visa-free access applies to citizens of the US, EU, Australia, Canada, and many other countries for stays up to 6 months.
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is now required for many nationalities, including US citizens. Apply online before travel – it costs £10 and is valid for multiple trips over 2 years.
Passport: Must be valid for your entire stay. The UK is not in the Schengen Area, so EU residents need a passport (not just an ID card).
When to Visit
May-September: Warmest weather, longest days, highest prices. Book accommodation early.
April and October: Fewer crowds, reasonable weather, better prices. Shoulder season is often the best balance.
November-March: Cold, dark, and wet. But lower prices, Christmas markets, and cosy pubs make winter appealing in its own way.
Bank holidays: Avoid the Easter weekend and May bank holidays if you want to travel – trains are packed and prices spike.
Practical Tips
- Weather: It will rain. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket regardless of forecast.
- Plugs: Type G (three rectangular pins). You’ll need an adapter.
- Tipping: 10-15% at sit-down restaurants if service isn’t included. Not expected in pubs, taxis, or cafes.
- Queuing: Take it seriously. Jumping the queue is a genuine social offence.
- Sunday trading: Many shops close early on Sundays (4-6pm). Plan accordingly.
