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United Kingdom

What can you expect from the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and nature. From the iconic skyline of London to the rugged Scottish Highlands, from quaint English villages to the mystical landscapes of Wales, and the dramatic coastline of Northern Ireland. There’s definitely a remarkable diversity across this compact archipelago. Expect centuries-old castles, literary landmarks, a lush green countryside, world-class museums, and a distinct character in every region.

Beyond the monuments and the postcard sights, you’ll find a nation that thrives on tradition and modernity in equal measure. Whether it’s enjoying a pint in a cosy pub, hiking the Lake District, catching a Shakespeare play in Stratford-upon-Avon, or surfing in Cornwall, the UK offers unique travel experiences with excellent public transport and plenty of gems off the usual tourist trail.

Things to See and Do in the United Kingdom

Explore London's historic landmarks
Hike through the Scottish Highlands
Visit Stonehenge, one of the world’s greatest mysteries
Discover ancient castles in Wales
Drive the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland.
Experience literary heritage in Oxford and Cambridge
Surf the waves of Cornwall
Explore the lakes and fells of the Lake District
Attend a traditional festival like Edinburgh Fringe or Notting Hill Carnival

Typical Costs When Traveling

Accommodation: Hostels range from $30–$45 per night, while mid-range hotels start around $90. In cities like London or Edinburgh, prices can be higher.

Food: A budget meal in a pub or takeaway can cost around $12–$17, while a restaurant meal might start at $22. On the other hand, shopping for groceries can significantly reduce food costs.

Transportation: Local buses and trains are well-connected, and a single ticket costs around $2.50–$3.50 in cities. Consider railcards or regional travel passes for savings on longer journeys.

Suggested Daily Budget

$60–$95 USD

(Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel or budget guesthouse, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation. Following the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)

Money-Saving Tips

1
Book train tickets in advance Use apps like Trainline to get cheaper fares by booking early.
2
Take advantage of free museums Many UK museums and galleries (especially in London) are free to enter.
3
Travel off-season Avoid summer and holidays to save on accommodation and activities.
4
Use meal deals Supermarkets and convenience stores offer lunch deals for just a few pounds, which is a big budget-saver.

Travel Tools & Resources for the United Kingdom

Make the most of your UK trip by booking trains in advance on Trainline, comparing hostels on Hostelworld, and exploring walking routes with apps like AllTrails.

Get a local Holafly eSIM (-5%) to stay connected throughout your visit.

Travel insurance is also highly recommended. Check Heymondo (-5%) for flexible and affordable plans.

These are the platforms I trust and use on my travels, and some include exclusive discounts for my readers!

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Marlene is the creator of Marlene On The Move. A journalist by profession, she created the blog to share her adventures around the world. It is not unusual for her to set off to discover new countries and cultures with a surfboard as luggage.

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