The United Kingdom is one of Europe’s premier travel destinations. In fact, we may even take it a step further and say it’s one of the most popular in the entire world. The island nation has a blend of history, culture, and modern comforts all in one place. You may spend a few days in London before venturing to the Cotswolds or maybe the Highlands of Scotland.
The question is: what are some travel tips that not a lot of people talk about? We hear about tips like “visit here” or “don’t go when it’s such a time of day”. Yet, there may be other tips that travelers may seem to overlook when giving advice to new and even slightly seasoned travelers.
1.Off-Peak Travel
Luxury hotels in London with free upgrades may be something you can land whenever you are traveling during off-peak travel times. You’ll be saving money if you go anytime in the spring or autumn months. Yes, the weather will be good for spending time outdoors but the crowds will be a lot less chaotic. Off-peak travel might also mean that you’ll have better accommodations available, which means you could score some sweet upgrades on top of where you’ll be staying.
2.Use Rail Passes (Albeit Wisely)
The UK has a rail system that can take you pretty much anywhere in the country. Single tickets can pile up in terms of costs. Yet, leave it to the rail passes that can save you time and money (especially if you want to move around from city to city). BritRail Pass can be useful if you are planning to go from London to such cities like Manchester, Cambridge, or even Edinburgh. The thing to remember is that they allow you unlimited travel within a certain time period, so do plan accordingly and book in advance since the last-minute train fares do rise quickly.
3.Take Advantage of The Free Attractions If You Can
If you are spending time in London, there are plenty of free attractions that you can go to. These include the British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern, and many others. You can immerse yourself in the British arts culture without having to spend anything. Do not miss out on the opportunity to visit these places especially if you are an art lover that would rather spend time all day in a museum with legendary masterpieces across historical times.
4.Use Available Public Transport
Buses, trams, and the world-famous London Underground are your best friends when it comes to getting around. Taxis can still be an option if you are willing to spend a bit of extra money. If needed, get an Oyster card or consider using contactless payment options (where available, especially in London). Of course, there’s nothing wrong with walking the historic streets of the many UK cities and towns that pique your interest. Either way, just know that public transport options are still available and still are some of the most reliable options you can find.
5.Eat Like a Local
The UK has a unique cuisine like fish and chips and a lot of pub favorites. However, dining up can add up depending on where you go. You might find yourself at London’s Borough Market or the Cardiff Market in the Welsh capital city. Either way, you can find meals that are freshly made and quite delicious.
If you are looking to do a pub hop, you can enjoy some good food and drinks. There may be a daily special that might be something to satisfy your appetite. You’ll never know until you try it,right? Plus, there’s something special about pub culture in Britain that could make you feel like a local.
6.Explore Beyond The Cities
There will always be London. Yet, don’t let it be the ONLY place where you can get the best UK experience possible. Cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Cardiff, or even the Lake District are also going to be places that are meant to be explored by travelers like you. You can also check out some of the most picturesque views in places like Dorset in southern England or even the highlands of Scotland.
Smaller towns and rural areas can also be a good place to explore since they’ll have dining and lodging options. You’ll be surprised what you can find for good deals in smaller areas, especially when you are closer to the major cities.
Final Thoughts
The UK is by far and away one of the best travel destinations. With these six tips at your disposal, you can explore the country from the hustle and bustle of London to the picturesque landscapes of the southern coast and everything in between. You can always find a way to maximize the experience beyond the common travel tips that get thrown around here and there.