Exploring the UK is like stepping into the pages of a fairytale. From endless green countryside to cobbled city streets, the landscapes are endless. And with a little thought and planning, you can enjoy the holiday of a lifetime – without the hefty price tag!
Whether you’ve been around and visited multiple places or haven’t ventured much further than your hometown, there are ways to minimize costs while still having an amazing UK trip.
Choosing Your Destination
Picking a location for your first trip to the UK is exciting but also slightly nerve-wracking. There’s the pull of pulsing London, with its Big Ben and the Tower of London. The journey always gets better travelling further up north. York and Edinburgh are dotted with imposing castles and charming, cobbled lanes.
If this sounds a little too much, perhaps you want to visit the calm waters of the Lake District or the villages of the Cotswolds. Each place has its own brand of beauty. Just go where your heart pulls you the most.
Timing It Right
Off-peak travel can save you cash and keep you away from the crowds. The milder temperatures and lower hotel prices of shoulder seasons in spring and late autumn make off-peak travelling more comfortable and affordable. There’s also more choice when it comes to accommodation.
The UK can feel like a more interesting and authentic travel destination during quieter times of the year. Imagine walking into a cosy pub with hardly anyone else in it, or exploring the UK countryside on a tranquil nature walk.
Staying on a Budget
Saving money doesn’t have to make you miss out on all the best bits. Hostels, budget hotels, and home-share accommodation are great ways to save on paying for a hotel room. Buy local produce to cook for yourself instead of eating out, or have a picnic and enjoy the local specialities.
City passes can include a selection of attractions at a reduced rate. You can also gain complimentary access to lots of museums and galleries, particularly those that are managed by local councils or charities rather than commercial operators.
Travelling by Rail
Exploring the UK by train is a timeless tradition. You get to look at beautiful views without driving, and you can access parts of the country that are hard to reach by road.
There are some clever hacks to squeeze even more value out of your journey. Split tickets will help you save money. With the help of sites like Split My Fare, you can opt to buy more than one ticket for one route; it can be cheaper than the standard tickets.
Capture the Experience
Don’t forget to also set aside time for any impromptu activities, such as a call into a farmer’s market on the way, or an event or festival that could be happening. All of this, coupled with a few photos, a travel journal or some footage, will leave you with some wonderful memories to look back on.
Making It Work for You
Travelling in the UK is all about balancing comfort and adventure. With a little effort and patience, an average budget can bring you experiences from a fast-paced city break to a content countryside retreat.
Now start packing that suitcase, create your perfect itinerary, and make memories for a lifetime. When you choose to make a few smart decisions along the way you’ll see: travel around the UK does not have to be expensive, you have to do it the right way!