United Kingdom Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in United Kingdom

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Discover Scotland's Isle of Skye and its otherworldly Fairy Pools

2 Weeks in the United Kingdom - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in the United Kingdom, you can embark on a self-drive tour and tick off the must-see sights of England and Scotland or split your trip between England and Wales to discover fairytale-like countrysides and enjoy time in Baths, Oxford, and London. Those who prefer quaint villages can embark on a nature and culture tour from London to Edinburgh, while more relaxed travelers will love a trip focused on discovering the traditions, cuisine, and history of England and Scotland.

Unspoiled Welsh landscapes in the Brecon Beacons

England & Wales Road Trip: History, Culture & the Great Outdoors - 14 Days

Drive from southern to northern England, taking in Welsh highlights en route, on this scenic two-week road trip through the United Kingdom. You'll start off getting to know London with a food tour and river cruise before heading to the university city of Oxford to go punting. Discover some of England's prettiest spots in the Cotswolds and handsome Bath, cross the border into Wales to see its coast, castles, and rugged national parks, and end your tour in the energetic northern city of Manchester.

Explore England's Yorkshire's and Northumberland's history with a walk among the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey

5 Days in the United Kingdom - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In five days, you can get a good taste of the United Kingdom—if you move quickly. First-timers keen to pair London with the tranquility of the Cotswolds will enjoy the Classic tour. The mix of culinary and historical experiences on the Wales & England itinerary is perfect for foodies and those looking for variety. Nature lovers will enjoy outdoor adventures on the Scotland road trip, while history buffs and families will appreciate the castle tours and wildlife excursion on the Yorkshire & Northumberland itinerary.

Big Ben overlooks the Thames and Westminster Bridge

Classic England: London, Oxford & Bath - 5 Days

This whistlestop tour of London and the southwest takes in the capital city's historical highlights as you tour the Tower of London, visit the remarkable St. Paul's Cathedral, and pay your respects at Westminster Abbey. Sharpen your tastebuds at Borough Market and stop for tea before discovering Regency elegance in Bath. A tour of HRH King Charles' Highgrove Gardens, the charming Cotswolds, and the "dreaming spires" of Oxford complete this short but perfectly-formed trip.

Road Trip Through England & Scotland: From London to Loch Lomond - 14 Days

Discover more about England and Scotland's food scenes, history, and natural attractions on this 14-day, self-drive trip. Start with some London sightseeing, then head to the beautiful city of Bath and the surrounding villages of the Cotswolds. Fly north to Scotland to explore its handsome capital of Edinburgh, then it's time to take in the beautiful scenery of the Scottish countryside in and around Pitlochry, Inverness, Oban, and Loch Lomond.

Scotland's Urquhart Castle overlooks the legendary Loch Ness

Nature, Art, Food & History in the United Kingdom - 14 Days

Explore Scotland and England by road on this 14-day, self-drive tour. You'll start in Glasgow with an introduction to its food scene before driving east to Scotland's capital, Edinburgh. Then you'll discover castles, lochs, mountains, and more in Inverness and Fort William. Over the border in England, take to the water in the Lake District, learn about The Beatles and The Titanic in Liverpool, and finish your trip in England's capital, London, on an evening e-scooter adventure.

Wander York's atmospheric alleyway, known as The Shambles

Highlights of England & Scotland - 14 Days

Discover some of England and Scotland's most fascinating cities and towns on this two-week, self-drive tour. Your trip starts in the university city of Oxford, where you'll peek into its libraries. Then, in northern England, take a historical tour of York. Over the border in Scotland, delve into Edinburgh's food scene and play golf in St Andrews before returning to England to explore the Lake District. A musical visit to Liverpool will be Beatles themed, and you'll end your tour relaxing in Bath's thermal waters.

Historical Highlights of Yorkshire & Northumberland - 6 Days

Uncover the jewels of England's northeast coast as you travel through the land of Romans, Vikings, and Anglo-Saxons on this six-day, self-drive itinerary. See the infamous York Minster Cathedral and the moors and dales that have inspired writers from Emily Brontë to Herman Melville. Unearth history through the ages as you walk in the footsteps of kings through the magnificent castles and abbeys of Yorkshire and Northumberland, discovering the wild beauty of these regions along the way.

When in Northern Ireland, a must-see is the Giants Causeway

How Many Days to Spend in the United Kingdom

Spanning 700 miles north to south, three distinct countries, and 12,000 years of history, the United Kingdom would take months to explore fully. Still, with even as little as four days you can explore London's most famous sights, plus perhaps one nearby region, while two weeks lets you roam widely. With an entire month at your disposal, you can cover much of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland with a breadth of active adventures and cultural excursions.

Wales & England: Coastal Culture, Cuisine & Castles - 5 Days

This quick-yet-eventful trip takes you from the south to the north coast of Wales, with a delicious ending in England. Start with a culinary and cultural tour in Cardiff and stop in quaint Hay-on-Wye before discovering the stunning Brecon Beacons. Take a wildlife tour of the Gower Coast, a ghost walk in Tenby, visit Caldey Island, and get to know Italian-inspired Portmeirion. Next, tour the famed Caernarfon Castle, take the Llangollen Railway, and land in Manchester, England, for two craft beer and food tour experiences.

Thatched cottage in Stratford-upon-Avon, England

Best Time of Year to Visit the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom's four distinct seasons each hold a unique appeal. However, since the UK spans ten degrees of latitude, there are considerable differences from north to south and—due to ocean influences—also between east and west. The region frequently defies its negative stereotypes, so don't let the English's complaints and the Scots' talk about "dreich" (dreary) weather put you off. Read on to find out more about the best time to visit England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Discover the west shore of Llandudno's Conwy Estuary as you look toward Snowdonia National Park

1 Week in The United Kingdom - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A week is long enough to experience not only the highlights of London but also the English countryside and the Scottish Highlands. One option is a family tour that will take you and the clan to Buckingham Palace, on Harry Potter tours, and boat rides on Loch Ness. If you're jonesing for outdoor adventure, consider a weeklong hike in the wilds of Scotland's Cairngorms National Park, or hit the road on a trip through the incomparable Cotswolds region of southern England.

Westminster Bridge, Houses of Parliament, and London's iconic Big Ben

10 Days in The United Kingdom - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 10 days, you can travel the length and breadth of England. Visit Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, plus icons like Buckingham Palace, Windsor, and Edinburgh Castle. Take the family on city tours of London, train rides in the countryside, and adventures in the Scottish Highlands—or hit the road to Stonehenge, Wales, and the Cotswolds. And if you enjoy the finer things in life, a luxury tour of the UK awaits.

A fall view of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Bridge.jpg

The United Kingdom in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The weather in the United Kingdom is increasingly cold in November, and the days are short. But if you want to enjoy some of the country's cultural and historic attractions, there's no need to stay away in November. Read on to find out more about visiting the UK in November.

An English country lane in Hampshire in autumn

The United Kingdom in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is fall in the United Kingdom and the start of a quieter season for travelers. There are still some lovely outdoor things to see, such as the national parks, but without too many other visitors. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in October.

A dramatic fall sunset of Llyn Ogwen and Tryfan in Snowdonia National Park, Wales

The United Kingdom in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is the start of the quieter shoulder season in the United Kingdom, after the peak of summer, although the temperatures can remain quite warm well into the month. Later in September, the leaves start turning autumnal, especially in northern parts of the country. Read on to find out more about traveling to the UK in September.

Explore the Great Orme on Wales' north side of Llandudno in August

The United Kingdom in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With July, August is the warmest and busiest month in the United Kingdom. It's a good time to enjoy the outdoors, whether a hike in a national park or a day at the beach. However, there will be crowds at the most popular locations and attractions. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in August.

A winter's day in Scotland's Cairngorms National Park

The United Kingdom in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

While the United Kingdom tends to be cold, damp, and dark in December, it also comes alive with Christmas lights and festivities. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy indoor cultural attractions and want to get into the festive spirit. Find out more about traveling to the UK in December.

A January misty morning over Llyn Padarn in Wales' Snowdonia

The United Kingdom in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is a good time to visit the United Kingdom if you enjoy indoor cultural and historic attractions. The cold weather and short days mean this is the low season for travel to the UK, but many city-based attractions are still open to enjoy. Read on to find out more about traveling to the UK in January.

Scotland's misty Loch Fada and Old Man of Storr

The United Kingdom in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is winter in the United Kingdom, and that means short days and cold temperatures. However, it also means low season, so if you'd prefer to visit the most popular indoor cultural and historic attractions without the crowds, February isn't a bad time to visit. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in February.

Drizzly weather on idyllic Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset England

The United Kingdom in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the beginning of spring in the United Kingdom, although winter conditions can linger. Some popular sites can get busy if Easter falls in March. Otherwise, this month is a good time to explore the cities without the crowds. Read on to learn more about visiting the United Kingdom in March.

A grand estate overlooks manicured gardens in

The United Kingdom in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is spring in the United Kingdom, and the country's famous flower gardens start to come into their own. Although the weather can be changeable, this is a good time to get outdoors and experience the gardens and parks. Read on to find out more about visiting the UK in April.

Take to the Cornish coast in May and visit Lizard Point

The United Kingdom in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the loveliest month of spring in the United Kingdom, and although the weather can be changeable, it's often sunny and pleasant. Flowers bloom in the wild and manicured gardens, and there are considerable events to attend. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in May.

Visit Stonehenge to capture a sunset in June

The United Kingdom in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is the start of summer in the United Kingdom, and while the weather isn't guaranteed to be warm and fine, this is a good time to visit without the biggest crowds. There's a huge range of cultural, music, and sporting events to enjoy this month. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in June.

A sunny summer's day over Twr Mawr Lighthouse in Wales

The United Kingdom in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is midsummer in the United Kingdom, and the weather is generally pleasant and conditions good for all kinds of activities. It's the peak season for tourists, but it's generally less crowded outside the most popular spots than in some other parts of Europe in July. Find out more below about traveling to the UK in July.

Picturesque stone houses of Arlington Row in the Cotswolds

Historic England & the Highlights of Scotland - 10 Days

See ancient England and rugged Scotland over 10 action-packed days. Travel back through the ages by visiting Roman baths and Neolithic ruins in southern England and the Cotswolds region. Then work your way north, stop and visit Shakespeare's hometown, tour famous football stadiums, and discover the rich culture of Glasgow. Finally, travel through Scotland's Highlands region and go road tripping around its most heralded island, the Isle of Skye.

The charming green countryside of the Lake District

English Countryside by Rail & Road - 10 Days

Experience the best of England's natural wonders and historic highlights on an epic self-drive tour around the country. Over 10 event-filled days, you'll visit the most beautiful regions in northern and southern England, including the Lake District and Dorset County. Even better, you'll have the freedom to explore on your terms as you pick and choose which villages, sights, and landmarks to stop at along the way.

Grand Tour of Great Britain: London, Edinburgh, Bath, & Oxford - 20 Days

This epic trip explores the best of the British Isles. Begin your adventure in the thrill of London, then head north to Scotland via the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales. Tour old-world relics and sip cocktails in underground drinking dens in Edinburgh before hopping across the border to Lake District National Park. Journey into Wales through Snowdonia, and relish a dramatically scenic drive to the Cotswolds. Visits to Bath and Oxfordshire complete your Great Britain grand tour.

Palaces, Castles & Cathedrals of the United Kingdom - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary is perfect for anyone with a love of UK heritage. On this trip, you'll visit some of the grandest palaces and churches in the nation, which cumulatively represent many millennia of history and culture. It's a fascinating architecture tour that allows you to see a number of places where key historical figures ruled and reigned, from Buckingham Palace to Edinburgh Castle.

Explore Dublin's cultural quarter, the Temple Bar district

Luxury London and Dublin Tour - 8 Days

This eight-day luxury itinerary covers the cultural highlights of the United Kingdom's London and the Republic of Ireland's Dublin. Begin your tour in England's capital, with day trips to Blenheim and Bath before you catch a flight to the Emerald Isle's charming Dublin. Enjoy the convenience of private tours and knowledgeable guides as you visit ancient Roman baths, historic palaces, and colorful neighborhoods.

London's Buckingham Palace in Westminster

Luxury London, Edinburgh, & Dublin Tour - 10 Days

Featuring the United Kingdom's London and Edinburgh as well as the Republic of Ireland's Dublin, this 10-day luxury tour offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and rugged country scenery. You'll experience a broad range of tours covering the history, architecture, and ancient and current traditions at the hands of knowledgeable private guides, with free time to go at your own pace.

Enjoy refined English traditions with a spot of tea

UK Food Tour - 9 Days

This nine-day food-related tour takes you to Edinburgh, London, Cardiff, and Cornwall and combines cultural and historical highlights with local dishes and fine cuisine. Enjoy national favorites like fish and chips, as well as lesser-known eats including Welsh laverbread, Cornish pasties, and Scottish haggis. Along the way, you will explore the Scottish Highlands, visit royal palaces, and tour ancient castles.

Luxury Tour of London & Edinburgh - 10 Days

London and Edinburgh are among the most cosmopolitan cities in the UK, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Begin this 10-day luxury tour in London with day trips to Blenheim Palace and Bath before visiting Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy the convenience of private tours and knowledgeable guides as you visit ancient Roman ruins, historic castles, and legendary lochs.

Highlights of Britain's East Coast - 12 Days

Explore the ancient history and modern culture of northeast England. Visit medieval York, discover Roman ruins, and sample hearty English pub food in Tynemouth. See the impressive Durham Cathedral, 16th-century Lindisfarne, and the wild seascape of the Farne Islands. End your trip in Edinburgh—home to the Scottish monarchy, world-class whiskey, and the café where J.K. Rowling penned the first Harry Potter novel.

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