The UK Travel Planning Podcast is full of practical tips and advice to help you plan your dream trip to the UK whether you are visiting England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Travel expert Tracy Collins shares years of knowledge and experience of travelling to, and around, the UK to help you plan your UK itinerary.
Listen to special guest interviews full of travel inspiration and practical tips for popular and off the beaten path destinations. Learn more about the best ways to travel around the UK (including by train), about British culture and history and much more!
Tune in and let us help you plan your perfect UK itinerary with all the places and experiences you have been dreaming of. UK Travel Planning - helping YOU plan YOUR perfect UK vacation.
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Visiting the Lake District? What to Know Before You Go
Episode 221
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 • Duration 41:02
The Lake District looks compact on a map, but valleys, passes and narrow lanes turn "nearby" into a proper journey. Briony Wilson from Mountain Goat Tours in Windermere, a Lakes local of more than 20 years, shares how to get there by train, whether you need a car, how many nights to plan and where to base yourself.
Where the Lakes sit: 90 minutes from Manchester, three hours from London by train
Why the scale catches first-time visitors out
Arriving by train via Oxenholme to Windermere
Getting around by bus, cruise and tours
Parking, narrow lanes and steep passes: when a car is more hassle than help
Mountain Goat tours for first-timers: Ten Lakes, Six Lakes and Beatrix Potter
How many nights to plan: two minimum, three or four if you can
Choosing a base: Windermere, Bowness, Ambleside, Keswick or Kendal
On the water: Windermere, Ullswater, Derwentwater, Buttermere and Coniston
Literary stops: Dove Cottage, Hill Top and Swallows and Amazons country
Gentle walks: Orrest Head, Tarn Hows, Aira Force and Miles Without Stiles
Quickfire picks: sticky toffee pudding, Blea Tarn and Kendal Mint Cake
Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...
Where to Stay in London: 12 Best Areas Compared
Episode 220
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 • Duration 37:52
We break London down into 12 areas so you can choose a neighbourhood that matches your plans, your budget and the kind of trip you want. Doug and I share which area suits each of us, the pros and cons of each one, and three things to check on a hotel listing before you book.
In this episode: - Covent Garden, Charing Cross and Trafalgar Square: a top pick for first-time visitors who want theatres, restaurants and sights within walking distance - Tower Bridge and the City of London: beside the river, steeped in history and much quieter once the office workers go home - South Bank, Bankside, Southwark and Waterloo: riverside walks, the Christmas market and easy day trips from Waterloo station - South Kensington, Knightsbridge, Belgravia and Chelsea: free museums, great for families and close to Hyde Park, with prices to match - Greenwich: a village feel, maritime history and an easy trip back by DLR, train or Uber Boat - Shoreditch and Spitalfields: markets, street art, some of the best food in London and late nights - Camden and King's Cross: three train stations, the Eurostar and a wide range of accommodation - Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia: a calmer central stay near the British Museum, and what to check in townhouse hotels - Mayfair, Marylebone and Oxford Street: special occasions, shopping and Chiltern line trains, and why I would not stay on Oxford Street itself - Westminster and St James's: Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and St James's Park on the doorstep - Soho: for theatre lovers who want to walk back after the show, with noise to consider - Notting Hill and Little Venice: pretty streets, photos and the canal, a little removed from the main sights - Three checks before you book: a lift, air conditioning in summer, and room and bed size
You'll find our full guide to all 12 areas, with hotel picks at three budgets and a map, at londontravelplanning.com.
Everything is linked in the show notes at https://uktravelplanning.com/episode-220/, along with Episode 68 on how to choose your area and our .If you have a question, leave us a voice message on SpeakPipe.
London in October 2026: What's On + Travel Tips
Thursday, September 24, 2026 • Duration 31:09
October in London feels cosy, colourful and much easier to enjoy when you plan around the rain, the shorter days and the half-term rush. This is the second episode of our monthly London bonus series from London Travel Planning, where we look ahead each month at what is on, what to book, and what will sell out before you get there.
This episode is sponsored by WalksDevour, and I am joined again by Charley Sullivan from their London team.
Everything you need to know if you are visiting London in October 2026, from the weather to the tickets to book now for Christmas.
* October weather: highs around 16°C (61°F), lows around 10°C (50°F), and rain on roughly one day in three * Daylight and the clocks: shorter afternoons, and the clocks go back on Sunday 25 October * Half term (26 to 30 October): what it means for the Tower and the Abbey, and the quieter times to visit * What to pack: a fold-up waterproof, comfy shoes and plenty of layers * Autumn leaves: St Dunstan in the East, Little Venice, Greenwich Park, Richmond Park and Crystal Palace Park * Halloween at the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Kew, plus Charley's picks * Exhibitions and theatre: Wildlife Photographer of the Year, Frida at Tate Modern, the David Bowie Centre and The Lives of Others with Keira Knightley * Diwali on the Square and the three NFL games in London * Book now: Christmas at Kew, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland and Bonfire Night at Alexandra Palace * Sold out for 2026: the Bayeux Tapestry and Her Life in Style, and the dates for 2027 tickets * Ceremony of the Keys: how to still go this October with the VIP WalksDevour evening * October's most booked tour: Tastes, Tales and Traditional Ales * Tour of the month: the new Express Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace tour, and who it suits* Your questions: visiting in half-term week, and the Changing of the Guard in October* A quick note: the regular Changing of the Guard runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Sundays have a separate Sunday Parade, so check the Household Division calendar before you goEXCLUSIVE LISTENER OFFER: 5% off WalksDevour tours with code LTP5. Book before midnight UK time on Thursday 8 October 2026, valid on any tour departing to the end of 2026.👉
York Travel Guide - What to know before you visit
Episode 219
Tuesday, September 22, 2026 • Duration 45:04
Many people give York a day and leave wishing they had stayed longer. York local Sinead from York Travel Expert joins Tracy in the next episode of our Before You Visit series, covering what to know before a first trip: how to get there, where to stay, what to book, and when not to go.
Where York is: two hours from London King's Cross by direct train, roughly halfway to Edinburgh
Why you do not need a car: cobbles, snickelways and a walled centre you can cross in 15 minutes
Park and ride at £4 return against £15 to £20 a day to park in the city
Accessibility: the one step-free way onto the walls, Jorvik's one wheelchair at a time rule, wheelchair hire and accessible toilets
How long to stay: 2 to 3 days for the city, 6 or 7 to add the Dales, the Moors and the coast
Inside or outside the walls: character and Minster bells against lifts and parking
York Minster: what the £20 ticket includes, the free guided tours, the £6 tower climb and the best stretch of wall for views
One day in York: the Minster first, the Shambles early or late, and which museum to choose
What most visitors miss: Treasurer's House, Holy Trinity on Goodramgate and the riverside walk
Day trips: Castle Howard, Whitby, Harrogate, Knaresborough and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
When not to book: race days, Residents Weekend in late January and Christmas market crowds
The one thing to book before you go: afternoon tea with a Minster view
Listener discounts Mountain Goat (small group tours from York and the Lake District): code UKTRAV10 for 10% off York Travel Expert (Sinead's guide to York)
Planning a trip to York and still have a question? Leave Tracy a voice message on SpeakPipe, and she will pass it on to Sinead. Know someone adding York to their UK itinerary? Send this episode their way, and a review helps other travellers find the show.
UK Train Travel: West Highland Line Scotland Full Guide
Episode 218
Tuesday, September 15, 2026 • Duration 33:23
The West Highland Line is the kind of train journey you plan a whole trip around. Tracy and Doug take you from Glasgow Queen Street into the Scottish Highlands and explain how the route works in real life: where it splits at Crianlarich, whether to choose Oban, Fort William or the full run to Mallaig, which side of the train to sit on, and how the Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail services and the Jacobite steam train fit into a plan.
Where the West Highland Line starts and ends, and why it has two very different ends
How the train divides at Crianlarich, and why you will not end up in the wrong portion
Glasgow to Loch Lomond: when the commuter belt gives way to the Highlands
Crianlarich to Fort William highlights: Rannoch Moor, Corrour and the approach to Ben Nevis
Fort William to Mallaig: the Glenfinnan Viaduct, lochs, white beaches and island views
Mallaig or Oban: overnight stay, quick turnaround, or gateway to Skye, Mull and Iona
Which side of the train to sit on, and why it is not worth stressing over
Caledonian Sleeper Highlander: sleeper up, daytime back
Jacobite steam train versus the regular ScotRail service on the same route
Tickets, Railcards and the BritRail Pass, and why a return is good value
Seat reservations, Wi-Fi, catering and luggage: what to expect on board
Doing the full route in a day, and why daylight hours matter
Accessibility: step-free stations and Passenger Assist
If you have a question about train travel in the UK, leave us a message via SpeakPipe or drop us an email.
Want a UK autumn trip that feels more atmospheric and less frantic? In part two of our autumn special we travel from the far north of Scotland to London to find out why autumn might be the most rewarding time to explore, from dark skies and quieter roads to cosy streets and early festive sparkle.
Sally-Ann from North Coast Explorer Tours and Charley and Becki from WalksDevour Tours share practical planning tips, the best places to look for seasonal magic, and how to make the most of shorter days without feeling rushed.
The far north of Scotland's autumn mood: quieter roads and better value hotel prices as the season shifts
Realistic Northern Lights chances, where to look, and why the dark skies are worth the trip anyway
Autumn colour without forests: heather, layered landscapes and morning mists over the lochs
Where to see the deer rut, and safe driving advice at dusk and in low light
How to plan your days around shorter daylight hours in October and November
London's post summer rhythm, cosy streets, and why the parks are underrated for autumn colour
Theatre, museums, galleries and tours that suit cooler weather and lighter crowds
Autumn evenings done well: canal walks, gas lamps, bookshops and fireside pubs
When London's Christmas lights and markets switch on, and why late November can beat December
If autumn is in your plans, we'd love to hear where you're heading, so send us a message via SpeakPipe (link below), and if you've enjoyed this two-part special please share it with someone planning their own UK trip.
A quick review on your favourite podcast app helps other travellers find us too.
Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
Visiting England in Autumn: Lake District, Cotswolds and Devon
Episode 216
Tuesday, September 1, 2026 • Duration 48:15
Golden woodlands, quiet villages and cosy pubs. Autumn in the UK has a magic you do not get in high summer. In part one of our two part autumn special, three local experts share what really changes across September, October and November in the Lake District, the Cotswolds and Devon.
Lake District autumn colour hotspots including Tarn Hows and Wastwater
How September, October and November differ for weather, light and atmosphere
Walk ideas for non hikers and why low-level routes often win in autumn
Mountain Goat tours running through autumn, including the September-only Mountain Passes tour
The Cotswolds in the quieter months and why market towns suit autumn travel
Best timing for Cotswolds autumn colour, plus Hidcote and Batsford Arboretum
Harvest farm shops, local produce and Bonfire Night fireworks
Go Cotswolds autumn favourites, Oxford departures and the Bath Christmas market dates
Devon's tree tunnels, woodland colour and wildlife on Dartmoor and Exmoor
Cider, apple orchards, top farm shops and the rise of English vineyards
What stays open through autumn and when visitor hours start to shorten
Part two lands next week with the far north of Scotland and London.
If autumn is in your plans, send us a message via SpeakPipe and tell us where you are heading, and do share this with anyone planning a UK trip. Reviews help other travellers find the podcast.
We also write a free weekly newsletter, The Great British Trip, every Saturday morning:
London in September 2026: What's On + Travel Tips
Thursday, August 27, 2026 • Duration 48:17
September in London feels calmer, brighter and more walkable once the school holiday rush fades. This is the first episode of our monthly London bonus series from London Travel Planning, looking ahead each month at what is on, what to book and what will sell out before you get there.
This episode is sponsored by WalksDevour, and I am joined by Charley Sullivan from their London team.
Everything you need to know if you are visiting London in September 2026, from the weather to the tickets that sell out first.
September crowds: what changes once the school holidays end
Weather and packing: highs of 19 to 20°C, lows of 12 to 13°C, and why layers win
Daylight hours: 13.5 at the start of the month, 11.5 by the end
Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum: sold out, and how to get tickets for 2027
British Museum membership: what it costs and what priority booking gets you
Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, extended to April 2027
Buckingham Palace State Rooms: the last month of the year they are open
Ceremony of the Keys: a rare photo-free experience, and how to visit with the VIP WalksDevour option
Free and quirky: Totally Thames, Open House Festival and the Southwark Bridge sheep drive
London Fashion Week and the Last Night of the Proms
UK ETA: what it costs, when to apply and which sites to avoid
Tour of the month: London in a Day, plus private options and accessibility
Correction: the Sheep Drive is on Sunday 27 September 2026, not October as mentioned in the episode
EXCLUSIVE LISTENER OFFER: 5% off WalksDevour tours with code UKTP5. Book before midnight UK time on 10 September 2026, valid on any tour departing to the end of 2026. 👉 Book with WalksDevour here
Walking Land's End to Bath: A UK Trip Report
Episode 215
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 • Duration 55:20
Catherine joins us to share what it is really like to walk 420 kilometres (260 miles) from Land's End to Bath over three weeks, and why the UK makes long-distance walking surprisingly doable, even if you are not an ultra-hiker.
Choosing Land's End to Bath as the first leg of a Land's End to John o'Groats dream
Booking through a specialist company: one-night stays and luggage transfers made easy
The 20 kg luggage limit and how to pack for it
Taking the Night Riviera sleeper train from Paddington to Penzance
Spring timing to beat the Cornwall crowds
A typical walking day, from breakfast to bags downstairs by 8
South West Coast Path highlights: St Ives, Padstow, Port Isaac and Clovelly
Tintagel, Glastonbury and Wells: detours worth rearranging plans for
Perranporth at sunset and the Watering Hole on the beach
Handling tough days: rethinking mileage and using local buses to skip sections
Gear that earns its place: layers, waterproofs and walking poles to save your knees
Finishing at Bath Abbey and celebrating at Thermae Bath Spa
If this episode has you dreaming of swapping four wheels for two feet, please subscribe, share it with a friend who loves walking holidays, and leave a quick review on your favourite podcast app. We also write a free weekly newsletter, The Great British Trip, which lands every Saturday morning with inspiration, practical tips and train travel advice for your UK trip.
Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
London Travel Planning - 10 Questions Visitors Always Ask
Episode 214
Tuesday, August 18, 2026 • Duration 42:28
How many days do you actually need? What should you budget? And what is the fastest way in from Heathrow? Tracy and Doug answer the 10 questions listeners ask most about visiting London, with the numbers and the reasoning behind each one.
- How many days: why 4 to 5 is the first-timer sweet spot - When to go: the months we avoid, and why April catches people out - Getting around: zones, the £8.90 daily cap, Oyster versus contactless - Heathrow into London: Elizabeth line, Piccadilly line or the 15 minute Express - UK ETA: £20, two years, and the fake sites charging ten times that - Dual citizens: what you need to know if you are planning a UK trip - Budgeting: what to allow per person, and where it really goes - Food hacks: supermarket meal deals, explained for visitors - Day trips: Jane Austen's House by train, and Bath from Paddington - Where to stay: the Tube station rule that beats picking a postcode - Free London: which major museums and galleries cost nothing - Where to eat: Roast at Borough Market, Pick & Cheese, Cafe in the Crypt
Plus two new things from us: London Trip Quick Answers, a 30 minute live Zoom where you bring your specific trip questions to Tracy and Doug, and a new bonus episode on the last Thursday of every month covering what is on in London the month ahead.
Got a London question we did not cover? Send it to us on SpeakPipe. Please share this episode with anyone planning a UK trip, and if you enjoy the show a review really helps more travellers find us. We also write a free weekly newsletter, The Great British Trip, available on Substack every Saturday morning.
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 it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
If you know someone planning a trip to London, please share this episode with them, and leave a review in your podcast app to help other travellers find the show.
Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
Do you have a question about visiting London? Leave us a message on SpeakPipe, and I will answer it in the next bonus episode, London in November, on 29 October.
Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...
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 it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary.
See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off.
Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.
Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...
Do you have a question about visiting London or about the WalksDevour tours? Leave us a message on SpeakPipe, and we will put it to Charley in the next bonus episode on 24 September.
