Planning a trip to the UK can feel overwhelming, but that’s exactly why I created these itineraries and planning guides. Since moving to the United Kingdom in 2021, I’ve been exploring as much as possible.
I’m in London regularly and have traveled to iconic cities and lesser-known corners you might otherwise miss. These guides are designed to help you plan a trip that actually works, especially if you’re visiting from the US.
My Most Popular Itineraries
More Itineraries and UK Travel Guides
Multi-Day Itineraries
- 7 Day Scotland Itinerary
- 7 Day London Itinerary
- 7 Day London and Edinburgh Itinerary
- 5 Day Cornwall Itinerary: Castles, Cliffs, and Hidden Villages
- Customizable London Itinerary: 1-5 Days
- 3 Days in the Cotswolds Itinerary
- 2 Days in Edinburgh
- 2 Days in York England
Day Trips
- 10 Best Day Trips From London
- 14 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh
- Windsor Castle Day Trip From London
- Brighton Day Trip From London
- Oxford Day Trip From London
- Bath Day Trip From London
- English Castle Day Trips From London
Travel Guides
- How to Use the London Underground
- 20 Best Souvenirs From England
- London to Edinburgh Train Guide
- American Guide to Driving in the UK
- How to Rent a Car in the UK: Step by Step Guide
- Best Travel Apps for Europe and the UK
- 5 Reasons Why Hiking is Better in the UK
- How to Plan a Walking Holiday in England
Tips for Americans Planning a UK Trip
1. Don’t Try to See Everything in One Trip
The UK looks small on a map, but there’s a lot to explore and it takes time to move around. Focus on 2 regions max (e.g., London + Cotswolds) rather than rushing through the entire country.
2. Use Trains for City-to-City Travel
The UK rail network is not hard to use and is often faster than driving between major destinations. If you’re planning to visit cities primarily, such as London and Edinburgh, trains are the easiest and most efficient way to travel. Look into advance tickets for savings.
3. Rent a Car (or Book a Tour) for Rural Areas
Public transport works well in cities, but places like Cornwall or the Scottish Highlands are much easier to explore by car. You can reach several day trip destinations like Oxford or Bath by train. More remote attractions can also be experienced without driving by joining a small group tour.
4. Book Popular Attractions Early
Popular sites like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, or Edinburgh Castle often require advance tickets, especially in high season.
5. Expect Smaller Hotel Rooms
UK hotel rooms are often more compact than American ones. Families and groups should look for aparthotels or vacation homes to ensure you have enough space for everyone.