This week on the podcast Tracy chats with listener Lauren Eanes, who turned her family’s shared love of books into a literary-themed UK adventure. From Dickens’ Broadstairs and Winnie-the-Pooh’s Ashdown Forest to Tolkien and Lewis in Oxford and the landscapes of Watership Down, Lauren shares how stories shaped their itinerary - and how she kept her teens engaged along the way. You’ll hear practical tips for planning a smooth family trip: combining trains with short car hire, using Airbn...

In this episode, host Tracy Collins is once again joined by Lisa Benjamin from Go Cotswolds to dive deep into Stratford-upon-Avon - the world-renowned birthplace of William Shakespeare and a destination that deserves more than just a day trip. Together they share why Stratford is the perfect place to slow down and stay longer, from scenic riverside walks, rowing and cruises to hidden Royal Shakespeare Company gems like the free tower and museum. Discover how to make the most of your visit wit...

In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by resident train travel expert Doug Collins to share highlights from his six-week rail adventure across the UK. Travelling from London to Scotland and back again, Doug explored major cities, rural stations and some of Britain’s most scenic routes while gathering video content for upcoming YouTube guides. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Which UK train routes offer the most spectacular views ✅ How to use passes lik...

Planning a trip to the UK and want to make the most of every moment? In this episode, Laura shares how she celebrated her 60th birthday with a 15-day journey across England and Scotland, combining solo adventure, accessible travel planning, and plenty of unforgettable experiences. You’ll learn how to: ✅ Plan a realistic itinerary that balances sightseeing and rest ✅ Navigate London during busy times like Tube strikes ✅ Make the most of flex tickets, early entry tours and coa...

This special episode was originally recorded for the Germany Travel Planning Podcast, where Tracy joined Cate to share insider tips for making the most of a London layover. Turn your short stop in London into a compact yet rewarding adventure. Learn how to plan 24 to 48 hours in the UK capital without feeling rushed, from choosing a central base to making the most of every meal and moment. Discover how to stay smart, move efficiently and see a few essentials deeply rather than frantically. We...

The Night Riviera is one of only two UK sleeper trains, and it might be the most relaxing way to wake up in Cornwall. UK Travel Planning’s rail expert Doug Collins shares his first-hand ride and the small choices that make a big difference to comfort and views. In this episode How to book simply and avoid common pitfallsWhen to arrive and how lounge access can upgrade your nightWhat berths are really like and how sleep felt in practiceThe easy breakfast strategy for a picture-perfect arrivalE...

London becomes a magical winter wonderland at Christmas, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and iconic decorations. But visiting during the holidays also means closures, no public transport on Christmas Day, and the need to book key experiences well in advance. In this episode, Tracy shares practical tips on: What’s open and closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing DayHow to get around when public transport stops (and the National Express option)Where to book a Christmas Day m...

Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoothly. Here are just some of the mistakes we discuss: Visiting Edinburgh in August during the Fringe Festival or Military Tattoo without booking accommodation and restaurants well in advanceUnderestimating the impact of midges in the Highlands and i...

This week on the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Amy Carpenter from Texas, who shares her unforgettable two-week adventure exploring England with her husband, Mark. Amy takes us through the highlights of their carefully planned itinerary, from the bustling streets of London to the charm of the Cotswolds, iconic castles, and literary landmarks. Highlights included Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, and quiet moments at St D...

In this episode, guest host Karen interviews Tracy about her favourite London experiences, from afternoon teas and hidden gems to festive traditions and foodie highlights. Highlights include: • The Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, a historic after-hours ritual • Afternoon teas with a twist such as Peter Pan at The Shard or the classic Ritz indulgence • Greenwich’s Painted Hall and the National Portrait Gallery’s world-class art • Foodie experiences includin...

Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying direct from Orlando to Dublin before driving through Ireland and Northern Ireland • Discovering the surprising beauty of Northern Ireland, including Tollymore Forest, Giant's Causeway and Silent Valley • Flying to Edinburgh and experiencing Holyrood ...

In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by her friend Karen for a deep dive into her favourite places in London. Drawing on years of living, working, and exploring the capital, Tracy shares the landmarks, gardens, markets, and quiet corners that she loves most. From must-see icons like the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and Hampton Court Palace to the vibrant streets of Notting Hill, the views (and pelicans) of St James’s Park, the beauty of Kew Gardens...

Michael Goldsmith shares his deeply personal journey across the UK, inspired by his family's connection to the Titanic, and fulfilled through a carefully planned itinerary that combines ship, rail, and coach travel. He explains how research and personalised travel advice helped him create a meaningful trip that connected him with family history and distant relatives. • Taking the Queen Mary II across the Atlantic in honour of ancestors who boarded the Titanic • Visiting Southampton, Stonehen...

The beautiful and historic North East England offers visitors dramatic scenery, centuries of history, and friendly locals in a region filled with special places to explore. • North East England includes the stunning Northumberland coast, Newcastle, Durham, Hadrian's Wall and Holy Island • Alex Iles of Iles Tours brings the region's past to life through storytelling and archaeology • Archaeological findings reveal that Hadrian's Wall wasn't just a barrier but facilitated trade and cultural ex...

Mary and Chris from Minnesota share insights from their fifth trip to the UK, spanning 28 days across South Wales, Cornwall, the Jurassic Coast, and East Anglia. Their adventures in a tiny Fiat 500 took them to castle ruins, stunning gardens, Roman remains, and hidden treasures while connecting with locals and experiencing the authentic Britain beyond tourist hotspots. • Travelling for their fifth visit to the UK, Mary and Chris spent 28 days exploring areas they hadn't fully experienced bef...

We share 12 common mistakes first-time visitors make when planning a trip to London, along with alternative suggestions for a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Our practical advice is based on decades of experience visiting and living in London, as well as helping thousands plan their perfect trips. • Overpacking your itinerary – focus on one area per day instead of racing across the city • Booking attractions too late – secure popular experiences as soon as you confirm your date...

St Albans offers a perfect day trip from London with its rich Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and renowned foodie scene, all just 20 minutes by train from central London. • Just 20 minutes by train from St Pancras International • Home to extensive Roman ruins including an ancient theatre still used for performances today • Contains the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain - St Albans Cathedral • Features England's only surviving medieval town belfry - the Clock Tower...

When you think of travel in England, the historic city of Bath might be high on your list - and for good reason. In this episode, we dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit to Bath. Drawing on our many personal experiences and favourite spots, we answer common questions about how to get there, top things to see and do, where to stay, and whether it’s best for a day trip or a more extended stay. From the iconic Roman baths and striking Georgian architecture...

Rita Fox and her wife, Katie, embarked on a life-changing journey through England and Scotland, tracing their ancestors' footsteps and discovering not only their family history but also unexpected connections that continue to enrich their lives today. • Begin ancestry research by building upon family knowledge and using online resources like Ancestry.com, FindAGrave.com, and ScotlandsPeople.gov.uk • Contact local family history societies before your trip – they can provide invaluable assista...

Doug and Tracy reveal the 15 most common mistakes travellers make when planning UK train journeys, drawing from their extensive experience helping thousands plan stress-free rail trips across Britain. • Getting advice from non-experts who share outdated or incorrect information • Travelling on Sundays when engineering works and staffing issues cause the most disruptions • Bringing too much luggage that becomes difficult to manage on trains and in stations • Not booking assistance services at...