Ultimate Travel Guide to the UK: Tips, Itinerary & Things to Do
Planning a trip to the UK? Visit London, Manchester, and visit Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland while you’re at it. Plan your visit to the UK with my UK travel guide, tips and itineraries - all from someone whose family is from there and has been to England more times than I can count!
Traveling to the United Kingdom has been a constant part of my life. Both of my parents are from the UK, so I’ve spent my entire life traveling back and forth between the UK, South Africa, and the United States. Almost all of my extended family still lives in the UK, with only my parents, sister, and me living elsewhere, which has given me countless opportunities to return over the years. I’ve been lucky enough to visit frequently, spend time with family and friends, and even bring friends along to experience the UK for themselves. Because of London’s incredible connectivity, the UK has also been the perfect jumping-off point for traveling to Europe and beyond, making it one of my favorite and most meaningful places to explore.
Hello: “Hello”
Power & Plugs: 230 V; Plug type G
Currency: British Pound (£)
ATMs: Widely available, cards mostly accepted everywhere. May need small coins for toilets etc in some places.
Tipping: Optional, 10–12% if service charge not included
Visa: check requirements for your nationality - some travelers now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Safety Ranking (Global Peace Index): 34 out of 163 countries
Women Peace and Security Index: 80 out of 181 (0.864 out of 1)
Climate: Mild, unpredictable
Best Time to Visit the UK: May–September for warmer weather and longer days.
Dress Code & Cultural Notes: Smart-casual is common. Politeness and queuing are valued. Small talk is common, especially in the Northern parts of the country. Don’t be loud on public transport.
Solo Travel Tips: Safe and easy for solo travelers. London and major cities are well-connected.
Getting Around the UK: Public transport system is well-developed although trains can be expensive and should be booked in advance. Driving is easy although small country lanes may be intimidating for those not used to driving them. Drving is also on the left, and cars are often manual transmission. Make sure to book an automatic if you can’t drive manuals (stick shift). You do not need a car in major cities, but if you’re going to rural areas you will likely need one.
Things That Surprise Travelers: Each region of the UK is different. You don’t have to go far to hear a different British accent or experience difference customs.
United Kingdom Travel Tips
Book trains as early as possible. You can get cheaper tickets the earlier you book.
There is more to the UK then London. Visit Scotland, Whales, Northern Ireland and the rest of England.
Pack an umbrella or rain jacket - it rains a lot in the UK!
Top Things to do and see in the United Kingdom
Explore One of the World’s Most Iconic Cities: London
No trip to the UK is complete without spending time in London, one of the most famous cities in the world. England’s capital blends centuries of history with modern culture, making it endlessly fascinating, whether you’re visiting for the first time, or if you’ve been a million times (like me). There’s all the usual sites to see: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey and you can explore some amazing museums, and soak up the city’s diverse neighborhoods. London’s public transportation makes it easy to explore, but it’s just as enjoyable to explore on foot as well.
Take One (or More) Day Trips from London
One of the best things about visiting London is how easy it is to explore beyond the city. There are countless day trips from London that offer history, countryside, and iconic landmarks:
Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour – A must for fans of the series
Stonehenge – One of the world’s most mysterious prehistoric monuments
Bath – Famous for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture
Oxford – A historic university city with stunning colleges
Windsor Castle – The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world
These destinations are all easily reachable by train or guided tour, making them perfect additions to your UK itinerary.
Visit the Lake District
For travelers craving natural beauty, the Lake District National Park in northwest England is unmissable. Known for its dramatic mountains, peaceful lakes, and charming villages, the Lake District is perfect for hiking, boating, and scenic drives. It’s also deeply connected to British literary history, particularly the poet William Wordsworth and children’s book author Beatrix Potter. Whether you spend a few days or just pass through, this region offers a slower, more tranquil side of the UK.
Road Trip Through England and Scotland
One of the most memorable ways to experience the UK is by taking a road trip through England and Scotland. Driving allows you to reach remote villages, rolling countryside, and dramatic coastlines that trains don’t always access. Highlights include the Cotswolds, Yorkshire Dales, Scottish Highlands, and Isle of Skye. Expect jaw-dropping scenery, historic castles, winding roads, and some of the most atmospheric landscapes in Europe.
Try Classic British Food
No visit to the UK is complete without indulging in classic British food, especially fish and chips served with mushy peas or gravy. Best enjoyed from a local chippy or seaside town, this iconic dish is a staple of UK culture. And if you didn’t manage to try it during your trip or you’re craving it at home you can recreate the experience with a recipe from my Eat the World: United Kingdom episode
UK Travel Guide and Itineraries
