United Kingdom tours & vacations

The best time to visit the UK really depends on what you want to see and do, but generally, late spring to early fall (April to October) is the best time to experience everything on offer – especially if you’re keen on outdoor adventures. 

The summer (June to August) is the best time to hit the hiking trails in Scotland, explore Wales’ and southern England’s gorgeous coastlines or go island hopping around Orkney. While there’s no guarantee of a hot, sunny summer, the weather is mild and fairly dry, and the extended daylight hours give you ample time outdoors. There are also many festivals throughout the country, from food and music to the iconic Edinburgh Fringe. 

The weather in spring (March to June) and fall (September to November) can be unpredictable, but the days are still long enough to enjoy the UK’s diverse scenery. 

Winter (December to February) brings short days, grey skies and chilly nighttime temperatures. Snow is possible, particularly in the northeast, though it doesn’t usually stick for long at lower elevations. Despite the gloomier weather, winter is a great time to experience the UK’s thriving pub culture, visit museums and galleries or visit one of the many festive markets around the country.

The United Kingdom was formed in 1707 with the political union of England and Scotland (Wales was already incorporated under the Kingdom of England)). In 1801, the Act of Union with Ireland established the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. The Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 saw the creation of the Irish Free State, with Northern Ireland choosing to remain part of the UK in 1922. 

Under Queen Victoria's long reign, the 19th century saw the rapid expansion of the British Empire. Notable events included wars with France, colonization of the Caribbean, Australia, Canada, India and parts of Asia and Africa; the Industrial Revolution, and the abolition of slavery in the empire.

The devastations of the World Wars in the 20th century shattered the country’s population and economy. It also saw the dissolution of the British Empire, with independence being sought and won in India in 1947. By the 1980s, Britain had withdrawn from most colonies, with Hong Kong’s transfer to China in 1997 marking its end.

UK culture is a blend of influences from each of its nations. English is the official language, along with Welsh, which remains the first language for many people in Wales. Efforts to revive Irish and Scottish Gaelic are ongoing, though a growing percentage of the population speaks these languages today. 

Other shared traditions include folk music, sports (particularly football and rugby), the pub, discussing the weather (on any occasion, but especially over a cup of tea), and Sunday roasts. Brits are also known for their dry humor, love of orderliness (and queues), politeness and manners. 

The UK consists of two main islands – Great Britain and the northeastern part of the island of Ireland – along with numerous smaller islands.

England features lowlands, rolling hills and plains with notable upland areas like the Pennines and the Cotswolds. To the west of England is Wales, which has several mountainous regions including Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons, lush valleys and a scenic coastline along the Irish Sea and Bristol Channel.

Up north in Scotland, the landscape becomes more rugged with the Highlands, the UK's tallest peak, lochs (lakes) and many islands including the Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland.

Northern Ireland is characterized by hills, valleys, moorlands, glens and a stunning coastline that features the legendary basalt columns of Giant's Causeway.

Must-visit places in the UK

1. Edinburgh

The atmospheric city of Edinburgh is steeped in history. Wander the medieval Old Town, walk the famous Royal Mile and step back in time at Edinburgh Castle which looms over the city. Then, check out one of the city’s many pubs hidden within the cobbled streets for a whisky (or two). 

2. Loch Ness

Go searching for ‘Nessie’, the fabled monster who lives in Loch Ness. Nestled in the Highlands near Inverness and surrounded by rolling glens, the usually misty waters of this lake will captivate you even if you don’t catch a glimpse of the creature who supposedly lives in it.

3. Isle of Iona

The gorgeous Isle of Iona is set in the Inner Hebrides off the West Coast of Scotland. Discover beautiful coastlines, abundant scenery, heaps of wildlife and fascinating historical sites, including the grave of Macbeth. 

4. Giant’s Causeway

Home to roughly 40,000 basalt columns that have inspired artists and storytellers for centuries, these formations result from an ancient volcanic eruption or a legendary conflict between rival giants. We’ll let you decide. 

5. Belfast 

Cosmopolitan Belfast has a rich history, a vibrant nightlife and a thriving arts culture, especially in Cathedral Quarter where you'll find theatres, galleries, bars and live music. 

6. Hadrian’s Wall

Dive headfirst into Roman history along Hadrian's Wall. Spanning 118km from coast to coast across the north of England, this historic spectacle is littered with artifacts, stories and secrets of the once-Roman province of Britannia.

Top foods to try in the UK 

1. Roast dinner

An establishment in households and pubs all over the UK, a Sunday roast is as British as food gets. The highlight is roast meat (usually chicken, beef or lamb), served with crispy-on-the-outside but soft-in-the-middle potatoes, roast vegetables, stuffing, a Yorkshire pudding and plenty of gravy.  

2. Fish and chips

Another nationwide favorite, this dish of battered fish, chunky chips and mushy peas tastes best when eaten straight from the paper bag on the beach. Do like the locals and ask for a large splattering of malt vinegar and ketchup. 

3. Bangers and mash

What’s a ‘banger’, we hear you ask. This much-loved dish comprises pork sausages layered over creamy mashed potato topped generously with onion gravy. 

4. Cooked breakfast

Nicknamed a ‘fry up’, this cooked breakfast can be eaten at any time of day. But we warned: it's filling! It consists of fried sausages, bacon, hash browns, mushroom, baked beans, tomato and eggs – plus a side of toast and a pot of tea for good measure. 

5. Scotch egg

A snack that keeps on giving, a scotch egg is a soft-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, dipped in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden. It's eaten cold at picnics or served hot with relish, chutney and chips.

Credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted across the UK. Most shops also accept contactless payments, though it’s handy to carry cash for everyday purchases. 

ATMs are very common in the UK, so finding one in a city or town shouldn't be a problem.