UK Travel Planning
The UK Travel Planning Podcast offers practical advice for planning trips to the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Host Tracy Collins shares her travel knowledge to help listeners build UK itineraries. Episodes include guest interviews with travel inspiration and tips for popular and lesser-known destinations. The show also covers ways to travel around the UK, such as by train, along with British culture and history.
Episodes
UK Train Travel: West Highland Line Scotland Full Guide
The West Highland Line is the kind of train journey you plan a whole trip around. Tracy and Doug take you from Glasgow Queen Street into the Scottish Highlands and explain how the route works in real life: where it splits at Crianlarich, whether to choose Oban, Fort William or the full run to Mallaig, which side of the train to sit on, and how the Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail services and the Jaco
London and Far North Scotland: Autumn Travel Tips
Want a UK autumn trip that feels more atmospheric and less frantic? In part two of our autumn special we travel from the far north of Scotland to London to find out why autumn might be the most rewarding time to explore, from dark skies and quieter roads to cosy streets and early festive sparkle. Sally-Ann from North Coast Explorer Tours and Charley and Becki from WalksDevour Tours share practical
Visiting England in Autumn: Lake District, Cotswolds and Devon
Golden woodlands, quiet villages and cosy pubs. Autumn in the UK has a magic you do not get in high summer. In part one of our two part autumn special, three local experts share what really changes across September, October and November in the Lake District, the Cotswolds and Devon.Lake District autumn colour hotspots including Tarn Hows and WastwaterHow September, October and November differ for
London in September 2026: What's On + Travel Tips
September in London feels calmer, brighter and more walkable once the school holiday rush fades. This is the first episode of our monthly London bonus series from London Travel Planning, looking ahead each month at what is on, what to book and what will sell out before you get there.This episode is sponsored by WalksDevour, and I am joined by Charley Sullivan from their London team.Everything you
Walking Land's End to Bath: A UK Trip Report
Catherine joins us to share what it is really like to walk 420 kilometres (260 miles) from Land's End to Bath over three weeks, and why the UK makes long-distance walking surprisingly doable, even if you are not an ultra-hiker.Choosing Land's End to Bath as the first leg of a Land's End to John o'Groats dreamBooking through a specialist company: one-night stays and luggage tran
London Travel Planning - 10 Questions Visitors Always Ask
How many days do you actually need? What should you budget? And what is the fastest way in from Heathrow? Tracy and Doug answer the 10 questions listeners ask most about visiting London, with the numbers and the reasoning behind each one.- How many days: why 4 to 5 is the first-timer sweet spot- When to go: the months we avoid, and why April catches people out- Getting around: zones, the £8.90 dai
Small Group Tours of Scotland: What It Is Really Like on a Rabbie's Tour
We chat with Graham, a Rabbie's driver-guide in Edinburgh, about what turns a simple day trip into a friendly, personal experience. We break down how small group touring works, from the first meet-up at the bus station to the last stop, with practical tips on choosing a route and packing for Scotland's weather.Why a 16 seater bus changes the whole feel of a tourWhat a driver-guide actual
Guide to London's Main Train Stations
The departure boards are flashing, the station is heaving, and there is still no platform number. If that scene makes your heart race, you are exactly who we made this episode for. With more than 25 years working on the UK railways, Doug joins Tracy to walk through London's mainline stations in plain English, so your first UK rail trip starts with calm, not panic.Why London has multiple termi
6 Week UK Road Trip: England and Scotland
Rochelle talks us through a 41-day UK road trip from Bath to the Scottish Highlands and back to London, sharing what worked, what surprised her, and how planning early made the whole trip calmer. We swap honest notes on UK driving, smart booking tactics, and the tours, meals and accidental stops that turned into lifelong memories.Planning a long UK itinerary without trying to do too muchLeaving He
Top 10 Things to Do in London in 2026
Planning a London trip? In this episode we share the experiences that earned a place on our 2026 favourites list, and how to make each one work for your own itinerary. From food tours and royal palaces to day trips, exhibitions and a night in a real Tudor castle, everything here is something we did ourselves this year.Which two London food tours are worth booking (and the historic pubs they take y
10 Ways We Help You Plan Your UK Trip
Tracy and Doug step back from the destinations to share who they are and ten ways they help you plan a smarter UK trip, from the podcast and websites to consultations, products and a 30,000 strong community. Two Brits who know the UK inside out, now based in Australia, with Doug's near 30 years on the railways behind every train answer.In this episode:The lived experience behind the podcast,
Northern England Road Trip: Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District and County Durham
Tracy and Doug take you through the Northern England leg of their recent trip: a route across County Durham, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District that blends driving, trains and small group tours. The idea is simple. Copy what worked, skip the stress, and let the small practical tips make the big scenery easier to enjoy.In this episode:Picking up a hire car at Edinburgh Airport quickly via th
Isle of Mull Scotland: What to See, Do and How to Get There
Puffins that waddle right up to you, dolphins pacing the bow, sea eagles overhead and a sea cave so famous it sparked a Mendelssohn symphony. It all sounds like a once in a lifetime trip. We wanted to make it something you can actually plan, even if you are travelling without a car and juggling real-world ferry times, bus links and unpredictable Scottish weather.We pick up the journey in Oban and
UK Top 10: Best Cities, Castles, Museums and Day Trips
We put ourselves on the spot with ten UK travel categories and share the places, journeys and moments we genuinely love after decades of travelling around the country. The conversation turns into a practical lesson on how to choose priorities for a first UK trip without getting overwhelmed.Favourite cities outside London, with York and Edinburgh highlightsBest day trips from London, including Bath
12 Things to See, Do and Experience in Edinburgh
Edinburgh looks compact until you start climbing its hills, chasing viewpoints and discovering how much the Old Town packs into its closes and lanes. Fresh from five days in the city, Tracy and Doug cut through the noise with a clear, listener-friendly menu of their 12 favourite things to do in Edinburgh, drawn from decades of visits between them. Pick what fits your time, your budget and your ene
12 Things That Will Confuse You About London (Until You Know the Rules)
London has its own unwritten rules and once you know them, the city makes so much more sense. In this episode Tracy and Doug share 12 things that confuse visitors most, so you can move around with confidence and make the most of every day.They cover:Tube map versus real distance and when walking beats taking the UndergroundLondon zones, daily caps, Oyster card versus contactlessTube etiquette: let
Visiting London and the UK in Summer: Weather, Events + Best Places to Visit
In this episode we bring together five local experts to share what UK summer travel really looks like from June through August, with practical advice on crowds, long daylight hours and booking ahead. We hop from Devon to the far north of Scotland, down to London, across the Cotswolds and up to the Lake District to help you plan days that feel memorable rather than hectic.Timing summer travel aroun
Scottish Islands Road Trip Part 1: Lewis and Harris Travel Guide
White sand beaches, ancient stone circles, single-track roads, and ferries that sell out months ahead. Scotland's islands are pure magic when you plan them properly, and we've just come back from an Outer Hebrides road trip ready to share the route and the reality so you can plan your own Lewis and Harris adventure with confidence.We start with the nuts and bolts: driving north from the
Before You Visit Edinburgh: 12 Things to Know Before Your First Trip
We share 12 essential Edinburgh travel tips that help you avoid the common first-timer mistakes and plan a visit that actually feels relaxed. From pronunciation and neighbourhood choice to seasonal crowds, daylight, and the best add-ons beyond the Royal Mile, we make it easier to build an Edinburgh itinerary that fits your pace.Saying Edinburgh and Princes Street correctlyDeciding how many nights
UK Travel Planning: Best Tips, Train Myths, and Must-See Destinations [200 Episodes Special]
We celebrate 200 episodes by sharing the practical UK travel planning tips that save you time, money, and stress, plus the misconceptions that trip up first-time visitors. We also share the places that still surprise us and what we’re building next to help you plan a UK trip that feels doable and memorable. • grouping London attractions to cut wasted travel time • using supermarket meal deals to k
Day Tours from London: What to Expect on an tour with The English Bus
Some of the best day tours from London don't start with a train timetable - they start with stepping onto a small group minibus and letting someone else handle the route. We get out of London for the day and show how small group tours make big-ticket places feel easy, personal and genuinely memorable. We talk through four standout routes with The English Bus and share what to expect on the ro
12 Things That Will Confuse You in the UK (Until You Know the Rules)
If you have ever been asked “You alright?” in Britain and wondered whether you look unwell, you are not alone. We’re decoding the everyday UK habits that catch travellers off guard, even when they’ve visited before. Tracy and Doug share a light, practical guide to the social rules that locals follow without thinking, so you can step off the plane feeling more confident and less confused.We talk th
Mystery Guides: Outdoor Escape Room Adventures in UK Cities
We chat with Jack Wells, founder of Mystery Guides, about turning UK city exploring into a story-led treasure hunt using a physical book, real history and real hidden treasure. Tracy shares her own experience doing the Winchester guide - and why it's one of those travel days that genuinely sticks with you.What a Mystery Guide is and how it works on the dayWhy a physical book beats doing it on
UK in December and January: What to Do, Where to Go + Two-Month Trip Report
What happens when the person who has edited nearly 100 episodes of this podcast finally puts all those travel tips to the test on his own UK trip? In this episode, our editor Ryan Fairweather from New Zealand shares highlights from his two-month visit to the UK with his partner Tilly, and reveals how almost every experience on his list came directly from editing the show.Ryan covers his favourite
Planning Accessible UK Travel: Essential Tips for Exploring London and Beyond
Planning a UK trip when standing still hurts, stairs are a gamble, and transport feels unpredictable can be genuinely daunting. In this episode, Laura Dilts shares how she built a London and Scotland itinerary around a back injury, without shrinking the trip down to safe choices or missing the magic.We talk through the real decisions that make accessible UK travel work: starting early, turning a w
London & Edinburgh Trip Report: A Mother–Daughter UK Adventure
We map a mother–daughter journey through London and Edinburgh, showing how a smart South Kensington base, well-timed museum visits, and scenic rail travel turned a packed plan into a calm, joy-filled trip.Highlights include the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Borough Market food finds, and a Cotswolds day trip plus first-class train travel to Edinburgh and unforg
London Walking Tours with Fantastic Walks: Robin Launder's Expert Guide to the City
Many visitors see a lot in London but still leave feeling like they do not quite understand it. In this episode, Tracy Collins is joined by Robin Launder, founder of Fantastic Walks, to explore how walking tours and storytelling bring London’s history to life.Robin shares how his background as a history and English teacher, plus years in education training, shapes the way he guides. You will hear
Visiting London’s Top Museums: How to Choose And Plan Your Visit
London has some of the best museums in the world — but with so many options, how do you decide which ones are right for you?In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug guide you through London’s most popular museums to help you choose the ones that match your interests and plan your visit confidently.From iconic institutions like the British Museum and the V&A to the Lond
London Black Cab Tours: Why Discover Real London Is a Unique Way to See the City
If you’re wondering whether a London black cab tour is worth adding to your itinerary, this episode will help you decide.Tracy is joined by Ollie from Discover Real London to talk through what actually happens on a black cab tour, how it differs from bus or walking tours, and why many first-time visitors choose to start their trip this way.You’ll learn how licensed cab drivers complete “The Knowle
Planning a UK Trip in Spring: Weather, Events & Best Places to Visit
Spring flips a switch across the UK, and we’re here for the first warm light, the wisteria‑framed streets, and the rush of longer evenings. We pull together clear, local advice from London to the Lake District, the Cotswolds, Devon, and the far north of Scotland so you can plan a smarter, calmer trip.We kick off in London with Becki from Walks and Devour: cherry blossom in parks, Kew’s treetop wal
How to Plan a London Itinerary: Expert Tips, Must-See Landmarks & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Planning a London itinerary sounds simple… until you actually try to do it.With so many iconic landmarks, historic sites, museums, neighbourhoods and experiences to choose from, it is easy to overpack your days, waste time travelling across the city, or miss the moments that truly make London special.In this week's episode Tracy is joined by Becki from Walks and Devour Tours to share expert a
Navigating UK Train Travel with Rail Expert Doug Collins
UK Rail Planning Tips for Confident TravelPlanning train travel in the UK can feel confusing, even overwhelming. Conflicting advice online, outdated blog posts, and well-meaning Facebook comments often leave visitors unsure which tickets to buy, when to book, or whether they are even planning the right route.In this episode Tracy and UK rail expert Doug talk through why UK train travel causes so m
How to visit Highclere Castle [Downton Abbey] from London
In this week's episode we walk through exactly what you need to know before visiting Highclere Castle, the iconic filming location for Downton Abbey.We share practical planning tips from our own recent visits, covering ticket options, how to get there from London, what to expect on the day, and the small details that make the difference between a rushed visit and a memorable one. Guest Meliss
Visiting London - What to eat, where to find it and recommended food tours
This week Tracy Collins sits down with Becki from Devour Tours to explore the vibrant food scene of London. The episode tackles the myth of "beige and boring" British cuisine, offering a mouthwatering guide to the best dishes, afternoon teas, food tours, markets, and hidden gems across the city.Tracy Collins and Becki delve into the expectations and surprises first-time visitors encounte
Movie and TV-Inspired Destinations to Visit in the UK
This week we explore the growing trend of set-jetting – travelling to destinations inspired by TV series, films, and books.With major new releases, returning favourites, and big anniversaries coming up in 2026, set-jetting is only getting bigger. From Bridgerton and Outlander to Downton Abbey, Harry Potter, and classic novels like Wuthering Heights and Pride and Prejudice, this episode looks at ho
Exploring the UK by Train or Car: Pros, Cons, and Planning Essentials
Deciding whether to travel around the UK by train, by car, or by using a combination of both is one of the biggest planning decisions you will make. In this episode, we talk through the pros and cons of each option so you can decide what works best for your route, travel style, and priorities.We explain how UK train travel works in practice and why trains are often the best choice for getting betw
Planning a Trip to London in 2026: What You Really Need to Know
London should not feel like a sprint across Zones 1 to 3. In this episode, we share practical, real-world strategies to help you plan London in a way that saves time, protects your energy, and makes the city easier to enjoy.Rather than rushing between scattered attractions, we explain how to plan by areas, make smarter transport choices, and design days that feel calmer and more enjoyable.In this
Planning a Trip to the UK in 2026: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
We share a clear, practical plan for designing a realistic UK trip in 2026. From choosing dates and budget to matching transport with routes, this episode focuses on what actually matters so your itinerary feels calm and doable. We also cover key 2026 dates, booking timelines, UK ETA requirements, and the most common planning mistakes to avoid.In this episode we cover:Dates & expectations: pic
UK Travel Planning Podcast Year in Review
We look back on our biggest year yet, highlight the most-loved London and regional episodes, and share what’s coming next. Expect more rail know-how, trusted partner recommendations, deeper dives into London neighbourhoods, and practical tools to help you plan an unrushed UK trip.In this episode:Download milestones and global audience growthMost popular London episodes, including deep dives on the
A Festive Thank You and Holiday Wishes from UK Travel Planning
The lights are up, the markets are humming, and we’re taking a quiet moment to say thank you. This festive check-in is our love letter to the UK travel community that carried us through a milestone year—every listen, share, question, and review made the journey brighter and bolder.We share the simple joys that make a British Christmas feel special: mince pies in a cosy pub, the pop of a cracker an
Trip Report with Laura Norton: From Liverpool Legends To London Landmarks & Beyond
Listener Laura Norton returns to share how she turned a dream anniversary trip into reality. From Beatles must-dos in Liverpool and a week based at St Katharine Docks in London to a quick hop to Paris, a powerful D-Day tour in Normandy, and a relaxing voyage home on the Queen Mary 2, Laura breaks down what worked, what she’d tweak, and the tips that saved time and stress. If you are planning a sim
Liverpool Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors: Beatles, Football and Top Things To Do
In Episode 178 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug take you to Liverpool, the vibrant northern city famous for music, football and maritime history. Discover must-see Beatles landmarks, the Royal Albert Dock, St George’s Hall and more, with insider tips on where to stay, eat and explore. You will hear practical advice on getting there by train, getting around on foot and Merseyrail,
A Literary-Themed UK Adventure (Part 2) Pilgrimage, Reflection + A Romantic Cotswolds Escape
Following on from last week’s episode, we follow Lauren’s UK sabbatical as it shifts from a teen-led literary road trip to a soulful pilgrimage in Pembrokeshire and a belated honeymoon through the Brecon Beacons and Cotswolds. From ancient holy wells and monastic islands to bookshop hunts and crowd-beating tips, this episode celebrates slow, meaningful travel across Britain.• Why a pilgrimage and
A Literary-Themed UK Family Adventure (Part 1) – Planning a Trip with Teens with Lauren Eanes
This week on the podcast Tracy chats with listener Lauren Eanes, who turned her family’s shared love of books into a literary-themed UK adventure. From Dickens’ Broadstairs and Winnie-the-Pooh’s Ashdown Forest to Tolkien and Lewis in Oxford and the landscapes of Watership Down, Lauren shares how stories shaped their itinerary - and how she kept her teens engaged along the way.You’ll hear practica
Stratford-upon-Avon Travel Guide: What to Do, Where to Stay & Eat + Easy Cotswolds Day Trips
In this episode, host Tracy Collins is once again joined by Lisa Benjamin from Go Cotswolds to dive deep into Stratford-upon-Avon - the world-renowned birthplace of William Shakespeare and a destination that deserves more than just a day trip.Together they share why Stratford is the perfect place to slow down and stay longer, from scenic riverside walks, rowing and cruises to hidden Royal Shakespe
Exploring the UK by Train: Doug’s Six-Week Rail Adventure [Expert Tips]
In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by resident train travel expert Doug Collins to share highlights from his six-week rail adventure across the UK. Travelling from London to Scotland and back again, Doug explored major cities, rural stations and some of Britain’s most scenic routes while gathering video content for upcoming YouTube guides.In this episode
UK Trip Report: How Laura Planned a Solo, Accessible Journey at 60
Planning a trip to the UK and want to make the most of every moment? In this episode, Laura shares how she celebrated her 60th birthday with a 15-day journey across England and Scotland, combining solo adventure, accessible travel planning, and plenty of unforgettable experiences.You’ll learn how to: ✅ Plan a realistic itinerary that balances sightseeing and rest ✅ Navigate London during busy time
Tips for Making the Most of a London Layover: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore
This special episode was originally recorded for the Germany Travel Planning Podcast, where Tracy joined Cate to share insider tips for making the most of a London layover.Turn your short stop in London into a compact yet rewarding adventure. Learn how to plan 24 to 48 hours in the UK capital without feeling rushed, from choosing a central base to making the most of every meal and moment.Discover
The Night Riviera Sleeper Train: London Paddington to Penzance
The Night Riviera is one of only two UK sleeper trains, and it might be the most relaxing way to wake up in Cornwall. UK Travel Planning’s rail expert Doug Collins shares his first-hand ride and the small choices that make a big difference to comfort and views.In this episodeHow to book simply and avoid common pitfallsWhen to arrive and how lounge access can upgrade your nightWhat berths are reall
Essential Tips for Visiting London at Christmas and New Year
London becomes a magical winter wonderland at Christmas, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and iconic decorations. But visiting during the holidays also means closures, no public transport on Christmas Day, and the need to book key experiences well in advance.In this episode, Tracy shares practical tips on:What’s open and closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing DayHow to get arou
Scotland Travel Tips: 15 Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoothly.Here are just some of the mistakes we discuss:Visiting Edinburgh in August during the Fringe Festival or Military Tattoo without booking accommoda
England Trip Report: Castles, Countryside + Iconic Sights
This week on the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Amy Carpenter from Texas, who shares her unforgettable two-week adventure exploring England with her husband, Mark.Amy takes us through the highlights of their carefully planned itinerary, from the bustling streets of London to the charm of the Cotswolds, iconic castles, and literary landmarks. Highlights included Westmin
London Travel Guide [Part 2]: Must-Do Experiences, Secret Spots, and Foodie Favourites
In this episode, guest host Karen interviews Tracy about her favourite London experiences, from afternoon teas and hidden gems to festive traditions and foodie highlights.Highlights include: • The Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, a historic after-hours ritual • Afternoon teas with a twist such as Peter Pan at The Shard or the classic Ritz indulgence • Greenwich’s Painted Hall and the N
Planning A UK Adventure With Kids: Tips, Highlights + Hidden Gems
Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration.• Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through Ireland and Northern Ireland• Discovering the surprising beauty of Northern Ireland, including To
London Travel Guide [Part 1]: Favourite Places, Landmarks, and Hidden Gems
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by her friend Karen for a deep dive into her favourite places in London. Drawing on years of living, working, and exploring the capital, Tracy shares the landmarks, gardens, markets, and quiet corners that she loves most.From must-see icons like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Hampton Court Palace to the vibrant
UK Trip Report with Michael Goldsmith - Titanic's Legacy: A Personal Journey Across the Atlantic
Michael Goldsmith shares his deeply personal journey across the UK, inspired by his family's connection to the Titanic, and fulfilled through a carefully planned itinerary that combines ship, rail, and coach travel. He explains how research and personalised travel advice helped him create a meaningful trip that connected him with family history and distant relatives.• Taking the Queen Mary II
Discover North East England with Alex Iles: From Roman Ruins to Coastal Castles
The beautiful and historic North East England offers visitors dramatic scenery, centuries of history, and friendly locals in a region filled with special places to explore.• North East England includes the stunning Northumberland coast, Newcastle, Durham, Hadrian's Wall and Holy Island• Alex Iles of Iles Tours brings the region's past to life through storytelling and archaeology• Archaeo
Navigating Tiny Roads and Big Adventures: UK Trip Report with Merry and Chris Paxton
Mary and Chris from Minnesota share insights from their fifth trip to the UK, spanning 28 days across South Wales, Cornwall, the Jurassic Coast, and East Anglia. Their adventures in a tiny Fiat 500 took them to castle ruins, stunning gardens, Roman remains, and hidden treasures while connecting with locals and experiencing the authentic Britain beyond tourist hotspots.• Travelling for their fifth
Top 12 Mistakes First-Time Visitors Make in London and How to Avoid Them
We share 12 common mistakes first-time visitors make when planning a trip to London, along with alternative suggestions for a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Our practical advice is based on decades of experience visiting and living in London, as well as helping thousands plan their perfect trips.• Overpacking your itinerary – focus on one area per day instead of racing across the city• Bo
Day Trips from London – St Albans: History, Food & Hidden Gems
St Albans offers a perfect day trip from London with its rich Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and renowned foodie scene, all just 20 minutes by train from central London.• Just 20 minutes by train from St Pancras International• Home to extensive Roman ruins including an ancient theatre still used for performances today• Contains the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain - S
Before You Visit Bath: Essential Tips for Planning Your Perfect Visit
When you think of travel in England, the historic city of Bath might be high on your list - and for good reason. In this episode, we dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit to Bath. Drawing on our many personal experiences and favourite spots, we answer common questions about how to get there, top things to see and do, where to stay, and whether it’s best for a day trip or
Tracing Your UK Roots: How to Plan a Genealogy Trip to England and Scotland
Rita Fox and her wife, Katie, embarked on a life-changing journey through England and Scotland, tracing their ancestors' footsteps and discovering not only their family history but also unexpected connections that continue to enrich their lives today.• Begin ancestry research by building upon family knowledge and using online resources like Ancestry.com, FindAGrave.com, and ScotlandsPeople.go
15 UK Train Travel Mistakes First-Time Travellers Make and How to Avoid Them
Doug and Tracy reveal the 15 most common mistakes travellers make when planning UK train journeys, drawing from their extensive experience helping thousands plan stress-free rail trips across Britain.• Getting advice from non-experts who share outdated or incorrect information• Travelling on Sundays when engineering works and staffing issues cause the most disruptions• Bringing too much luggage th
The Ultimate UK Trip Report: Train Journeys, Coastal Towns, and Hidden Gems with Deb Harsen
Returning guest Deborah Harsen shares the highlights from her sixth UK adventure, exploring the east coast from London to Edinburgh by train with her husband while sharing practical tips and magical moments from their journey.• Deborah's lifelong love of the UK began with Twiggy and her grandmother reading Jane Austen to her• Train travel shaped their itinerary along England's east coast
15 Essential UK Road Trip Tips [+ Mistakes to Avoid]
Dreaming of meandering through the Cotswolds countryside or cruising along Scotland's North Coast 500? Before you grab those keys, there's crucial information you need to know about driving in the UK that could make or break your road trip experience.The romantic notion of spontaneously exploring Britain's charming villages and stunning landscapes can quickly turn stressful when fac
Winter Travel in London and the UK: From Coastal Walks to Christmas Magic
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with New Zealander Abigail Hannah, who recently spent a month exploring the UK in winter. From sparkling Christmas lights in London to bracing coastal walks in Brighton and cosy family moments on the Isle of Wight, Abigail shares her honest reflections on what it’s like to travel the UK in the colder months.Expect practical tips for na
Visiting Stonehenge? Essential Tips, Tours & Planning Advice
Stonehenge ranks among Britain's most iconic landmarks, drawing nearly a million visitors yearly to marvel at the mysterious stone formation that has stood for over 4,000 years. We share everything you need to know about visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site, from transportation options to insider tips that will enhance your experience.• Two types of stones make up Stonehenge - sarsen ston
Trip Report: London and Cotswolds Highlights with Kristen Gonzalez
In episode 152 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, guest Kristen Gonzalez shares her eight-day family adventure through England with her husband and parents in their late 70s, highlighting their experiences in London and the Cotswolds during April. She details their thoughtful planning process, excellent transportation arrangements with XFA Cars, and memorable tours including Go Cotswolds excursion
Essential UK Train Travel Tips and Q&A for First-Time Travellers
Doug joins me to answer your most common questions about UK train travel, sharing expert advice drawn from years of experience navigating Britain's railways.• Getting to the correct platform: Arrive with plenty of time, check departure boards, use rail apps, and ask station staff• Finding first class carriages: Look for platform markings indicating coach positions and ask station staff for gu
Essential Guide to Visiting Buckingham Palace: Tours, Tickets, Tips, and Must-See Highlights
Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK monarch, represents centuries of British heritage while offering visitors a glimpse into the royal lifestyle through its magnificent State Rooms and gardens. We share comprehensive insights for planning your visit, from ticket options and tour experiences to practical tips and fascinating palace facts.• Palace has 750 rooms, including 78 b
London Trip Report with Nathan Pickle
Nathan shares his experiences from a March 2025 trip to London with his wife Sara, where they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary and rediscovered the city after nearly two decades since their last visit.• Dealing with unexpected travel disruptions when airport worker strikes in Germany shortened their London stay from five to three days• Using the Discover Real London Black Cab Tour to expl
Navigating London Safely: Essential Tips for Visitors
London is generally safe compared to other major global cities. Still, like any busy metropolis, it has its share of tourist scams and petty crime that visitors should be aware of.• Keep valuables secure in anti-theft bags and hotel safes • Plan routes before leaving your accommodation to avoid looking lost• Research neighbourhoods thoroughly before booking accommodation• Use contactless payments
Explore London & Edinburgh with Walks & Devour Tours [2025 Update with Charley Sullivan]
Charlie Sullivan from Walks and Devour Tours returns to share exciting new small-group experiences in London and Edinburgh that offer exclusive access and immersive storytelling beyond typical tourist experiences.• New Brixton food tour exploring Caribbean, African and Latin American cuisine including visiting Maureen's home for authentic jerk chicken• Redeveloped Borough Market tour now incl
Discover Westminster Abbey London [Essential Tips for planning your visit]
In episode 146 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy delves into one of London's most iconic landmarks: Westminster Abbey. With its rich royal history and stunning Gothic architecture, this working cathedral is a must-visit for anyone exploring the capital.Tracy provides a comprehensive guide to planning your visit, including essential tips on ticket purchasing, the best tours, and must-se
Edinburgh to Inverness by Train: Essential Tips and What to Expect
Train journeys through Scotland offer spectacular scenery and connect major cities, but they can present unexpected challenges when severe weather strikes.• Travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness via the scenic coastal route through Dundee and Aberdeen• Strategic stops at St Andrews (via Leuchars) and Aberdeen's Maritime Museum• Weather disruptions forcing schedule changes and an extended sta
Money Matters: Navigating Cash, Cards, and Currency in the UK
Ready to unlock the secrets of managing money during your travels in the UK? This episode is packed with essential insights for navigating cash, credit, and debit card payments efficiently. We start by diving into the intricate world of British currency, outlining the different denominations of the pound sterling and the importance of understanding its nuances - especially when it comes to recogni
Discover North Wales: Top Experiences and Hidden Gems You Can't Miss
This week's episode immerses you in the beauty and experiences Wales has to offer. John Hadwin joins us to unveil hidden gems and top recommendations for exploring this remarkable country. You’ll learn about the rich history, stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine that make Wales a must-visit destination. • Discover the top experiences to explore in Wales • Why Wrexham is quickly becomi
Exploring the Tower of London: History, Highlights, and Helpful Tips
Get ready to uncover the wonders of one of London’s most significant landmarks, the Tower of London! Standing proud on the banks of the River Thames, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of history, filled with captivating tales that span nearly a millennium. In this episode, we delve into the Tower's fascinating origins, exploring its various incarnations as a royal palace, a
Is the Caledonian Sleeper Worth It? Honest Review + Route Tips for 2025
The Caledonian Sleeper offers a unique overnight train experience connecting London with Scotland, providing travelers both transportation and accommodation in one seamless journey. We share our recent experiences on both the Lowlander service (London to Edinburgh/Glasgow) and the Highlander service (London to Inverness/Fort William), comparing accommodations from standard seats to club rooms with
Navigating the North Coast 500: Essential Tips for Your Scottish Adventure
Are you dreaming of a trip to the Scottish Highlands? Have you always wanted to drive the legendary North Coast 500? IIn this episode, we embark on a journey through Scotland’s breathtaking North Highlands, uncovering what you need to know before setting out on this iconic route. With me is Robert James from North Coast Explorer Tours, sharing practical tips and local insights drawn from years of
