The beautiful and historic North East England offers visitors dramatic scenery, centuries of history, and friendly locals in a region filled with special places to explore.

• North East England includes the stunning Northumberland coast, Newcastle, Durham, Hadrian's Wall and Holy Island
• Alex Iles of Iles Tours brings the region's past to life through storytelling and archaeology
• Archaeological findings reveal that Hadrian's Wall wasn't just a barrier but facilitated trade and cultural exchange
• The ancient Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria covered a vast territory from Liverpool to the Scottish borders
• Northumberland has more castles than any other English county due to 300 years of border warfare
• The North East was once a major coal-producing region, generating 19% of Britain's coal in Victorian times
• Alex offers various tour options including Roman history, Anglo-Saxon heritage, prehistoric sites and medieval castles
• Tours can be customized for different accessibility needs and interests
• The east coast of Britain is surprisingly dry but often windy – bring appropriate layers
• Summer visitors benefit from extended daylight hours with light from 5am until 10pm

Listeners of the UK Travel Planning Podcast can receive a 10% discount on Iles Tours by using the code UKTP10 when booking directly through the website www.ilestours.co.uk or via email (for tours in 2025).

⭐️ Guest - Alex Iles from Iles Tours
📝  Show Notes - Episode  163

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #156 - Trip Report: Train Journeys, Coastal Towns, + Hidden Gems with Deb Harsen
• Episode #117 - Discover Country Durham: Scenic Landscapes, Castles, and Cultural Sites with guest Michelle Gorman
• Episode #39 - Explore Northumberland with Marc of Northumberland 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
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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 ...

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 before
• South Wales offered castle ruins like Coity Castle nestled in residential neighbourhoods
• Cornwall highlights included Tintagel Castle, VE Day commemorations in Plymouth, and ancient stone circles on Bodmin Moor
• The Jurassic Coast provided beautiful walks with Abbotsbury Tropical Gardens being a surprising find
• East Anglia adventures featured Cambridge punting, Norwich Cathedral, and Roman ruins at Caister-on-Sea
• London was best approached by train from their base in Virginia Water, with Black Cab tours and rock music walking tours
• Favourite food experiences included regional variations of fish and chips, Cornish pasties, and scotch eggs
• Driving on the left side in a compact Fiat 500 proved easier than expected and perfect for navigating narrow country roads
• Having a flexible itinerary with "possibilities" rather than strict schedules allowed for spontaneous discoveries
• Connections with locals in pubs and villages added depth and authentic experiences to their journey

⭐️ Guest - Merry and Chris Paxton
📝 Show Notes - Episode 162 

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 82 – Trip Report with Tanya Munro [Insider Tips, Memorable Moments, and Unexpected Discoveries]
• Episode 138 – Exploring London’s Iconic Sights with Discover Real London’s Black Cab Tours
• Episode 44 – Coasting Around Cornwall: Tales and Tips from our 7-Day Road Trip Adventure

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 ...

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 dates
• Not planning meals – research restaurants near attractions to avoid wasting time when hungry
• Confusion about tipping – check if service charge is included and remember it's not expected everywhere
• Misunderstanding transport – download TfL Go or Citymapper apps to find the quickest routes
• Wearing uncomfortable shoes – prioritise comfort for London's extensive walking
• Staying too far from central London – zones 1-2 locations save time and sometimes money
• Missing lesser-known attractions – explore hidden gems like Shad Thames and St Dunstan's
• Not checking opening hours – many attractions close certain days or have limited hours
• Ignoring jet lag – keep your arrival day light and consider pre-booking your room from the night before
• Letting your guard down – stay vigilant in crowded areas and secure your belongings
• Skipping guided tours – local guides provide insights you can't get on your own

If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review or share it with friends planning a trip to London. Visit our website for all the resources mentioned today.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 161

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #132 – London 2025: 12 Essential Tips for Planning Your Perfect Trip
• Episode #148 – Navigating London Safely: Essential Tips for Visitors
• Episode #105 – Top 10 London Experiences: Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Adventure

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 ...

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 built in 1405
• Boasts award-winning restaurants and reputedly one of England's oldest pubs, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
• Birthplace of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) with exceptional independent pubs
• Hosts numerous festivals throughout the year celebrating its Roman and medieval heritage
• Winner of Best Large Outdoor Market in Britain 2024
• Features an Art Deco cinema restored through community donations
• Perfect for history lovers with connections to the War of the Roses and famous historical figures

For more information, visit enjoystalbans.com or follow Enjoy St Albans on Instagram and Facebook.

⭐️ Guest - Vivien Cannon, Manager of St Albans City Centre BID
📝 Show Notes - Episode 160

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #96 - Easy day trips from London by train (Part 1)
• Episode #97 - Easy day trips from London by train (Part 2)
• Episode #46 – Discovering the Magic: A Guide to Visiting Warner Bros Harry Potter Studios in London

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 ...

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 to Jane Austen connections and delicious local dining, we share practical travel advice, insider tips, and insights to help you make the most of your trip. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to see more, join us as we explore what makes Bath such a special, relaxing, and memorable destination.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 159

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #96 - Easy day trips from London by train (Part 1)
• Episode #97 - Easy day trips from London by train (Part 2)
• Episode #136 - Unveiling the Cotswolds: Top Experiences and Insider Tips

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 ...

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 assistance and access to records not available online
• Balance your itinerary between genealogy research, sightseeing, and necessary downtime
• Consider becoming a member of historical societies in ancestral locations to deepen your connections
• Book essential experiences like the Caledonian Sleeper train and Edinburgh Castle early access tours well in advance
• Be prepared for emotional moments when standing where ancestors once stood
• Reach out to potential distant relatives before travelling – you may end up meeting family you never knew existed
• Visit museums that show period-appropriate homes to understand how ancestors lived
• Remember that you are an ambassador for your home country – bring your best self along with your luggage

If you're dreaming of turning your family tree into a travel route, start your research now and be open to the serendipitous connections that often arise when travelling with a genealogical focus.

⭐️ Guest - Rita Fox
📝 Show Notes - Episode 158

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #127 - Solo Travel in London
• Episode # 103 - From Lands End to John O'Groats
• Episode # 98 - From Liverpool to London and beyond

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 ...

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 least 24 hours in advance when needed
• Overlooking different ticket types and railcards that could provide significant savings
• Arriving at stations without enough time to navigate, find platforms, and board comfortably
• Failing to reserve seats on long-distance journeys, risking standing for hours
• Not using helpful apps like National Rail Enquiries to track real-time train information
• Forgetting to plan for food and drink when catering services may be limited
• Losing track of belongings in busy station environments
• Relying on onboard Wi-Fi which can be patchy, especially at high speeds
• Not planning the onward journey from arrival stations to final destinations
• Missing opportunities to explore scenic alternative routes between destinations
• Not allowing enough time for connections between trains
• Booking international flights on the same day as long-distance UK train journeys

For more help planning your UK train adventure, check out Doug's "Guide to UK Train Travel" ebook or book a personalised itinerary consultation.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 157

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #151 - Essential UK Train Travel Tips + Q&A
• Episode #145 - Exploring Scotland by Train: Edinburgh to Inverness by train
• Episode #43 - Unravelling the mysteries of train travel in the UK

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 ...

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]

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 ...

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)

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 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

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 ...