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 accommodations, including the Royal Horse Guards Hotel and The Cookie Jar in Alnwick
• Private tour with archaeologist Alex Iles through Lindisfarne and Bamburgh Castle was the trip highlight
• Billy Shiel's boat tour to the Farne Islands provided close encounters with puffins, arctic terns, and seals
• The Old York Tea Room in Goodramgate offers cream tea that Deborah rates as better than Betty's
• Magical unplanned moments included witnessing sunset and sunrise over Whitby Abbey from their hotel room
• For returning UK visitors, Deborah recommends exploring beyond London and trying different transportation modes

If you enjoy our podcast and want us to continue providing free UK travel information, please consider becoming a supporter. You can make a one-off donation or sponsor us monthly, like Deborah. Visit the link in our show notes to help us keep the podcast going.

⭐️ Guest - Deb Harsen
📝 Show Notes - Episode 156

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #65 - Trip Report with Deborah Harsen
• Episode #32 - 4 week Scotland and England trip report with Deborah Harsen
• Episode #123 - Family fun in London [Trip Report with Cathy Stephens]

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 thousands of miles across the UK and helped countless travellers plan their journeys, we've witnessed the same mistakes happening time and again.

In this practical guide, we reveal the 15 most common UK driving pitfalls and how to avoid them. From the shocking truth about journey times (that 50-mile drive could take twice as long as you think!) to the critical importance of booking an automatic car well in advance, we cover essential knowledge that guidebooks often miss. We'll explain why driving in London is a mistake most travellers regret, how to navigate the UK's unique parking systems, and why checking if your accommodation actually has parking facilities could save your holiday from disaster.

Whether you're used to driving on the left or not, the UK presents unique challenges that can catch even experienced international drivers off guard. We share insider advice on handling motorway driving, understanding road terminology, and preparing for the infamous British weather. Plus, we reveal the truth about rental car insurance and why paying extra for zero excess might be the best decision you make.

Our goal isn't to discourage you – a UK road trip can be truly magical when done right. With proper planning and realistic expectations, you'll be free to enjoy those winding coastal roads and picturesque villages without the stress. Listen now to transform your UK driving experience from potentially nerve-wracking to absolutely brilliant!

📝 Show Notes - Episode 155

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 12 - Preparing to drive in the UK with Tripiamo
• Episode 112 - Driving in the UK like a local: Expert tips from Tripiamo's John Cortese
• Episode 79 - Planning your UK road trip (Expert Tips and Itinerary Ideas)

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 public transport. They also discuss staying connected with eSIMs, using Wise cards for spending, and making the most of the festive season with Christmas markets and museums.

Whether you’re planning a winter trip or just curious about what it’s like to explore the UK off-season, this episode is packed with helpful insights, travel stories, and seasonal inspiration.

⭐️ Guest - Abigail Hannah of Aotearoa Adventures
📝 Show Notes - Episode 154

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 152 – Trip Report: London and Cotswolds Highlights with Kristen Gonzalez
• Episode 71 – Unveiling the Magic: London at Christmas – Top Things to Do and See
• Episode 102 – Discovering the Charms of Brighton: Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 align perfectly with both summer and winter solstices, showcasing remarkable astronomical knowledge
• Visitors arrive at a dedicated visitor centre located 1.5 miles from the actual stones
• The excellent museum provides crucial context about the site's history and significance
• Free shuttle buses run every 10 minutes between the visitor centre and the monument
• You cannot touch the stones even with special inner circle access tours
• Weather protection is essential as you'll be completely exposed on Salisbury plain
• Multiple transport options exist, including train to Salisbury, plus tour bus, driving, or organised tours
• The nearby Avebury stone circle offers a complementary experience where you can touch the stones
• Book tickets in advance, especially during peak summer months, to guarantee entry
• English Heritage and National Trust members receive free entry

For more information about visiting Stonehenge and other UK destinations, join our UK Travel Planning Facebook community where we share tips, answer questions and help you plan your perfect UK trip.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 153

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #109 – Day Tours with The English Bus: From London to Stonehenge, Bath & more
• Episode 104 – From Stonehenge to Canterbury & Beyond with Tailored Tours
• Episode 139 – Exploring Bath and Beyond: Unique Tours and Tips with Daniel Hancock

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 coastal day trip from London.

• Choosing the Cotswolds and London combination to showcase diverse aspects of England
• Using private transfers instead of driving or navigating train connections
• Taking two different Go Cotswolds tours to maximise exploration of picturesque villages
• Staying in Covent Garden as the perfect London base with excellent dining and entertainment options
• Finding the ideal balance between scheduled tours and free time for spontaneous exploration
• Enjoying unique experiences like a historic Royal Pub tour, afternoon tea on a bus, and Tower Bridge's glass floor walkways
• Discovering Mr. Fogg's Society of Exploration for cocktails and small plates in London
• Visiting the Seven Sisters cliffs and Brighton on a well-organised day trip from London

Kristen also offers invaluable tips for travel planning, particularly on booking ahead. Tune in for practical advice, inspiring stories, and plenty of laughs to help you plan your own perfect UK getaway!

⭐️ Guest - Kristen Gonzalez
📝 Show Notes - Episode 152

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #136 – Unveiling the Cotswolds: Top Experiences and Insider Tips with Expert Lisa Benjamin
• Episode #115 – Essential Tips for Planning Your Perfect Cotswolds Adventure with Lisa Benjamin of GoCotswolds
• Episode #97 – Easy day trips from London by train (Part 2)

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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
• Ideal time to arrive at stations: At least 30 minutes before departure for major journeys
• Booking train tickets: National Rail Enquiries provides the most accurate journey planning information
• Money-saving tips: Book advance tickets for long journeys, use railcards when eligible
• Luggage management: Ensure you can carry your own bags, look for storage at carriage ends and between seats
• Left luggage options: Available at major stations, bus stations, and through third-party services
• BritRail Pass details: Offers flexibility but assess if it's worth it for your specific itinerary
• Scenic journey recommendations: Consider factors like time of year, daylight hours and personal interests

Check out Doug's e-book Guide to UK Train Travel for more comprehensive information, and join our UK Train Travel Tips Facebook group for ongoing advice.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 151

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #43 - Unravelling the mysteries of train travel in the UK
• Episode #80 - Planning your perfect UK rail adventure
• Episode #2 - Tips for travelling the UK by train

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 a royal residence in 1761
• Royal Standard flag indicates the monarch is in residence; Union Jack means they're away
• State Rooms open July-September with standard, small group, and exclusive tour options
• Essential to book tickets months in advance as tours sell out quickly
• Exclusive small group tours are available at other times throughout the year
• New for 2025: opportunity to enter through the iconic front gates
• Highlights include the State Rooms, Throne Room, Picture Gallery, and Grand Staircase
• Gardens open in summer, featuring 39 acres with a lake, rose garden, and tennis court
• Green Park tube station is closest at a 6-minute walk
• Photography is not permitted inside the palace, but is allowed in the gardens
• Convert your ticket to a one-year pass by signing it and getting it stamped
• Nearby attractions include Changing of the Guard, St. James's Park, and Westminster Abbey

If you're planning a visit to Buckingham Palace or have questions, leave us a voice message via the SpeakPipe link in our show notes.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 150

📖 Read our full guide to Visiting Buckingham Palace

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #146 - Guide to visiting Westminster Abbey
• Episode #142 - Guide to visiting the Tower of London
• Episode #138 - Explore London with Discover Real London black cab tours

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 St James, perfectly located across from St James's Park Tube Station
• Experiencing the ease of London's public transportation system with contactless payments
• Taking a day trip to Windsor Castle with time to explore Eton
• Enjoying memorable meals at The Guinea Grill, Borough Market, and historic pubs like The Grenadier
• Finding March to be an ideal time to visit London with fewer crowds and reasonable prices
• Embracing a slower travel pace by wandering neighbourhoods and saving major attractions for future visits
• Arranging airport transfers with XFA Cars for stress-free arrival after a long flight

If you're planning a trip to London, don't overpack your schedule. Take time to wander, look up at the architecture, and immerse yourself in each neighborhood. London rewards those who slow down and leave something for next time.

⭐️ Guest - Nathan Pickle
📝 Show Notes - Episode 149

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #138 - Explore London with Discover Real London Black Cab Tours
• Episode #134 - Expert insights on London Airport transfers and beyond with Riz of XFA Cars
• Episode #127 - London Trip Report with Melissa Jones

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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, watching for traffic from the left
• Be especially vigilant in tourist hotspots like Leicester Square and Westminster Bridge
• Watch out for common scams like street gambling and fake charity collectors
• Use only licensed taxis or reputable rideshare services, especially at night
• Keep bags in front of you on public transport and during crowded situations
• Consider a phone lanyard or wrist tether to prevent snatch-and-grab thefts
• Trust your instincts – if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation

📝 Show Notes - Episode 148

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #105 - Top 10 London Experiences
• Episode #91 - A Taste of London with Devour Food Tours
• Episode #4 - Tips for first-time visitors to London

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

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 Palace, guard change viewing and afternoon tea at the Orangerie
• Exclusive early access to Edinburgh Castle – the only tour company allowed inside before opening hours
• "Edinburgh in a Day" tour including private castle access, Royal Mile walk and Holyrood Palace visit
• Access to normally restricted areas in Edinburgh Castle including Royal Apartments and Crown Room
• Alternative Scotch Whisky Experience when Holyrood Palace closes for royal engagements
• Small group sizes and expert local guides who share compelling stories and historical context
• Practical tip for Edinburgh visitors: wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets and bring layers for unpredictable weather

⭐️ Guest - Charley Bennett from Walks Tours
📝  Show Notes - Episode  147

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #84 - Exploring London's Walks Tours
• Episode #91 - A Taste of London with Devour Tours
• Episode #132 - Top Tips for Visiting London in 2025

Support the show

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

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy.

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

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

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!