UK Travel Planning

London should not feel like a sprint across Zones 1 to 3. In this episode, we share practical, real-world strategies to help you plan London in a way that saves time, protects your energy, and makes the city easier to enjoy. Rather than rushing between scattered attractions, we explain how to plan by areas, make smarter transport choices, and design days that feel calmer and more enjoyable. In thi...

We share a clear, practical plan for designing a realistic UK trip in 2026 . From choosing dates and budget to matching transport with routes, this episode focuses on what actually matters so your itinerary feels calm and doable. We also cover key 2026 dates, booking timelines, UK ETA requirements, and the most common planning mistakes to avoid. In this episode we cover: Dates & expectations:...

We look back on our biggest year yet, highlight the most-loved London and regional episodes, and share what’s coming next. Expect more rail know-how, trusted partner recommendations, deeper dives into London neighbourhoods, and practical tools to help you plan an unrushed UK trip. In this episode: Download milestones and global audience growth Most popular London episodes, including deep dives on...

The lights are up, the markets are humming, and we’re taking a quiet moment to say thank you. This festive check-in is our love letter to the UK travel community that carried us through a milestone year—every listen, share, question, and review made the journey brighter and bolder. We share the simple joys that make a British Christmas feel special: mince pies in a cosy pub, the pop of a cracker a...

Listener Laura Norton returns to share how she turned a dream anniversary trip into reality. From Beatles must-dos in Liverpool and a week based at St Katharine Docks in London to a quick hop to Paris, a powerful D-Day tour in Normandy, and a relaxing voyage home on the Queen Mary 2, Laura breaks down what worked, what she’d tweak, and the tips that saved time and stress. If you are planning a sim...

In Episode 178 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug take you to Liverpool, the vibrant northern city famous for music, football and maritime history.  Discover must-see Beatles landmarks, the Royal Albert Dock, St George’s Hall and more, with insider tips on where to stay, eat and explore. You will hear practical advice on getting there by train, getting around on foot and Merseyrail,...

Following on from last week’s episode, we follow Lauren’s UK sabbatical as it shifts from a teen-led literary road trip to a soulful pilgrimage in  Pembrokeshire and a belated honeymoon through the Brecon Beacons and Cotswolds . From ancient holy wells and monastic islands to bookshop hunts and crowd-beating tips, this episode celebrates slow, meaningful travel across Britain. • Why a pilgrimage a...

This week  on the podcast Tracy chats with listener Lauren Eanes , who turned her family’s shared love of books into a literary-themed UK adventure. From Dickens’ Broadstairs and Winnie-the-Pooh’s Ashdown Forest to Tolkien and Lewis in Oxford and the landscapes of Watership Down , Lauren shares how stories shaped their itinerary - and how she kept her teens engaged along the way. You’ll hear pract...

In this episode, host Tracy Collins is once again joined by Lisa Benjamin from Go Cotswolds to dive deep into Stratford-upon-Avon - the world-renowned birthplace of William Shakespeare and a destination that deserves more than just a day trip. Together they share why Stratford is the perfect place to slow down and stay longer, from scenic riverside walks, rowing and cruises to hidden Royal Shakesp...

In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast , host Tracy Collins is joined by resident train travel expert Doug Collins to share highlights from his six-week rail adventure across the UK. Travelling from London to Scotland and back again, Doug explored major cities, rural stations and some of Britain’s most scenic routes while gathering video content for upcoming YouTube guides. In this episo...

Planning a trip to the UK and want to make the most of every moment? In this episode, Laura shares how she celebrated her 60th birthday with a 15-day journey across England and Scotland, combining solo adventure, accessible travel planning, and plenty of unforgettable experiences. You’ll learn how to:  ✅ Plan a realistic itinerary that balances sightseeing and rest  ✅ Navigate London during busy...

This special episode was originally recorded for the Germany Travel Planning Podcast , where Tracy joined Cate to share insider tips for making the most of a London layover. Turn your short stop in London into a compact yet rewarding adventure. Learn how to plan 24 to 48 hours in the UK capital without feeling rushed, from choosing a central base to making the most of every meal and moment. Discov...

The Night Riviera is one of only two UK sleeper trains, and it might be the most relaxing way to wake up in Cornwall. UK Travel Planning’s rail expert Doug Collins shares his first-hand ride and the small choices that make a big difference to comfort and views. In this episode How to book simply and avoid common pitfalls When to arrive and how lounge access can upgrade your night What berths are r...

London becomes a magical winter wonderland at Christmas, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and iconic decorations. But visiting during the holidays also means closures, no public transport on Christmas Day, and the need to book key experiences well in advance. In this episode, Tracy shares practical tips on: What’s open and closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day How to get a...

Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoothly. Here are just some of the mistakes we discuss: Visiting Edinburgh in August during the Fringe Festival or Military Tattoo without booking accommo...

This week on the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Amy Carpenter from Texas, who shares her unforgettable two-week adventure exploring England with her husband, Mark. Amy takes us through the highlights of their carefully planned itinerary, from the bustling streets of London to the charm of the Cotswolds, iconic castles, and literary landmarks. Highlights included Westmi...

In this episode, guest host Karen interviews Tracy about her favourite London experiences, from afternoon teas and hidden gems to festive traditions and foodie highlights. Highlights include:  • The Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, a historic after-hours ritual  • Afternoon teas with a twist such as Peter Pan at The Shard or the classic Ritz indulgence  • Greenwich’s Painted Hall and t...

Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through Ireland and Northern Ireland • Discovering the surprising beauty of Northern Ireland, including...

In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by her friend Karen for a deep dive into her favourite places in London. Drawing on years of living, working, and exploring the capital, Tracy shares the landmarks, gardens, markets, and quiet corners that she loves most. From must-see icons like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Hampton Court Palace to the vibran...

Michael Goldsmith shares his deeply personal journey across the UK, inspired by his family's connection to the Titanic, and fulfilled through a carefully planned itinerary that combines ship, rail, and coach travel. He explains how research and personalised travel advice helped him create a meaningful trip that connected him with family history and distant relatives. • Taking the Queen Mary I...

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 • Arch...

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...

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 •...

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...

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 o...