Four countries in one, the UK is a land of stately palaces and soaring cathedrals, mellow cities and rural landscapes of vivid green. Add a vibrant modern culture and you have it all
United Kingdom tourism board: United Kingdom
When to go to United Kingdom
Summer (late June-September) brings the warmest weather and least rain – though clouds can appear at any time. Through the summer holidays crowds at popular attractions are largest and accommodation booked out. Travel between late May and mid-July, or again in September and the crowds will have eased.
Spring (March-May) brings flowers and showers, while autumn (late September-November) sees beautiful red and golden tree foliage and soft lighting. Winter is cold and usually damp; there’s some skiing in Scotland but nothing to match Europe's ski resorts.
International airports
Heathrow Airport (LHR) is 24km west of central London. Gatwick Airport (LGW) is 48km south of central London. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is 13km west of the city centre.
Getting around in United Kingdom
Domestic flights with various airlines link major cities. Most large cities have airports, many offering international flights to Europe and further afield.
The UK’s rail service is extensive, with regular trains run by numerous private operators serving most parts of the country; it is, though, expensive – especially when booked on the day of travel. Save money by booking well in advance. Timetables are online at nationalrail.
Comfortable coaches, notably those operated by National Express, cover most of the country; they’re cheaper but slower than trains.
Car hire and fuel are both pricey, though self-drive is the only way to reach some remote areas. Some outlying islands are reached by ferry or helicopter.
United Kingdom accommodation
United Kingdom has the full range of accommodation options, with campsites, budget hostels, B&Bs, guesthouses, and boutique and top-end hotels.
Camping is only really an option in summer – indeed, many campsites close between October and April. Online booking sites usually offer discounts on hotel rates.
United Kingdom food & drink
The UK isn’t historically associated with fine cuisine or wine – but that’s all changed, as national interest in high-quality food soars (as evidenced by countless cooking and dining TV shows).
Classic ‘British’ meals such as fish and chips vary in quality, but the range of international cuisines is unparalleled, especially in larger towns and cities. Indian restaurants, in particular, have overtaken those in their homeland for quality and choice.
A growing wine business has seen award-winning tipples – especially whites – reach shops and tables. Most vineyards are in the south, where the climate is kinder. Cider and beer are the traditional brews; real ales (beers) are seeing a resurgence.
Health & safety in United Kingdom
The UK is a healthy destination. Water is almost always safe to drink from the tap, there are few insect- or water-borne diseases, and only one (mildly) venomous animal, the adder (a kind of viper), is shy and rarely seen.
Visitors from countries that drive on the right will soon notice that in the UK traffic drives on the left. In a car, the difference is instinctive, but this can pose a danger to unwary pedestrians: look both ways before crossing a road.
In busy areas of large towns it pays to hold on tightly to purse or wallet and keep your wits about you. Even the biggest cities are safe compared with many global metropolises but can get rowdy late on weekend nights.