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UK Travel Planning

Tracy Collins

155 episodes

1 day ago

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 faced with the reality of narrow country lanes, baffling roundabouts, and parking nightmares. Having driven thous...

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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 faced with the reality of narrow country lanes, baffling roundabouts, and parking nightmares. Having driven thous...

Show more...

Places & Travel

Society & Culture,

Episodes (20/155)

UK Travel Planning

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 visit to the UK, Mary and Chris spent 28 days exploring areas they hadn't fully experienced bef...

6 days ago

1 hour

UK Travel Planning

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 • Booking attractions too late – secure popular experiences as soon as you confirm your date...

1 week ago

18 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 - St Albans Cathedral • Features England's only surviving medieval town belfry - the Clock Tower...

2 weeks ago

30 minutes

UK Travel Planning

Bath Travel Guide: Top Sights, Where to Stay, and 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 a more extended stay. From the iconic Roman baths and striking Georgian architecture...

3 weeks ago

35 minutes

UK Travel Planning

Trip Report - When History Becomes Personal: The Magic of Genealogy Travel with Rita Fox

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.gov.uk • Contact local family history societies before your trip – they can provide invaluable assista...

1 month ago

59 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 that becomes difficult to manage on trains and in stations • Not booking assistance services at...

1 month ago

46 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 with stops in London, York, Whitby, Newcastle, Alnwick, and Edinburgh • Deborah splurged on special acc...

1 month ago

54 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 faced with the reality of narrow country lanes, baffling roundabouts, and parking nightmares. Having driven thous...

1 month ago

39 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 navigating winter travel—how to pack smart, budget effectively, and make the most of trains and pu...

2 months ago

32 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 stones from 25 miles away and bluestones transported an incredible 150 miles from Wales • The stones ali...

2 months ago

29 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 excursions (enter code UKTAVPLAN for a 5% discount for our UKTP community) and a Seven Sisters...

2 months ago

38 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 guidance • Managing platform changes: Keep checking information screens and listen for announcements ...

2 months ago

59 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 bathrooms, its own post office, and a cinema • Built in 1703 for the Duke of Buckingham, became ...

3 months ago

15 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 explore hidden corners of the city with knowledgeable driver Matt • Staying at the Conrad London S...

3 months ago

43 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 wherever possible instead of carrying cash • Always cross streets at designated crossings, w...

3 months ago

24 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 includes Leadenhall Market and a private wine and cheese tasting • New royal tour featuring Kensington ...

3 months ago

35 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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-see sites within the Abbey. From the Coronation Chair to Poets' Corner, discover the treasures that mak...

3 months ago

14 minutes

UK Travel Planning

Exploring Scotland by Rail: Edinburgh to Inverness Train Travel Tips

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 stay in Inverness • Navigating cancellations by using alternative routes and transportation methods •...

4 months ago

26 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 recognising banknotes from different regions like Scotland and Northern Ireland. You'll hear about the ...

4 months ago

11 minutes

UK Travel Planning

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 becoming a tourist hotspot • Insider tips for making the most of your Welsh adventure&nbs...

4 months ago

42 minutes