Best time to visit the UK
As with all countries, the best time to visit the UK or take a staycation here highly depends on what you want to do. The weather in most of the country is mild and wet year-round although the south tends to get the bulk of the warmer and sunnier weather, while the north experiences more cold, wet weather in general.
The Peak District and Lake District are renowned for their tendency for rain, while most of the west coast of the UK (north and south) is more prone to wind – making it popular for surfing. If you come in winter, your chances of catching snowfall are variable in most of the country. In the south, the Cotswolds and Oxfordshire are most likely to get a dusting, and visitors can enjoy this picturesque scenery by staying in one of the many charming hotels in the Cotswolds. These accommodations range from luxurious country houses to cosy, family-run inns, offering a perfect retreat amidst the rolling hills and historic villages of this quintessentially English region. However, in Scotland, you’re almost guaranteed some snow and quite dramatic weather in the winter season, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a winter wonderland experience on their holidays to Scotland.
Needless to say, the most popular times to visit this coast-focused country are late spring and summer for a good old summer seaside holiday. This is when prices and crowds in coastal towns hit their peak, but often when the beaches are at their best. Surfers and watersports fans, or coast-path walkers, might prefer to visit in the shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, to avoid the crowds and experience beautiful scenery. If you’re here on a city break, you can really pick your season – if you’re not planning on being outside much, opt for early spring or winter to miss the peak prices.
Pre-Christmas, cities see another spike in popularity (and price) as people head in for parties, shows, and Christmas shopping, making it a prime time for London city breaks. Over the main Christmas days, London is surprisingly quiet, although many attractions are closed, which can be a unique experience for those on London holidays. Conversely, countryside cottages are very popular at this time, as people convene with their families in quaint locations like the Cotswolds or Wales, adding a traditional charm to their Wales holidays.
Remember, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have slightly different weather from England. Wales and Northern Ireland are wetter year-round (it’s what makes them so lush and green), while Scotland is more rugged and dramatic. It gets more snow, more severe wind and storms, and has a midge (small mosquito) season from mid-May to September. They’re not dangerous, just a little pesky.
How to get to the UK
If you’re travelling to the UK from abroad, one of the most popular ways to arrive is to fly. If you’re heading directly to Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales, this might be your most-efficient option. There are numerous major airports in the UK serving most global destinations. You could fly directly into your city – Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, London, etc. – and begin your holiday right away.
For a lower-carbon option, why not take the train? The Eurostar is a fantastic way to reach England from the mainland and you’ll disembark right in the centre of London, in St Pancras International station. You could also drive from mainland Europe via the Eurotunnel and disembark in Kent, on the southeast coast of England. You can also get to England this way on a coach, which will usually finish its journey at Victoria Coach Station – in the heart of London. The final popular way to reach the UK is via ferry. You have more choices of routes here, so if you’re not heading to London, this could be the best option. You can take a ferry from Rotterdam straight to Hull, for example, or France to Dover, or from France or Spain to Portsmouth, landing right on the south coast.
Getting around the UK
Once you arrive in the UK, you need to choose how you’ll be getting around.
Train
If you’re taking a city break or travelling between two cities, train is definitely your best option. Most major towns are connected by train, so even if you’re heading for a seaside break in Cornwall or into the Peaks or Lake District, you can still reach your destination by train. Especially if you’re travelling long distances by train, it’s a good idea to book in advance to get the best prices. There are some really scenic train routes in the UK too. For example, in Scotland, you can take a train right along the coastline and over the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which is made famous by the Harry Potter movies. You could take one of the country’s steam trains, for example, through the picturesque southern village of Corfe, or ride the world-famous one-third-size ‘miniature’ railway – the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway.
Coach
A coach is a budget option for long-distance travel. There are several major coach operators in the UK (such as National Express) running routes between major cities. They’re quite slow, but much cheaper than a train ticket.
Car
Car hire is certainly the easiest option if you’re carrying a lot of gear – perhaps outdoor gear, bikes or boards, or even just holidaying with a baby. It’s also the easiest option for exploring deep into the countryside or along the coast, as you’re not beholden to train times, and you can access places that don’t have a train connection.
Inner-City Transport
In most of the major cities in the UK, you won’t need to hire a car. London has a great overground and underground train network (‘the tube’), as well as an efficient bus system. Most cities have an extensive bus network, while some, like Manchester, Edinburgh, Nottingham and Sheffield, have a tram network too. Many UK cities are plenty small enough to explore on foot. If you’re heading to Inverness, Oxford, Cambridge, York, Bath and many smaller towns, you’ll likely not need any transport once you arrive.
Popular areas for family holidays in the UK
The UK is bursting with fantastic destinations that are perfect for family holidays, combining beautiful scenery, exciting activities, and welcoming accommodations. One top choice is Cornwall, famous for its picturesque coastal towns and sandy beaches which are ideal for sandcastle building and surfing lessons. Another great spot is Devon, offering both rugged moors and stunning coastlines, perfect for families who love exploring nature.
For a more relaxed pace, consider a trip to the Isle of Wight, where the slower pace of life and the scenic bike trails make it a family favourite. Up north, Scotland provides a dramatic backdrop for adventures, whether it's spotting Nessie at Loch Ness or enjoying the outdoors in the Highlands. Not to be overlooked, Wales boasts lush national parks and historic castles, great for educational and fun family outings.
For those looking for an easy, stress-free option, all-inclusive holidays in the UK are also available. These can be particularly appealing to families, as they include meals, entertainment, and sometimes even activities, allowing you to enjoy your holiday without worrying about the details. Whether you're hiking in the Lake District or exploring the Jurassic Coast, the UK offers a diverse range of family holiday destinations that are sure to create lasting memories.
