In episode 146 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy delves into one of London's most iconic landmarks: Westminster Abbey. With its rich royal history and stunning Gothic architecture, this working cathedral is a must-visit for anyone exploring the capital.

Tracy provides a comprehensive guide to planning your visit, including essential tips on ticket purchasing, the best tours, and must-see sites within the Abbey. From the Coronation Chair to Poets' Corner, discover the treasures that make Westminster Abbey a living history book.

Learn about the significance of the Abbey, which has hosted every British monarch's coronation since 1066 and is the final resting place of numerous notable figures. Tracy shares her personal highlights and practical advice to ensure you make the most of your visit, including optimal timing to avoid queues, accessibility options, and the best places to grab a bite nearby.

Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a beautiful space to reflect, this episode is packed with insights to enhance your experience at Westminster Abbey.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 146

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #142 - Guide to visiting the Tower of London
• Episode #133 - Top 5 London experiences for 2025
• Episode #126 - London Pass Itinerary Challenge
• Episode #84 - Exploring London with Walks Tours

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Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

Train journeys through Scotland offer spectacular scenery and connect major cities, but they can present unexpected challenges when severe weather strikes.

• Travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness via the scenic coastal route through Dundee and Aberdeen
• Strategic stops at St Andrews (via Leuchars) and Aberdeen's Maritime Museum
• Weather disruptions forcing schedule changes and an extended stay in Inverness
• Navigating cancellations by using alternative routes and transportation methods
• Comparing the coastal route with the Highland Main Line through the Cairngorms
• The importance of flexible tickets when travelling by train in Scotland
• Essential apps and preparation tips for train travel contingencies
• Accommodation recommendation: Blackfriars Hotel near Inverness Station
• Train travel offering a unique perspective of Scotland's diverse landscapes

For more information about train travel in the UK, check out our UK train travel e-book on the UK Travel Planning website. If you have any questions about train travel in Scotland or anywhere in the UK, leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 145

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #73 - Exploring Scotland: Unforgettable day trips from Edinburgh by train
• Episode #43 - Unravelling the mysteries of train travel in the UK
• Episode #80 - Planning your perfect UK rail adventure
• Episode #2 - Tips for travelling the UK by train

Support the show

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➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
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Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

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Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

Ready to unlock the secrets of managing money during your travels in the UK? This episode is packed with essential insights for navigating cash, credit, and debit card payments efficiently. We start by diving into the intricate world of British currency, outlining the different denominations of the pound sterling and the importance of understanding its nuances - especially when it comes to recognising banknotes from different regions like Scotland and Northern Ireland.

You'll hear about the practicalities of using cash versus cards, highlighting the pros and cons of each method. Many visitors wonder whether cash is still relevant amidst the rise of cashless transactions, and we explore that dilemma while providing practical tips on when to use each form of payment.

We also shed light on the best practices for using cards in the UK, emphasising the necessity of choosing sterling over your home currency to avoid hefty fees and ensuring you're primed for seamless transactions.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this episode offers valuable tips to enhance your travel experience, from where to withdraw cash safely to strategies for avoiding unwanted charges. Our engaging narratives aim to make your trip financially satisfying and tension-free.

Join us as we unravel these money management tips and ensure your visit to the UK is unforgettable. Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts! Happy UK travel planning!

📝 Show Notes - Episode 144

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 132 - London 2025: 12 Essential Tips for Planning your Perfect Trip
• Episode 47 - Practical Tips for visiting the UK
• Episode 7 - Tips for first time visitors to England

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
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Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

This week's episode immerses you in the beauty and experiences Wales has to offer. John Hadwin joins us to unveil hidden gems and top recommendations for exploring this remarkable country. You’ll learn about the rich history, stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine that make Wales a must-visit destination.

• Discover the top experiences to explore in Wales
• Why Wrexham is quickly becoming a tourist hotspot
• Insider tips for making the most of your Welsh adventure
• Highlights of local cuisine including Welsh Rarebit
• Importance of allowing time to truly appreciate Wales
• How to work with local experts for a memorable visit

⭐️ Guest - John Hadwin of Boutique Tours of North Wales
📝 Show Notes - Episode 143

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 128 – Explore North Wales + Beyond with John Hadwin
• Episode 89 – Boutique Tours of North Wales with John Hadwin
• Episode 52 – Exploring North Wales with Doug Collins

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

Get ready to uncover the wonders of one of London’s most significant landmarks, the Tower of London! Standing proud on the banks of the River Thames, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of history, filled with captivating tales that span nearly a millennium.

In this episode, we delve into the Tower's fascinating origins, exploring its various incarnations as a royal palace, a fortress, and a notorious prison. Prepare to hear about the infamous figures tied to this iconic site, including Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey, whose legacies linger within its ancient walls.

We’ll also shine a light on must-see attractions, such as the stunning Crown Jewels, which have mesmerised over three million visitors annually. Learn practical tips for navigating the site, including optimal visiting times, and hear about the engaging stories from the Yeoman Warders that breathe life into this historical treasure.

From hidden gems like the prisoner graffiti in the Beauchamp Tower to the quieter reflective spaces of Tower Green, every aspect of the Tower holds an intriguing story waiting to be shared. We also discuss the importance of planning your visit effectively and elaborate on how to make the most of your time while exploring this monumental landmark.

Whether you are a history lover, a royal enthusiast, or simply curious about London’s rich past, the Tower of London offers something for everyone. Join us as we unlock the mysteries of this captivating place and prepare for your next adventure in the heart of London. Don't forget to subscribe and share your own Tower of London experiences with us!

📝 Show Notes - Episode 142

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 133 - Discovering London (5 unmissable experiences for 2025)
• Episode 126 - London Pass Itinerary Challenge
• Episode 105 - Top London Experiences for 2024

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

The Caledonian Sleeper offers a unique overnight train experience connecting London with Scotland, providing travelers both transportation and accommodation in one seamless journey. We share our recent experiences on both the Lowlander service (London to Edinburgh/Glasgow) and the Highlander service (London to Inverness/Fort William), comparing accommodations from standard seats to club rooms with en-suite facilities.

• Detailed explanation of the two services: Highlander (London to Inverness/Fort William) and Lowlander (London to Edinburgh/Glasgow/Aberdeen)
• Comprehensive overview of accommodation options from seats to classic rooms and club rooms with en-suite facilities
• Insights from our multiple recent journeys, including solo and couple experiences
• Discussion of the onboard experience including the lounge car, dining options, and pre-departure lounges
• Practical advice about sleeping quality, journey timing, and making the most of your trip
• Expert tip: The northbound Highlander service offers the most magical experience, especially when you have breakfast in the dining car watching the Highland scenery
• Important packing strategies to maximise comfort in the compact sleeping compartments
• Information about BritRail Pass coverage (seats only, with supplements required for berths)

If you're considering booking the Caledonian Sleeper, you can find our affiliate link in the show notes at uktravelplanning.com/episode141, along with photos and videos of our experiences.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 141

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #5 - An Introduction to the Caledonian Sleeper
• Episode #26 - How to travel from London to Edinburgh by train
• Episode #80 - How to plan a UK train trip
• Episode #43 - Top 15 FAQs about UK Train Travel

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

Are you dreaming of a trip to the Scottish Highlands? Have you always wanted to drive the legendary North Coast 500? I

In this episode, we embark on a journey through Scotland’s breathtaking North Highlands, uncovering what you need to know before setting out on this iconic route.

With me is Robert James from North Coast Explorer Tours, sharing practical tips and local insights drawn from years of exploring this magnificent region.

Whether you’re in the planning stages or simply dreaming of the adventure, join us as we discuss route details, driving challenges, and must-see spots along the 516-mile odyssey.

Get ready to safely navigate this spectacular drive and make the most of your Highland adventure.

• Introduction to the North Coast 500 and its significance
• Insights from Robert James, an expert on the route
• Overview of the driving experience and scenic highlights
• Discussion on single-track roads and their challenges
• Recommendations on driving direction and experience
• Highlights of the most challenging sections of the journey
• Practical tips for safe driving and vehicle considerations
• Fuel availability and charging points along the route
• Final thoughts and additional tips for planning your trip

⭐️ Guest - Robert James from North Coast Explorer Tours

📝 Show Notes - Episode 140

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 35 – An introduction to Far North Scotland with Sally-Ann of North Coast Explorer Tours
• Episode 36 – Exploring Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours
• Episode 42 – Discovering the treasures of Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours
• Episode 118 – Exploring Scotland’s North Coast with Victoria Greig: Highlights and Tips

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with Daniel Hancock from Bath Insider Tours about the enchanting city of Bath and its surrounding areas. Daniel shares his journey from a market research career to becoming a tour guide, driven by his passion for travel.

The discussion covers a variety of tour options in and around Bath, including Bridgerton and Jane Austen themed tours, as well as day trips to iconic sites like Wells, Glastonbury, The Cotswolds, and Stonehenge. Daniel emphasizes the unique experiences offered on his tours and provides practical tips for visitors.

⭐️ Guest - Daniel Hancock from Bath Insider Tours

📝 Show Notes - Episode 139

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode 109 – Day Tours with The English Bus: From London to Stonehenge, Bath & more
• Episode 108 – Navigating the UK: Multi-Generational Travel Tips and Hidden Gems with Lauren Minns
• Episode 113 – Family Adventure in the UK: Highlights and Tips with Hannah Blaloch

Support the show

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!