In this week's episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with Cathy Stevens, who shares her unforgettable London trip report. Cathy and her husband recently took their eleven-year-old granddaughters on the trip of a lifetime to London.

Planned with the input of her granddaughters, this eight-day adventure was packed with memorable experiences. From witnessing the changing of the guard and touring the historic Tower of London to enjoying a show at the theatre and having a VIP day at Harry Potter Studios, Cathy and her family truly made the most of their time in the city. They even took a day trip to Windsor, had a professional photo shoot, and shopped for jelly cats. 

Cathy's preparation with her granddaughters made this trip even more special. Cathy created a reading list and a book club with the girls to learn all about London before their arrival, including reading the London Eye Mystery, which added an extra layer of excitement to their ride on the London Eye.

Join us as Cathy recounts their journey with enthusiasm and detail, offering insights and tips for anyone planning a similar trip. From the excitement of Harry Potter studios to the charm of Windsor, this episode is packed with inspiration for your next UK adventure.

Don't miss out on the reading list Cathy created for her granddaughters, which added a unique educational twist to their trip. Tune in to discover how to make your London trip just as magical!

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

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What if you could uncover County Durham's hidden gems and rich heritage through the eyes of a local expert? In this week's episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Anna Unger, a Blue Badge guide who lives and works in the northeast of England, to delve deeper into the wonders of County Durham. 

This episode perfectly complements episode 117, where Michelle Gorman, the managing director of Visit County Durham, provided an insightful overview of this northern county. Today, Anna shares her love for County Durham and why it's such an enchanting destination for visitors.

Anna walks us through a carefully crafted four-day itinerary that showcases many of the county's highlights, including the historic city of Durham, the fascinating Auckland Project, and the immersive Beamish Museum. As someone who knows the region inside and out, Anna offers a unique perspective on how to experience the best of County Durham. She also shares her top tip for anyone planning their first visit to this beautiful part of northern England.

So if you're looking to explore County Durham, this episode and episode 117 will give you all the inspiration and practical advice you need to plan an unforgettable trip.

Tune in for an unforgettable guide to exploring County Durham!
 
⭐️ Guest - Anna Unger of Northern Secrets
📝  Show Notes - Episode  122

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
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Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In this week's UK Travel Planning Podcast episode, Tracy is joined by Ashley Dowling, who shares her remarkable journey through the UK. 

From iconic London landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London to a unique day trip to Edinburgh (returning on the Caledonian Sleeper Lowlander train, Ashley's trip is packed with highlights and insider tips. 

Whether you're curious about making the most of a day trip from London to Edinburgh or want to hear about some fantastic UK travel experiences, this episode is for you.

⭐️ Guest - Ashley Dowling
📝  Show Notes - Episode  121

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
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Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In episode 120 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Alex Graeme, founder of Unique Devon Tours. Alex takes listeners on a journey through the beautiful county of Devon, sharing his passion for the region and the story behind his bespoke tour company. 

Discover what inspired Alex to set up Unique Devon Tours, his deep love for Devon, and the incredible variety of tours he offers, from single-day adventures to immersive multi-day experiences.

Alex provides a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics of his tours, including group sizes and the unique experiences that make his tours stand out. 

Whether you're planning a trip to Devon or simply curious about one of England's most picturesque regions, this episode is packed with insights and tips from a local expert. 

We wrap up with Alex's top tip for anyone visiting Devon for the first time, which you won't want to miss.

⭐️ Guest - Alex Graeme of  Unique Devon Tours
📝  Show Notes - Episode  120

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
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Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug take you through their whirlwind 17-day trip around the UK, exploring every country within it. From the bustling streets of Birmingham to the scenic landscapes of the Isle of Skye, they share their experiences, tips, and insights on how to navigate this extensive itinerary.

Starting in Birmingham, they travelled to Cardiff, Chester, and even made a brief stop in the Republic of Ireland before heading to Northern Ireland and Belfast. The journey continued through Scotland, visiting Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Isle of Skye, before concluding in London. 

This episode is packed with information on public transport, accommodation, and must-see sights, making it an essential listen for anyone planning a comprehensive UK trip.

📝  Show Notes - Episode  119

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
➡️ Leave us a tip

Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In episode 118 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins chats with her first New Zealand guest, Victoria Greig. Victoria and her husband, Murray, embarked on an epic 7.5-week journey across the UK earlier this year. 

In this episode, Victoria shares the highlights of their adventure, including an unforgettable tour with North Coast Explorer Tours, time spent exploring the picturesque Cotswolds, and the historic city of York. 

From breathtaking scenery and unique activities to invaluable travel tips, join us as we delve into what made their trip so special and why a bespoke tour with knowledgeable guides like Robert James at North Coast Explorer Tours can transform your travel experience.

Tune in for captivating insights and inspiration for your next UK vacation!

⭐️ Guest - Victoria Greig
📝  Show Notes - Episode 118

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #35 – An introduction to Far North Scotland with Sally-Ann of North Coast Explorer Tours
• Episode #36 – Exploring Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours
• Episode #42 – Discovering the treasures of Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
➡️ Leave us a tip

Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In episode 117 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast we shine a spotlight on County Durham in the northeast of England. Joining us is Michelle Gorman, managing director of Visit County Durham, who guides us through this stunning region, renowned for its rich history and diverse landscapes. 

From the UNESCO World Heritage site of Durham Cathedral and Castle, the Auckland Project, and the historic Beamish Museum, to the bicentenary celebrations of the modern railway next year, Michelle offers a treasure trove of insights. 

Tune in to discover why County Durham should be next on your travel list and get some valuable tips for your visit. 

Let's dive in and explore all this beautiful county has to offer!

⭐️ Guest - Michelle Gorman of  Visit County Durham
📝  Show Notes - Episode  117

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
➡️ Leave us a tip

Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In episode 116 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy welcomes back Heather Welday, who previously appeared in our 100th celebratory episode. Heather shares an in-depth report of her family’s June 2024 trip to England, packed with valuable insights and travel inspiration.

Heather, hailing from Southern California, travelled with her husband and two children, staying in an apartment just four doors from Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon. Discover Heather's favourite souvenir, which Tracy now plans to collect herself. Heather also discusses their itinerary, which included London, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Bath, and their choice to use public transportation throughout their trip.

Heather highlights the resources she found most helpful, including the UK Travel Planning Podcast and the Facebook group. She recounts her favourite experiences, like the Verger Tour at Westminster Abbey and being the first visitor at Stonehenge. She also shares their challenges, including travel disruptions and her husband falling ill.

Food enthusiasts will enjoy Heather's rave reviews of the meal deals from Marks & Spencer and her favorite pub meals. She also provides packing tips, emphasizing the importance of traveling light and being prepared for the UK’s unpredictable weather.

Heather wraps up with practical advice for first-time UK travellers, particularly the importance of booking tickets for popular attractions early.

⭐️ Guest - Heather Welday
📝  Show Notes - Episode 116

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
➡️ Leave us a tip

Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins welcomes back Lisa Benjamin from Go Cotswolds to delve into everything you need to know before planning a trip to the Cotswolds.

Lisa shares her expert advice on navigating this stunning region, from understanding its vastness to tips on driving and using public transport.

Whether you're dreaming of picturesque villages or scenic countryside, this episode is packed with essential information to help you make the most of your visit.

⭐️ Guest - Lisa Benjamin from GoCotswolds
📝 Show Notes - Episode 115

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
➡️ Leave us a tip

Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

In episode 114 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins chats with Krista Beck about her family's unforgettable 12-night journey through the UK.

Krista dives into their experiences in Bath, the Cotswolds, and London, sharing the joys of visiting the UK with her husband and children. Highlights include a stay in the picturesque Broadway Village, historical visits to Highclere Castle and the Tower of London, and engaging activities like air rifle lessons and miniature golf at Putt Shack.

Krista also offers practical travel tips, such as using contactless credit cards for transportation and staying in hotels with breakfast included. Hear about their memorable meals and adventures through Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, and beyond. Tracy and Krista emphasize the importance of prioritising experiences, living in the moment, and the benefits of planning yet being flexible.

Don't miss this episode filled with valuable insights, delightful anecdotes, and heartfelt recommendations for a perfect UK family trip! Tune in now to enrich your travel planning and get inspired for your next UK adventure.

⭐️ Guest -Krista Beck
📝  Show Notes - Episode 114

Still planning your UK or Ireland trip?

Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning everything yourself. With departures from cities such as Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. 

Have a look at their tours and any current offers on their website - Rabbies.com

Support the show

🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions.
• Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 
• 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network.

🎤 Leave us a voice message

➡️ Sponsor our show
➡️ Leave us a tip

Work With Us - Contact [email protected] for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...