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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking UK Travel Guide 2024

Welcome to the United Kingdom! The land of imposing castles, dark humour, afternoon tea, rolling countryside, beautiful National Parks, buzzing cities, vivid green landscapes and … four different countries! 

Backpacking England and the United Kingdom as a whole is one of the most incredible adventures to be had across the whole of Europe and you’re in luck – I was born in England and have spent plenty of time camping, hiking, partying and exploring my motherland, so I can give you plenty of insider travel tips…

Whether you are travelling around Europe already or just planning to visit the UK, a backpacking trip through England, Wales, Scotland, and/or Northern Ireland is a truly fantastic way to spend a few weeks or a few months (or more!). The United Kingdom is very accessible to travellers, mega diverse, suuuper GREEN, full of outdoor adventure opportunities and the perfect spot for a culture vulture! 

This backpacking UK travel guide will show you the way to create an awesome budget backpacking trip across the 4 home nations! Get the low-down on where to go, travel costs, itineraries, trekking destinations, UK travel hacks, and recommendations on where to stay along the way…

Why Go Backpacking in The UK?

From the remote corners of the Scottish wilderness and the sheep-lined Welsh backroads to the imposing Northern Irish coast and the iconic English pubs that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime: a trip backpacking through the UK is full of epic surprises for the worthy adventurer.

Before we kick off – a quick geography lesson:

• England is in The UK.
• The UK is made up of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
• Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, and Wales.

They are all one country, and separate countries at the same time. It’s confusing, I know. Even we get confused.

Just, whatever you do, don’t call us all English. If you’re travelling Scotland , Ireland, or Wales, this is a good way to get your food spit in. These countries are steeped in incredible history and unique culture in their own rights.

For every castle and well-trodden pagan path, there are incredible soaring skyscrapers and open-minded yet dark humour. Diversity filters through everything that the UK is, from the people to the different cultures, cuisines, landscapes, and things to do. If you’re coming here to see picture postcard England, sip tea in a cottage and wander through the rolling green countryside… we got that! 

But there’s more than that, we’ve got modern gritty cities, miles and miles of impressive and diverse coastline, events for all types of people every weekend and a history many outside of the British Isles might not be aware of. So, with so much to discover, it’s just about time to jump right in!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking England and the UK

Looking for a UK backpacking route? Whether you have a few weeks or a few months, these UK backpacking itineraries help you make the most of your time in this diverse region. These backpacking routes can easily be combined or customised, especially with a combination of the UK’s best hostels .

Even though we’re a pretty small country, we’re also densely packed full of exciting and interesting places to visit. From hitting the coastline to hiking in the mountains, exploring cities or wandering through sleepy villages, you can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. But don’t underestimate the roads and how often you’ll want to stop.

1-Week Travel Itinerary for The UK : The Common Route

First up you’ll start with two days to visit London , exploring all the historical and cultural gems the capital has to offer. Be sure to tick off places like Buckingham Palace, The Tower of London and Tower Bridge, The London Eye, Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral and Big Ben on a busy around the main tourist areas of the city. 

On your second day explore some of the other areas like Camden Town, Hyde Park, The Sky Garden and Trafalgar Square. If you have time you can also call in at one of the museums, pick from places like The British Museum, The Natural History Museum, or a personal favourite, The Victoria & Albert Museum. 

Next up it’s time for a change of pace as you grab the train from Paddington Station to the town of Chippenham in the Cotswolds . Renting a car for this and the next part of the journey would be ideal, but there are several local buses connecting each town and village. 

Spend two days wandering around the quaint villages of the area. I highly recommend Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, Castle Combe, Bibury, Chipping Campden, and Cirencester. 

Continue south to get some coastal and beach action in Cornwall . Be sure to include both lively surfer towns like Newquay alongside sleepy fishing villages like St. Ives to get the full experience. 

Next up, catch a long train to stay in Manchester for a few days, AKA The heart of the North. Explore the history of the Industrial Revolution at the Museum of Science and Industry, be enchanted by John Rylands Museum, and be a cool kid in the Northern Quarter.

This is a great place to end your trip with its good transport connections, or if you want to extend, there’s plenty more to explore in the North and up into Scotland…

2-Week Travel Itinerary for The UK: The Real GB

This 2-week itinerary takes the 7-day tour and expands on it to include another few important destinations. 

Again, it makes sense to start in London . It’s the city with the best transport connections and the perfect introduction to the culture and history of our multicultural and multifaceted country. You’ll be right into the swing of things ticking off some of the most famous landmarks over two days. 

Now you’ll have a little more time for a road trip in The Cotswolds where you can escape the busy city and see the quiet and quaint side of the UK. Here you’ll be greeted with the England most people imagine when they dream of visiting. Two days gives you enough time to negotiate the narrow lanes and limited public transport.

You’ll see yet another change in scenery as we stay on the same track as the shorter itinerary above by heading further south to the stunning beaches and sleepy harbours of Cornwall . Having your own transport here is the best way to visit the many coves, beaches, coastal walks and seaside villages. 

Moving back northwards, it’s time to spend a couple of days visiting Bristol & Bath , two cities that are super close and yet offer such different vibes. Effortlessly cool Bristol mixes modern cafe culture with the fascinating and sometimes challenging history surrounding the harbour. Bath on the other hand is a Roman spa town where you can indulge in some relaxation! 

Crossing over into Wales the impressive and rugged coastline of Pembrokeshire is a must-visit. Here you can also visit the UK’s smallest city in St Davids and hear the rhythmic tones of the Welsh language over a wonderful couple of days.

Head to Cardiff and jump on a train to Manchester . Here you can experience the diversity and unique charms of the Northern Powerhouse with its gritty and post-industrial, yet fun and modern vibes. With travel time this will take around a day and a half to 2 days. 

Visiting York is iconic and and easy trip from Manchester. Step back in time as you spend a day exploring places like the Tudor Street of The Shambles and its almost entirely intact ancient city walls! 

Finish up your tour by crossing the border into Scotland to spend the remaining day and a half of your trip in Edinburgh . You’ll get a taste of the Scottish spirit in the beautiful capital city where you can visit places like The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.

1-Month Travel Itinerary for The UK: Yes, I’ve Been to The UK

Once again we’re going to begin our journey in London as it’s the most accessible city for overseas visitors. This time give yourself an extra day and instead spend 3 days taking in the main sights as well as getting off the beaten track and discovering some lesser visited places. 

From the capital head down to the South Coast to the fun and funky city of Brighton , known for its environmentally conscious politics and being the LGBTQIA+ capital of the UK. Here you’re guaranteed to have a good time with great vibes. Spend a couple of days exploring the city and the nearby Jurassic Coast . 

From the Southeast of England head over to the Southwest and take 5 days to explore the various towns, cities, villages and beaches of The Cotswolds , Bristol , Bath , and Cornwall . This area will give you a great range of experiences both culturally and in terms of the changing geography. 

Next up it’s time to cross over into a different country, wonderful Wales. Spend the next 5 days taking in its stunning landscapes like the cliffs of Pembrokeshire , the beaches of Anglesea and the soaring mountains of Snowdonia . You might even pick up a bit of the local language. 

The next 5 days are all about the North, the real heart of the UK! Get to know the gritty and hip cities of Manchester , Liverpool , and York . As well as having the friendliest locals (God loves a scouser), obviously the football stadiums are infamous .

If you’re into hiking then also be sure to head to the incredible Lake District for a couple of days in the mountains. Continue northwards and into yet another country with a distinctive culture and independent spirit, Scotland.

Spend a couple of days in the capital of Edinburgh taking in its beautiful old streets and imposing castle. After that rent out a car and head into the Highlands where you can use the town of Glencoe as a base for hiking and exploring the many nearby lochs and mountains. 

Fly from Edinburgh over to Belfast , the capital of yet another country that makes up the UK. Here you should take a Black Cab tour and learn about the turbulent history of this small but mighty country. Whilst here finish your UK backpacking trip by heading to the incredible Causeway Coast where you can brave the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, Game of Thrones filming locations and The Giant’s Causeway.

Best Places To Visit in the United Kingdom

So now you know – all four countries in the country of The United Kingdom – England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland each have their own very distinct national heritage, culture, and even language (in the case of Wales and parts of Scotland), the UK is as its name suggests is a United Kingdom.

And whilst there is a (somewhat) friendly rivalry, we’re all in it together. For now, anyway…

You will find that each region has its own unique draw and charm. 

Discover some of the best hiking in all of Europe and some of the most isolated areas of the country in Scotland. Explore England’s awe-inspiring National Parks and busy cosmopolitan cities. Get off the beaten path in Wales whilst roaming the rugged coastline and beautiful small villages. Cosy up to a pint in Northern Ireland and discover the turbulent history but unwavering spirit of this often overlooked country. 

The UK is relatively small so you can take in quite a lot in a short period of time, especially if you have your own wheels. England receives a vast amount of tourism traffic every year. A vast majority of those people only visit London, Stonehenge, and a few other well-known places. There is much more to the UK than that! 

By the time you finish this UK travel guide, you will have a solid idea of what those places are all about…Now let us look at some of your itinerary options for your adventure backpacking in England and the UK.

Backpacking London

London is one big sightseeing magnet, let’s be honest! I might be a proud Northerner but I do love a trip down to the capital. People from the world over come to England just to experience London. I don’t blame them, London has some pretty impressive sights, an incredible public transport network and is so big and diverse that there’s just something for everyone to enjoy. 

However, there are two major drawbacks: tourist hordes and the cost of backpacking in London. London is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in. Fortunately, there is a plethora of backpacker hostels in London . Also, there are millions free fun things to do within the city. 

Take in some of the beautiful historical monuments like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, The London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and the grandass fucking Buckingham Palace and say “Hi” to Charlie whilst you’re there! Sure, they’ll be a ton of tourists there no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s good reason for that and you’ve got to hit up the top spots and there’s no shame in that! 

However, once you’ve ticked off all the major spots, there are plenty of other places to see including going for a walk through Hyde Park or along the River Thames. Or how about climbing the 311 steps to the top of “The Monument” for a budget panoramic view over the city? There are some pretty incredible places to visit in London that you’ll find relatively crowd-free! 

London is also famous for its delicious and relatively cheap international cuisine. Be sure to grab an Indian curry, try some Pakistani food and indulge in authentic Jamaican Jerk during your visit. In fact, if you’re looking for some wallet-friendly digs, then some of London’s best neighbourhoods to stay in include many ethnic enclaves. 

In order to fully appreciate the city you must get off the tourist trail and see more of London off the beaten path. Check out the lesser-known pie and mash shops. Visit the biggest Hindu temple outside of India at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir or you can even kayak the river Thames!

Backpacking Manchester

Alright, now we’re talking! Ok, I’ll be honest, I’m from Manchester, so I might just be a teeny bit biased here, but fuck it, I’m going to say it, it’s the best city in the UK! Where do I even start, well, welcome to the “Northern Powerhouse”, the home to Oasis, the place where freaking communism was invented and the beating heart of working-class post-industrial Britain. 

Ok, London has the classic “sights” but they’re all just stuck-up suits man, Manchester has heart, it’s got Northern soul, we’re gritty, cool, feisty but friendly and we’re not afraid to show our civic pride! Best of all, whereas London is swarming with so many tourists it’s hard to figure out who is a local and what is actually authentic, Manchester is just here doing our own thing to our own rhythm. Here you’ll find plenty of space to enjoy every aspect of our wild and unique city! 

If you’re looking for history then a stop off at the Hogwart’s-esqe John Rylands Library is a must, this cathedral to literature will leave you spellbound. Next up is Chetham’s Library, where Engels and Marx got their heads together to draft their thoughts on a new idea based on the condition of the factory workers of the city: Communism! 

A trip to the Museum of Science and Industry and the imposing Castlefield Viaduct allows visitors to discover the city’s role in the industrial revolution as well as its Roman origins. A trip to the Manchester Museum and the People’s History Museum are also recommended. 

Manchester today though firmly has its head in the future with diversity, inclusivity and open-mindedness being the new beat that our drum bangs to. Meet cool travellers in Manchester’s hostels , explore areas like Chinatown or Curry Mile before having an unforgettable night out along Canal Street in the Gay Village. Hang out with the cool kids down in the trendy Northern Quarter or the recently redeveloped warehouses of Ancoats. 

We’ve even got two Premier League football teams and the biggest indoor music venue in the country (with another on the way), so there’s always a buzz in Manchester (See what I did there? The bee is the symbol of Manchester!) 

In terms of food, we’ve got it all! Recommended places include Dishoom, Northern Soul Grilled Cheese, Pieminister, Nell’s Pizza, What The Pitta (for cheap veggie eats), Tampopo, Bundobust, Tokyo Ramen, The Refuge, El Rincon de Rafa and gosh… so many more places!

Backpacking Brighton

London is fun but it can be super tiring and, if I’m honest, a bit overwhelming. Brighton might just be the coolest city you visit whilst backpacking England and that isn’t just my bias.

Spend a weekend walking around Brighton’s breezy and easy ‘city’ centre. Being set right on the coast, you can easily take a load off by the sea in one of the sunniest places in the UK!

Brighton is famous for being probably the most open-minded, accepting and modern-thinking city in the UK, all whilst retaining that classic Victorian seaside charm. It’s the LGBTQIA+ capital of the UK, which means it’s always bursting with colour, acceptance and open arms. It is also home to the only Green Party parliamentary seat in the country too. 

Here you’ll find a multitude of fun vintage shops where you can score some new threads for your travels. In addition to those, there are some excellent cafes, tattoo studios, parks, record stores, music shops, and cool concert venues. 

The old lanes are a fantastic place to shop for unique and weird things and there are plenty of cool bars to enjoy a drink – some of my favourites; The Hope and Ruin, Fishbowl, and The Old Star.

Be sure to walk around the gardens at the Royal Pavilion, this Grade I listed dates back to 1787 and was the one-time royal residence. It is built in a unique style prevalent in India during the 19th century when it was expanded to its current layout. I recommend bringing a picnic and finding a spot on the grass to eat, but you can take tours inside if you like. 

Brighton is full of characters of every shade. There is some great people-watching to be had. Find a spot near the Steine Garden to have a coffee, listen to a busker or two and just watch the colourful humans pass by.

Of course, you’ve got to spend time by the sea whilst in Brighton. Whether that be swimming and sunbathing on the pebble beach or exploring the Iconic Brighton Palace Pier which dates back to 1899 and is home to a fun amusement park. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for the eerie ruined West Pier. Thankfully there are some great hostels in Brighton if you’re looking for somewhere affordable to stay.

Backpacking Bristol & Bath

Bristol is a city straddling the River Avon in the southwest of England with a long, rich and eventful maritime history. Here ships set sail for the new world, engineering marvels were invented and the heights of Victorian ingenuity reached. It was also home to the famous pirate “Blackbeard”! 

Although it’s good to have some context on the darker side of the history if you’re staying in Bristol , specifically related to its role in the transatlantic slave trade. A fantastic, insightful, and important exhibition can be found at the M Shed which shines a light on the often overlooked victims of the rise of the British Empire. 

Modern Bristol however is all about inclusivity, hipster vibes, independent shops, cafes and restaurants as well as groundbreaking artistry (think Banksy!). The port and harbourside, though still working to this day, have also been transformed into a cultural hub with many museums exploring the local social and industrial heritage

The old warehouses around the port have been renovated and now ooze all things bohemian, fashionable, and delicious. Organic food shops, taco shacks, Indonesian fusion restaurants, farm-to-table cafes, you name it, you can find it there.

Bristol’s cathedral is also pretty impressive and when the weather turns to shit, it is a great place to be mesmerized by the unending number of detailed arches that make up the ceiling.

Bristol is a great place to spend a weekend and is also a short train ride away from the city of Bath, another wonderful place to visit on your backpacking trip to the UK. Of course, with a name like that, you won’t be surprised to find it’s famous for its natural hot spring water and Roman baths!

Backpacking Yorkshire

Ahh Yorkshire, “God’s Own County” as the locals like to say. Ok, so they might talk a bit strangely in these parts, but this massive area of the UK has some of the most incredible history, landscapes and cities to visit in the country. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, then Yorkshire is a great place to find it. 

In terms of cities, there are many to choose from, but you’ll want to head to York first. This ancient Roman city is a real sight to behold. Its imposing city walls that have been intact for almost 1000 years and give off real ‘Games of Thrones’ vibes!

A stroll down “The Shambles” a street lined with wonky timber-framed overhanging shops from the Tudor period, is not to be missed. Then there’s the imposing York Minster, one of the most important and impressive cathedrals in the entire country. 

It’s not just cities. In fact, Yorkshire is best known for its rolling countryside, imposing mountain peaks and quaint villages. From Hippy Hebden Bridge to Haworth, the home of the Bronte sisters, there are plenty of places to visit. 

I seriously recommend you bring some solid hiking boots for Ingleton Falls or the limestone cliffs of Malham Cove (calling all Harry Potter fans!). Put yourself to the test over the mountains of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent to make up the gruelling Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge. 

Being such a massive county you might be surprised to know it also includes some of the most impressive coastline too. Situated in the East of the UK, the Yorkshire Coast offers a variety of different attractions. If you’re looking for drama then the rugged white cliffs of Flamborough rise high above the crashing waves below. 

Then there’s Whitby with its ruined cathedral and tales of Dracula. Quaint seaside villages like Staiths and Robin Hoods Bay are also not to be missed. If you’re looking for some sand between your toes then head on over to Filey or find a nice Airbnb in Scarborough .

Backpacking The Peak District National Park

If you’re looking for some popular with locals, but relatively off the beaten track with tourists kinda hiking, then The Peak District is where it’s at! Located mostly in Derbyshire but scrapping areas of Cheshire, Yorkshire and Greater Manchester at the southern end of the Pennines, it’s sorta in the Midlands technically speaking but the North has pretty much laid claim to it! 

Often known as the playground of Manchester due to its close proximity to the city, it’s been known locally as an escape from the oppressive nearby cities particularly during the cruel and smog-filled Victorian era. Other nearby cities include Sheffield, Nottingham and Derby. In fact, staying in a cottage in Nottingham is a great way to visit the Peaks. 

Split into two sections, the White and the Dark Peak, it offers a unique opportunity to see some of the various different geological features of the UK in one location. The northern “Dark Peak” is so called because of its characteristic Grit Stone ridges and peaks such as the area’s highest point, Kinder Scout. The southern “White Peak” is instead known for its limestone caves, cliffs and valleys such as Dovedale and the impressive Chrome Hill which featured in the final season of Peaky Blinders. 

As you can imagine, there are plenty of amazing hikes in the Peak District and one of our favourites is Mam Tor in the village of Castleton. This short but steep hike is a classic and you’ll be rewarded with uninterrupted vistas of the region from its summit. Be sure to visit the ancient castle that gives the town its name as well as stopping off at the stunning Chatsworth house and grabbing a tart in Bramwell!

Backpacking Liverpool

As a Manc, I might get shot for saying this, but I bloody love Liverpool! This port city on the North West coast of England has a real charm all of its own. Sure, it might be better known as the home of the Beatles and 2 pretty massive football clubs, but there’s so much more it has to offer. 

There might be a few narrow-minded folks who baulk at the idea of visiting Liverpool, but let me tell you, they’ve never been and they’re living off outdated stereotypes! Their loss! Book yourself into one of the many budget-friendly hostels in Liverpool and get ready to be swept off your feet! 

The city was made the EU Capital of Culture in 2008 and underwent a massive renaissance that shows no signs of slowing down. The heart of the “tourist” area of the city is the historic Royal Albert Dock, this groundbreaking series of warehouses has been transformed into restaurants, bars, cafes and museums. 

Close by is The Beatles museum and their twice daily “Magical Mystery Tour”, for fans of the Fab 4, this is a fantastic way to learn more about the band and the city they grew up in. The Museum of Liverpool is also a great place to discover the unique history of the city. 

Whilst exploring Peir Head be sure to keep an eye out for the “Three Graces”, the Port of Liverpool Building, the Cunard Building and of course, the iconic Royal Liver Building with its two clock towers crowned by Liver Birds, the symbol of the city. 

Liverpool is buzzing every night of the week with events on and great boozers to hit the town if the feeling takes you! There are some great places to eat out too from the gritty and cool Baltic Market to the independent establishments of Bold Street, which also has some great shopping and is one of the best areas to stay in Liverpool too. 

If you fancy getting out of the city then the nearby beaches of Crosby and Formby with their massive sand dunes and colonies of native red squirrels offer a fun escape. There’s even the Sandstone Trail, a 3-day hike is neighbouring Cheshire that takes in some of the stunning local scenery. 

Backpacking The Lake District National Park

Backpacking England will bring you in touch with some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. The scenes that make up the Lake District National Park are probably some of the most epic the UK has to offer outside of Scotland! The Lake District offers some of the UK’s most incredible hiking and is also home to the tallest mountain in England, Scafell Pike , as well as the most fun, Helvellyn ! 

As you might have guessed, the region is defined by its rugged fell mountains and its glacial ribbon lakes. There is plenty of different hiking from technical scrambles and hard rock climbing to short hill walks and gentle strolls around places like Buttermere. Not only that but you can enjoy canyoning, kayaking, mountain biking and SUP boarding too. 

In addition to more hiking than you could possibly do in a month, there are some quaint and sleepy little villages worth checking out as well. Market towns such as Kendal, Ambleside and Keswick are great places to stay in the Lake District and make perfect bases for exploring the area and are home to traditional pubs, a few hostels, and outdoor equipment shops if you are in need of any gear.

The Mosedale Horseshoe, Haystacks, Helvellyn via Striding Edge, The Old Man of Coniston, and Scafell Pike are among my favourite hikes to do in the Lake District.

Backpacking The Cotswolds

If you’re looking for that stereotypical “picture-postcard, jolly old England” then this is where you’ll find it! The gentle rolling countryside of the Cotswolds with its thatched roof cottages, quaint villages, and cute place names that Yanks will most certainly not be able to pronounce is the England of your dreams! Forget gritty city streets that challenge your perception of Blightly, this area plays right into those preconceptions and it does it well! 

Visiting The Cotswolds is to tour of a number of different villages surrounded by farmland (some of which you may have seen Jeremy Clarkson pratting around in on Amazon!) Ideally, you’ll have a car as this is the sort of place where you have to wait 3 weeks for the bus!

Your first stopping point will need to be Bourton-on-the-Water, the “Venice” of The Cotswolds. Unsurprisingly it’s set on a river and has an overwhelming surplus of low stone bridges.

If you time it right, you might just get to see the famous river football match, a ludicrous but oh so eccentrically British event. There’s also a fun and incredibly detailed model village there that’s fun for those of us who like to pretend to be Godzilla on the weekends.

Just me? welll ok then!

Other must-visit areas include the market town of Stow-on-the-Wold with views from St. Edward’s Church and its insane tree-framed doorway (search it!). Bibury with its row of 17th century weavers cottages is another popular spot as is Chipping Campden and it’s fine examples of well preserved Medival architecture. Then there’s the “capital of the Cotswolds”; Cirencester with its impressive Roman Amphitheatre and ancient Abbey.

Backpacking Cornwall & Devon

If it’s dreamy coastline and paradise-like beaches you’re looking for, then you might have thought the UK was the wrong place, well, welcome to the Southeast! Here we’ve got everything from a booming surf culture to Insta-worthy, pastel-painted harbours for your snapping pleasure. Cornwall and Devon are the domestic travel capital of the UK, but despite that, there are still plenty of areas on this sparsely populated peninsular that you can have all to yourself.

There’s an endless array of tiny inlets, deserted local beaches and tiny villages to explore when you wander around this region. If you have a car, road trips around Cornwall become insanely beautiful adventures. You’ll see things that most tourists couldn’t dream of.

St. Ives is a classic destination with clear waters, bobbing boats in the harbour and a beach to rival the Seychelles! Next up is Newquay, home to the best surfing beaches in the UK .

It’s got a more fun and youthful vibe than some of the more sleepy villages. Another of my favourite spots is the Lizard Peninsula with its rugged coastline and incredible turquoise bays.

Sitting just above Cornwall, the county of Devon offers some of the most incredible coastal regions in the entire country. This rural area however is often a little quieter than further south and has a wider range of landscapes to explore too.

The stunning Dartmoor National Park offers everything from Neolithic tombs to surreal rock formations and cliffs carved by wind and rain over millennia. Then there’s Torbay and Torquay if its beaches you’re after and Dawlish or Lyme Regis if quaint seaside towns are more your vibe.

Backpacking Wales

No backpacking trip through the UK would be complete without a visit to Wales. Though Wales has been under English control for the last 1000 years or more, Wales has maintained its unique identity and independent spirit wonderfully. 

Welsh is commonly spoken throughout the country, especially in the smaller villages in the North and so find signs in English and Welsh. Wales is home to some truly breathtaking places in the UK , impressive castles, plenty of sheep, fantastical coastal regions, and a few interesting big cities too!

You can explore a small portion of Wales in a week, and quite thoroughly in two or three. Again if you have rented a campervan, you can really cover some ground. I recommend dedicating most if not all of your time backpacking Wales to experiencing the glorious UK National Parks , doing heaps of hiking, and taking the time to stop and see a few quaint villages along the way as well as braving a dip or two in the ocean. 

Some of my favourite areas that you really should visit include the immense and rugged Pembrokeshire Coast , and the wonderful island of Anglesea with its beautiful beaches if you’re looking for a coastal experience. Then you’ve got the incredible peaks of Snowdonia National Park which includes two of my favourite scrambles, Crib Goch and Tryfan .

Backpacking Scotland

Ahh bonnie, wee Scotland. A visit over the border is the perfect way to really get off the beaten track and embrace the wild landscape of the UK. Whilst it might be better known for the highlands (we’ll get to that in a minute), Scotland has several impressive, beautiful and passion-filled cities to explore too.

Edinburgh is the perfect place to start your Scottish adventure as it’s well-connected and offers the perfect way to ease into this stunning country. Be sure to stroll along the Royal Mile, wander the imposing Edinburgh Castle and hike up an extinct volcano just above Parliament!

The nearby city of Glasgow with its grittier attitude and world-famous football derby is the perfect antidote – as travelling to Edinburgh does feel a bit too posh to be proper Scotland!

Head next to The Highlands. Stops in Fort William to tackle the UK’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis , Glencoe for incredible waterfalls, lochs, glens, and towering peaks and the Isle of Skye for the landscape you thought only existed in Star Wars are a must.

Don’t forget the coast either: Scotland might not be a tropical paradise, but it does boast some of the most stunning white sand beaches in the entire country, even Europe! Just pack a wetsuit and you’ll be reet.

If you’ve got the time, the North Coast 500 traces the coastline through some world-class beaches, dramatic rugged cliffs, impossible-looking rock formations and centuries-old lochside castles. It’s truly a stunning trip.

Backpacking Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland makes up a small part of the country as a whole, but there are still plenty of interesting things to get into there. If you have a few extra weeks to spare on your UK trip, backpacking Ireland won’t disappoint you!

In fact, if you want to see one of the most interesting, emotive, and fascinating areas of the UK – or if you just want to go to the pub and get pissed – then Northern Ireland is perfect for you. 

I should mention, that if you don’t already know what “The Troubles” are, then I highly recommend doing some reading up just to get some context – and also, not to put your foot in it!

There are a lot more positives to this little country, but it is worth noting that it is historically divided between the Protestant Loyalists who identify as being part of the UK and the Catholic Unionists who consider themselves to be Irish. 

One of the most interesting things to do whilst staying in Belfast is taking a Black Cab tour of the murals in the different areas of the city to get a full insight into the culture and history of the country. Stormont Parliament is also another place you can take a tour of and it goes into some more of the political history and reconciliations. 

Outside of Belfast, Northern Ireland offers some of the most dramatic coastlines in the whole of the UK. The Giant’s Causeway and the surrounding Causeway Coast are UNESCO-listed, no matter the weather you’ll be left awe-inspired by this rugged and wild region. Another fun spot to visit along the way is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge that hangs 100ft above the crashing waves below. There are also various “Game of Thrones” filming locations in this region including Dark Hedges to visit.

Getting off the Beaten Path in England and the UK

The UK is all and all quite small and yet it’s still home to 65 million people! That said, it doesn’t take too much extra effort to ditch the crowds and experience the UK off the beaten path. I advise you to spend as much time as humanly possible exploring the remote sections of the coast in addition to the national parks.

In Scotland, the opportunities to get off the beaten path are endless. If you have the time I recommend exploring the highlands and scoping out the Scottish islands.

If you can swing it, visit the Shetlands. You won’t be disappointed that you did.

That being said there are heaps of areas in Wales, England, and especially Northern Ireland to explore too. Many of the smaller cities, towns, and villages are pretty much void of tourists and if you avoid the most popular mountains and hiking trails then you’ll likely not see another soul on your trek… well, you’ll likely come across some sheep!

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

10 Top Things To Do in The UK

There are heaps of things to do across the 4 countries of the UK, from taking in the sights to hitting the trails, wandering along the coast, or discovering the mysterious history of this ancient land. So, let’s take a closer look…

1. Find hidden gems in London

Look, you already know about LDN. Many of the top things to do in London are even free, like wandering along the Thames and taking in many of the historic and iconic buildings such as The Houses of Parliament, The London Eye, and Tower Bridge.

But when you dig a little deeper in London , that’s when you’ll see something that your typical tourist doesn’t. Keep your eyes peeled, ask people for their favourite haunts, and keep a very open mind.

2. Coast to coast

Being an island – surrounded by the sea – it sometimes comes as a surprise to many visiting the British Isles that we do have some pretty epic coastline. If you’re looking for world-class beaches, then be sure to hit up Cornwall, Scotland, or Northern Wales. If you’re looking for craggy, dramatic scenes then head to Pembrokeshire or The Causeway Coast.

3. Pub crawl until you’re crawling

Few things in life are more rewarding than crushing a challenging hike only to be immediately rewarded with a tasty beer. The best pubs in the UK are the ones you find right at the end of an epic hike, your weary body with be rewarded with hearty pub grub, a roaring fire, proper ale and some good craic!

Top tips for pubs are to avoid chains like Wetherspoons, never wear football shirts unless you’re from somewhere cool like Argentina, and head for cosy local establishments in the countryside!

4. King of the castle, king of the castle

Yes, the British monarchy’s excessive power goes way back.

Step back in time and explore some of the UK’s medieval heritage in the form of epic castles. You can even stay in some of them…

If you’re looking for the best then you’ve got to get out of England and head over the border to see the castles in Ireland , Wales, and Scotland. What better way to stem English rule than building a massive fortress… (note: sarcasm).

My favourites include Conwy and Pembroke Castles in Wales, and Edinburgh and Eilean Donan Castles in Scotland. In England, I highly recommend Warwick and Lindisfarne Castle. And although it’s kinda expensive, The Tower of London’s history is mind-blowing.

5. Try typical British food: fish & chips and … chicken tikka masala…

Ok so everyone knows about Fish & Chips, but not everyone knows where to actually get the proper gear from. And I can tell you now, if you’ve only had it in some tourist pub in London, then sorry mate, but that’s not it.

In order to have a proper chippy you’ve got to leave The South. (Sorry guys!)

Then into some pretty ramshackle-looking local town. Ask for a hearty amount of salt, vinegar, mushy peas and/or gravy (curry sauce also accepted) and you’ve got it. Welcome to Britain.

Oh, one more thing! You might think that the humble chippy is the national dish of the UK, well you’d be wrong! In fact, the most popular dish amongst Brits is the Chicken Tikka Masala, we do love a good curry over here! This dish was invented by Indian immigrants to suit the British palette and it’s safe to say it’s been a hit and for me is a true celebration of multiculturalism.

6. Get to know cities outside of London

London is great and all, but it’s not actually the be-all and end-all of the UK! In fact, if you want to see a more genuine, friendly, authentic and picturesque version of the UK, then you best high tail it out of the big smoke.

There are some other pretty buzzing metropolises around the UK. As well as the obvious, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff, Liverpool… check out Leeds , Newcastle, and Bath.

All of these offer a great mix of history as well as being modern cities with great vibes of their own. Then there are some smaller cities such as Salisbury, Stirling and of course, St. Davids, the smallest city in the UK with a population of less than 2000 people!

Lincoln boasts one of the finest Airbnbs I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying in. With breathtaking views, a snug bedroom, and all the amenities you could desire, it’s a true gem not to be missed!

7. Soak in the atmosphere at a footy game!

What’s the main religion of the UK? That’s right, it’s football… (If you call it soccer then we will have no choice but to forcefully deport you.)

There’s not much else that is as sacred as the beautiful game here and picking a team is a surefire way to either stoke up some controversy or make some friends for life! Just be careful where you wear your new shirt.

Whilst watching a Premier League game will either cost you a kidney or you’ll end up watching Spurs (COYG!), catching a local game is a much more authentic experience and it’s both easier on the wallet and easier to come by. If you’re here during the football season (Aug-May) then research some local football league teams and grab yourself an experience you won’t forget.

Oh, you should also know that despite being the “United” Kingdom we are very much independent countries when it comes to football. England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland compete under different football associations…

8. Climb The Three Peaks or The Yorkshire Moors … or both

Whilst the UK might not boast mountains as high as the Alps, these peaks are not to be sniffed at let me tell you! If you’re up for the ultimate hiking challenge then you can take on the three peaks, Snowdon, Ben Nevis & Scafell Pike … the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales in 24 hours.

I’ve done it, and it’s not exactly a hike for beginners . But the views are epic and the scenery along the way will go some way to helping you ignore the searing pain in the rest of your body. Enjoy!

If you’re less of a sadist then you can take the sensible option and just pick one! For me, I just the scramble up Mount Snowdon via Crib Goch, but it’s for experienced hikers only, otherwise, the Pyg or Miners tracks are very accessible.

If you’re looking for something a bit more gentile and yet just as impressive, then taking a ramble through the Yorkshire Dales and along the Pennine Way (which passes on the tops right by my house!) is a great way to experience the great outdoors in Britain.

9. Get to know small villages

The cities usually get all the attention in the UK. I mean, it’s not surprising, since there are a shit ton of things to do in all of them. But the real charm of the UK lies in the smaller villages and towns. This is usually where you’ll find real local life, super friendly folk and access to some of the beautiful rural areas of the country.

England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland each boast fine small villages to explore. Settle in, have a cup of tea, and chat with some locals about what life is like there.

Whether you’re looking for seaside villages such as Staiths, Robin Hoods Bay or pretty much anywhere in Cornwall or Devon, or countryside spots like Settle, Castleton or Haworth, you’ll always find these spots super charming.

10. Visit the Scottish Isles

If you want to get into the territory of off-the-beaten-path travel, look no further than the gorgeous and far-flung Scottish Islands. This is truly where the magic happens when backpacking the UK.

Scotland is the land of myths, legends, and unintelligible ginger wildlings. It truly is a stunning part of the country that is unspoilt and uncrowded and will surprise the hell out of you.

By now you probably know about the thundering mountains of the highlands, but did you know about the white sandy beaches that look more like they belong in the Maldives than the gloomy far north of the UK? Yeah, they’re up there alright!

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Backpacker Accommodation in England and the UK

In most places in the UK, you can find some sort of budget accommodation. Prices vary but generally expect to pay between £25-50 for a dorm bed . I recognise that sometimes you just need a warm, dry place to shower and sleep, however, it has to be said that accommodation isn’t cheap here, even hostels.

It’s also worth checking out B&Bs and guest houses, especially if you’re travelling as a pair as sometimes a room can work out not much more expensive than a couple of beds in a dorm and often they come with breakfast and lovely local owners.

That said, if you bring along a good backpacking tent and sleeping bag, in addition to renting a car or van, your experience backpacking England and the UK will be far more rewarding than sleeping in a hostel every night. Plus, you’ll have some ££ too!

Renting a van allows you to sleep anywhere you want to in any sort of weather conditions. And believe me, there are some EPIC spots to park up for the night spread throughout the UK… there are also some wild weather conditions too, which can be fun in a van!

One of my favourite ways to meet locals and save some cash is to use  Couchsurfing . Couchsurfing truly is one of the best tools available to help save you money travelling. Plus you are always bound to meet interesting people!

The Best Places To Stay in the United Kingdom

Airbnb in the uk.

Airbnb is now very well established in the UK and there are listings in pretty much all cities, towns & villages. Whether you are looking for a luxury Loch Lomond cabin, a Liverpool Homestay, or a cheap London guesthouse, there is an Airbnb listing for every occasion. You’ll find one of the Broke Backpacker favourites if you’re staying in Shrewsbury .

UK Airbnb prices do vary. But sometimes, it can honestly be just as cheap to take an Airbnb as to book a hostel if you are travelling as a couple. Also, the standard of hostels in the UK is a real mixed bag but the calibre of Airbnb’s is unrivalled. To get the true, local authentic experience of life in the UK go for Airbnb!

Wild Camping in the UK

Scotland is one of the few places in Europe where they have wild camping laws! This means you can legally camp in most places free of charge and without hassle from the police. The actual law states that you may “camp on most unenclosed land”, for example, national parks, coastal areas, or any other wild places.

Camping is always my favourite way to get away from the crowds and connect with nature. As always when camping out, familiarise yourself with “ leave no trace principles ” and put them into practice. If you love being outdoors and exploring wild places, then more than likely you will be camping out at least a few nights a week whilst backpacking in the UK.

Whilst wild camping in other areas of the UK isn’t technically legal, there are plenty of places where in practice it’s never policed. But this requires a bit of common sense such as camping up on the mountains and not on a village green. Having said that, there are plenty of cheap campsites all over the National Parks.

England and the UK Backpacking Costs

Backpacking in Western Europe is always going to be more expensive than backpacking in Nepal or Vietnam for example. Staying in hostels every night, partying it up, eating out for every meal, and booking last-minute trains will certainly eat a big hole in your budget.

Backpacking England and the UK is no different. Shit can get expensive fast! A comfortable daily budget is between £60- £200 a day .

I recommend Couchsurfing as much as you possibly can. The more you Couchsurf and use public transport, the more money you can spend on wine and cheese (or beer and beans, let’s be honest.) Pure and simple. Also, having a good tent and sleeping bag in your backpack will help save you a ton of money on accommodation.

Food in the UK can be expensive, especially if you’re eating out. Getting accommodation which includes breakfast and a kitchen will go a long way to saving some dosh. Cheap supermarkets include Lidl, Aldi, and local ethnic shops. Though there isn’t much in the way of proper street food as such, chippys and local sandwich shops in smaller towns and villages are often well priced. There’s always Gregg’s too, you’ve got to give this institution a try!

A Daily Budget in the UK

Money in england and the uk.

The currency in the United Kingdom is the British pound sterling. As of December 2023, £1 GBP = $1.23 USD .

ATMs are widely available in just about every place in the country. If you are going to remote locations on some of the Scottish islands, bring enough cash to see you through. Having said that, post-COVID cash isn’t used all that often, especially in cities.

You can easily pay with contactless or on your phone in pretty much all places. It’s mostly small businesses like fish and chip or sandwich shops where you might need to have some cash on you or have some coins when paying for parking.

Find out whether or not your bank in your home country has fee-free international withdrawals. If so, activate it for your trip or for whenever you travel abroad. Once I discovered my bank card had that option, I saved a huge amount in ATM fees! When travelling to the UK on a budget, every dollar (pound) counts right?

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise ! Our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods, Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than PayPal or traditional banks.

But the real question is… is it better than Western Union? Yes, it most certainly is.

Travel Tips – The UK on a Budget

• Camp : It’s the UK, so you’ll need a trusty, waterproof tent . But with plenty of stunning mountains, lakes, and remote coastlines in the UK, camping saves you money and can help you get off of the beaten path.
• Cook your own food: Travel with a  portable backpacking stove and save some serious cash whilst backpacking across the UK. If you plan to do some overnight hiking trips or camping having a backpacking stove will be ESSENTIAL to your success. You can also select accommodation that includes a kitchen and shop in local supermarkets.
• Couchsurf:   Solo travellers in the UK , listen up! This is a lifetime experience you won’t forget. Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see a country from the perspective of locals. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalised messages to your potential host. A generic copy-and-paste message is much more likely to get turned down. Make yourself stand out.
• Use public transport: Though it’s not as cheap as in continental Europe, public transport in the UK is by far the cheapest way to get around. Try to book in advance if you can and have a look into picking up a rail card too.
• Don’t spend too much time in London: OK, I mentioned this before for other reasons, but London is so damn expensive . So once you’ve seen what you want to see, don’t hang around! Move on to somewhere cheaper.
• Take advantage of free things to do: Whilst food, accommodation and fuel are expensive here, you’ll find so many of the best things to do here are actually free. Hiking and just exploring cities on foot are perfect for a budget. There are also plenty of places like museums or libraries that are free to visit and also offer access to free Wifi.
• Budget-friendly Tours: If you do happen to go on any guided tours, then save some money by paying it off in instalments. Global Work and Travel have broke backpackers in mind with their options. You can even choose the amount per instalment! There are loads of options for the UK.

Why Should You Travel to The UK with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller.

STOP USING SINGLE-USE PLASTIC! If you’d like some more tips on how to save the world .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Travel to the UK

When the rest of Europe is cooking in its own juices, the cooler temperatures of England and the UK feel like heaven.

From May to October, you can experience “great” weather at times all across the UK. By great weather I mean, more often than not, it’s pretty mild.

However, the weather here is famously unpredictable. We can have a blistering 40°C day on Tuesday and by Wednesday morning it feels like winter is coming.

If you are trying to get the most out of the UK’s outdoor activities, I suggest coming in July or August. Again, it is a roll of the dice!

One day could be absolutely mint, only to have the next day be pissing down with no end in sight. It is important to be a bit flexible in your trekking plans due to the volatility of the weather and also pack accordingly!

One should just expect that it will be cold and rainy at some point on your trip. Hopefully, you will be lucky and get the chance to experience some of that elusive British sunshine!

That said, always have a solid rain jacket on hand. Waterproof boots are also essential for trekking in the UK.

Despite all this doom and gloom, the summer days in the UK are glorious. And on a warm day, they are hard to beat.

What to Pack for The UK

Make sure you get your travel packing list for The UK is spot on. Because whatever time of year you visit, you’ve always got to be prepared when you visit the UK! That means preparing for ALL weathers.

Here is my list of 6 essential items I would recommend bringing for your trip.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in The UK

Certainly, there are rough neighbourhoods in every major city in the UK. That said, backpackers are rarely the target of violence or attacks.

Follow your standard travel safety protocol and don’t go wandering into unknown areas, especially at night. Another bit of useful advice is to be careful where you wear football shirts because people take this shit seriously!

Your biggest threat as far as personal safety will be the weather. In Scotland and the Lake District, the weather can be extreme – even in the summer.

Snow can fall any time of year in the mountains. Always check the weather before setting off on a hike, and pack the appropriate gear, food, and a water treatment device. If possible hike with one other person at least and let someone know where you’re headed and when you’re due back.

Another thing to be aware of while visiting the UK is the unusual tides in some areas of the country. These can be pretty extreme with the water going out for over 2 miles in places like Southport or Morecambe Bay.

The tides around the country are all different and many come in several times a day and an alarming rate! Be aware of being cut off on islands and sandbanks and always check before venturing out.

I strongly recommend travelling with a headtorch whilst backpacking in the UK (or anywhere really – every backpacker should have a good headtorch !). Especially if you’re hiking or camping, it’s an essential item.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in The UK

The British are famous the world over for their tendency to knock a few back. If you have done a fair bit of backpacking then you have seen that group of British backpackers with matching haircuts chugging beers shirtless and chanting some catchy tune they learned on a football game.

You may or may not encounter that type of dickhead individual. though luckily Brits tend to be a bit more reserved once on their home soil. Point is, if you are looking for a rowdy party, it shouldn’t be too hard to find.

If you keep your eyes and nose open, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a cheeky smoke, though expect to shell out some cash for anything over a gram. For more advanced happy-making pills, hit up the clubs and music festivals and you are bound to run across whatever it is you are after. Sadly, cocaine use is also at problematic levels across the country.

Dating in the UK

The UK is a pretty liberated place in terms of dating. The country leads the world in terms of multicultural relationships and it’s a great place for LGBTQIA+ travellers .

The British do have a reputation for being pretty direct and forward when it comes to dating (though funnily enough, not in pretty much any other way!) which is semi-justified. Basically, if you are looking to park your bike in the UK, your chances are as good as anywhere!

Of course, you can use Tinder whilst travelling . But why not try your luck at the good old pub? Whilst it’s generally a safe scene, you should be aware of your surroundings as drink spiking is on the rise.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting The UK

Whilst we do have the trusty NHS in the UK, they don’t cover everything. Travel insurance for backpackers is essential. So whether you’re hiking up Ben Nevis or having a messy night on the town.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How To Get into The UK

The UK is home to a few major international airports including London Heathrow, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. You can usually score budget flights to London or Manchester from other major European capitals.

Heathrow and Manchester in particular have some awesome long-haul options as well as flying to great hubs for connecting flights such as Singapore, Dubai, and New York. You can also grab a Ryanair flight to a nearby hub like Frankfurt, Paris, or Amsterdam for sometimes less than £20!

An alternative to flying is to take the ferry across the English Channel from France, this is a fun way to arrive in the UK and it means if you’ve got your own transport then your car or van can come along too. You can take the ferry from down south in Dover as well as up north in Hull, though southern connections are more popular. It’s also possible to get the ferry over to Ireland from Liverpool.

London is also connected to the mainland European continent via the Eurostar train which has direct trains to Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam. From here you can pretty much get yourself anywhere in western Europe on the train!

Entry Requirements for England and the UK

Tourist visas for citizens of many countries can be easily obtained on arrival at all of the ferry ports and airports. After Brexit (booooo) EU citizens no longer have the right to freedom of movement. However, they can visit for 6 months without a visa .

There are 58 countries outside of the European Union that have a visa reciprocity agreement with the UK. This means that citizens of those countries – depending on which one you are from – can receive 3-6 months of visa-free travel (tourist travel) in the UK. If you are from a country not on the reciprocity list, you will need to apply for a visa through the British embassy in your home country.

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How To Get Around the UK

Renting a car is a good option if you intend to see a wide swath of the country, especially some of the more remote areas.

You can sort your car rental in just a few minutes. Booking in advance is the best way to ensure you score the lowest price and your choice of vehicle. Often, you can find the best car rental prices when you pick up the rental from the airport.

You can also purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.

Travelling in the UK by Public Transport

Public transport in the UK is amongst the worst in Western Europe. Train travel is generally expensive and unreliable, although it can be much cheaper if you book ahead. Having said that, if you grab a Railcard and book ahead of time then it’s a pretty effective way to move between major cities and towns and even to some more remote villages.

There are 2 major private bus/coach companies in the UK (National Express/Megabus) that cover most of the country. These can work out very affordable if you book ahead – although journey times can be tediously long.

It is important to note that bus connections in rural areas/the start of treks are far fewer than in cities. These need to be thoroughly researched ahead of time and asking your guesthouse or a local is the perfect way to get that info. In some remote places buses are very infrequent.

If you want to explore the National Parks to their fullest then having your own transport is highly recommended, unfortunately.

Campervan Hire in the UK

Especially in Scotland and Wales (where finding a parking spot if way easier) living the van life in the UK is extraordinary! It isn’t the cheapest endeavour, but if you are travelling as a couple or with several mates you can split the expense. The price of the campervan rental depends on the time of year.

These are the campervan rental averages:

• November – February  £70/day
• March – April, September – October  £110/day
• May-August  £120/day

If you can swing it, you will enjoy the hell out of your time exploring the UK by campervan. It will give you access to some of the best treks as well as well as providing you with some awesome budget accommodation.

Hitchhiking in the UK

While it is easy to find local buses for short distances, your best bet for saving some money will be hitchhiking .

The UK is a world-class road trip destination and its roads are never empty of potential rides. So many awesome campervans in the UK! Even on some lonely stretches of highway, a ride can be scored if you are patient.

Really, I think the rainy weather plays on people’s sympathies in the UK. Folks are always keen to stop and give you a lift if you’re hitchhiking in the rain!

That being said, in cities, hitchhiking isn’t all that common and might be met with an element of suspicion. It is generally more common in more rural hiking destinations.

Onwards Travel from the UK

If you are on an extended European backpacking tour good for you! Cheap flights from London, Manchester, Glasgow, or Edinburgh can take you to your next backpacking destination without breaking the bank. Most major European capitals are only an hour or two flight away and (if you’re flexible) can cost almost nothing!

The ferry across the English Channel from Dover to France can be a good way to get to Europe. Though it can be pricey, especially last minute or if you have a vehicle.

There are two ferry routes operating between Northern Ireland and Scotland offering a combined total of 84 sailings per week. P&O Irish Sea operates 1 route, Larne to Cairnryan which runs 7 times daily. Stena Line operates 1 route, Belfast to Cairnryan which runs 5 times daily.

As I previously mentioned, the Eurostar train connects London to a few major European cities but again, can be quite pricy compared to flying to top destinations with Ryanair or Easyjet.

• Backpacking Spain 
• Backpacking France
• Backpacking Germany
• Backpacking Italy

Working in the UK

The UK has a long history of migrant workers arriving at its shores in the hopes of a better life. A traditionally strong currency makes it an attractive destination for migrant workers from Asia, the Commonwealth, and Eastern Europe. However, as a backpacker, you might find it slim pickings unless you can get some hush-hush cash-in-hand work with a local doing something like labouring, bar work, or waiting-on.

Following Brexit, working in the UK is growing increasingly difficult and now pretty much anybody from outside the UK & Ireland will need a visa to work in the UK and they do not come cheaply or easily.

Furthermore, the country is on the cusp of entering a recession. The cost of living in the UK is going up and jobs are hardly in abundance. Strugs!

If you do have your heart set on working in the UK, going with Global Work and Travel may make it easier. They offer internships, working holidays, or Au Pairing options complete with VISA guidance and a great support system throughout your stay.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in the UK

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in the UK that you can join ranging from teaching to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Now, the United Kingdom doesn’t need as much volunteer power as less-developed nations, but opportunities are still available. Most gigs you’ll find are in hospitality or farmwork and usually provide free lodging in return! You may need a T5 (short-term work) visa depending on the work you do, so make sure to double-check.

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in the UK, then I recommend volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and Workaway . They aren’t perfect (what is?) but they are a great way to get on the ladder and start building a volunteering community.

Culture in The UK

The UK is full of wonderful human beings. In each region, the humour is slightly different, the jokes slighter dryer than the last, and the people all have one thing in common: each region of the UK makes fun of the others! In fact, if a British person is taking the piss out of you, then it means they like you! So don’t take it to heart!

Every time I have traveled around the UK I have been shown kindness whether or not I was in need. If you show people respect and kindness you can expect the same in return. Whilst people in London do have a bit of a reputation as being a bit cold, the rest of the country is generally very warm and welcoming.

In terms of religion, whilst the UK is technically a Christian country, we are very much agnostic on the whole. Whilst there are many religions freely practised across the country, it’s not something we generally worry too much about!

Useful Travel Phrases for The UK

Whilst you might not need to learn a new language when you visit the UK, we do have some unique phrases that might confuse a few visitors!

• Fancy a cuppa/brew? – Do you want a hot drink? 
• Alright? – Less of a question and more of a greeting.
• Pissed – Really drunk or annoyed.
• I’m knackered/Cream crackered  – I’m tired
• Half past –  Us Brits tend to refer to the time in a way that can be sometimes confusing: instead of saying “six-thirty” we say, “half past six”.
• Hank Marvin – An obscure British musician… his name now mean “Starving!”
• Innit – Short for “isn’t it” , often used when seeking confirmation or as a filler!
• Breakfast, dinner, tea! – In the north, we confuse the rest of the world!

What to Eat in The UK

The UK generally has a pretty poor culinary reputation. However, the old stereotypes about English food are now well outdated and you will dine very well in the UK, especially in places like London and Manchester.

In addition to modern English cuisine, there is an astounding number of ethnic options available everywhere you turn in the UK. From Pakistani to Eritrean to Peruvian, good food is everywhere. Personally, I think food in the UK fucking rocks.

As we’ve mentioned earlier, the UK is truly a mixing pot and it’s reflected in both our cuisine and the dining habits of modern Brits. You’d be hard-pressed to find locals who eat just one type of food day day out.

Monday it might be a curry, Tuesday… bring me the tacos, baby. Wednesday we’re having Italian and Thursday we’re busting the Thai out. Of course, Friday is chippy tea and on the weekend we’re headed into town for some Peking duck, NYC-style pizza, and an Aussie brekkie before reeling things back in with a Sunday roast.

Must-Try Dishes in The UK

Having said that, we’ve got some bangin’ “proper” British food you’ve just got to try. Here are a few of my favourite dishes native to the UK:

• Bangers and Mash – Now a staple in backpacker hostels from Bali to Argentina, Bangers and Mash is the original hangover cure. The dish is made up of mashed potatoes and sausages, sometimes served with onion gravy or fried onions.
• Pork Pie – Delicious, cheap, savoury pastries filled with minced pork. Now ubiquitous in Real Ale pubs and available in vegan varieties!
• Sunday Roast – The roast is a traditional British main meal that is typically served on Sunday, consisting of roasted meat, roast potatoes, and accompaniments such as Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, vegetables and gravy. Vegetables such as roast parsnips, Brussels sprouts, peas, carrots and broccoli are included and can be cooked in different styles. A classic from the days of yore and not to dissimilar to Christmas dinner!
• Beans on Toast – A classic student meal it is the perfect comfort food. Elevate it with a bit of paprika and BBQ sauce in the beans, some fancy bread and a sprinkle of cheese and you’ve basically got yourself a Michelin star meal! Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it!
• Toad-in-the-hole – Sausages in Yorkshire pudding batter, usually served with onion gravy and vegetables. Historically, the dish has also been prepared using other meats, such as rump steak and lamb’s kidney.
• Cullen Skink  – Those cold days got you chilled to the bone? A Scottish classic, Cullen skink is a delicious soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. The perfect meal for traveling to Scotland on a budget!
• Scouse – Native to Liverpool, this is a thick stew made from meat, potatoes, and root veg. Perfect for cold days.
• Fish & chips – We’ve mentioned these bad boys before on this post, but it’s worth reiterating, don’t try them in a tacky touristy pub in London! Get yourself to a proper chippy in a rundown northern town and you’ve got the real deal. Extra points for gravy, mushy peas, curry sauce or a Hollands cheese & onion pie! Wash it down with some Dandelion and Burdock!
• Chicken Tikka Masala/ Curry – Again, I’ve mentioned this earlier on, but we’re a nation of curry lovers and the Chicken Tikka Masala is in fact, our national dish! We just can’t get enough of it and it’s a true symbol of multicultural Britain!

A Brief History of the UK

After World War Two rocked all of Europe, Great Britain emerged as a clear victor. Britain was a winner in the war, but it lost India in 1947 and gracefully gave up the majority of its foreign colonies by 1960. The British Empire suddenly ceased to exist… And the world was suddenly a little less efficient.

The UK debated its role in world affairs and joined the United Nations in 1945, NATO in 1949, where it became a close ally of the United States. Prosperity returned in the 1950s and London remained a world centre of finance and culture, but the nation was no longer a major world power. In 1973, after a long debate and initial rejection, it joined the European Union.

As the country headed into the 1950s, rebuilding continued and a number of immigrants from the remaining British Empire, mostly the Caribbean and the Indian subcontinent, were invited to help the rebuilding effort. As the 1950s wore on, Britain lost its place as a superpower and could no longer maintain its large Empire. This led to decolonization and a withdrawal from almost all of its colonies by 1970.

The Suez Crisis, Hippies, and Rock Music

Events such as the Suez Crisis showed that the UK’s status had fallen in the world. The 1950s and 1960s were, however, relatively prosperous times after the Second World War, and saw the beginning of a modernization of the UK, with the construction of its first motorways for example, and also during the 1960s a great cultural movement began which expanded across the world. Hippies! Some of the best music ever produced was made in England throughout the sixties! Think The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, etc…

Unemployment was relatively low during this period and the standard of living continued to rise with more new private and council housing developments taking place and the number of slum properties diminishing.

Modern-Day United Kingdom Politics

In September 2014 a referendum was held in order to decide whether or not Scotland would gain independence from the rest of the UK. The vote did not pass and to the objection of many Scottish people, it remains part of the UK.

On June 23rd 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union in a move now coined “Brexit”. When I say we voted, the racist fuckwits who read the Daily Mail and vote for the bloody Tories did. Most sane, young people didn’t! In fact, the margin was ridiculously tight and in the end, 17.4 million people spoke for almost 66 million!

Since that dark day it’s become pretty clear it’s a complete fucking disaster and if you can’t already see, I’m still raging! At the moment our politicians, media and many of those who voted out are pretty much in denial of the obvious… but we live in hope that one day our freedom to move around our continent and the economic benefits that result will return.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

FAQs About Backpacking The UK

Still got a few burning questions before your backpacking trip around the UK. Hopefully, these common inquiries will hold the answer.

How long does it take to backpack the UK?

The highlights can be done in 2 weeks. Despite being a small country when it comes to physical size, there’s actually a shit ton to do. Don’t underestimate travel time either. So to truly experience it, I suggest at least a month.

What is the easiest way to travel the UK?

The best way to reach all those remote coastlines and rural hiking trails is to hire a campervan or car. However, the trains are a great way to explore using public transport despite being expensive in relation to the continent.

What time of year is the cheapest to go to the UK?

January, February, and November are considered the “off-season” but places like London are pretty popular year-round. This time of year, the weather is the shittest coldest and wettest. But if you prepare well, it can also be a beautiful time to see the snowcovered mountains of the National Parks.

Does it always rain in the UK?

Yes, mate. It always rains. It rains every minute of every day. Actually, it rains so much that we just live underwater. Busted predicted the year 3000 but here we are living it now.

Final Advice Before Visiting England and the UK

Well, there you have it amigos. I hope you have thoroughly enjoyed my UK travel guide! Despite all my galavanting across the globe and the recent politics of my homeland, I am still a proud Brit (though, I’m a Manc first of course) and think this little quirky collection of countries has some truly breathtaking and fascinating places to see. In fact, I just love showing all my travel buddies from across the globe around when they visit!

So, what is my parting advice? Well, I’ll continue here I began … get the FUCK out of London! No offence, because I truly do love an occasional trip to the capital and my younger more naive self did want to live there before I came to my senses! But London isn’t the UK and in many ways, it can feel like it’s on another planet to the rest of us! It’s kinda an entity in its own right!

In order to properly experience the UK, you’ve got to explore the North, visit the coastal villages, hike a mountain or two, get drunk in some random post-industrial town and have some banter with the locals. Sure, jolly old England can look like the postcards, but modern Britain is a bit more complicated and rough around the edges than that… and I bloody love it just for that reason!

I hope you are able to get into plenty of fun adventures (and a little debauchery) during your time backpacking around this beautiful land. Best of luck on your journey and yeah, get up to Manchester, ya knob ‘ed!

• Best eco lodges in the UK
• Best destinations for winter in Europe
• Where to stay in Scotland
• How to find cheap accommodation anywhere

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nic Hilditch-Short

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Great article. I always recommend the Scottish Highlands and Islands: the Outer Hebrides are well off the beaten track and so peaceful with stunning beaches. Back on the mainland north of Ullapool you barely see a soul. Would add only that Snowdon is the 57th highest peak in the UK, not the second highest, but it is the highest outside Scotland. Snowdonia itself is truly magical and well worth a visit: you can take in all the peaks over three days.

i would like to go backpaking in England for 2 weeks

Amazing article. So much valuable information in one article. Thank you.

I love it!!! Cheers from Los Angeles.

Hi Chris I stumbled across your site when looking for ‘The alternative guide to England and Wales, a hippy bible if ever there was one, including instructions on how to reconnect your chosen squat to the national grid/mains. I’ve only glanced at your site and shall look at it again when I have more time, I am pleased that you have included Rye and Lewes in your ‘itinerary’, beautiful places that they both are though might I point out that are towns not villages. If you like railways then the Leeds-Settle-Carlisle line is very good though even that takes second place to the West Highland Line. This will take you up from Glasgow to either Mallaig or Fort William, the Glennfinan viaduct is spectacular. If you are in London and like walking then the Saturday walkers club is worth a look, you pitch up at the relevant train station, meet the other walkers and walks are usually about 8-12 miles long with a pub lunch in the middle. You’ll see a side of English life that most visitors miss and membership is not required. Good luck with your endeavours and let me know what you think, regards, Dave https://www.walkingclub.org.uk/swc/this-weeks-walks.shtml

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Budget travel , United Kingdom

Backpacking the uk on a budget – travel costs + itinerary.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

While the UK is undeniably a beautiful place to travel , it can be expensive. I created this guide to backpacking the UK to help you explore the best of Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) and Northern Ireland. So you don’t break the bank doing it, I’ll share a complete cost breakdown for budget travel in the UK. Since I grew up in the United Kingdom and return between trips, I have almost 30 years of experience living and spending money (or rather trying not to!) in the UK. There are so many fantastic places for budget travel in England, Scotland, Wales and NI such as London, Oxford, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Bristol, Brighton, Cornwall, Devon ( England ), Cardiff, Pembrokeshire ( Wales ), Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Highlands ( Scotland ) and Belfast (Northern Ireland).

Keep reading for my itinerary for backpacking the UK!

UK BACKPACKING ESSENTIALS Lonely Planet guidebook – Great Britain , Scotland , Wales , Ireland Accommodation: Hostels & apartments – Booking.com / Hostels – Hostelworld.com Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Getting around: Trainline / Busbud Flights: Skyscanner

Like budget travel ? Check out my budget guides to South Korea , India , Cuba and Taiwan !

Is it expensive to backpack in the UK?

Yes, the UK is expensive to travel. There are no two ways about it. The UK isn’t as expensive as Scandanavia or certain parts of the US but it’s up there as one of the world’s more expensive regions. Backpacking the UK on a budget is a totally different experience to travelling in Southeast Asia or South America. Luckily, I have plenty of budget tips for the UK to share. Of course, the ultimate tip is to escape the holiday hotspots in favour of hidden gems in the UK .

UK budget travel – what’s the cost?

Well, how long is a piece of string? However, here’s a rough estimate of how much to budget per day in the UK:

Backpacker’s UK budget (staying in hostels and cooking your own meals) – £60 per day. Mid-range UK budget travel (staying in budget Airbnbs and hotels and eating out half the time) – £100 per day. Luxury UK travel budget (staying in nice hotels and eating out for all your meals) – £200 per day.

Backpacking the UK – cost of a visa

Depending where you’re coming from, the conditions of visiting the UK will vary. Make sure you do your research and check out the current costs and requirements.

Backpacking the UK – mobile data

The best way to stay connected while travelling in the UK is to pick up a local SIM card. I use giffgaff and pay £10 for 9GB of data and unlimited calls and texts. Sign up for giffgaff and pre-order a SIM to be delivered to a UK or overseas address.

How to backpack the UK – modes of transport

If you’re wondering How much should I budget per day UK? , let’s get this out of the way: public transport makes it hard to travel on a budget in the UK! Recently, I flew into Manchester via Poland as it was a quarter of the price of the train. I don’t mean to encourage unnecessary air miles as I try to take public transport wherever possible. It’s just tricky when UK trains are more expensive than organs on the black market (I think?).

Trains in the UK

My best UK budget travel tip? Book trains in advance and be smart.

The railways in the UK are privatised which means there are lots of rival companies. Booking a ticket is a bit like playing the lottery as prices vary considerably. Here’s a screenshot of a train 4 minutes later being 5 times the price:

Average UK train prices START from:

Manchester – London: £35.

London – Brighton: £20.

Cardiff – London: £30.

Edinburgh – London: £60.

However, if you’re backpacking in the UK with limited time, you can’t deny the train is the quickest way to get around. Here are my best budget train tips:

Book your journey online to save money – it’s usually a lot more expensive to buy tickets at the station on the day. Select individual times rather than open returns. You’ll be restricted to the time you choose but at least you’ll save money. I use Trainline to shop for good deals and try and book your journeys a week in advance. If you’re visiting Wales, check the best train deals on the Transport for Wales website.

UK budget travel hack #1: go on Trainsplit . This website books you on the individual legs of your journey to save you cash. You end up carrying eight tickets but I’ve saved £15 per journey before by doing it.

UK budget travel hack #2: If you’re aged 16-25 and plan to make more than 2-3 journeys, it might be worth buying a Railcard . These cost £30 but save you a third on journeys so if you’re making a really long one, for example London to Edinburgh, you might make it back in one trip.

UK budget travel by coach

Coach travel can be ridiculously cheap. I’ve made it halfway across the country on a £1 ticket while backpacking in England!

Average coach prices in the UK:

Manchester – London: £20.

Brighton – London: £15.

Cardiff – London: £20.

Edinburgh – London: £50.

If you’re travelling England on a budget, use coach companies National Express and Megabus . Both have toilets, chargers and an online entertainment system. National Express are generally more reliable but the Megabus sales are best for picking up bargains. Compare prices using the Busbud website. Super hack for budget travel in the UK: Travel overnight and you won’t pay for accommodation. This is the lowest of the travel lows but I’ve done it plenty of times and it works!

Cost of local buses

If you’re backpacking the UK on a budget, you will want to catch local buses rather than taxis. You can take buses around cities as well as between towns and cities within the same county. These typically cost a few pounds per journey.

The main bus companies to look out for include Stagecoach which operates all around the country and Arriva which operates around the Midlands, North East, North West, South East of England and Wales. For these buses, you pay the driver in cash or with contactless bank card rather than booking online like the UK coaches and trains.

Cost of internal flights in the UK

Use Skyscanner to find these. You can find real bargains, like London to Scotland for £25 return. Just remember to factor in the price of getting to the airport. From Oxford, I have to catch a train to a London airport and then it becomes less of a bargain. Skyscanner tip – use the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going.

Budget tip – I recently found out how you can drop-off for free at Stanstead Airport !

Cost of taxis

Metered taxis in the UK cost around £3 per mile . Black cabs in London cost considerably more and should only be used as a last resort.

Taking Uber in the UK is a great way to save money but it’s only available in larger cities. Smaller cities and towns have to rely on more expensive private taxi companies. As a general rule, I’d avoid taxis if possible if you’re travelling the UK on a budget. Usually, local buses are the cheapest way to get about.

UK backpacking – where to stay

If you’re hoping to backpack the UK on a budget, finding affordable accommodation will be your biggest challenge. Accommodation prices in the United Kingdom vary depending on the city and type of accommodation you choose but they’re generally pretty high compared to many other countries. Staying in hostels is the cheapest option when backpacking the UK. Here are a few general costs:

Cost of hotels in the UK

Hotel rooms in the UK start at around £35 per night and head into the hundreds. If you’re travelling in a pair, this will reduce the cost of travel in the UK. Hotels occasionally offer single rooms but these are rarely half the price of a double or twin room. My best UK budget tip for solo travellers is to avoid hotels and opt for hostels or rooms in shared Airbnbs.

Budget hotels in major UK cities: London – The Z Hotel Victoria // Point A Hotel Paddington // Browse all London hotels . Oxford – The Buttery Guesthouse // browse all Oxford hotels . Brighton – The Royal Albion Seafront Hotel // browse all Brighton hotels Bristol – Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel // browse all Bristol hotels Manchester – easyHotel Manchester // browse all Manchester hotels Liverpool – The Z Hotel // browse all Liverpool hotels Edinburgh – CoDE Co-Living – The Loft // browse all Edinburgh hotels Glasgow – Glasgow Argyle Hotel // browse all Glasgow hotels Belfast – Jurys Inn Belfast / browse all Belfast hotels

Cost of Airbnbs in the UK

The UK is well set up on Airbnb with loads of private apartments and rooms available. Staying in a bedroom in an owner’s flat is usually cheaper than a budget hotel and only slightly more than a backpackers hostel. Renting a whole apartment is usually more expensive than a hotel room but can be reasonable if you’re backpacking the UK with a couple of other people. Private rooms in Airbnbs start at £20 per night. Entire properties (typically small flats) start at £40 per night. Remember to check the cleaning and service fees on Airbnb; these are in addition to the first price quoted when browsing the website.

Cost of hostels when backpacking the UK

Hostels in the UK start at £15 per night and are undoubtedly the cheapest places to stay, as well as a great way to meet people while travelling solo . A few good options for UK backpacking include:

London – Safestay , Wombat’s City Hostel Manchester – Selina NQ1 Manchester

Bristol – The Bristol Wing / Full Moon Backpackers

Liverpool – YHA Albert Dock , Selina Liverpool

Cambridge – YHA Cambridge

Brighton – Happy Brighton Edinburgh – Code Pod Hotel , Safestay Royal Mile Glasgow – Euro Hostel Glasgow . Even though UK accommodation is expensive, there’s usually a hack. For example, many travellers love getting outdoors at Centerparks but the prices are notoriously high. Plenty of lesser-known cheaper alternatives to Centerparks exist but you just have to do your research!

Don’t want to pay for accommodation? Check out Trusted Housesitters and set yourself up as a house sitter!

Backpacking the UK – tours & activities

Luckily for those backpacking in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, there are free museums, parks and neighbourhoods to discover. For guided tours and bucket list experiences, I would recommend GetYourGuide , a booking platform with affordable tours in almost all UK cities.

Top experiences for backpacking the UK:

Harry Potter studio tour (London)

Jack the Ripper tour (London)

Regents Canal, Camden and Little Venice boat tour (London)

Loch Ness & The Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up (Edinburgh)

Evening Underground Ghost Tour (Edinburgh)

The Titanic Experience with SS Nomadic Visit (Belfast)

Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour (Belfast)

Best places in the UK for backpacking

To travel cheaply in the UK, pick affordable destinations to start with. There are plenty of fun and beautiful places I would recommend for UK backpacking. Planning a trip to England on a budget? Let’s start with my favourite English destinations…

Sure, it’s expensive but you can’t backpack the UK and miss London! It’s not just the main attractions like the Tower of London, London Dungeons and Buckingham Palace that put London on the map but the quirky neighbourhoods like Camden with its colourful street art and alternative East London with yet more street art in Shoreditch .

It’s possible to backpack in London because even the expensive areas like Greenwich have free things to do . Another pricey area worthy of a visit is Notting Hill where you can wander the streets and find colourful houses in London for free.

Best travel guide for London? Lonely Planet Pocket London gets my seal of approval.

Visiting Oxford as a day trip is a great excursion from London. There’s bags of history, a fantastic Covered Market for foodies and lots of impressive Oxford colleges to visit . There are plenty of free things to do in Oxford and some excellent food markets. It’s small and walkable so there’s no need to pay for transport whilst there. Read all my Oxford blogs here. Trains from London start at £5 each way (use Trainline to book) or you can get an anytime return on the Oxford Tube (bus) for £18 which is valid for 3 months. Check for other bus deals on Busbud .

If you’re backpacking England on a budget, I would suggest spending time in the north to save money. Manchester is one of my favourite UK cities. It’s fun, affordable and has plenty of hipster bars and cafes. A weekend in Manchester is the perfect amount of time to spend. The restaurant prices are way lower than London and you’ll find so many cheap eats in Manchester for under £10. Read more Manchester blogs:

• The best day trips from Manchester, England
• Where to find street art in Manchester
• 12 cool Manchester coffee shops not to miss
• The coolest restaurants in Manchester for 2022

The Lake District

The Lake District isn’t the cheapest place for backpacking England BUT if you’re travelling in a group, you can book a self-catering accommodation in the Lake District and cook your own meals. The various hikes, lakes and woodland walks are free. Nightlife is limited so have cosy nights in your cabin, spend quality time with your companions and take advantage of supermarket wine!

This fun and lively city on the coast is just an hour’s train ride from London. Brighton is a hippie and forward-thinking city with a beach, pier, tasty vegan food scene and plenty of LGBTQIA nightlife. Check out my complete guide to visiting Brighton as a day trip from London .

Bristol is another of my favourite UK cities with lots of quirky Bristol street art , vegan food, a lively open-air dining and drinking area beside the harbour and cool neighbourhoods like Bedminster. A weekend in Bristol is a great amount of time and you can also catch a 15-minute train to historic city Bath as a day trip .

With its Beatles history, cultural galleries and dockside dining around the waterfront, there’s a lot to love about this city in the north of England. The outside areas have a lively vibe in the summer but the many museums and cafes mean there are plenty of things to do in Liverpool during winter too. With cheaper prices up north, Liverpool is one of the better places for budget travel in England.

The capital of Scotland is a must for backpackers especially if you visit during August for the famous Fringe Festival (although prices shoot up for accommodation). With lots of history and several Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh , it’s one of the most iconic cities in Europe. Although it’s not cheap, there are several free things to do in Edinburgh .

I tagged Glasgow onto a trip to Edinburgh while backpacking in the UK and ended up falling in love with its quirky street art, up-and-coming areas and affordable eats. It’s without doubt, one of the cheapet cities for budget travel in the UK. When spending a weekend in Glasgow , you can explore free attractions including The Lighthouse (a modern gallery inside a period building), Pollok Country Park, The Hidden Alley, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and the Botanical Gardens. Excellent cheap eats in Glasgow include Gnom ,  Potluck ,  Cafe Strange Brew and Bread Meats Bread . Don’t miss the street art in Glasgow !

The capital of Northern Ireland is a vibrant city that makes a great base for exploring the surrounding region. Being the birthplace of the SS Titanic puts Belfast on the map but there are so many other reasons to visit , not just the fact the prices are relatively low compared to London and cities in the south of Great Britain. I’ll share my UK backpack itinerary further down.. .

What to eat and drink while backpacking the UK

Some of the traditional dishes to try in the UK include fish ‘n’ chips, pie and mash, a Sunday roast, full English fry ups (with sausages, bacon, black pudding, toast, baked beans and fried eggs), Yorkshire puddings, scotch eggs and sausage rolls. Make sure to have an afternoon tea with scones, cake, finger sandwiches and a pot of English breakfast tea. For breakfast, try English crumpets spread with marmite! Regarding the costs, I have good and bad news for you. Eating out in the UK is expensive but supermarkets are really affordable. So, let’s start with the average costs of eating out…

Main dish in a mid-range restaurant: £10-20. 3-course meal and alcoholic drink: £35 – £60 at a mid-range restaurant.

Budget UK restaurants

To eat out in the UK on a budget, there are a couple of decent chains which you’ll find in most cities. None of these places will set you back more than £10 per main dish. Pizza Express / Zizzi / ASK – these Italian restaurants are pretty similar. You’ll get a decent pizza for a tenner and there are always deals on if you check their websites. Leon – I love the concept of this place which is healthy fast food. It’s more of a cafe vibe but it’s open in the evenings too. I like the naked burgers with salad, and they do a solid breakfast deal of a coffee and food item for £4. Greggs – sausage rolls and pasties for pennies. I’m not saying your waistline will get smaller, but your food bill will. Plus, they have a ton of vegan options. Pieminister – to sample hearty English cuisine, try these hearty pies with various sides. Pies start at £5 or you can eat one with mash, mushy peas and gravy for £8. Nando’s – Brits are obsessed with having a ‘cheeky Nandos’ aka a Portuguese-style chicken meal with peri-peri sauces and various sides. Wagamamas – reasonably priced Asian food with a casual canteen vibe and excellent katsu curries.

UK budget travel – do you tip?

In the UK, we leave a 10% tip in restaurants but that’s about it. Occasionally, tips are already added to bills by the restaurant especially if you’re dining in a large group. Double-check the bill to see whether service is included – you don’t want to pay it twice. More commonly, a restaurant bill will include only the food and drink ordered. It’s at your discretion to add approximately 10%. Unlike some countries, we don’t tip bartenders. You might leave the change at the end of a cab journey and of course, you can give a tip to a tour guide if they’ve done a good job. But as a general rule, we don’t have a huge tipping culture.

Cost of supermarkets in the UK

One of the great things about backpacking the UK on a budget is the quality of the supermarkets. I didn’t realise until I travelled to other places how good they are. If you’re backpacking the UK and staying in self-catering accommodation, a week’s supermarket shop can cost as little as £30 per person and make affordable meals throughout your trip. For that reason, my best budget tip for the UK is to eat out as little as possible. UK supermarket costs: Pint of milk – £1, loaf of bread – £1, bag of own-brand pasta – 50p, jar of pasta sauce – £1. To give you a feel for the prices of main supermarkets, I’m going to provide a couple of examples of things their regular shoppers might say:

• M&S – ‘get the butler to pick up some canapés!’
• Waitrose – ‘throw out the rest of the smoked salmon – it’s a day out of date!’
• Sainsbury’s – ‘I buy the Taste the Difference range at weekends and the Basics during the week’
• Tesco – ‘£2 for a sandwich? Bargain!’
• Morrison’s – ‘help me, I’m poor’
• Iceland – ‘I don’t know what’s worse, the risk of salmonella or Peter Andre on their TV advert!’

Stick to the cheaper ones and you can spend less than £10 a day on food. Another UK budget tip is to buy supermarket own-brand items – these are always cheaper than global brands.

Food markets in the UK

If you’re expecting the food markets of Southeast Asia while backpacking in the UK, you’re in for a disappointment. However, there are food markets in some UK cities. I love the many food markets in Oxford , the city where I live. There are also lots of fantastic London food markets. A food market dish can cost as little as £5. While it’s still cheaper to make a packed lunch or cook at home, they’re a great option if you want something tasty without paying restaurant prices.

Budget eating tips for UK backpacking

1. Use hostel kitchens to cook your meals and make packed lunches for your days out. 2. Pack teabags and coffee sachets to save you buying £2.50 coffees every morning. 3. Grab a refillable water bottle . Not only are these environmentally friendly, but you won’t have to spend money on bottled water.

Backpacking the UK – drinks & nightlife

There’s a big pub culture in the UK but it isn’t cheap to go out. People often do rounds which means, depending how many people you’re with, you can drop £50+ on a night out!

Here are a few costs to prepare you for UK budget travel: Pint of beer in the UK: £4.5-7. Glass of wine in the UK: £6-9. Cocktail in the UK: £10-14. Club entry in the UK: This usually costs £5-10. For popular clubs in London, you can spend £20. I’m not sure if this is responsible advice but pre-drinking before going out to a bar or club is a big deal for young English people, and those backpacking in the United Kingdom! A bottle of wine that’s £5 in a supermarket will be £20 in a bar so you can see why people drink at home with friends first. A word about Wetherspoons – it’s not exactly classy but this chain of pubs is damn cheap. I’ve had a bottle of Prosecco for £10 and full meals for £5.

Backpacking London – free things to do!

Even though London is one of the world’s most expensive cities, you can’t deny there are endless free activities. If you’re backpacking in England, you’ll enjoy the plentiful of parks and the countless museums as well as free concerts and events on weekends, especially in the summer. Some of the best free things to do in London during your UK budget travel trip include… Museums – the British Museum, Museum of London, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Queen’s House, Victoria & Albert, Imperial War Museum. Markets – Leadenhall Market, Broadway Market, Maltby Street Market, Borough Market, Camden Market, Colombia Road Flower Market, Greenwich Market, Portobello Road Market, Brixton Village, Pop Brixton, Old Spitalfields Market. Check out my guide to the best London food markets .

Finding Instagrammable locations in London (like these colourful houses) is free!

Galleries – Tate Britain, National Gallery, Somerset House, Saatchi Gallery, Whitechapel Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, God’s Own Junkyard, open-air East London street art , Carrie Reichardt’s House.

UK backpacking itinerary

Here’s a month’s itinerary for backpacking the UK: Days 1-4: London, baby! With 4 days in London, you can spend a day exploring the tourist highlights like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, the Tower of London and the London Eye. Then, spend a day in East London finding street art and browsing cool markets. Another day, take yourself over to Camden and walk the towpath to Little Venice where you can take a boat ride and have brunch on a barge. You could also squeeze in Notting Hill during this day. Don’t miss Greenwich on day 4! Day 5: Take a day trip, I would suggest to Oxford or Margate . Both places are 1.5 hours away on public transport.

Day 6: Catch the train to Brighton and spend 1-2 nights visiting this beach town, shopping in boutiques and indulging in vegan food. Days 7-9: Head over to Bristol . Whilst spending a few days in this quirky city, you can also take a day trip to Bath .

Days 10-17: Wales! With a week in Wales, you can spend a day in Cardiff , visit tourist-friendly Pembrokeshire and head up north to more remote parts of Wales.

Related read: Stops for the ultimate Wales road trip

Read more of my Wales blogs:

• Guide to visiting Holy Island, Anglesey
• What to do in Anglesey, Wales
• The best things to do in Conwy, Wales
• The top attractions in Llandudno, Wales’ perfectly preserved Victorian seaside town
• Why to visit Portmeirion, the idyllic Italian village in Wales
• Fun facts about Wales

Days 18-20: Continue your UK backpacking itinerary from North Wales back into England and arrive in Liverpool. Tip – for getting around in Wales, hire a car with Rentalcars.com or take public transport. Book trains on the Transport for Wales website. Days 20-22: Spend a few nights hanging out in quirky Manchester and eating fantastic food. From here, you can take a detour into the Lake District if you have time. Days 22-27: Scotland! Here you can spend a couple of days exploring Edinburgh then head over to Glasgow. Finally, visit Inverness and take a day trip to Loch Ness . Days 28-30: Fly to Belfast and take day trips around Northern Ireland, starting with Giant’s Causeway.

Best time to backpack the UK

The UK has clear seasons: winter from December to February, spring from March to May, summer from June to August and autumn from September to November. In the summer, temperatures can reach 30 degrees and in winter they drop to around 0. In the summer, it gets dark at 9.30pm and in the winter it can get dark by 4pm. Spring and winter are between the two, characterised by their spring flowers and red autumnal leaves. Winter is miserable in the UK and summer is busy and expensive. I’d choose spring or autumn to dodge the crowds and stay reasonably warm! It rains all year around.

Events in the UK

If you can time your UK backpacking adventures around the following events, do! Glastonbury Festival – while this is my favourite UK festival , it’s not easy to get tickets. You have to fight it out with a billion other wannabe attendees the October before when tickets are released online and gone within minutes. Tickets are £260 but it’s worth increasing your UK travel budget to try and nab one. Glastonbury is one of the world’s best festivals with its many stages, inventive and quirky sets and underground raves in rabbit holes.

Notting Hill Carnival – this neighbourhood of London is fancy and upmarket throughout the year but becomes loud and vibrant during the bank holiday weekend in August when it becomes a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture. Everyone is welcome! Edinburgh Fringe Festival – Unlike Glastonbury which is a camping festival, the Fringe is spread out across the city of Edinburgh comprising arts, music, culture and comedy acts. Attending the festival is free and you pay for individual shows. St Patrick’s Day – held on 17th March each year, this was once an auspicious day to celebrate the patron saint of Ireland. Now it’s a day dedicated to drinking! This a very lively night out across the whole UK. Expect to buy a lot of pints for people you meet at the bar. Bonfire Night – this is a strange day when you consider it commemorates an attempted terrorist attack on the Houses of Parliament in 1605. Nowadays, Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated on the 5th of December with bonfires and fireworks. Many people hold them in their gardens but, if you’re backpacking in the UK, you can easily join public events.

UK backpacking essentials

• Warm clothes for the winter: jeans, jumpers, jacket, scarf and waterproof shoes 
• Shorts, t-shirts, dresses etc for the summer – but always prepare for bad weather!
• Mini travel umbrella (packs up small)
• The latest copy of Lonely Planet Great Britain / Scotland / Wales / Ireland
• Technology : a GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: a stainless steel reusable water bottle to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• A reusable metal straw to save on plastic ones
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( men’s ) ( women’s )
• Packing cubes (handy for organising backpacks and suitcases).

UK budget travel quick links Guide books – LP always get my seal of approval. Use the latest copy of Lonely Planet England . Getting there & around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). Confused about visas? I use iVisa to check visa requirements and apply for visas online For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I also check Viator as they often have fun & unique offerings. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .w Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Read my other UK guides:

• My London guides
• My Oxford guides
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• How to spend a weekend in Manchester
• How to spend a weekend in Norfolk
• 1 day Birmingham itinerary
• The perfect Margate day trip from London
• The perfect weekend in Dorset
• How to spend 2 days in the Lake District
• Things to do in Liverpool in winter
• How to spend a weekend in Bristol

Thanks for reading my UK backpackers guide!

If you liked it, please share it

See you next time for more adventures,

For more UK backpacking tips, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked this guide to backpacking in the UK? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ Backpacking The UK On A Budget – Travel Costs + Itinerary ”

This is super helpful and awesome tips! I’m hoping to solo visit for ~2-3 weeks in early September and see all of GB. I was originally thinking a BritRail pass would be best but they are quite expensive (but still less than a rental car lol) and then I must figure out how to get from stops to destinations (castles, coasts, trails, hostels/BnBs, etc./adds costs) so it will be a bit of planning! I’ll be sure to review a lot of your articles here to help LOL. 5-stars 🙂

Hey Andrew! Glad it helped, yes planning is really required to see the UK affordably! Getting between the out-of-city attractions is always the tricky bit…

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Backpacking | Budget Travel | Living Abroad

UK Backpacking Route

While there was a time when Great Britain controlled a huge portion of the world’s territory, it is only really a very small island in Northern Europe. Despite its limited size, there is so much history and culture to be discovered that lovers of all things British will want to stay for several weeks to really get a proper understanding and feel for this country’s many different faces. Read on for our UK backpacking tips and first a three week itinerary for a trip around the island or staycation if you are British.

Note that this route covers England, Scotland and Wales. Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK but not Great Britain, will be covered in a separate itinerary for the whole island of Ireland.

Table of Contents

How long does it take to backpack britain, uk backpacking budget, backpacker jobs in britain, travel insurance for backpacking britain, backpacking uk – a 3 week itinerary, salisbury & stonehenge, bath & bristol, lake district, hadrian’s wall, isle of arran, visa requirements for uk, extending your trip & getting off the beaten track, shortening the route – 1 & 2 week backpacking itineraries for great britain, cheapest way to travel around england and scotland, when to visit great britain, great britain itinerary overview.

While it only takes a little over four hours to get from London to Edinburgh by the fastest rail links, there are so many worthwhile stops in between and around the country, that we suggest allowing three weeks for the Britain backpacking route outlined below. That’s still missing out many destinations so you could easily allow more time and find more places to go.

Possible Shoestring Budget for this Itinerary: £1000 €1100 $1200

£1000 might be a sensible shoestring budget to have for travelling around Britain in three weeks but that will require you to be quite smart with how and where you spend your money. If you’re not willing to stay in dorms or are planning many nights out or simply want to visit multiple attractions every day, then you could easily double that.

These figures don’t include the cost of flights in and out, travel insurance or any possible visa costs. It’s purely based on what you will spend in the country and is based on March 2020 prices and exchange rates.

Read our article on the cost of travel in the UK for more info and sample prices.

Use Worldpackers to search for work placements in Britain (options include hostel, farm and even festival work). As well as the experience, it’s a nice way to save money and extend your trip as at the very least you should get free accommodation and free meals which equates to huge savings in the UK. Read our Worldpackers guide for backpackers to learn more.

The cost of travel insurance isn’t included in the budget figures above. You can get a quote in less than a minute from Heymondo who provide well reviewed international travel insurance for backpackers from all over the world.

Our 3 week itinerary for travelling around Britain features cities in England, Wales and Scotland. Starting in London, the UK’s capital and largest city, it immediately dives south to hit the coast in Brighton. From there it heads east taking in a number of Britain’s most historic sites, towns and cities before making a dart north towards the Scottish border via Liverpool and the Lake District. Briefly leaving the British mainland to visit the Isle of Arran, the route concludes with stops in the two main cities in Scotland – Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Backpacking England & Wales

London Eye & Buckingham Palace , CC BY 2.0

Many visitors to Britain visit London and only London. While there is so much more to the country, the British capital is the obvious starting point and it is home to most of the busiest airports in the UK making it a convenient entry point. As well as world famous tourist attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Hyde Park and Tower Bridge, the city is home to an array of many varied districts.

Edgy, alternative Camden is one part of town not to be missed with Camden Market home to hundreds of quirky stalls selling a variety of music, fashion and art, as well as great street food. The East End and particularly the area around Brick Lane is another popular stop with visitors to London and it really shows off the cultural diversity that exists in this extremely international city which is home to communities from all four corners of the world.

It should though be pointed out that London is by some distance the most expensive part of the UK and while it may be tempting to stay for up to a week here, budget travellers would be wise to try and cram as much as possible into a few days although there are at least some affordable hostel dorm options these days.

Easily accessible from London with regular rail connections, the seaside city of Brighton is another of Britain’s most popular backpacking destinations. It has a different vibe to most UK cities which can feel a bit ‘samey’ after a while with the same shops and chain bars and restaurants in most of them. The sea air, stony beach and old pier helps to give Brighton a special aura, as does its liberal attitude and reputation as Britain’s gay capital.

The journey from Brighton to Bath is one of the longest on this UK travel itinerary but Stonehenge makes for a nice stop on the way. You’ll only need an hour or so here, so there’s no need to stay overnight in the area.

While Stonehenge has been somewhat unfairly dubbed as ‘just a pile of rocks’ by some, it’s incredible to think that this UNESCO Heritage Site was created by humans some 5000 years ago. Trying to unravel the mystery of what it all means and why it was built is half the fun but budget-minded travellers may be put off by the hefty £21.10 entrance fees.

It’s also not that easy to get to by public transport with Salisbury the nearest city of any size. Consider taking a morning train or bus from Brighton to Salisbury (it may be quicker to go via London) and then leave your bag in storage in Salisbury while you head off to Stonehenge. Be sure to check out Salisbury’s huge 13th Century Anglican cathedral while you are there too.

There are regular trains taking between just 10 and 15 minutes to get from Bristol to Bath and vice-versa, so choose one as your base and do a day-trip to the other.

Bath is one of Britain’s most historic and most charming cities, most famous for its Roman era baths from which the city takes its name. It’s the only place in Britain where you can bathe in hot natural waters and it’s also just a nice place to spend the day, particularly if the sun is shining on the River Avon which runs through the heart of the city.

Bristol by comparison, is a much more modern and vibrant city with a large student population. While there’s less in the way of historical sites, many travellers are drawn in to check out the murals and work of the world’s most famous street artist Banksy who is from the city. There is also more in the way of nightlife here which is worth considering when deciding on where to base yourself.

Cardiff, which features in our countdown of the cheapest cities to live in UK , could also be visited as a day-trip from Bath or Bristol, but you may wish to stay overnight to get a real feel for the Welsh capital. Like many of Britain’s industrial big cities, it has undergone a significant makeover in recent years with many green spaces to relax in while Cardiff Bay is now a thriving area full of bars, restaurants and cafes. History lovers will also be drawn to the city with no fewer than five castles in the city and surrounding area.

Heading back into England, the city of Oxford is most well known for its famous university, which ranks as one of the best in the world. Founded in the 12th Century, many of Oxford’s old colleges now allow visitors to access its grounds and some of its buildings. The city is also home to several museums including Britain’s oldest – the 17th Century Ashmolean Museum . Punting along the river is also a popular pass-time for summer visitors.

Next up is Stratford-upon-Avon, a medieval market town in the West Midlands, just over 20 miles south of Britain’s second city Birmingham. Stratford is a quieter place than most of the urban destinations on this route but it’s a worthy stop for one main reason – as the hometown of one of the world’s most famous playwrights – William Shakespeare. Virtually all the sites and attractions are related to this from Shakespeare’s childhood home to Ann Hathaway’s Cottage. You can even watch a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre but this may need to be booked in advance at weekends and during peak times of the year.

Moving into northern England for the first time, the city of Liverpool is another popular stop with anyone on the UK backpacker trail. Located on the banks of the River Mersey, much of Liverpool’s appeal is thanks to the Beatles, probably the most influential band of the whole 20th Century. Head to The Beatles Story on the famous Albert Dock for the best overview of the band’s emergence and rise to fame. The city is also home to two of England’s most famous football clubs – Liverpool FC and Everton.

Nature lovers will want to spend plenty of time here. England does have lots of charming countryside but you are rarely that far from a town or city. The Lake District in the far north west of the country does feel much more remote and peaceful though and is a nice escape from the busy cities.

Penrith and Kendal both lie on the main west coast rail line connecting England to Scotland and are good access points for the Lake District where you are free to explore what is England’s largest national park covering nearly a thousand square miles. The region is full of lakes, small peaks and tiny villages and you can explore it on foot or by bicycle, perhaps with a bit of help from the somewhat irregular buses that run through the area.

Built in the 2nd Century, Hadrian’s Wall stretches from coast to coast close to but not quite on the border between England and Scotland. Built by Roman soldiers in the 2nd Century, it once formed the final northern frontier of the great Roman Empire. It makes for a decent little stop as you make your way north into Scotland but it’s not really worth staying overnight if you only have three weeks in the UK. Your best bet may be to take a train to Carlisle and visit the wall by bus from there before returning to Carlisle and continuing on the train north to Western Scotland.

Backpacking Scotland

The Isle of Arran is situated in the Firth of Clyde, just off the coast of mainland Scotland. Home to less than 5,000 people, this blustery isle is a good place for hiking through its hilly terrain or taking walks on its blustery beaches. The unique geology of the island will also be of interest to some visitors while Arran is home to a couple of castles and plenty of wildlife including seals and basking sharks which can frequently be seen in its waters.

Scotland’s largest city is Glasgow and while it may lack the historical charms that other Scottish towns can boast, it has improved significantly in recent years with a host of new arts and cultural attractions close to the banks of the River Clyde. Glaswegians are passionate people but this is a complex place with conflicting British and Irish influences and this best manifests itself with the huge outpouring of emotion that comes with the city’s Old Firm derby as Scotland’s two largest football clubs (Glasgow Rangers and Glasgow Celtic) meet.

Hogmanay in Edinburgh , CC BY 2.0

Our three week UK backpacking route concludes in the Scottish capital Edinburgh. The city is home to the UK’s best New Year’s Eve celebrations , known as Hogmanay in Scotland. It also hosts the world’s largest arts festival each summer with Edinburgh Fringe spanning almost four weeks, usually in August and featuring some of the UK’s best comedians. This would be a great time to visit the city but it has plenty of other things to offer with a famous castle and the National Museum of Scotland both worth visiting.

Edinburgh Airport has good connections for onward flights to cities right across Europe.

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UK Backpacking Tips

At the time of writing (March 2020), the UK is in the transitional period of Brexit meaning it has technically left the European Union but it’s only really at the start of 2021 when we will start to see significant changes. The UK’s immigration policy is likely to change considerably in the coming years but currently all EU citizens can enter without a visa and there are an additional 56 nationalities who can enter the country (as a tourist) and stay for up to 6 months visa-free including people from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Israel, Japan and South Korea.

Most Asian and African nationals though will need to apply for a visa before visiting. Contact your local British Embassy for more info if you are in this position.

In England, city-lovers may also wish to check some of the other large regional cities out such as Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle. These places offer a more authentic look at life in modern Britain than some of the more touristy destinations such as London and Oxford. If you’re looking for more historic towns then consider going to Cambridge (home of the other major university) and York.

However from a traveller’s perspective, the big cities are probably not the most interesting thing about Britain and if you’re not a city lover anyway, you could easily skip the likes of Bristol, Cardiff, Liverpool and Glasgow in favour of more time in the countryside and some of the country’s national parks.

Highlights in England include the Peak District, the Cotswolds (pictured above) and Cornwall in the far southwest which tends to get the best weather in the country, although that’s not saying much. Surfers will want to head to Newquay on the Cornish coast.

We’ve only included one destination in Wales but it has some of the most charming countryside in Britain and you will feel as though you’ve stepped back in time if you move into rural Central or Northern Wales. Highlights include Snowdonia which includes many lakes and Mount Snowdon, the largest peak in England and Wales. If you are more pushed for time, visiting the scenic Gower Peninsula close to Swansea, would be a more logical extension to this route.

Scotland is also largely very rural and if you have an extra week, you can easily travel further north and explore the Scottish Highlands and lakes such as Loch Lomond and the famous Loch Ness. The Cairngorms  is the UK’s largest National Park while Scotland is also home to Britain’s highest peak – Ben Nevis. If walking in the countryside and being amongst nature is more your thing, you may even want to base your trip around Scotland before ending with a dive down into England to take in two or three of the towns featured above.

If you only have one week then you do still have plenty of options given the country is so small and travel is relatively quick. You could still base it around travelling from London to Edinburgh but with only a couple of stops in between – Oxford and the Lake District may be good choices.

In two weeks, you could follow the route above but perhaps skip the section between Brighton and Cardiff and instead travel from London to Oxford and then follow the route north.

The UK has an excellent transport network and even in rural areas, there are plenty of bus routes although they aren’t always that regular. If you know what you’re doing, you can find some great deals on transport and breaking your trip up into lots of smaller journeys is actually quite a cost-effective way to go about exploring the UK.

Getting around by train is the quickest and generally most comfortable way to see Britain. Rail passes are available but you may find it works out cheaper to just buy individual tickets. Short and regional services such as Bath to Bristol for example can just be bought at the station at the time of travel. However longer journeys are best bought at least a week in advance when you can often get huge discounts on the normal fare. Even if you are more of a ‘go with the flow’ type traveller, this is well worth considering if your budget is tight. Check out The Trainline for timetables and buying tickets on all UK trains. Tickets can be downloaded to your mobile or collected at the station using the reference code provided when you book.

Most routes are also served by buses and coaches which are often – but not always – a bit cheaper. National Express has the most extensive network while you can sometimes get bargain fares on intercity travel with Megabus .

Britain is not blessed with great weather and while it rarely gets below freezing in the winter, short days and cloudy skies can make it quite a depressing place to be during the winter months. The best time to visit is between June and August when there are festivals on virtually every weekend including some of the world’s best music festivals which would make a nice but expensive addition to your trip.

The UK school holidays start in the final two weeks of July and continue through all of August so arriving just before that is perhaps the optimum time to visit Britain to get the best of the weather and enjoy the long nights, but also avoid the absolute peak time when attractions fill up and accommodation and transport prices can rise in the most popular areas.

This UK backpacking itinerary was published in March 2020.

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Best Places To Visit While Backpacking in the UK

By: Author Julia Evans

Posted on Last updated: May 20, 2023

The United Kingdom's varied landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultural experiences make it an ideal backpacking destination.

For the intrepid explorer, the UK offers many unique places and experiences. This guide will introduce some of the best places to visit when backpacking across the UK.

Table of Contents

Discover the Magic of London

Explore the university towns of oxford and cambridge, dive into history in bath and york, marvel at the natural beauty of the lake district, experience scottish culture in edinburgh, visit the coastal towns of cornwall, top uk destinations.

London, the capital city, is a must-visit. This cosmopolitan metropolis brims with famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.

Art enthusiasts should head to the Tate Modern for contemporary art.

Literature lovers can embark on a nice tour of the top Harry Potter locations in London, like King's Cross Station and Leadenhall Market, which doubled as Diagon Alley in the films.

Don't miss out on London's vibrant food scene. Borough Market offers a myriad of international foods, while traditional pubs provide a taste of classic British cuisine like fish and chips.

No backpacking trip in the UK would be complete without a stop in Oxford and Cambridge, the homes of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world.

Wander around their ancient college buildings, admire the beautiful architecture , and soak up the scholarly atmosphere. In Cambridge, a punt down the River Cam is a quintessential experience.

Bath and York are famed for their historical significance and well-preserved architecture.

In Bath, the Roman Baths and the Royal Crescent offer glimpses into the city's Roman and Georgian past.

York, with its stunning Minster, the Shambles, and the city walls, provides a rich medieval experience.

For outdoor lovers, the Lake District National Park offers stunning landscapes with plenty of peaks, valleys, and, of course, lakes.

It's an excellent place for hiking, boating, and soaking up some of England's most breathtaking scenery.

Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, combines ancient and modern in a uniquely Scottish atmosphere.

From the historic Edinburgh Castle to the lively festivals, including the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, there's something to suit every traveler.

Cornwall , in the southwest of the UK, is renowned for its picturesque seaside towns, beautiful beaches, and delicious pasties.

Visit Penzance, St Ives, or the eco-haven of the Eden Project near St Austell.

Backpacking across the UK allows you to experience a diverse mix of vibrant cities, historical towns, and stunning natural landscapes.

From the bustling streets of London to the tranquil beauty of the Lake District, and the ancient charm of Edinburgh, the UK offers a wealth of experiences for the adventurous backpacker. 

Remember, this list is not exhaustive – one of the joys of backpacking is stumbling upon hidden gems and creating your own unique journey.

So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

With a spirit of discovery and an open heart, your UK backpacking experience will surely be filled with countless cherished memories.

This story is brought to you in partnership with Hellotickets.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

• G Adventures for small group tours.
• Hostelworld for booking hostels.

The Ultimate Backpacking UK Roadtrip Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

The UK is a backpacker’s dream. Fascinating history, rolling green hills, and world-leading culture combine to make a fun adventure with something for every traveler.

As native Brit, I grew up in the UK and have been lucky enough to travel extensively in my home country. Its relatively compact size makes backpacking a breeze: journey times are short and cities are well connected by public transport so you can see a lot no matter how much time you have for your trip.

If you’re planning a trip to the UK , here’s the ultimate backpacking UK road trip itinerary. 

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Getting Around the UK

Train and bus travel is a popular way of backpacking England and beyond thanks to the extensive network and relatively short travel times. The National Rail website is your go-to for planning and booking train travel. Prices can be high the closer you get to your travel date, so book in advance where possible. A cheaper alternative is to travel by coach. Services like MegaBus offer journeys from London to many parts of England , Wales , and Scotland and a ticket can cost less than £10 for some destinations.

For visits to smaller villages and national parks, local bus services are the best way to travel around England and the rest of the nation. Much of the UK also has access to Uber, and shared bicycle and electric scooter services operate in the majority of larger cities, too.

Flying is also an option if you’re short on time and want to cover greater distances without spending a day on a train or a bus. Ryanair, EasyJet, and British Airways are three of the main airlines operating domestic flights in the UK. If you’re including Northern Ireland on your trip, taking the ferry is a fun alternative to flying.

For a true UK roadtrip experience you could also look into hiring a car if budget is less of a consideration. This will give you easy access to the best of the UK without needing to plan ahead as much. Just remember, we drive on the left side of the road here!

The Best UK Roadtrip Ideas

Most travelers fly into one of London’s airports so trips will typically kick off from there. However, there are major airports throughout the country so you can pretty much start your travels wherever you like.

In terms of the best time to go to the UK, every season has its benefit:

Spring – see this green country in bloom as days get longer and drier. Camping and hiking are popular activities during this time, and you’ll find lots of people out enjoying the countryside after a long winter indoors. This is my favorite time to do some traveling in the UK.

Summer – Brits love summertime because, for us, it means picnics, pub gardens, and daylight that lasts until 10 pm. This is also the best time to check out one of our many beaches (and try our famous seaside fish and chips).

Fall – the entire country turns amber as leaves fall and the temperatures drop. The nights start drawing in and rain is frequent. If you’re the best time to enjoy our endless city parks, museums , and galleries, or to cozy up in a cafe with a good book, this is it.

Winter – winters in the UK are pretty mild, but we do get some snow (especially in the north). This is the best time for pub lunches in front of roaring fireplaces, seeing spectacular frost-covered scenery, and doing a spot of holiday shopping.

From north to south, my UK itineraries cover the following places:

The Lake District

Stratford-upon-Avon

UK Itinerary 4 Weeks

A month is enough time to see the very best of Britain. This 4-week road trip in UK itinerary takes in all four countries that make up the UK and could be extended to include southwest England and/or North Wales.

London (5 days)

Bristol (1 day)

South Wales (3 days)

Yorkshire (4 days)

The Lake District (4 days)

Scotland (10 days)

Northern Ireland (4 days)

This London to Edinburgh road trip and beyond starts in England’s capital and gives you enough time to see the city and take some day trips. See the one-week itinerary for my most-loved day trip ideas. From London , head to South Wales with a pit stop in Bristol to hunt down some of legendary artist Banksey’s most famous street art pieces in his home city. Start your Wales trip by spending a few days in the capital city of Cardiff before heading into the Brecon Beacons National Park for a dose of the Welsh countryside.

Next, make the trek up to Yorkshire to explore some of the UK’s best cities. York is steeped in history, Harrogate is my favorite place for a stroll and an afternoon tea, and Leeds is home to some of the best shopping, dining, and live music and theater in the country. The Yorkshire Dales make a great gateway to the Lake District National Park where you should spend a few days tackling peaks and enjoying some proper English pubs.

Head north of the border to explore the beautiful city of Edinburgh before journeying to the highlands to explore Glencoe and Inverness – bonus points if you spot the Loch Ness Monster. Head back down to Glasgow for a fun-packed weekend of music, food, and culture, before hopping on a flight to Belfast. Check out the Titanic museum , visit a castle or two, and make sure you make time for some selfies at Giant’s Causeway.

UK Itinerary 3 Weeks

My three-week itinerary takes in Wales , the northwest and midlands of England, giving you access to mountains, music, and a glimpse into the can’t-beat culture of northern England.

Manchester (4 days)

Liverpool (3 days)

North Wales (7 days)

Chester (2 days)

The Peak District (5 days)

Fly into Manchester to start your epic northern adventure. Catch a football (soccer) match to see British culture at its most raucous, and have a taste of Manchester’s famous music scene by catching a gig at one of the many live venues. The city also has some fantastic museums if you’re hungry for culture, as well as a vibrant global food scene if you’re hungry for actual food.

Next, head to Liverpool , home of The Beatles. Hang out on the vibrant Victorian waterfront where you’ll find lots of food, drink, and entertainment options. Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story are just two of many museums and galleries worth checking out.

Wales is a place that deserves as much time as possible to explore, but you can take in the country’s northern highlights in under a week. Head to Snowdonia National Park and climb Mount Snowdon, or take the train up to the peak if you want the views without the hard work. Llandudno is a cute resort town that comes alive during summer and is a perfect spot to relax for a couple of days after Snowdonia. Make sure you check out at least one of Wales’ incredible castles while you’re there: Conway and Caernarfon are two of my favorites.

Head back into England by way of Chester and its fantastic zoo, before traveling to the Peak District National Park for a few days of hiking and camping. Within this national park, you’ll find picturesque villages like Castleton and Bakewell where you can enjoy afternoon tea, a cracking Sunday lunch, and the opportunity to pick up some cute souvenirs.

2 Weeks in UK Itinerary

This two-week South England road trip itinerary takes in the best of southern England. It Starts in London and then heads south to Cornwall before looping back up to the capital by way of Devon.

London (6 days)

Cornwall (4 days) 

Devon (4 days)

You could spend the entire two weeks in London without getting bored, but six days give you plenty of time to see the main tourist attractions. London is also a great jumping-off point for day trips to nearby attractions including Brighton, Oxford, and Stratford-upon-Avon. 

Next on this southern England itinerary, take a stunning London to Cornwall road trip (or train/bus journey if that’s how you’re traveling). This scenic part of the country is known for its fabulous beaches, spectacular scenery, and the Cornish pasty (a pastry traditionally filled with meat and potatoes. Check out The Eden Project which is the biggest indoor rainforest, eat world-class seafood in Padstow, and take selfies at Land’s End, the most western tip of the UK. For surfers, don’t miss Newquay and its epic breaks.

Devon is north of Cornwall and offers visitors some of the UK’s best beaches, cities, and countryside. This gorgeous country is home to Dartmoor National Park, the historic Cathedral city of Exeter, and the quaint seaside town of Woolacombe. 

1 Week in England

One week of backpacking in England gives you the perfect amount of time to explore London and really get under the skin of the capital city. Spending one week here also gives you plenty of time for day trips. Here are some of my favorite short trips from London:

• Bath – visit Roman baths and marvel at ancient architecture. Make like the Romans and book a spa day, or head to Sally Lunn’s Teahouse to sample a delicious Sally Lunn Bun, a Bath version of a traditional English cream tea.
• Brighton – Brighton is the LGBTQ+ capital of the UK and is one of the best coastal destinations in the country. Stroll the pier and play traditional seaside games, shop for bohemian trinkets in The Lanes, or relax on the beach with a cone of chips.
• Oxford – this university city is only an hour from London and is packed with history, museums, and some of England’s most beautiful churches. Be sure to check out Blenheim Palace.
• Stratford-Upon-Avon – this market town is best known for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. You can visit his house and learn about his life as the world’s most famous playwright.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out these hotel recommendations!

Best Western Northfields Ealing Hotel

Beech House

South Wales

Lanelay Hall Hotel & Spa

Seaview Luxury Apartments

The Coylet Inn by Loch Eck

Northern Ireland

Lough Erne Resort

Riverside Villas

Dream Apartments Silkhouse Court Liverpool

North Wales

The Celtic Royal Hotel

Check out my recommendation here

The Peak District

Peak District, The Greyhound Inn, Warslow circa 1750

Tresarran Cottages Cornwall

The Mole Resort at Highbullen Hotel

Queens Hotel & Spa

The Randolph Hotel, by Graduate Hotels

Stratford-Upon-Avon

Final Thoughts – The Ultimate Backpacking UK Roadtrip Itinerary

As you can see, the UK is a diverse and fascinating place with plenty to see and do. Whether you have a short time or a long time available, my UK road trip ideas are perfect for making the most of every day in the UK. 

Author’s Bio

Sophie is a writer from the north of England. She’s been working and living as a digital nomad since 2017 and splits her time between the UK and overseas. When she’s not busy running her marketing agency,  Good Egg , you’ll find her hiking, reading, or continuing her quest to find the world’s best Negroni. Find out more about her  here .    

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Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Backpacking UK

Looking for important travel information while backpacking in the UK? Here you will find information on working in the UK, entry visas, UK hostels , and much more.

Table of Contents

Facts About the UK

Things to do in the uk, entry visa requirements for the uk.

• Work Permits and Backpacker Jobs in the UK
• UK Hostels & Budget Accommodation 

The UK spans England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and each of these is virtually a country in its own right when it comes to culture and history. With the bulk of the population in England most travellers focus their efforts here, but with easy access to train and bus services, it does not take much out of your schedule to visit the other areas of the UK.

• Currency: Great British Pound (£) £1 = 100 pence
• Time Zone: GMT
• Language: English
• Telephone Services: Country code +44, International Access code 00
• Emergency Numbers: 999 for all services

Climate in the UK

When deciding the best time to visit the UK, the weather plays a big role. The climate in Britain is moderate in most respects; precipitation can be expected throughout the year but is worst in the winter periods. Summers can get reasonably warm but are generally short-lived.

Temperatures drop further north, the most northerly reaches of Scotland can be covered with a blanket of snow in the winter.

When deciding the best things to do in the UK, there is an abundance of options. Here are the top bucket-list items when backpacking the UK.

England’s prime attraction is undoubtedly London, the capital. One of the largest cities in Europe it really does offer everything, from the glitzy Trocadero to the colourful markets of Camden and the bohemian delights of Covent Garden.

Whilst in London you will also have the chance to immerse yourself in a great deal of history and culture either at one of the many museums and galleries, such as the National Gallery, or by visiting some of London’s historic landmarks like Big Ben or the Tower of London. Famous sites include the London Eye  and the eclectic O2 Centre.

Since London is one of the most visited cities in the world, it is wise to book tickets to popular attractions (landmarks, museums) ahead of time to avoid the lines. GetYourGuide sells entrance tickets at face value and you can avoid waiting in line. You might also see ‘ Skip the Line ‘ tickets on their site. This actually refers to a separate entrance for a higher ticket price. It can be a worthwhile cost for mega attractions like St. Paul’s Cathedral or the London Eye, which can have an hour-long wait time for General Entrance during peak tourist season.

You should not, however, limit your stay to only London, getting outside the urban sprawl offers its own unique set of charms. England is blessed with over 30 stone circle sites, the most prominent being Stone Henge in Salisbury. Sites like this offer a completely different experience, especially if you happen to be travelling on an equinox or solstice when you will be exposed to some very colourful locals!

If you would prefer a more active link to the past than standing stones, there is a Living Historical village in Gosport. An entire village circa 1642 has been recreated, complete with accurately costumed actors. This is more of a novelty than a history lesson; you will be able to try ale brewed using medieval methods and try your hand at other crafts and trades, but it is quite a good and unusual day out. You can find more information at the Living History Society  website .

The English Countryside

It is also worthwhile venturing a little way out into the country as some of the best English pubs lie tucked away down long, winding country lanes. These pubs usually offer an excellent selection of local ale as well as traditional bar food.

England, however, is not all quaint culture and historical relics. In any major town or city you’ll find all the exciting bars, clubs, cinemas and other nightlife you’d expect from a Western country, so if you feel like “living it up” for a night you will find plenty of opportunities.

Scotland is more sparsely populated than England, with only a shade over 5 million inhabitants, but some of the most spectacular scenery that the UK has to offer. The Scottish Highlands provide an excellent backpacking destination with plenty of rolling hills and beautiful vistas – mountains like Ben Nevis attract thousands of walkers every year. There are ample youth hostels and campsites, and local facilities for tourists are generally well maintained and well run.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is an incredibly multicultural city. Being both the centre for tourism in Scotland and home to 4 major universities there are plenty of people of almost every nationality present. It is not uncommon to overhear French, Spanish, German, and Chinese conversations in bars in the city centre.

From Edinburgh Castle to the infamous Ghost Tour, the Walter Scott monument and the Princes Street Gardens, there are plenty of things to see and do in this lively, historic city. Edinburgh also plays host to jazz and fringe festivals throughout the month of August, where you will be able to see a wide range of off-beat entertainment and, most importantly, drink in bars for 24 hours straight!

Glasgow, Scotland largest city and former industrial town, is Scotland’s nightlife and shopping hub. With a range of facilities only rivalled by the largest of English towns, Glasgow is the place to come to spend a few days doing some serious partying and spending some money. Less touristy than Edinburgh but still very popular with visitors, Glasgow is known for its friendly locals and vibrant city centre. The city has experienced extensive regeneration over the past few years.

Like Scotland, Wales is sparsely populated outside of the main cities, and there are huge areas of unspoilt wilderness in the country. From the mountains and valleys of Snowdonia to the famous gorge of Wye you will find a lot of natural beauty within Wales’ borders.

Particular attractions include Caernarfon, known for its Medieval castle and walls; Snowdonia National Park, a well-run mountain preservation area; and the imposing cliff tops of the Pembrokeshire coastal area.

Capital city Cardiff boasts all the facilities one would expect from a large UK city, and coming a close second Swansea also has an impressive array of bars, pubs and clubs.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has sadly received attention in the press for all the wrong reasons. It is, however, a long time since atrocities like Bloody Sunday were committed in the name of a now-defunct political cause. What violence still exists is now isolated between rival factions in very specific housing estates in Belfast.

There should be no doubts as to safety when travelling to Northern Ireland, and as long as you stay out of the rougher areas of Belfast it is perfectly safe to visit the region’s capital city. In reality, it is no more dangerous to visit Belfast than it is to visit some inner-city areas of London.

Some of the more famous attractions include the unusual volcanic geography of the Causeway coast and the charming and artistic county of Derry. Although not a major tourist destination, a short ferry trip will allow you to spend some time in Northern Ireland and could perhaps be incorporated into a visit to the more popular Republic of Ireland.

Unique activities in the UK

Since popular places in the UK can get crowded during tourist season, it is wise to reserve tickets and activities ahead of time. GetYourGuide sells entrance tickets to museums and landmarks at face value so you can avoid the lines and save that precious time for more exploring.

Viator is another popular travel website that helps you book things to do in the UK. They work directly with local tour operators in the UK, so you won’t have to scour the internet or roam around town trying to find the best deal.

If you know your schedule ahead of time, a great insider tip is to buy tickets for major tourist attractions ahead of time. Tiqets has entrance tickets and skip-the-line passes for major attractions in London and other hotspots , which can be a worthwhile cost during peak tourist season.

How to Get Cheap Flights to the UK

In order to find the best flights to the UK we recommend using a few well-known flight comparison search engines. These websites offer powerful search options, like entering flexible dates and airports in order to find the cheapest flight to the UK.

Our go-to flight search engine is Skyscanner , which we love for its extremely flexible search options. Our favourite way to get travel inspiration is their “Everywhere” feature. Simply enter “Everywhere” as a destination, and it will then list all available flights from your departure city in order of price. This also works when entering the entire country of the UK as your destination. Skyscanner will search all possible airports in the country in order to find the cheapest option.

Kiwi is another new favourite flight search engine among savvy travelers. Kiwi works by combining flights from different carriers in order to get the best deal. Also, if there is a better ground or ferry option for the route you’re searching, Kiwi will include that in the search results. On average, we have found the cheapest flights to the UK with them compared to the other websites out there.

How to Travel Around the UK on a Budget

Train and long-distance bus are the standard modes of transport for how to get around the UK . Buses are the more economical option, nevertheless, they are well-equipped with the usual modern conveniences that expect when travelling in Europe. Train travel, on the other hand, is the fastest way between two cities in the UK , and the train stations are conveniently located right in the center of town.

Certain routes are better suited to one mode of transport than the other. To compare your options for journeys from A to B, you can try Omio . They compare trains, buses (and even flights) so you can decide for yourself the tradeoff between cost and travel time.

For finding a carpool option between cities in the UK , you can use BlaBlaCar , which is a favorite mode of transport among budget-savvy locals. Just search for your destination, pick the date you want to travel and you’ll see different carpool options. Some rides allow you to book instantly, while others require the driver to approve manually. The BlaBlaCar site defaults to German but you can change the language at the bottom of the page.

Train travel in the UK

Travel is relatively easy but can be a little expensive throughout the UK. A key purchase if you’re under 25 is a Young Person’s Railcard. These passes cost about £20 and will save you 30% on most train journeys and some long distance bus journeys. They are available from all major railway stations.

BritRail offers a range of rather expensive unlimited travel passes which are accepted on most rail services throughout the UK. This could be a good bet if you intend to cover a lot of ground.

The National Express Tourist Trail Pass is a much more affordable means of getting around. This pass allows you unlimited travel on National Express buses (by far the largest inter-city operator) to any of over 12,000 different destinations throughout England.

When travelling in London by far the easiest and cheapest way to get around is using the underground (Tube) system. A one-day travel pass can be bought at all Tube stations and allows you unlimited Tube and bus travel in marked “zones” of London.

Be aware, however, that during rush hour the underground system is absolutely mobbed, and travelling during these periods can be an uncomfortable experience for first-time travellers. In order to avoid this, simply avoid travelling close to 9 am in the morning and 5 pm in the evening – leaving a half hour leeway should give most of the crowds time to die down.

Driving in the UK

If you are staying in the UK for a long time, and you want to travel all of the UK, then it might be a good idea to look into buying a car. You can pick up a cheap car for less than £500. However, there are many extra costs to having a car in the UK.

You must make sure that you have valid insurance , tax and an MOT. It is also a good idea to get breakdown cover if it is an older car. PetrolPrices.com have compared all the leading breakdown cover providers to help you find the best cover, whether you are travelling all over the country, or just want roadside assistance.

You may also want the flexibility to stop in smaller towns between the major cities. If you decide you want to rent a car, you can use DiscoverCars to compare offers from the major car rental agencies in the region.

Ferries in the UK

Ferries are commonly used to travel around the UK since it’s made up of hundreds of miles of coastline and a multitude of islands. 

Ferries link several offshore islands with major coastal towns and ports. They run from four to eight times a day depending on the season. Ferry Scanner provides further information and the schedules for the local ferries.

Backpacker Tours in the UK

Though part of the fun of backpacking the UK is exploring on your own, there are situations, especially when venturing off the tourist trail, when it does make sense to go with a guide or a small group. 

The most popular option for social travel in the UK is Contiki tours. Contiki trips offer more than just transportation, they are organized social group travel for travelers aged 18-35. Whether you’re traveling by yourself or going with a group of friends, Contiki tours are perfect for people looking to have a blast, meet new friends, and form lifelong memories. They offer tours that travel primarily in the UK or longer tours that cover other nearby places.

G Adventures is another great option for organized travel, but with a smaller group. It’s a great choice for anyone backpacking the UK alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travellers. It’s also a practical option for exploring places where you need an experienced guide, like a long hiking adventure or visiting a place well off the beaten path. You can choose from different styles of small group tours like active, wellness, hiking trips, 18-30somethings, and more. Their most popular trips in the UK are their 12-day Budapest to London on a Shoestring tour or their 7-day London to Rome Adventure tour.

Health and Safety in the UK

Healthcare is good in the UK. There are excellent health care facilities with well-trained staff within easy reach of all but the most remote locations. You will receive a high standard of medical care should you fall ill or are involved in an accident; however, a s with travel to all other countries abroad, it is vital that you get travel insurance before you leave.

Even for short trips, our go-to travel insurance provider is World Nomads , which is also recommended by Lonely Planet, HostelWorld , and other major travel companies.

Tap water is considered safe to drink and there are no special immunisations required unless you come from an area with a high rate of diseases such as polio, typhoid or yellow fever. If this is the case you will need to have a vaccination and obtain a certificate to show you are not infected with any of these diseases before entry. These will be available from a local doctor.

A valid passport is required for everyone except EU nationals with a valid ID card. A visa is not required for a stay of up to 3 months for nationals of the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA). If you intend to stay for longer than 3 months or wish to work in the UK you should contact your local British Embassy.

Visa requirements for the UK can vary widely depending on your country of origin and can change over time. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, be sure to check the latest visa requirements while you’re still planning your trip.

Foreigner work permits and backpacker jobs in the UK

The current minimum wage in the UK for those aged 18 to 21 is £4.45 per hour, and £5.35 per hour for those over 22. Non-EU nationals will find it difficult to obtain legal work in the UK and will firstly need a six-month tourist visa and a work permit if intending to find legal employment. Work permits will prove difficult to come across for non-EU nationals without particular work skills.

Casual Work in the UK

The list of casual job opportunities in the UK is endless but would most commonly be found in pubs, restaurants, bars, clubs, hostels, and hotels . Jobs in pubs and restaurants vary in wage but hold the advantage of customer tips in addition to an hourly rate from an employer.

Furthermore, many employees in pubs are provided with accommodation for the duration of their employment, but bear in mind that wages are bound to be reduced if this is the case. The best way to find these types of jobs is to ask around, look in local newspapers and on noticeboards.

Activity Camps

PGL   is the UK’s leading provider of residential activity holidays for children, with centres across the UK, France and Spain. Working for PGL in a variety of roles and locations including as Activity Instructors, Watersports Instructors, Children’s Group Leaders, Field Studies Instructors, Catering Staff, Housekeeping Staff, Drivers, French-speaking roles and Administrators, offers the opportunity to work with like-minded people in a supportive environment in some of Europe’s most stunning locations, with a competitive four-weekly wage, free food and accommodation provided.

Volunteering in the UK

Countless charities and volunteer organisations exist in the UK, and opportunities depend on what you are looking for. Many volunteer placements include free accommodation and food but make sure you establish this before beginning work. Below are just a few examples of different volunteer experiences available.  Youth for Britain  can supply a database of thousands of placements in the UK and worldwide, so if you are serious about volunteering in your gap year it is worth contacting them for more details.

Camphill Communities

Camphill Communities  run volunteer placements across the globe. Volunteers work in communities with adults with special needs. You will be expected to work for 6 days a week and it is usually preferred that you stay for at least one year. Accommodation is provided for the duration of your stay, but you will have to fund your own meals.

The Pennine Camphill Community is just one place in the UK that you can demonstrate your volunteer skills, and volunteers do not have to commit to full-time work but instead can volunteer for just a few hours a week. There are also communities in Scotland; see the  Camphill Scotland  website for more details.

Ffestiniog Railway

Ffestiniog Railway in North Wales is the oldest independent railway in the world and is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Snowdonia. It recruits volunteers to help operate trains, work in catering, and workshops, etc. Volunteers are unpaid and are expected to find and fund their own accommodation, but for £3 per night, you can rent a bed in a local hostel , reduced to £2 per night after twenty nights’ stay.

The National Trust

The National Trust  has many registered buildings throughout the UK and requires volunteers to help with their running, whether it be working in the houses and offices or management of the environment.

Community Service Volunteers

Volunteers work for four to twelve months on various projects around the UK, including conservation and environmental programmes. Accommodation, food, and a £24.50 weekly allowance are included on all projects.

Edinburgh Cyrenians

Volunteers work in communities for homeless young people, helping with activities for residents and carrying out domestic tasks. Two communities exist: one in Edinburgh and the other in West Lothian. Although volunteers are expected to pay for travel expenses, once on the programme they are provided with food, accommodation and about £30 weekly pocket money.

Useful Addresses

7 North Street Workshops Stoke sub Hamdon Somerset TA14 6QR

Youth for Britain Higher Orchard Sandford Orcas Sherborne Dorset DT9 4RP,

Useful Links for finding work and volunteer projects in the UK

• Camphill Communities  provides a database of links to various Camphill Communities around the world.
• Camphill Scotland  provides links to Camphill Communities in Scotland.
• PGL   organises adventure holidays for children and provides jobs across Europe.
• Visit festrail.co.uk for more information about the Ffestiniog railway.
• The  National Trust  is responsible for many of Britains heritage sites

Accommodation is easy to find, although it can be quite expensive.  The best bet for those on a budget would be to  stay in serviced apartments  and bed & breakfasts (B&Bs) which are common in most large towns, or in Youth Hostels, which are also easily found.

Roadside Travel Inns on most of the UK’s main motorway routes aren’t too pricey and are convenient places to stop after a hard day’s travelling.

We have had good experiences finding hostels in the UK on HostelWorld . They have the largest inventory of hostels worldwide, and with over 10 million reviews and ratings from other travellers, you know exactly what to expect.

Another good way to find accommodation in the UK is by checking booking.com . You’ll find hotels, homestays, hostels, and other unique accommodations. They have the most reviews and advanced filtering of any accommodation-booking site, so you’ll be sure to find a great place in your budget. Many of the places on booking.com also offer free cancellation, which takes the pressure off the planning phase of your trip to the UK.

If you are backpacking with another travel companion, we highly recommend booking a rental via VRBO . With a vacation rental in the UK, you’ll have more space, your own kitchen, and you’ll get a better feel for how the locals live. Plus, the cost of a vacation rental can be split among your group, oftentimes making it cheaper than doing individual hotel rooms. 

If you’re looking to save even more money while backpacking in the UK, there are plenty of creative ways to get free accommodation in exchange for work in the UK . For example, one of our favorite ways to stay in amazing locations for free is by signing up as a petsitter with Trusted Housesitters . The site connects responsible animal lovers with petsitting opportunities in the UK and all over the world. It’s a win-win for both sides – travellers can stay in amazing locations for free, and homeowners can rest easy knowing that someone is watching over their place.

And lastly, CouchSurfing is a great community that connects travellers with local hosts in the UK. You can stay for free with verified hosts, who will usually take some time to show you around the local spots.

Useful Links for Backpacking in the UK

• National Express  is by far the largest inter-city bus operator.
• Omio – Train, bus, and flight search for the UK and all of Europe. Offers online booking and mobile tickets
• DiscoverCars – The world’s leading rental car search engines to rent a car in the UK 
• Kiwi and Skyscanner – Flight comparison search engines to find the cheapest flights to the UK and within the country
• GetYourGuide and Viator – a collection of local tours and activities in the UK . Also offers Skip the Line tickets for crowded attractions
• Tiqets – Website selling entrance tickets and skip the line tickets for major tourist attractions in the UK
• GAdventures – guided small group tours in the UK , great for solo travellers or for those interested in a more adventurous trip which would require a guide
• HostelWorld – #1 hostel search website to find accommodation while backpacking the UK. Thousands of hostels and millions of reviews from fellow travellers
• Booking.com – commonly used booking site for accommodation in the UK . Find hostels, hotels, and other unique accommodation in the UK with advanced filtering and millions of reviews
• World Nomads Travel Insurance – Comprehensive travel insurance for long and short trips when backpacking the UK
• Visit Britain  is the UK government tourism website.
• Visit England –  Tourist information for those visiting England.
• Visit Scotland –  Tourist information for those visiting Scotland.
• Discover Northern Ireland –  Tourist information for those visiting Northern Ireland.
• Visit Wales –  Tourist information for those visiting Wales.

There you have it, the ultimate UK backpacking guide. We hope you have found all the information you need for  backpacking around the UK .

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A Little Advice… 5 Tips to Plan a Backpacking Trip to England & Scotland

Last updated on September 11, 2023 by Shannon

Kids are out of school, businesses across Europe are closed, and flights are packed elbow-to-elbow.

Ah, it must be August in the United Kingdom. I arrived in the UK in the late summer, and this is a rough time of year to plan a trip to England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland.

Although it’s a beautiful time to visit, it’s also stressful for budget backpacking, or budget travel in general. Because my yearlong trip was only lightly planned, I learned the hard way that you have to be on your game if you plan to tour around England, Scotland, and Ireland on a backpacker budget .

Table of Contents

Can You Backpack the UK on a Budget?

It’s possible to travel the UK on a budget, but it’s a lot of work!

You see, tourists from both the United States and Europe head to England and Scotland from July through September; this means cheap accommodation is booked quickly, and UK tours and food all come at a high premium.

Although I had my trusty Lonely Planet Great Britain , which offers budget travel tips, it only halfway works when you’re backpacking quickly during high season. Many sights in London and elsewhere are free—you can visit all the museums, and you can hike in the Lake District without spending a penny.

But accommodation and transport prices are brutal if you’re not prepared; for this reason you really need to plan your trip ahead of time if you’re traveling in the summer high season in England and Scotland, even if you usually like to wing it!

These six key points are ones I wish I had known before planning my time in the UK during the summer. These are the essential tips for budget travel across my two months in England, Scotland, and Ireland—using these tactics on my trip not only saved me money, but made it possible to find transport and affordable food every day, and somewhere to sleep every night.

How to Save Money Touring England, Scotland, and the UK

The short of it is: Touring England and Scotland is pricey—all UK travel is going to be more expensive than other places in the world—but there are several real steps you can take to make UK travel more affordable.

1. Book your accommodation ahead of time.

I’m definitely a fan of spontaneous travel and rarely do I fully book my trips advance. When I land in a new place, my MO is usually to book the first two nights of accommodation through Booking.com or Hostelworld (I prefer the rewards discounts on Booking.com that kick in even when booking hostels through the platform).

The rest of my trip? I leave that up to whim, luck, and the advice of other travels. For traveling in England and Scotland during high season, however, that style of travel is extremely difficult. Budget accommodation across the UK is usually fully booked, particularly on the weekends.

What’s more, even the cheapie beds are expensive. Some hostels and budget hotels in London raise prices on the weekends. The only way you can find affordable places to sleep is through a bit of advance planning.

For me, as an American, every price is exchanged from my home currency into the dominating pounds sterling. If you’re traveling on a low budget, the difference of a few pounds extra stacks up quickly.

When I first arrived in the United Kingdom, lack of pre-booking meant I ate up a three-day budget in one heartbeat. All because I had to float myself in an expensive city for a few days until the a nearby budget hotel had openings.

All of the usual hostel sites work for pre-booking. As noted, I usually use Booking.com or Hostelworld for a hostel booking website. And in my many trips to England and Scotland over the years, advance planning on VRBO can net you truly great deals if you’re traveling in a group or as a family.

Also consider local listing like the Scottish Independent Hostels site—it has heaps of highly tailored local information, as well as local accommodation. If booking ahead of time feels too restrictive and you still want to be spontaneous, consider just booking your accommodation for Friday and Saturday nights.

And a hot budget travel tip for traveling families: hostels are still a great choice, by the way. Independent hostels especially are family-friendly, and I have stayed with my toddler son in hostels since his birth. Staying in a private room as a family not only costs less for the room, but your family saves money by cooking occasional meals—making breakfast at the hostel, and prepping a snack for later in the day, is one of the easiest ways to save money in your food budget!.

2. Plan your transportation well!

Why Use Buses in England, Scotland & Ireland?

While trains are faster to be sure, buses are a great way to plan a budget trip in both England and Scotland. The UK train system is both extensive and expensive. Seriously expensive. Buses, on the other hand, offer rock-bottom seats if you book in advance, as low as 1 GBP between cities. I never booked months in advance, so my seats were around 10 GBP—still an absolute bargain considering a similar train ride cost upwards of 60 GBP.

The United Kingdom has a lot of bus options.  Megabus is the cheapest by far. It’s also perfectly good if it run betweens the cities you’re visiting. But note that Megabus has limited routes and runs between mostly just the major cities in Scotland and England. CityLink is more expensive but still cheaper than the trains.

When Trains are a Good Option

Traveline Scotland  was incredibly helpful in planning my route from one city to another. The website gives precise directions and timetables for taking public transport, and you can even select whether you want to include walking, buses, trains, and metro. Rome2Rio also has a good bead on all the different options if you’re planning to travel between two very difficult destinations.

If you have the budget, or if you simply prefer the trains, use the National Rail site to plan your UK train travel. It’s imperative that you book online, however, and book a month in advance if possible. If you don’t, the peak pricing can cost double or triple at the ticket counter.

Rental Cars, Uber, & More

If you’re really going to do it right, then a rental car would probably be most ideal. This is actually a cost-effective option if you are traveling with friends, especially if you use an aggregator site like RentalCars.com—I found an amazing deal on a rental car for an Ireland road trip I took with my dad in 2019.

The fact is, for budget travelers, the cost of splitting a rental car will equal out when split among you, given how pricey trains can be if booked last minute. If you’re solo, you can have that same experience by booking one of the hop-on, hop-off buses that travel around Scotland, specifically, so that travelers can admire the Highlands.

And although the United Kingdom rightly has a fantastic reputation for public transportation, you should always download Uber onto your phone and have that option ready if you find yourself in need of quick transport elsewhere locally. While it’s not as budget as the tube, it’s nearly always a better price than the local taxi cabs.

For my own travels, I used a combination of all three of these when planning my own route around England, Scotland, and Ireland. I trained from London to the Lake District , then I took the public bus to the Isle of Skye and onward across the Highlands to Loch Ness and then to Edinburgh .

From there, I took a £20 flight to Dublin and rented a car for three weeks. To help offset the expense, I picked up other backpackers at my hostels in Cork and Dingle and they chipped in for gas since they didn’t have to buy a bus fare.

3. Make a plan for daily your meals.

Nearly all hostels and vacation rentals have kitchens—and they are often surprisingly well stocked! With that in mind, I highly recommend cooking your own dinner at least a couple of times a week if you’re traveling on a tight budget.

Head to the nearest Tesco Lotus (it’s the most reasonable of the UK’s grocery stores). I found the easiest options for a good mix of eating out and eating in was to cook breakfast and often lunch. Pick up some fruit, yogurt, and muesli. Then you could even do sandwiches for lunch, or eat lunch while you’re out exploring for the day and cook pasta and veggies for dinner.

It’s also possible to eat affordably in the UK. Head to the pubs for the daily special; this is a great option for lunch or dinner as the specials run at a time of day where you can often use the meal as either one.

I used this budget hack from London to Edinburgh, and I always found something tasty and hearty offered at the pubs. As a vegetarian, eating out is a hard in some countries . But UK pubs always have vegetarian options, even if it sometimes lacks much imagination beyond glorified pasta. For this reason, I actually enjoyed cooking for myself, at least when I backpacked through the tinier British and Scottish towns.

Also, budget travelers should look for ethnic restaurants. In London, there are many Asian and African restaurants where you can find a meal for perhaps £8. Or if you eat meat, fish and chips and kebabs are plentiful.

4. Carry an umbrella.

It rains, it pours. In short: the United Kingdom is wet. You’re shrugging right now and thinking, “Huh, of course it’s wet, this girl is crazy to recommend this as a tip.”

It’s even wetter than you imagine.

Budget travelers need the right packing list : poncho, a rain cover for their packs, and a rain jacket. As a budget travel tip, this comes into play because you will be out in the elements waiting for public transport.

Although the big cities have covered bus stops, there’s little chance you will find covered ones in the Scottish highlands. I was lucky to have a rain jacket for myself and my bag when waiting during a few misty rains as I crossed Scotland via bus. You’ll get so wet you’ll wonder, “ Does it rain all the time in Scotland? ” But then, the sun will come out.

Others were less lucky. I met a couple who had completely abandoned their UK travel plans because they had spent hours standing in the rain and were either sick or just plain tired.

Plan ahead and you’ll be more flexible and happy as you crisscross England, Scotland, and Ireland!

5. Pick Your Destinations Wisely

The fact is, moving around will cost you more than staying in a few spots. But what is the fun of backpacking the UK if you don’t actually see any of the sites?! Cities are actually going to offer some of your best budgeting for food and activities since there are so many free things to do. But smaller cities will offer a lot of free outdoor and natural activities.

Here are a few popular budget-friendly big to visit in the United Kingdom:

• London : London is the capital and largest city in the UK, and it is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and diverse neighborhoods. While it can be an expensive city to visit, there are also many budget-friendly options, such as staying in hostels or using the city’s extensive public transportation system.
• Edinburgh : Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful natural surroundings. There are a number of budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels and guesthouses, as well as many free or inexpensive attractions, such as the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. If you visit during the Fringe Festival though, or anytime in August, expect to pay dearly for most things—it’s not a good month for budget travel in Edinburgh.
• Manchester : Manchester is a vibrant city in the north of England that is known for its music scene, sporting events, and diverse neighborhoods. There are a number of budget-friendly accommodation options, such as hostels and Airbnb rentals, as well as many free or inexpensive attractions, such as the Manchester Art Gallery and the Manchester Museum.
• Liverpool : Liverpool is a city in the northwest of England that is known for its rich cultural and musical history. It is home to a number of budget-friendly accommodation options, such as hostels and Airbnb rentals, as well as many free or inexpensive attractions, such as the Liverpool ONE shopping center and the Royal Albert Dock.
• Bristol : Bristol is a city in the southwest of England known for its vibrant art scene, beautiful natural surroundings, and historic neighborhoods. Like elsewhere in the UK, you’ll find a good number of hostels and vacation rentals. A few of the better free or inexpensive attractions include walking the harbor and soaking in the vibes, visiting the Bristol Zoo, and wandering the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. A self-guided street art tour is also a fun way to explore the city for free.

And consider these smaller cities in England and Scotland when traveling on a budget:

• Dundee : Dundee is a city in the east of Scotland that is known for its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and stunning coastline. Budget attractions include the Verdant Works and the Dundee Contemporary Arts Center.
• Glasgow : Glasgow is a vibrant city in the west of Scotland that is known for its lively music scene, cultural attractions, and beautiful parks. Free or inexpensive attractions include the Glasgow School of Art and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
• Hay-on-Wye : Hay-on-Wye is a small town located in the Welsh Borders, in the west of England. It is known for its beautiful countryside, charming architecture, and vibrant literary scene. There are many free or inexpensive attractions, such as the Hay-on-Wye Castle and the Hay Literary Festival.

6. Plan to spend more.

One of the beautiful things about exchange rates is that you just don’t know what’s going to happen. From the time that I started planning my round the world trip to the time I arrived, the exchange rate from the US Dollar to Pound Sterling fluctuated nearly 50 cents on the dollar. 

I spent a lot more money than I had initially planned when plotting my trip across England, Scotland, and Ireland. I also had a cushion in my world travel budget , and that meant that I was able to still enjoy my time and not spend the entire visit pinching pennies too closely. Plan for a budget trip in the UK, but then add a cushion in case you go over your budget.

Think of it in terms of the range of fluctuation. In Asia, when the exchange rate fluctuates it makes on a tiny impact on the amount you end up spending on accommodation. In the UK, however, a change of 20 cents easily means $4 more a night just for accommodation. Stretch that across several weeks and you could be grossly over budget going into the rest of your travels.

Speaking of money, American travelers who don’t have a chip in their credit card should add their card to Apple Pay or the Android equivalent. All across Europe, the credit card machines are most effective with wifi-chipped cards, which most U.S. cards don’t feature.

The hack around these is to use your phone—there are nights now when I leave my home in Barcelona with only my cell phone, knowing every single bar and restaurant accepts Apple Pay. It will make your time in England, Scotland, and Ireland much simpler if you travel with the right credit cards .

The United Kingdom is gorgeous—I do not regret for a second adding this place onto my itinerary for my RTW trip . It might have been, however, a poor choice as a budget traveler. I decided to visit the UK solely to attend the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland .

I had visited England during college and only remembered hemorrhaging money. I did better this time around, but I could have also stayed longer in other areas without the huge expenses associated with traveling the UK.

In the long run, it might have made more sense to save the United Kingdom for an isolated trip in the future, rather than a part of my  round the world trip itinerary . Planning England and Scotland as an independent/shorter trip it would have been less of a financial strain.

Without the worry about my budget holding out until the end, I might have more readily enjoyed a few more pints along the way. That being said, I learned a lot and the UK always beckons me back—partly because dear friends live in Bristol, so I’ve made a habit to visit them twice a year for years now.

Budget backpacking has a learning curve, but there are ways and resources and even budget backpacking books  and budgeting guides to help.

Inspiring England & Scotland Travel Reads

I have an entire list dedicated to the best travel books in general, as well as the books to read before visiting Ireland . These are my top picks for the books you should buy or download before a budget trip to the UK.

• Round Ireland with a Fridge : A very entertaining book about a guy named Tony and his adventures around Ireland, with a refrigerator.
• The Old Ways: A Journey on Foot : This is a fascinating and gripping read about one man’s journey. Robert shares his adventures as he walks from the chalk downs of England up to the Scottish northwest, as well as journeys in Palestine, Spain, and the Himalayas.
• Notes from a Small Island : In this book Bill Bryson writes about his life and adventures after moving to Britain in 1973. A fun read that will have you searching for flight deals to the UK.
• Lonely Planet Great Britain : I have tried all of the different guidebook brands, I continue to use the Lonely Planet even as my travels grow beyond backpacking. It’s laid out better than other guidebooks and it has the most thorough budget transportation sections to and from cities—this was essential planning a trip to the the tiny towns in Scotland.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

10 thoughts on “A Little Advice… 5 Tips to Plan a Backpacking Trip to England & Scotland”

This article was a breath of fresh air. It offered a unique ideas that I hadn’t encountered before.

Travelling to England is the best gift which any traveler can gift himself/herself. I m very happy that you got a chance.

Carry an umbrella. Such a simple task, yet somehow i used to forget carrying one every time & it would rain for sure.

Hey – I can’t remember if the M&S (Marks and Spencers) stores are in Ireland, but if you get a chance, have the pink lady apple juice. It is amazing!

Man, I will have to save that one for next time cuz I am outta here!! Lol, plus I haven’t seen one here in Ireland yet – they may be here, but I have spotted one. Remind me again when I next head to the UK :-)

What a BEAUTIFUL site-such a treat when you can’t go yourself-wonderful photos-thanks so much!!

I think it was this money saving tips blog post you refer to :-)

It is! It is!! Will update. Thank you Andy. :-) I hunted and hunted…got frustrated, and stopped :-)

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How to Spend Two Weeks Backpacking the UK

• Jul 15, 2022

Europe is always a good idea, don’t you agree? The charm, culture, cobblestone and cuisine… count me in! Read on to discover how to spend two week backpacking in the UK.

We chose to stay on mainland Britain and visit England and Scotland, narrowly deciding to save Ireland for another trip. For a budget of ~$3,500 USD a person, we were able to explore 5 cities in England, northern Wales, and 3 cities in Scotland over 2 weeks. This itinerary is great for first time visitors to give you a quick taste of everything the UK has to offer. 

When planning, it’s important to be efficient. Especially if you only have a limited number of PTO days. You want to make the most of your long trip across the pond. We took the proximity of each city into account, and how well connected they are.

Don’t have time to read the whole post now? Pin it here for later!

We chose to travel in April because it’s off season, which means less crowds and often cheaper flights and better accommodation deals. Fall is also considered off season, but does not work for us because of SEC college football season ( go Ole Miss ). Summer is the busiest and most expensive time to visit, and we had lots of holiday plans and weddings to attend this winter. So early spring it was!

I consider this trip to be mid-range when it comes to budget. Our goal for daily expenditure was $160/piece, and nightly stay $100-$150. I would consider budget travel to be closer to $25-50/night (hello hostels), and luxury to be $250 and up. We wanted to be somewhere in between. We also aimed for a healthy mix of restaurant meals ($75+), and fast food options ($5-20).

England and Scotland are grand, especially if visiting from America. I always find English speaking countries less intimidating but just because they speak English doesn’t mean they are lacking in culture. Hop across the pond, and take this brilliant 15 day trek across England and Scotland.

Want a full Itinerary to keep you busy for two weeks backpacking the UK?

I’m going to lay out the overall itinerary, then break it up by location and a few must see activities and sites in each place. For a more in depth city guide, click the link to each location to learn more.

For a quick itinerary at a glance, scroll to the end of this post! 

Disclaimer: I will say this is a very ambitious itinerary. We are active travelers and as “adults” with 2 full time jobs and no real responsibilities yet other than our cat, we Knew this two week travel opportunity was not likely to come around again. So we made the most of it, decided what we wanted to do and see, and set out to visit as many different places as possible. And truthfully, I have no regrets.

But again, this is a very active and fast paced itinerary best done via backpacking. Pack light, keep your walking shoes on, and try not to ever get too comfortable anywhere. This is the kind of trip you may feel like you need a vacation after your vacation just to recover. But the memories are priceless.

Day 1: Travel

We left from our home in Memphis, TN the afternoon of April 1, and arrived in London bright and early April 2.

Days 2 & 3: London, England

2 days in London is just not enough! 3 days would have been perfect. But hopefully London is a destination you may find yourself in again some day to pick up exploring where you left off. Due to a red eye flight and jet lag, we did not complete our full London itinerary as planned.

Day 1 was spent exploring the south bank up to the Tower of London. Day 2 started with a road market, then lots of walking to try to fit in the rest of my pre-planned itinerary. Read the full London post here to see what we did do, didn’t do, and how we fit it all into 48 hours.

Day 4: Oxford, England

I hope taking a train in Great Britain is on your bucket list . If it’s not, it should be! Especially from London, you are so well connected to many other cities in the country.

I hope you plan to visit at least one historic educational mecca when making your UK backpacking itinerary, but how do you choose Oxford or Cambridge? For us, it was easy. My husband is from Oxford, MS, named after Oxford, England in hopes of becoming a similarly successful town for education.

We enjoyed our day trip to Oxford so much. Between the history, architecture and quaint feeling you could easily fill more than a day. My “must do” experience is punting down the River Cherwell. Never heard of punting? I hadn’t either. It’s basically a long canoe like boat that someone paddles while standing in the back, using a long stick and pushing off the river bed floor. If you’re lucky, your local guide will even share interesting facts and history along the way!

To discover 4 more experiences that can’t be missed, you can find my full Oxford guide here.

Day 5: Bath, England

Another day, another train ride from London. This time, we chose to stay in Bath overnight. I didn’t have big expectations for Bath. But let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised.

Bath was chosen as one of the “great spa towns of Europe”, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bath has a few claims to fame including a filming site for the Netflix show “Bridgerton”, and the home of Jane Austen. But the real beauty in Bath is in the Georgian architecture, relaxing in the same hot spring as the Romans in 60 AD, overlooking the city below from an open air rooftop pool, and one of my most fond meals of the entire 2 week trip. Discover all this and more, and learn how to spend a day in historic Bath.

Day 6: Liverpool, England

Liverpool was one of my husband’s non-negotiable stops since an old friend of his from camp lives there. I knew we’d be meeting up with locals, so honestly I didn’t do much planning or research for Liverpool beforehand.

This was another city that far exceeded my expectations. Maybe it was the perfect itinerary and being shown around by locals. But regardless, I have outlined the top 10 landmarks you must see in Liverpool, and am sharing the perfect itinerary here!

Day 7: Wales

If you are like me, you love lists. Adding things to lists, checking things off lists, just lists in general. Wales is it’s own country, and allowed me to say I checked off not 2, but 3 different countries during our 2 week UK backpacking itinerary.

But luckily, Wales is much more than just another check mark on a list. The landscape is breathtaking. Castles, coastline and local fish and chips in the morning, with national parks, look out points and pubs in the evening. I have shared a packed day in Wales in this full post , and can’t recommend traveling through the northern part of this country enough.

Days 8 & 9: The Lake District, England

This National Park stop halfway through the trip was precisely the breath of fresh air we needed! We had been hitting the ground running in every location above, and I was tired. The Lake District includes lovely historic villages and towns, and of course lakes and 583,747 acres of preserved nature.

And the icing on the cake? Randy Pike Bed & Breakfast. If I could only recommend one stay on this UK Backpacking Itinerary, this bed and breakfast would be it. Located in Ambleside, this bed & breakfast is the definition of secluded extravagance. The daily breakfast menu is vast, local, traditional and overall wonderful. Find out more first timer’s tips on the full post here , including some beginner hikes and must see sites.

Days 10 & 11: Inverness, Scotland

Our grand tour through England was over, and we were embarking up to Scotland in a car. Yes, my husband insisted on renting a car and driving on the wrong side of the road. If you’re curious, I outlined advice, pros and cons of hiring your own car as a form of transportation on this two week UK backpacking itinerary.

The drive up to Inverness from the Lake District was stunning. Inverness had been a bucket list location for me after my interest in the Stars show Outlander . We had great food, drove to see Culloden battlefield, Loch Ness, and a standing stone circle that is much more accessible (and less crowded) than Stonehenge. For more on our day in Inverness, see my full guide here.

Days 12-14: Edinburgh, Scotland

Last but not least in any way, shape or form is Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. I had so much fun planning this stop, and finding lots of off the beaten path destinations.

I uncover 13 of the best hidden gems you need to make sure to add to your Edinburgh itinerary. Starting with where to stay, I walk you through sights you must see and the best places to grab a bite to help you plan the perfect trip. Oh, and the absolute most amazing afternoon tea experience in a historic library.

This sums up how to spend 2 weeks backpacking the UK, including an itinerary I was so happy with. I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve summarized the cities by day below. If you are interested in the trip map, with all the stops pinned for your convenience, you can download it here.

Quick Itinerary

Day 2-3: London, England

Day 15: Travel

This 15 day itinerary will give you a great balance of large cities, small towns, beautiful landscapes, fresh air, and historical landmarks. The mix of planes, trains and cars will keep you on your toes. As well as the combination of accommodations including Airbnb’s, Bed & Breakfast’s, hotels, and 800 year old castles. I hope this itinerary serves as a starting point to spend your time in England, Scotland and Wales.

emilyronehome

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The ultimate backpacker’s guide to the UK

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on October 19, 2018 |

The United Kingdom; home to traditional pubs, sheep-dotted hills and of course Her Majesty, the Queen. Whether you come for the pub crawls, the adorable countryside towns or to find that special someone with an accent like Hugh Grant or Emma Watson, this guide has you covered. England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales may be close in proximity, but each of the UK’s countries has its own identity to be explored. Here is the ultimate backpacking UK guide to do just that.

Jump straight to:

• When to visit the UK
• Places to visit in the UK
• Best nightlife in the UK
• Best hostels in the UK
• Best national parks in the UK
• Best festivals in the UK

Transport in the UK

When to Visit the UK

The UK has four distinct seasons, but the weather can change in a matter of moments. Check the forecast but always be prepared for the unexpected.

The UK may be known for its rainy and temperamental weather, but this doesn’t phase the locals; they’re kind of used to it. Besides, it’s not all bad. In return for all that rain the UK gets to enjoy lush greenery and stunning landscapes – and when the sun does shine, boy does it glisten!

In winter (December – February) temperatures average at 5 degrees Celsius with 7 to 9 hours of sunlight per day. In summer (June – August) the days are much longer with an average temperature of 22 degrees, making it the ideal time to travel if you’re looking to explore the UK in its warmest season. In spring (March-May) expect a comfortable average temperature of 14 degrees, and if you head to the countryside be prepared to melt at the sight of new-born lambs and calves. Autumn (September – November) is one of the most beautiful times of the year, as trees are adorned with fiery-red and orange leaves and temperatures average at a comfortable 10 degrees.

England is typically the warmest UK country, followed by Wales, Northern Ireland and finally Scotland, whose most northernly points experience extreme snow in winter.

Peak travel season coincides with the European school holidays from July-September. Prices rise within this time and accommodation is in high demand, particularly in Scotland, so it’s best to formulate a travel plan at least a week in advance. May and June are great months to travel, benefiting from pleasant weather and off-peak prices. If you’re planning a winter visit, December sees Christmas markets open, festive decorations light up the streets and serious ‘Love Actually’ vibes in the air.

Places to Visit in the UK

It’s often the case for overseas travellers to bypass the other UK countries in favour of England, but this is a huge mistake. All four of her Majesty’s nations have so much to offer, and with such close proximity and open borders it couldn’t be easier to explore the UK.

Each country offers the perfect contrast between city and rural life. From the buzz of London, Bristol or Glasgow to the quaintness of the Cotswolds or the Welsh coast, the UK has something for every kind of traveller.

📷: @adventuresofsophh

Best of: England

England is the most touristed country in the UK, welcoming millions of travellers all year round. With a thriving music scene, peaceful countryside, beautiful coastal towns and an abundance of pubs, it’s not hard to see why.

London is the cultural, political and economic capital of England, home to lots of the world’s most famous sights and attractions. A trip to the UK really isn’t complete until you’ve gotten lost on the underground or taken a quick selfie outside Buckingham Palace. With a population of over 8 million people and a tube map that will make your eyes sore, it’s fair to say that London can be quite overwhelming to a first-time visitor. So let’s break it down and make this confusing city a whole lot simpler for you:

What not to miss in London

Big Ben : Possibly the most iconic clock in the world? Big Ben stands at a leg-wobbling 96 metres tall, though unfortunately can only be viewed from afar at present as it is currently under construction. This is due to continue until 2021 so be prepared to see it surrounded by scaffolding if you’re visiting any time soon.

Buckingham Palace : Even if you aren’t a royalist, a trip to Buckingham Palace is a must when in London. Gaze in wonder through the regal front gates and be sure to attend a changing of the guard ceremony, a uniquely British spectacle that’s not to be missed.

Camden Market : Hit up Camden Market for a mixture of vintage and contemporary shopping, as well as a wide selection of global foods and unique original artworks under one roof. Open every day of the week, the markets attracts an alternative crowd and is a great spot to hang out and people watch in one of its canal-side bars.

Find out more about London’s coolest markets

London Eye: Towering over the River Thames, The London Eye is near-impossible to miss. At a whopping 135 metres high, this gigantic Ferris wheel is the largest of its kind in the world.  For unparalleled views over the whole of London, look no further.

Street art in Shoreditch : If you’re an art lover, or just fancy an interesting stroll, head east to Shoreditch. The streets pop with colourful murals created by local artists and will provide weeks’ worth of content for your Instagram feed. There’s no right or wrong path, but you won’t be disappointed if you wander down Wilkes Street, Hanbury Street, Fashion Street and Great Eastern Street.

On board with that hipster vibe? Check out more things to do in East London

Tower of London : You name it, The Tower of London has probably been it – a palace, a zoo, a prison, home of royal jewels, an execution site – the list goes on. The impressive tower now houses a museum showcasing its turbulent history over the last 900 years.

Westminster Abbey : Founded in 960 AD, the Westminster Abbey is the centre of Christianity and royal history in London. It is a treasure trove housing historical artefacts, textiles and intricate stained glass. It’s also the burial place of Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking and Sir Isaac Newton, as well as several other monarchs and significant British citizens.

Need some more ideas?

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Other destinations not to miss

Bath: Take a step back in time to the historic city of Bath, where the streets retain their original Roman and Georgian architecture and are brought to life by eccentric musicians and street performers. A visit to the ancient Roman Baths is essential, especially for history buffs.

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Brighton: A favourite weekend getaway destination for Brits and international visitors alike. This colourful and cosmopolitan seaside town welcomes guests all year round but really comes alive in summer, when the beach is the place to be. Take a stroll down the iconic Brighton Palace Pier where you can grab an ice cream and unleash your inner child on the arcades.

The true spirit of Brighton is found in its many ‘lanes’, which are best explored at a slow pace to browse their hundreds of local boutiques, independent shops and trendy eateries.

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Bristol: A hip, energetic city that’s become popular in recent years. Whether you’re strolling along the waterfront or sipping cocktails at a quirky bar, Bristol impresses. The city is illustrated with eclectic street art – not surprising considering it’s the home of Banksy. Every July, Bristol hosts Upfest , a festival dedicated to creative arts.

The Bristol harbour is one of the most beautiful corners of the city. Jump aboard one of the wooden ferries and head over to the Cottage Inn, a Bristolian favourite for an afternoon pint. From here, take in the beautifully colourful view of the city.

Bristol 📷:  @adventuresofsophh

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Liverpool : Liverpool is known worldwide for its musical legacy, most notably a little band called The Beatles. People flock from all over the globe to see the birth place of the Fab Four and to visit one of the most influential places in musical history. Liverpool is also rich in maritime history and has connections to the Titanic – a relationship explored in the Maritime Museum’s Titanic & Liverpool exhibition.

Don’t miss live music at The Cavern Club . Totally cheesy, but a must if you want to understand Liverpool’s musical past. Twist and Shout like it’s the swinging sixties but be warned that the Cavern Quarter often gets overrun by stags and hens, especially at weekends.

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Oxford : Brush shoulders with esteemed academics from one of the highest ranked universities in the world in the prestigious city of Oxford. Go punting along the river or explore the university colleges where you can pretend to be an extra in a Harry Potter film. Bookworm or not, the Bodleian Library will blow you away – let your inner rebel venture to the ‘restricted section’, but beware as some books are so off-limits they’re chained to alarms. Intriguing or what…

You definitely don’t have to be a student to fall in love with Oxford’s charm; or to enjoy a drink (or five) in the raucous student bars that line Cowley Road.

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Manchester: Manchester is more alive than ever, with an exciting mixture of café culture, edgy nightlife and a dynamic music scene. From laid-back, alternative bars to high end cocktail lounges, there’s no shortage of places to party in Manchester. This is a city that loves its football, so consider going to watch one of its teams play for an unbeatable atmosphere; especially on derby day!

Be sure to take a stroll through the creative Northern Quarter and sample its seemingly endless array of cafes and bars, discovering plenty of art along the way. Why not splurge and dine at Federal Café , an Australian/New Zealand run café serving up a delicious brunch with a few Aussie favourites including Milo based drinks, Tim-Tam flavoured sweets and ANZAC cookies.

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Want some more inspiration? Check out 22 places to visit in England that travel bloggers love

Best of: Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland may be seas apart from the rest of the UK but it’s certainly worth hopping on a ferry for. This small country packs the punch of one twice its size. Think jaw-dropping coast lines and mythical, green lands – this is where much of Game of Thrones is filmed after all!

Belfast : Belfast is a city rich in history and despite its turbulent past the city is thriving today, with a huge university crowd and world-class museums. It’s easy to spend three or four days here wandering its rambling streets, learning about its complex history and getting your drink on in its many pubs and bars.

Don’t miss:

• Titanic Maritime Museum: It was in Belfast that the RMS Titanic was built, and the ship’s tragic story is commemorated at the Titanic Maritime Museum, one of the most popular attractions in the city.
• Hillsborough Castle: Set on 100 acres of stunning woodland, the castle is the official residency in Northern Ireland of Her Majesty the Queen. You can join a 45 minute guided tour or explore the regal grounds at your own leisure.

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Causeway Coast: One of the most pristine stretches of coastline in the UK, The Causeway Coast is the inspiration behind many trips to Northern Ireland. The best way to go about exploring is by car, but If this isn’t possible there are tour companies offering day trips to the area. Buses and trains are available but have limited service.

• The Dark Hedges, Stranocum: Game of Thrones fans will recognise this backdrop straight away. Eight miles inland from Ballycastle, The Dark Hedges is a stretch of road lined and shaded by Beechwood trees. This creates an atmospheric tunnel that’s become a major tourist draw and is guaranteed to stun.

• The Giant’s Causeway: Surely the most impressive natural phenomenon in Northern Ireland, The Giants Causeway is made up of 40,000 basalt columns and was the result of intense volcanic action 50 to 60 million years ago. The lava that filled the sea bed cooled at a rapid speed, creating perfectly formed hexagonal rocks. There is a myth that the Causeway was actually the work of a Giant, but we’ll let you make your own mind up about that one.
• Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge: This rickety bridge 30 metres high connects the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede – cross it if you dare! Don’t worry, it’s totally safe; but it might make your hairs stand on end!

County Fermanagh : Breathe in that country air and feel instant relaxation. The Fermanagh locals are welcoming, time is leisurely and its natural beauty is out of this world. It’s a place that might make you want to unpack those bags and live the simple life for a little while!

• Crom Estate: A haven for wildlife including wild deer, pine marten and rare butterflies. Nearby Upper Lough Erne has beautiful walking trails and is surrounded by castle ruins and ancient yew trees.
• UNESCO Global Geopark: A diverse national park featuring waterfalls, wetlands, forests and the world-famous Marble Arch Caves. If you’re lucky enough to visit between March-October then a boat tour of the caves is highly recommended.

Derry: Commonly referred to as Londonderry due to a naming dispute between Irish Nationalists and Unionists. The city is the second largest in Northern Ireland, and although it isn’t quite as happening as Belfast it’s still a great spot to learn more about Ireland’s tumultuous past as it has a number of excellent museums.

The Glens of Antrim : Nine famous glens (or valleys) stretching across 80 miles. The Glens of Antrim are areas of outstanding natural beauty boasting waterfalls and lakes with several hiking routes to discover them on. Make the most of the Glens by renting a car to be able to make a day trip from Belfast.

Ready for your Irish adventure? Check out 15 best places to visit in Ireland

Best of: Scotland

Isle of Skye 📷:  @adventuresofsophh  

Scotland isn’t a country that should be underestimated; rather one that deserves to be explored from the inside out. From its heritage cities to its rugged coastline, there’s nothing boring about Scotland. So, whether you want to wave goodbye to civilisation and head into the mountains or hone your comedy chops at the Edinburgh Festival, Scotland has something to offer you.

Edinburgh: It’s odd to think of Edinburgh as a capital city, as its friendly residents and laidback pace of life give it the feel of somewhere much smaller. The city is comprised of its Medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, with the magnificent Edinburgh Castle looming above. There are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh, but be prepared for your leg muscles to ache just a little bit!

• Edinburgh Castle: Impossible to ignore, Edinburgh Castle overlooks the city. If you’re interested in history, particularly surrounding the monarchy, this should be top of your agenda.
• Arthur’s Seat: If you’re a sucker for a panoramic view (who isn’t) and want to get that heart rate up, take a walk up to Arthur’s Seat. It’s not the easiest walk but the 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the surrounding coast are reward enough.
• Dean’s Village: Formerly an industrial area, this quaint village is split in two by the River Leith, making it a favoured spot for a picturesque stroll and a snap or two.
• Calton Hill: One of Edinburgh’s many peaks, this hill is the prime spot to catch a sunrise or sunset without having to venture too far from the centre. It’s also home to the Collective Contemporary Art Gallery and the yet to be finished National Monument.
• The Old Town: Whether you plan to or not, there’s no doubt you’ll end up stumbling into Edinburgh’s Old Town at some point. With traditional pubs and vintage book shops lining the cobbled streets, it’s easy to lose track of time here. Be sure to check out Victoria Street and Cockburn Street.

📷: @adventuresofsophh 

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Fort William: At the base of the U.K’s highest mountain sits the town of Fort William, attracting every type of tourist from adrenaline junkies to Potterheads.  The Glenfinnan Viaduct is just 20 minutes away, where you can see The Jacobite steam train (or Hogwarts Express) pass through twice a day. You can even board a steam train yourself and embark on the breath-taking ride over the Viaduct and into the Port of Mallaig.

Glasgow : It may not be the capital, but it is the most populated, partly thanks to its huge number of university students. Glasgow is young at heart, so expect to find trendy cafes, happening bars and flamboyant vintage shops. There are plenty of quieter spots too, with shaded parks and riverside benches to sit and watch the world go by.

Don’t miss :

• Kelvingrove Park & Gallery: Kelvingrove Park boasts an impressive 34 hectares of greenery. It’s close to Glasgow university so the park is usually busy, particularly in summer, making it a great spot for a picnic and a few drinks with friends. The top end of the park has the added bonus of being an amazing sunset viewing spot. Whilst there, pop in to the Kelvin Grove Gallery and Museum for a dose of everything from art to ancient history and archaeology.

• Ashton Lane: Situated in the West End, Ashton Lane is a beautiful cobblestoned lane full of pubs, bars and restaurants which are always heaving. Even on a rainy day, Ashton Lane is the place to be. Check out Vodka Wodka to get your groove on or for a more relaxed drink, hit up Brel .

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Inverness : Inverness is the largest and most populated city in the Highlands, but it might not feel that way. The quiet riverside and town centre alike ooze with Scottish charm. Pretty streets are lined with flower baskets and the Inverness Castle looks straight out over the River Ness. Inverness is a brilliant spot to base yourself if you fancy your chances at spotting Nessie, with Loch Ness just a 25-minute drive away.

Isle of Skye : There’s so much to see on the Isle of Skye that it could almost be a country in its own right. It is part of Scotland though and is easily accessible by car, bus or ferry. From mythical Fairy lands to rugged cliffs and black sand beaches, it’s not hard to see why Skye is becoming a favoured destination for backpackers.

• Fairy Glen: It’s easy to imagine fairies roaming the other-worldly landscapes of Fairy Glen. Everything feels miniature here in comparison to the towering Munros, with cone-like green hills, a beautiful lake and incredible views.
• Fairy Pools: Arguably the most beautiful swimming holes in the UK. People travel from far and wide just to witness the Fairy Pools and swim under their natural bridge. Be sure to arrive just after sunrise or just before the sun goes down to see the pools at their most beautiful and avoid the crowds of the day.

• The Quiraing: The Quiraing is a remarkable and very rewarding hiking route in the North of Skye, where multiple landslips have created dramatic cliffs. The hike to the summit is a 7km loop, but if you’re stuck for time the view from the start point is enough to take your breath away.
• The Neist lookout: Located at the most western point on the Isle of Skye, this lookout is a perfect spot to watch the sunset or spot whales and dolphins. The view as you arrive is incredible, but it’s recommended you walk right down to the lighthouse.
• Talisker Bay: A beach with a bizarre twist. Not only do you have to make your way through fields of sheep to reach it, but the sand is black and enclosed by incredible rock formations on either end of the bay. Make sure you time your trip with the tides, as it’s only at low tide that you can walk along the beach and witness this strange phenomenon.

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Isle of Mull: Further south than Skye but still part of the Inner Hebrides. Mull is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the UK with rose-pink granite, bright white sand and some impressive wildlife watching spots.

Like the sound of Scotland? Check these out:

Ultimate guide to backpacking Scotland

14 totally secret things you never knew you could do in Scotland

The best hostels in Scotland

Best of: Wales

Wales may not be as famous as its neighbours, but that doesn’t mean it should be overlooked. In fact, it’s often favoured by travellers seeking a bit of peace and serenity in the countryside. The landscapes are remarkable, the towns are charming and the pubs are cosy. Wales is a pocket full of surprises with plenty of places to explore, so lace up those hiking boots and head out to the valleys!

Caernarfon : A beautiful medieval town on the North Wales coast, popular among domestic and international tourists for the grand Caernarfon Castle perched on the waterfront. This little market town has a strong sense of community, with the centre taking up just a few streets. Although not mighty in size it has a warm, personal feel, with friendly residents and pretty pastel hued houses.

Cardiff : Cardiff, the city on the coast, is the Welsh capital and proud of it! It has a perfect balance of history and culture, blended with modern architecture and some crazy nightlife.

• Wales Millennium Centre: Recognisable by its imposing, sheer structure, the outside of the building is scripted with ‘CREU GWIR FEL GWYDR O FFWRNAIS AWEN’, which translates to ‘Creating truth like glass from inspiration’s furnace’. The words reflect the Centre’s impressive architecture and the creative inspiration of early poet Taliesin. The Millennium Centre often hosts theatre productions, opera, live music and dance performances.

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Pembrokeshire Coast : The Pembrokeshire Coast is popular among ramblers, with a National Trail stretching 180 miles. It also makes for a phenomenal road trip, as hundreds of twists and turns reveal rugged cliffs, sheltered coves and unexpected sea life.

• Skomer Island: The best way to venture a little deeper is by going off land to Skomer Island. Here you can see adorable Puffins along with thousands of rabbits, dolphins, porpoises and seals. It’s a dream for animal lovers and is set to leave you smiling for days to come. It’s possible to visit Skomer Island on a day trip, but if you want to really immerse yourself in the environment then it’s best to stay overnight. Spring and Summer are the best times to visit as the animals are very active.

Snowdonia : An extraordinary mountain region in North Wales. Most travellers come to Snowdonia to do one thing – climb the craggy cliffs of Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales at a whopping 3560 feet. Even if you aren’t into your hiking, the scenery that moulds the mountain should be enough to draw you North.

• Mount Snowdon: If you love working up a sweat and the thrill of accomplishing a long, intense hike, then climbing Snowdon is a must. Depending on weather conditions and your fitness, the hike can take anywhere from 2-4 hours to get to the top. There are a number of routes which vary in difficulty and length, but the most popular and easiest is the Llanberis track. On the way back, pop into the sweet little pub on the right-hand side of the road for a tea, pint or a mulled cider.
• If you aren’t keen on trekking or short on time, you can jump aboard the train and cruise on up. It does run on demand, so if it’s not a busy day expect to wait for the carriage to be filled.

Best Nightlife in the UK

It’s no secret that Brits love a pint – or several – but where are the best places in the UK to get your booze on?

Bristol, England : Whether it’s a hectic student party or chilled drink you’re after, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Bristol. Bristolians love a drink, which is evident from the hundreds of bars and clubs dotted around the city. It would be impossible to get round them them all, but you can’t miss a rave at Motion . If you want to sample a selection of nightlife, go bar hopping around Clifton or down Gloucester Road.

Cardiff, Wales: The Welsh know how to party hard. With students filling out bars and clubs every night, you’ll always have company for a casual afternoon drink or a heavy night of busting moves. For a more sophisticated evening try The Dead Canary , but if its go hard or go home, head to Soda or Ten Mill Lane .

Glasgow, Scotland : Glasgow knows how to do nightlife fashionably. Even student bars don’t compromise on style – the students are hip and their tastes (and budgets) are looked after. If you want to go upmarket, head to the West End for drinks along Ashton Lane. For a rowdier night, Nice n Sleazy (don’t worry, it’s not too sleazy), Garage or Sub Club should do the trick.

Leeds, England : The nightlife scene in Leeds is huge, and if you’re into grime, tacky pop and throwback hits (who isn’t?) then you’re in luck. Even if you’re not, a fun night out is almost guaranteed. Call Lane is usually the place to be, with a variety of clubs and bars, but if you want to carry on til the early morning then make your way to Backroom .

Liverpool, England : Come nightfall Liverpool has many faces, with a wide range of bars, clubs and events to tickle anyone’s fancy. Whether you want to try your luck getting into one of its secret bars, pop bottles in a chic club or dance in the footsteps of music legends, anything is possible. Boogie ‘til the sun comes up in Heebie Jeebies , or if you want some alternative tunes head to Krazyhouse or Salt Dog Slim’s .

London, England : Of course the UK’s largest city makes the list. Depending on your tastes and budget, London will make you want to go out every night of the week. Explore the areas of Shoreditch and Clapham where the crowds are young and the drinks more affordable. Partying it up in Soho and Chelsea might be tempting, but it could very well set you back the price of your accommodation, so be warned.

Newcastle Upon Tyne, England : It’s not all Geordie Shore you know. This cosmopolitan hotspot has its fair share of clubs and bars open ‘til the early hours. Newcastle attracts a mixed crowd, with an influx of stags and hens on the weekends, students throughout the week and famously hilarious locals at weekends. Make sure you check out The Cluny, an independent restaurant and bar by day and live music venue by night. To take things up a notch, venture over to World Headquarters or Tup Tup Palace .

Best Hostels in the UK

One thing is for sure – the UK has no shortage of epic hostels to make your Brit-trip that bit more memorable. It might not be the cheapest place to travel but staying in hostels will ensure your pounds go a lot further. Here are a few of my favourites from my travels:

Bristol Wing, Bristol

Clink78, London

St Christophers Inn, Bath

Wombat City Hostel, London

Northern Ireland:

Vagabonds, Belfast

Finn McCool’s, Giants Causeway

Glasgow Youth Hostel, Glasgow

Loch Ness Backpackers, Loch Ness/Inverness

Skyewalker Hostel, Isle of Skye

St Christophers Inn, Edinburgh

NosDa Hostel and Bar, Cardiff

The River House, Cardiff

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Best National Parks in the UK

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland : The Cairngorms takes the title of largest National Park in the U.K. Situated in the Eastern Highlands and West Aberdeenshire, Cairngorms is one spot in Scotland that’s busy all year round. During the warmer months, Cairngorms is a dream to explore – be it a brisk afternoon walk or a full day adventure. Come winter, the park turns white and the town of Aviemore and mountain villages of The Lecht and Glenshee fill with winter sport enthusiasts.

Lake District, England : The name says it all. This national park has 16 vast lakes and the nostalgic feel of a summer camp. The biggest and most popular lake is Windemere, which attracts visitors all year round. With cruises along the water, walking trails through the mountains and links to the works of Beatrix Potter, the Lake District is a perfect spot to unwind for a few days. It’s accessible by train but is best explored by car.

Lake District 📷:  @adventuresofsophh

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Scotland : Boasting stunning pine forests and heritage towns, get ready to uncover the familiar and the unknown. Be sure to make a trip to Killin town, where you can dip your toes in the Falls of Dochart. Word of warning: the water is absolutely freezing, even in summer, so be prepared to say goodbye to all feeling and hello to total numbness.

Peak District, England: Neighbouring Manchester, the Peak District is easily accessible. Expect steep limestone valleys and gritstone ridges contrasted with vibrant green meadows and stark moorland. To enjoy the more remote trails, a car is recommended.

Snowdonia, National Park, Wales : Snowdonia has it all: inviting landscapes, proximity to the seaside and of course, Mount Snowdon – the highest mountain in Wales. Whether you’re up for braving the climb or would rather stay firmly on the ground, Snowdonia will tick everyone’s boxes. Also check out the quintessentially Welsh towns surrounding the National Park, with Betws-y-Coed, Caernarfon and Llanberis being the best to visit.

Best Festivals in the UK

Music festivals

If there’s one thing the UK nails best, it’s music festivals. When that first ray of summer sun hits, glitter becomes essential and charity shops are raided to create the most eccentric outfits.

Glastonbury, England : The original, biggest and the best. The ticket situation is tricky, with registration compulsory to even attempt to get your hands on one. Glastonbury is practically a city in itself, hosting huge names like Beyoncé, Radiohead and Ed Sheeran across hundreds of stages. It also features crafts tents, circus performances and an amazing array of food vendors. Glastonbury takes place in June over five days.

Bestival, England : An epic 3-day music and arts festival taking place in July in the coastal town of Dorset. Expect to hear everything from pop and indie to trance and grime. During the day there are plenty of weird and wonderful activities to take part in, from spin classes to aerial yoga.

Electric Picnic, Ireland : Not just an electronic festival as the name suggest, rather one with an eclectic line-up drawing from all genres. Previous headliners include Kendrick Lamar, Sigur Ros and Arctic Monkeys. Good vibes only here!

Reading and Leeds Festival, England : The festival of choice among school leavers and new students. If you aren’t eager on camping out, then pick a day or two and grab individual tickets. This is a festival of big names, glitter, glam and good times.

Parklife, England : An independent music festival held in Manchester every June. The line-up tends to vary from indie and hip-hop to dance and electronic, with headliners including Lorde, Frank Ocean and the XX. Unlike the other festivals mentioned Parklife doesn’t offer camping, so alternative accommodation is required.

Glastonbury Festival

Best cultural festivals

Hogmanay Festival, Edinburgh : Hogmanay Festival is one of the world’s leading New Year’s Celebrations, taking place in the Scottish capital. The festivities last three days from the 30th of December. Most Scots celebrate Hogmanay with meals, music, dancing and of course a whole lot of drinking. The main Hogmanay Event in Edinburgh features a huge torchlight procession, street parties, concerts and an impressive firework spectacular. Tickets vary in price, depending on how many activities and events you choose, but are generally around £150-200 for hostel accommodation and a three-day ticket.

Fringe Festival, Edinburgh : Edinburgh knows how to do festivals, and the Fringe is the largest of its kind in the world. Spanning over three weeks in August it sees streets, pubs, theatres and even churches transformed into stages of all sorts. Performances range from cabaret and musical theatre to stand-up comedy and improvised skits. There’s no need to buy tickets in advance – in fact, if you head to the half price tent, you can get last minute tickets for a bargain price. All of the street performances are free (although tipping is encouraged) and a lot of the local acts run their shows on a ‘pay what you want’ basis.

Edinburgh 📷: @adventuresofsophh

Notting Hill Carnival, London : Since 1966, the Notting Hill Carnival has marked the calendar of most Londoners. Think dancing, music and masquerade seamlessly filling the streets with a pop of colour and thousands of happy, free-spirited people. The carnival is a celebration of London’s Caribbean communities, and the majority of performances and food stem from their traditions. The carnival always takes place on the bank holiday weekend in August, and there’s no entrance free – just rock up and let the good times flow.

The food in each area of the UK varies, with even individual towns having their own traditions. In cities especially there’s also a huge influence from other cultures, meaning that a whole range of cuisines are widely available.

Traditional foods in the UK

Black pudding; England & Scotland : A savoury item made from pig’s blood and fat definitely won’t appeal to vegetarians, but it’s extremely popular with locals and travellers. You can get black pudding anywhere in the UK – but its true origin is a touchy subject between the English and the Scots. Black pudding is usually eaten with a traditional cooked breakfast.

Sunday Roast; England : The English love their Sunday Roast and so does everyone who visits! Get ready for a very full belly – a traditional Sunday dinner contains roasted meat, crunchy roast potatoes, a mixture of vegetables, Yorkshire pudding (baked batter pudding), sausage meat stuffing and thick gravy.

Welshcake; Wales : The Welshcake looks like a flattened fruit scone. Although it has similar ingredients, the cooking process is entirely different, with the Welshcake being cooked on a griddle. You can eat them hot and cold, with a little bit of icing sugar and a light spread of butter and jam if you please.

Cream tea; England : Did you really go to England if you didn’t have afternoon tea or debate the pronunciation of the word scone? This is one of the yummiest English treats, and you must eat your scone with clotted cream and jam. It is to die for.

Haggis; Scotland : The national Scottish dish is made with minced sheep’s heart, liver and lungs as well as oatmeal, onion, suet and spices. It’s definitely not vegetarian or vegan friendly but it’s a must try for all you meat lovers.

Laverbread; Wales : Laverbread isn’t actually a bread. In fact, it’s pureed edible seaweed which is somewhat similar to caviar, and it’s so high in vitamins and minerals that it’s considered a superfood. Laverbread can be enjoyed with toast or seafood but is traditionally served as a hearty breakfast for Welsh Miners.

Soda Bread ; Northern Ireland: Yeast is exchanged for baking soda to create soda bread, a staple side that goes well with most Irish dishes. Eat it with just a slab of butter or jam, or serve it with stews, soups and breakfast dishes.

Fish and Chips ; England: Best enjoyed freshly caught by the seaside – but even away from the coast or on a rainy day, Brits still love their Fish and Chips. It’s common for the chips to be doused in vinegar or to order mushy peas on the side – even gravy or curry sauce in the north of England!

Welsh rarebit; Wales : Don’t worry, you won’t have to eat any rabbit in Wales – not in this dish anyway. Simply put, the rarebit is grilled cheese on toast, made special with its unique cheese sauce seasoned with ale, mustard, paprika or Worcestershire sauce. No basic cheese on toast here!

Where to eat

Hearty pub meals are ubiquitous across the UK, and it’s best to support independent locals and head to the cosiest boozer you can find. Think Sunday roast, fish and chips or pie and mash – Brits are certainly a health conscious lot…

The cafe culture in the UK is on point, especially in the bigger cities across England and Scotland. Cafes are a great way to enjoy eating out without making too much of a dint in the budget too. Some of my favourites from my trip included Paper Cup Café (Glasgow), Honey & Co. (London), Established Coffee (Belfast) and Bakers & Co. (Bristol).

Paper Cup Cafe, Glasgow 📷:  @adventuresofsophh

Buying food from supermarkets and cooking at your hostel is a great way to save some pennies, and the best budget buys will be found at Aldi and Lidl. Otherwise, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons all offer meal deals where you can buy a sandwich, drink and a snack to enjoy on the go for around £3.

It is remarkably easy to travel between countries in the UK. With an extensive network of railways and coaches as well as budget airlines, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting around. So, whether you need to make a quick trip or venture further afield, there’s nothing to stress about.

Coach : Each city has its own bus services, but to travel nationally Megabus and National Express are the most reliable and comfortable coach options. You can travel for as cheaply as £5 one way if booked in advance. Both offer services to hundreds of destinations in the UK, as well as airports and international destinations such as Brussels, Paris and Amsterdam.

Trains : Every major train company in the UK runs under the National Rail network, which makes it easy to jump between cities and countries. Catching the train is the fastest way to travel, but if you don’t book tickets in advance it can be notoriously expensive.

Plane : One of the most convenient things about travelling Europe is the number of budget airline carriers available. The UK is serviced by Ryanair, EasyJet and Flybe which all offer up cheap routes around the continent.

The United Kingdom has so many gems to uncover and no matter how long you get to spend on these fair isles it’ll leave you longing for more – be it another mountain to hike in Scotland, ten more selfies to take with a red phone box in London, another pint of Guinness to drink in Northern Ireland or one more castle to explore in Wales.

About the Author: 

Sophie Spencer is an Australian travel blogger who lives for adventure and thrives off breaking out of that pesky comfort zone. She created  Adventures of Soph  to inspire travellers to live their boldest life, full of courage, change and a whole lot of colour. But with the good, she also shares the ugly realities of travel, talking openly about mental health, her travel mishaps and hardest times both on and off the road.

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Backpacking in style across England: a 2 week itinerary

So much to see and yet so little time.

It’s a question I’ve been asked many times by my readers.

When is the best time to visit England? Where should I go in England? How much should I budget? Bus, train or car-what is the best way to explore England? Do you know any cool hostels to stay in for my trip to England? ALL these questions will be answered and more in this monster post.

When is the best time to visit England?

Anytime. I would recommend you to avoid July and August when the motorways grind to a halt and the queues for popular attractions are neverending but England is beautiful to visit anytime of the year….Ok. Maybe it can be bleak in January and February  but in the winter months, prices of hotels/hostels are significantly cheaper plus you can get some great deals on flights. So it balances out. My favourite time to travel in England and Britain in general is Autumn:  September-October when the hordes of tourists have thinned out and the weather is reasonably warm, crisp and fresh.

Bus, train or car- what is the best way to explore England?

Fortunately, England has an excellent public transport network that makes it quite easy to explore the country by coach or by train. Coach services provided by National Express are extremely budget friendly. Booking in advance, you can get excellent fares. The other alternative is taking the train. Contrary to popular opinion, taking the train in England can be affordable , as long as you do not make the mistake of buying your tickets on the day when it can pretty expensive.  The other option to also look at is hiring a car .

To help you plan your trip across England in the best possible manner, I suggest downloading the Skyscanner app as it gives you the most economical options to get from A to B using planes or trains.

Planning a trip to the UK soon- Use my exclusive  £3 money off voucher!

If you are planning a trip to the UK, definitely recommend downloading the new  Skyscanner Train Travel app

It is very easy, intuitive to use and on top of that you get charged no booking fees for using the app. My favourite features of the app are the fact that you can save your credit card details, allow you to buy tickets with minimum fuss.

Also when you look at the results, the app will highlight the cheapest times to travel and also the fastest route. Other cool money saving features include the handy ‘Groupsave’ pop-up that will show on your screen whenever you book fares for more than 3 people. Groupsave function allows you to save upto 34% on your train fare so its for features like this that make me really love the  Skyscanner Trains app . That plus  24/7 free customer support …lot to love

If you are planning a trip to UK in the next few weeks, download the new  Skyscanner Trains app  ( please sign up via this link) sign up or login into your account, pick a train journey and use the code ‘BT3’ at checkout to get £3 off your first train ticket!

Note, that this code is valid only till  18th November 2018

Where should I go in England?

Visit to the classic victorian seaside town of Brighton is a must on any English roadtrip

Tough one to answer. There is such a wide variety of experiences to savour in England. England has layers of amazing history, beautiful medieval and modern architecture, breathtaking countryside and picture postcard like villages, best museums in the world (most of them are free) , great shopping and also excellent cuisine, pubs, bars, clubs and of course a bunch of classic seaside resorts.

I recently completed a 2 week road trip across England with my friend and filmmaker, Peter Parkorr from TravelUnmasked.com  We created an itinerary that gave us a balance of the best of what England has to offer. We’ve missed out on exploring some places like Bristol, Bath, Manchester, Liverpool, Cornwall, Norfolk, Northumberland and obviously London which we hope to cover on a second roadtrip across England at some point next year.

These are the places we visited

Day 1, 2, – Lake District

Day 3, 4 & 5 – Grinton

Day 6 & 7 – York

Day 8 & 9 – Stratford Upon Avon

Day 10, 11 – Cambridge

Day 12, 13 & 14 – South Downs

Day 15  -Back in London

Where should you stay in England?

England has a really good range of budget accommodation. Definitely recommend looking into staying at some point at a bed & breakfast which is a  great way to experience life in Britain’s local communities and to enjoy a more personal feel.

My other top recommendation is to checkout staying at one of YHA’s newly refurbished hostels.

YHA Cambridge-one of the newly refurbished YHA hostels

The YHA just undergone an extensive refurbishment programme across many of their historic properties. Each hostel has it’s own unique character and heritage which makes staying at any YHA hostel, a great experience. The newly refurbished YHA’s all have a choice of privates and dorms rooms so perfect whether you are travelling as a couple, solo or with a family. Most hostels also have an onsite restaurant and bar which offers excellent value meals. Many of the hostels are located in heritage buildings that have been gifted by YHA members and patrons so you can also expect a lot of character. Drawbacks- With the exception of a few hostels in their network, the hostels are little on the quiet side and not very social. Plus wifi is free for only YHA members ( worthwhile investing in their annual membership which gives you free wifi access ) and currently only available in the common areas.

What experiences can you expect

I’ve below a rough guide to all the places we visited, activities and also where we stayed to give you a

Lake District

Where to stay in lake district.

YHA Ambleside

YHA Ambleside hostel for me is the perfect base to explore Lake District. This is probably one of the most scenic hostels in England perched on the edge of Lake Windermere. It has its own jetty waterside picnic benches, excellent bar and restaurant. The facilities here are excellent- from kayak hire to large self catering kitchen. The bunk style rooms are comfortable and good for families and couples, many with Lakeside views.

Book via Hostelworld . Privates from £30, Dorm beds from £15

Things to do in Lake District

You can follow in the footsteps of some giants of world literature. Lake District was home to Beatrix Potter, Arthur Ransome and Wordsworth who were all attracted by the area’s amazing natural beauty.

Beatrix Potter’s Hilltop (  Cost of entry:  Adult: £9.00, Child: £4.50 & Family: £22.50 ) is definitely worth a visit. Beatrix Potter’s books comes to life at Hill Top – the farm on which she wrote many of her 22 books. There’s a real sense of time having coming to a standstill when you visit Hilltop. Since her death in 1943, National Trust (to whom she bequeathed a generous legacy of her 1600 hectare estate) have preserved the farm in the exact style in which Beatrix Potter would have lived in. Thanks to this careful preservation visitors today can recognize furniture and details of the house , straight out of the pages of her books.

Address: Near Sawrey, Hawkshead, Ambleside, Cumbria, LA22 0LF

You can follow the visit with a trip to World of Beatrix Potter Attraction   ( Cost of entry:  Adult £6.95 Senior Citizen £5.95 Child £3.65 Infant (age 2 & under. The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction is situated on Crag Brow in the centre of Bowness-on-Windermere.  For lovers of her books and also for kids and adults unfamiliar with her books- you can instantly immerse yourself in the world of Beatrix Potter through an extremely well thought out route with the decoration along the way which is almost like walking through all of Potters tales.

Feedings the swans and ducks at Bowness on Windermere

Another reason I love visiting Bowness on Windermere is grabbing some bird feed and feeding the swans , ducks and geese.

If you’re feeling peckish, definitely recommend trying a cheese and onion pasty ( £3.50 ) at Pasty Presto. You can also choose from fillings like Thai Chicken, Spicy Chickpea and Potato and even Curried Parsnip. The gourmet coffee here is fantastic, (made with coffee beans from Union Roasters) far better than the Costa Coffee across the road. Plus they have fast free wifi. Next door, you can pop into Vinegar Jones who do amazing fish and chips ( with curry sauce if you prefer) Lovely crispy, light batter and beautiful fresh fish with fat chips. Fish supper costs just £5

After Bowness, if you are a railway enthusiast, definitely recommend a trip on the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Steam Railway that leaves from the southern tip of the Lake at Lakeside.   Combined with a ride on Lake Windermere cruises  from Ambelside the costs of a return is £10.80 for kids and £21.50 for adults.

On Day 2, follow in the footsteps of a certain William Wordsworth .

Rydal Mount & Gardens

Visit Rydal Mount & Gardens (  Cost of entry:  £7 for adults. £3- Children 5-15 years old )   which was Wordsworth’s home for the greater part of his life from 1813 till his death in 1850. It was here that he improved many of his earlier works and published the final version of his most famous poem ‘Daffodils’. Another reason for visiting Rydal Mount is its beautiful landscaped gardens and in season visitors can see daffodils, bluebells and rhododendrons in full bloom. Turns out that Wordsworth was a keen landscape gardener and this four acre garden has remain largely unchanged from his day. The gardens consist of rare shrubs, fell-side terraces, lawns, rock pools and also an ancient mound that was used as a site for beacon fires to warn people of raiders from the Border.

Our next stop was the village of Grasmere where Wordsworth had a second home, Dove Cottage (  Cost of entry : £7.75. Children: £4.50 ) This was the first family home of Wordsworth and he lived here from 1799 – 1808 with his sister. The standout feature of the cottage is the garden, a place of refuge, meditation and inspiration. It was, wrote Wordsworth, ‘the work of our own hands’. In this garden he composed some of the greatest poetry in the English language.

Grasmere Gingerbread shop

When in Grasmere definitely pay a visit to Sarah Nelson’s famous Grasmere Gingerbread shop which can be found at the entrance of the churchyard of St. Oswald’s Church.

The church is a haunting place to visit and the last resting place of William Wordsworth.

Top tip: On the way back to Ambleside in Rydal, definitely pay a visit to Joseph’s ice-cream van to savour the 99 Flake, an essential for any trip to England. Mark, great grandson of Joseph has been serving customers in this idyllic spot by Rydal water since May 7th, 1972- the day his father died.

Grinton, situated in the Yorkshire Dales will not feature highly on the dream England itinerary of many popular travel guidebooks.The reason I picked Grinton is thanks to its scenic location in the heart of northern Yorkshire dales.

Where to stay in Grinton

Luxury camping pods at YHA Grinton

There is a beautiful YHA hostel here, a former shooting lodge which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Yorkshire Dales.

When you see scenes like this, you realise why Yorkshire is called ‘God’s own country’

The joy of visiting this part of the world is the gorgeous scenery and landscapes that earned Yorkshire the moniker ‘God’s own country.’ I will let the pictures be the judge of that.

This hostel is the perfect base for a relaxed walking holiday and also if you are a keen mountain biker. The other star feature of this hostel are their luxury camping pods. Housing upto 4 and starting from just £50, these camping pods are very comfortable and excellent alternative to camping. This unique hostel also boasts a gorgeous honeymoon suite complete with a free standing roll top bath on the top floor – perfect for couples.

Prices of private rooms at YHA Grinton  start from £39 while dorms room start from £18.

Things to do in and around Grinton

Historic market town of Richmond

If you have a car, Grinton is the perfect base to explore the charms of the Yorkshire Dales. The historic market town of Richmond is just 10 miles away.  This is your typical picture postcard English market town, complete with cobbled streets and photogenic stone cottages. Highlights of a trip here include Richmond Castle, built in 1070.

Georgian Theatre Royal, Britain’s oldest working theatre.

The other highlight of the visit is a trip to the quirky historic Georgian Theatre Royal . Built in 1788, it is Britain’s oldest working theatre and also the country’s most complete Georgian playhouse. The theatre is also home to Britain’s oldest set of theatrical scenery, known as The Woodland Scene. This was painted shortly after the end of the Napoleonic wars. Another unique feature of this theatre is the survival of the kicking boards, which members of the audience would use to kick to show their disapproval .

Tours run every hour from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday. Occasionally tours are unavailable due to performance schedules so check in advance. Suggested donation for the tours are £3.50 per adult and £1 per child.

West Burton-the most beautiful village in England?

Other picture postcard towns in close proximity to Grinton that you can visit include West Burton, often voted as the ‘Most Beautiful Village in England.’

Also definitely worth visiting is Hawes , home to Wensleydale, the historic fresh, mild cheese that has been made here since 1150 by Cistercian monks. The cheese is now world famous thanks to its patronage by Wallace ( who is crackers about the cheese ) one of the lead characters of Aardman animation, Wallace and Gromit.

Top tip : Do visit the shop at Wensleydale Creamery which give you the option top try over 20 variations of cheese for free before you buy.

On the way back from Hawes, definitely stop by at the village of Aysgarth where the River Ure tumbles over a series of broad limestone steps known as Aysgarth Falls. Although not particularly high the waterfalls are one of region’s most famous beauty spots and were visited by Turner, Ruskin and Wordsworth. The upper and middle section of the falls were also featured in the Kevin Costner film ‘Robin Hood – Prince of Thieves’

York Minster. One of the highlights of a visit to York

There are few cities in England and indeed the world that can lay claim to such a rich multilayered history as York. That unique history is reflected to this present day in the city’s stunning Roman architecture and standout buildings like the awe inspiring York Minster, probably the finest Gothic cathedral in the world.

I definitely recommend staying in York at least 2 days to explore this city.

Things to do in York

The simple joy of visiting York lies in wondering it’s narrow streets and losing yourself in time. Everywhere you look there is a delightful mix of century old half timbered Tudor buildings standing side by side with museums, restaurants, bars and traditional pubs. Some of the streets are straight from a Harry Potter novel.

Like my favourite street here ( apparently the most visited street in the world ) the Shambles which easily can pass as Diagon Alley. Here is a wee instavideo of the Shambles

Another must do when visiting is walking the city’s original Roman walls.

Other key highlights include a visit to the Jorvik Viking Centre ( Cost of entry £14 -adult , £9.25 for children. Tickets are valid for free admission for upto 12 months after purchase ) If you’re interested in seeing, hearing and smelling how the Vikings lived, this is as close as you get to the real thing. Thirty years ago while laying the foundations of a new shopping centre on Coppergate, archeologists discovered houses, workshops and backyards dating back to the Viking-Age city of Jorvik. They removed eights tonnes of rubble and found over 40,000 artefacts. These artefacts form the basis of the Jorvik Viking Centre which has been built on the very site where the excavations took place. The centre recreates what life was like in Jorvik through a haunted house-style ride through an authentic recreation of part of the Viking city. Visitors glide in a time capsule through reconstructed Viking streets, complete with life-size models of the original inhabitants.

For chocolate lovers of all ages, a visit to the York Chocolate Story ( Cost of entry:  Walk-up Prices. Adult £9.95. Senior Citizen £8.95. Children (4-15) £8.95. Family of 4 -£29.50. Family of 5 -£35. Children under 4- Free. There is a 15% discount of you book online in advance ) is a must. York is actually the home of chocolate. While other northern centres made their wealth from wool, cotton and steel, York went its own sweet way and built a city from chocolate. Home to key chocolate manufacturers like Joseph Rowntree and Terry’s , iconic chocolate brands like Kitkat and Chocolate Orange were born in York. Here’s a magical fact- Over 6 million Kitkat’s are made in York every day.

Besides a not too long but informative trip into the history and origins of chocolate, the factory also allows guests the chance to make their own customised chocolate bar with some assistance from a professional chocolatier. With plenty of chocolate tasting and samples along the way, this is definitely an experience not to miss on your visit to York.

Other quirky and fun, free thing to do in York is follow the ‘York Cat Trail’- a collection of cat statues located in historic buildings of the city. It is a really fun way to see the city and gets you off the beaten track. The original idea of installing the cat statues was to ward off the rats and mice during the time of the plague. There are 17 of them in existence. I found 10 of them. For more information and to download the ‘York Cat Trail’ map, checkout the official website .

Where to stay in York

Having recently undergone extensive refurbishment and set within a Victorian mansion with its own private gardens, YHA York is a lovely base to explore the charms of York. Rooms are clean and modern. Staff are extremely helpful. As is standard with most YHA hostels, they have a nice self-catering kitchen if you wish to cook your own meals plus an onsite bar and restaurant that offers great value food and beverages. It is a bit out of the city but in really peaceful, quiet location by the river. A 15 minute walk along the river Ouse bring you to the city. My only minor gripe is the non availability of wifi throughout the building. If they can remedy this, this is the perfect hostel.

Perfect for families, groups and couples. Booking via Hostelworld, p rivates start from £49 , dorms from £15.

The Fort York Boutique Hostel

My favourite hostel in York is the Fort York Boutique Hostel . It is in a cracking location just off the Stonegate just a few hundred yards from the historic York Minster. Rooms are comfortable, clean and comfortable. From dorms to private doubles-something to suit everyone’s budget. Staff are really helpful and accommodating. The hostel has the excellent onsite The Kennedy Restaurant and Bar which is in itself a great place to come and have a bite or just to relax with a book during the day with a coffee or a glass of wine. Plus they have the basement Sotano Charcuterie & Bar which serves wonderful cocktails, craft beers, great wines and delicious tapas. Weekends it tends to get a bit noisy with people flooding out into the streets from the bar below so if you are a light sleeper this hostel may not be ideal for you. Otherwise, there is little else to fault with this hostel.

Perfect for couples, solo travellers.

Booking via Hostelworld , privates start from £45, dorms from £30.

Stratford Upon Avon

Stratford-Upon-Avon

If you love towns oozing with history and antiquity then Stratford-upon-Avon is a great destination to include in your England itinerary. The town is best known as the the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Shakespeare dominates the cityscape with the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the five beautifully preserved Tudor homes and gardens of the writer including his birthplace.

We reached there quite late in the afternoon when all the museums were closing and the busloads of tourists were disappearing leaving quite a desolate and eerie feeling. We did try and attempt to visit the grave of William Shakespeare at Holy Trinity Church but at the time of visiting, the church was closed for choir rehearsals so we had to be content with a walk around the graveyard of the parish church.

Where to stay in Stratford-Upon-Avon

YHA Stratford-Upon-Avon

We stayed at the YHA Stratford-Upon-Avon : a beautiful hostel in a Grade II listed Georgian building built in 1874. The hostel has undergone £1.2 million of refurbishment and re-opened in Spring. There is a large dining room/restaurant, games room and lounge and good cycle shed. The hostel is a few miles outside of Stratford Upon Avon in the pretty village of Alveston so if you don’t have a car, your movements are restricted. However there is a regular bus service from the door of the hostel to the town which runs late into the evening in case you are without car and catching an evening performance at the theatre. The staff are friendly and extremely helpful.

Sunday roast at Hemmingfords

No trip to England is complete without a Sunday roast and the hostel’s excellent onsite restaurant , Hemmingford’s made my wish come true serving an excellent Sunday roast – roast beef and all the trimmings included. For an extra £5, you enjoy the hostel’s all you can eat breakfast buffet which is very filling and includes a mix of hot and cold items. The other nice feature about this hostel is the beautiful stretch of lawn and outdoor seating areas. Just grab a book and maybe a coffee or jug of pimms from the hostel bar and you are sorted.

Booking via Hostelworld , privates start from £35, dorms from £19.

Things to do in and around YHA Stratford-Upon-Avon

There is more to Stratford than Shakespeare. The surrounding countryside has a bunch of scenic walking routes. The other key incentive for staying at YHA Stratford-Upon-Avon for us was its proximity to the Northern Cotswolds. It’s a part of England I always wanted to visit. Thatched cottages, stone churches and narrow winding country lanes, it doesn’t get anymore quaint and more English than the Cotswolds.

Weekly market in Chipping Camden

Our first stop was the picturesque town of  Chipping Campden . The curving main market street is probably one of the most scenic streets you can visit, lined with honey coloured limestone cottages that all probably have been models for Lilliput Lane. During our visit we stumbled upon the weekly market held under the beautiful Market Hall built in 1627.

Other highlights included a visit to the east pavilion of the ‘Old Campden’ , a once grand Jacobean house destroyed by fire in 1645 during the Civil War.

Picnic lunch, courtesy of Cotswold Cheese Company and Maylam’s Delicatessen

For lunch, we popped into the Cotswold Cheese Company on the highstreet which stocks local Cotswold produce for our version of an english picnic. We bought a nice bottle of cava, some olives and local cheese. From Maylam’s Delicatessen across the road we got freshly made double gloucester cheese and chive sandwiches ( £2!) and some kettle crisps. Grand total of our posh picnic came to £30 which divided amongst 3 was brilliant value.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Later we visited the picture postcard pretty village of Bourton-on-the-water. Straddling the river Windrush with a series of low, arched stone bridges, gives one the impression of being in Venice and Amsterdam.

Warwick Castle-a great day out with the big and small kids.

Top tip : If you are visiting with family, another excellent nearby attraction you must visit is Warwick Castle. An authentic medieval castle experience , visitors can meet ‘Henry VIII’ in the Great Hall, delve into the castle dungeons and see the castle birds of prey take flight plus climb the lofty towers and soak in the amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

Tudor Fantasy- Cambridge

On arrival in Cambridge, visitors may be forgiven if they feel that they have wandered into a Tudor fantasy.

A quick look at the prices in this fabled place though, and spirits can be punctured as swiftly as one of the city’s many bicycle tires.

Cambridge is expensive but there are some tips to follow that might save you a lot of money.

The prime attraction of Cambridge is the university, which essentially means the thirty odd colleges that pin the city together. Unfortunately, the colleges are well aware of this fact. It may be possible to enter the ivory tower these days, but not without paying around £5 for some of the most famous colleges.

But if you do want to dodge the men in purple robes, here’s a few things to bear in mind.

Firstly, it’s a university. If you are vaguely interested in studying there you have the right to introduce yourself as a prospective student (though be prepared to meet the Admissions Tutor haha). Students are allowed to take guests into the colleges: it’s looking for a friendly student to let you in as a guest. Be discreet though, and remember that the college is a working environment.

Secondly, a great many colleges don’t charge. Enclosed within the brick walls of Newnham is a jewel of a garden – it was also one of the first women’s colleges in the university.

Just down the road is Robinson, a modern college that nevertheless has an atmospheric chapel and wonderful, rambling grounds.

A youthful 22 year old Charles Darwin

Christ’s College is also free. It’s worth passing by just to see the Great Gate which is adorned with the spotted Beaufort Yale, Tudor roses and portcullis. Visitors for a fee of £2.50 can visit the rooms of Charles Darwin who was a student here. You can also visit Darwin’s garden which besides a sculpture of a youthful 22 year old Darwin (the age he was during his final year at Christ’s ) also contains plants which represent Darwin’s voyages around the world on the H.M.S. Beagle.

Another tip. King’s College Chapel charge £7.50 for entry but if you do attend the evensong, it’s FREE. For many visitors, attending evensong is one of the most memorable parts of a trip, and it’s absolutely free. Although Kings College holds the most famous evensong, it is far from the only one. Trinity, Selwyn, St. Johns and many other colleges also have crisp-voiced choirs.

Finally, the vigilance with which colleges are guarded depends upon the season. Taking a walk along ‘The Backs’ (Queens Road) any time from autumn to early spring is likely to reap rewards. It also offers one of the best views in Cambridge: Kings College Chapel across the meadow and this, at least, won’t cost a penny.

One of life’s great experiences- Punting along the Backs in Cambridge

Top tip: Definitely recommend going punting along the Backs. Mornings are less crowded. Here is a little instavideo of us punting along the Backs.

You can hire a row-boat or kayak and try your hand at punting but it is a challenge. Operators like Scudamores offer you a 45 minute guided tour of the Backs and cost £13.50 if booked online. Same ticket costs £17.50 at the kiosk so always book online plus e-tickets are valid for 6 months.

Trip down memory lane: Retro Kate

Top shopping tip : If you are in Cambridge on a Tuesday and looking for a whiff of English nostalgia, pop over to Retro Kate’s delightful stall in Market Square Street Market. You can find everything ( reasonably priced) from Cambridge memorabilia , books of Noddy, Snow White playing cards to Rupert the bear stationery sets, dolls & trinkets.

Where to eat

In terms of the best cheap eats, recommend checking out Guardian budget foodie Tony Naylor’s guide to his 10 best cheap eats in Cambridge . Also the YHA Cambridge hostel offers great value meals in their onsite Scholars bar and restaurant so recommend checking them out if you are staying with them

Where to stay in Cambridge

Cosy and very cool YHA Cambridge

We stayed at the YHA Cambridge which has recently undergone a £1.4 million refurbishment. The result is a modern, clean and comfortable hostel. Location of the hostel is fantastic, just a stone’s throw away from the railway station and a 15 minute walk into the city.The hostel has 11 ensuite rooms which go very quickly so book early. I stayed in a twin bed dorm which was bit stuffy when I stayed earlier in the summer. There is a nice sized self catering kitchen for guests to use. There is an open lounge area and dining room leading on to a secure pleasant courtyard area to the rear of the hostel. There are 4 bike lockers in the courtyard area with ample seating. Free wifi is available to HI members in the common areas but not in the rooms. The onsite Scholars restaurant offers great value meals and a hot breakfast. Plus the staff here made the best coffee from all the YHA hostels we visited so definitely have your caffeine fix here. Staff were super friendly and helpful. Overall, given the lack of budget accommodation in Cambridge, I think this is hostel is an excellent choice.

Booking via Hostelworld.com , privates start from £48, dorms rooms from £20

South Downs

South Downs National Park is on the doorstep of London but feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital city. It’s a part of England that backpackers rarely venture to which is a shame.It’s popular with walkers and hikers who follow the 100 mile long South Downs way that stretches from Winchester to the sea. From rolling hills, scenic views at every twist, picture postcard villages and medieval sites this area has a lot to offer to tourists.

Where to stay: YHA South Downs

YHA South Downs

Good news for backpackers is that a superb brand new hostel that has been opened in the area by the YHA. YHA South Downs is a beautifully converted sussex farmhouse ( with barns ) with ensuite dorms, private rooms, family rooms ( a self contained, 3 bedroom family unit with its own kitchen area available for exclusive use ) and also the option of luxury camping pods. Luxury camping pods? Yes you heard me right. These wooden log pods offer all the magic of a camping experience but with creature comforts like lighting, heating and electrical plug points. Guests have to bring their own bedding. There is a dedicated shower cum toilet bathroom for guests staying in the pods. Pods are perfect for family of 4. Check out my 15 second Instavideo review below of the camping pods below to get a better idea.

Location of the hostel is perfect for exploring the South Downs area. The hostel is right on the South Downs Way making it ideal for either long distance walkers wishing to tackle the whole thing or for those wishing just to cherry pick the sections with the stunning views, many of which are within easy reach of the hostel.Plus the hostel has its own dedicated train station- just a few hundred meters down a country lane brings you to Southease Railway station. The station has direct trains to Brighton ( 25 minutes) and London Victoria every hour ( Journey time: 1 hour 20 minutes )

The hostel’s onsite ‘Courtyard Cafe’ offers a relaxed atmosphere for guests to unwind after a long day. From homemade cakes to coffees to three course meals, the cafe has it all. To get an idea of the food on offer when you dine at the Courtyard Cafe, check here .

Booking via Hostelworld.com , privates start from £39, dorms from £20.

Top tip: Hike upto Firle Beacon which just a wee jaunt from the hostel door and take in the stunning panoramic views across the hills and out to sea.

Things to do in South Downs

The hostel is close to traditional Sussex towns such as Lewes or Newhaven.

Lewes is a quiet picturesque market town with elegant Georgian buildings, ruined castle and a clutch of excellent bars and pubs. On Western Road, keep your eyes peeled for the plaque that marks the zero degree of longitude.

Top tip: For the perfect pint of local ale, pop into the 220 year old Lewes Arms where they have a range of Harvey’s seasonal ales on draft ( Brewery is located just half a mile away if you fancy a visit )

For a great day out for the family , I highly recommend a trip to the port of Newhaven to visit the Newhaven Fort  ( Cost of entry:  £6 Adults , £4 Children with a Family ticket [ 2 Adults & 2/3 Children ]£18.70 ) which is a bit of a hidden gem of East Sussex and strangely neglected by popular travel guidebooks.

The fort has existed in some form or manner from the Roman period because of its strategic position on the coast and has ‘lived’ through the Spanish Armada and also the Napoleanic wars. The current structure was built in 1860. It served as a vital part of the English defence during the two world wars. After its days as a military fort ended, the fort fell into a sorry state of neglect (serving as a YHA Hostel briefly in 1986) before being reborn as a visitor attraction

The military museum recounts the story of the fortress and the role it played through two World Wars. Highlights of my visit included an amusing light hearted introductory movie about life at the fort through the ages and also the opportunity to experience a mock WW2 air-raid shelter experience. A stroll around the ramparts offers great views of the Newhaven harbour and surrounding countryside. Overall a great day out for young and old.

Other highlights of a visit to South Downs includes a visit to Eastbourne and Beachy Head.

Eastbourne is a walk back in time, a old fashioned British seaside resort which warrants a brief stopover for a stroll down its beautiful promenade plus it has a huge number of excellent charity book shops ( Guilty confession- I love a good rummage through charity book shops, a must on any visit to England )

The beautiful pier of Eastbourne that was sadly destroyed just a few weeks after our visit in June.

The jewel in the crown on the promenade is the historic Eastbourne pier, one of the few in existence . However sadly after our visit the Pier was sadly burnt down but plans remain to rebuild it.

Unmissable: White cliffs of Beachy Head

Just near Eastbourne is probably one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline and scenery in Britain. Welcome to the famous white cliffs of Beachy Head. From Beachy Head you can wind you way down the Seven Sisters Chalk cliffs and visit the seaside village of Birling Gap. Sadly, I did not make it that far. I was content just to sit and soak in the views and the sunshine in the companionship of this seagull.

Top tip : This is the perfect spot for a picnic but if you are thirsty and hungry, recommend popping into the nearby Beachy Head pub. There is a nice bit of history behind the pub. During WW2 it served as an advanced listening post when according to one local, nothing was served but mince and onions. Food selection is better nowadays and they have a good selection of ales and beers on tap to choose from.

Perfect day out in England? Head to the colourful seaside resort of Brighton

The other city that definitely warrants a day visit is the colourful , lovely seaside city of Brighton. It is a 25 minute train ride from the hostel. It has a brilliant nightlife, Britain’s oldest cinema ( Duke of York ) , a fantastic street art scene ( check out my guide to Cassette Lord ) , great markets (check out North Laine ), a tad touristy but interesting pier, great museums and also a nice selection of bars and restaurants. Checkout my earlier 48 hour guide to Brighton and if you are in town and looking to sleepover, recommend checking out the Umi Brighton Hotel .

Middle Farm, Sussex

My other top tip for a great day out for people of all ages is Middle Farm which is just down the road from the YHA South Downs hostel. It is a working farm and visitors can meet their prize winning pedigree Jersey cows and also meet their adorable ponies and Llamas. There is a nature trail to which allows you to savour the wild variety of wildlife the farm has to offer. You can enjoy a traditional country lunch after or tea with their home baked cakes at the restaurant. The other fantastic feature of the farm is the national collection of cider and perry- 300 examples of the finest cider from across England. Visitors are allowed free samples to taste which we thoroughly enjoyed as you can see from our Middle Farm #cidergram below.

We stumbled out later with a few bottles of England’s finest cider. If that isn’t enough, pop into the farm shop and bakery after where you take home artisan cheeses, their own chutneys and preserves plus some of their mouth watering cakes.

Middle Farm ( Firle, Lewes, East Sussex.) is situated between the villages of Firle and Selmeston. The Open Farm opens at 10am and closes at 5pm with last entry at 4.00pm. There is no charge for entry to Middle Farm, apart from the Open Farm where tickets are £4.00 per head. There is no charge for children under 3.

How much will the trip cost

With the strength of the pound against the euro and the dollar, managing England on a budget can be quite a stiff challenge.  If staying in dorms and eating out once a day, you can easily do the trip on £40-50 a day.

Here are a few tips to make your pound stretch further

Eating on a budget in the UK

For food, if you are looking to keep costs down, make full use of the YHA’s self-catering facilities which are excellent.

Top tip: If you’re shopping at any of the major British supermarkets, generally after 7-8pm, you can pick up a whole range of food items at heavily discounted prices.

Lunch offers the best value option for eating out in the UK. Download apps like Vouchercloud w here you can get 2 for 1 deals on a number of chain UK restaurants. Plus watch out for pub chains like JD Wetherspoons where  you can get deals like 2 for 1 meals for as little as £6.99

The Great British Sandwich Lunch- from as little as £3 at Co-op or £3.29 at Boots

Also don’t forget the great British sandwich lunch! Whenever I am in UK, I love popping into either Co-op supermarket or the high street chemists, Boots for their meal deal special. They offer a huge range of delicious sandwiches (  sushi too which is not bad ) plus a choice of crisps or chocolate plus a drink for as little as £3.29. ( £3 at Co-op )

If you want to splurge out on a nice meal but looking for value for money, do check out sites like opentable.co.uk and 5pm.co.uk and lastminute.com where you can get excellent deals on top restaurants in London and across the rest of the UK.

Transport can be a major cost so wherever possible. try and walk everywhere. Most UK cities are quite compact with the exception of London and you can cover all the main sights by foot. If you are planning to travel by train or plane, book ahead.

Invest in a good guidebook

Wherever possible, I used Twitter and Facebook for recommendations for places to visit but on days where internet access was difficult, my Lonely Planet Guidebook to England proved to be a really handy backup option. As much as we use the internet and social media to plan our trips, I still think that the traditional guidebook still is an indispensable tool when it comes to longer trips, especially where internet access is tricky. I downloaded their e-book which currently retails at €15 in their store or you can choose to download individual chapters if you know where you are going for as little paying €3, per chapter.

Hope you enjoyed the post. Please leave your feedback and comments below. Planning a 2nd roadtrip next year and love to hear your suggestions of where to visit.

Many thanks first of all to YHA, Visit Britain and Go Euro for supporting my trip. Also, thanks to the legendary Peter Parkorr- was a ball exploring England with you…thanks for the laughs and memories. We must do it again someday soon. Also thanks to Mia Pebleton from UK Travel Room and Sophie Collard from Travel Darkly for joining the roadtrip -no roadtrip is complete without the company of good friends.

Clear disclaimer : While my trip was made possible by my sponsors, the views expressed here are my own and remain honest and unbiased!

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Backpacking in Europe , Backpacking in the United Kingdom , Budget Travel Guides , Travel Tips

The cheapest way to travel in england.

Great Britain isn’t the cheapest destination to visit, but it needn’t cost the earth.  If you’re planning to come backpacking in England or simply want to travel Britain on a budget there are a few tricks that can help your hard-earned cash go further.  Check out my tips for travelling in the UK on a budget, with these recommendations for the cheapest way to travel in England!

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My Top Tip for Backpacking in England

If you plan to spend a while exploring England (like more than two weeks), then you should consider a work exchange.  Work exchanges are a great way to save money while travelling as you get free accommodation in exchange for a few hours of work. 

Work exchange websites like Worldpackers have listings of available placements that you can check out, and they are offering all Tales of a Backpacker readers a $10 discount on yearly membership .  Sign up here or get more information about how work exchanges work here .   

ACTIVATE YOUR DISCOUNT CODE

Cheap Travel to England

Cheap Flights to England from Europe

Thankfully, there are plenty of cheap airlines that fly into the UK from Europe.  Easyjet , Ryanair , Vueling and others all have cheap flights to England and the rest of the UK, depending on your starting location – but as with any airline, their prices change drastically depending on demand. 

Peak times around summer holidays, Christmas and school holidays always cost more than off-peak dates, and can even cost more than traditional airlines. 

Book your flights in advance when you can, and be flexible on the dates you fly and the airport you fly to.  I always use a flight comparison site like Skyscanner to find the best deals and airports.  Skyscanner has a useful function to check dates around your preferred day, as well as nearby airports.

Remember to plan your travel from the airport to your destination before you book the flight – often the cheapest flights land at a time when there is no public transport available, so once you’ve factored in a taxi fare, that cheap flight doesn’t seem like such a bargain!

Cheap Flights to England from The USA

Travelling to the UK from the US, or other further afield destinations obviously isn’t as cheap.  Look out for flight deals and so-called ‘error fares’ in advance, and try to be flexible on the dates you fly.  You could also consider flying into another European city then taking a low-cost European flight or bus to reach the UK. 

US airports on the East Coast like Boston, Newark or New York tend to be cheaper to reach Europe, as they’re closer, so you could take a cheap internal flight to one of those airports before taking the international flight.  Try searching on a flight comparison site like Skyscanner to find cheap flights to the UK from America.

Cheap Buses to England

There are a few international bus services, for example  FlixBus , where you can find good deals if you are prepared for a long journey, and potential traffic jams.  The buses are comfortable, are equipped with toilets, and usually free wifi and plug sockets too, although this isn’t guaranteed on FlixBus.  You can also check routes and prices on Omio . 

European buses that also come to the UK may have European sockets, so remember to bring a converter if you need one.  Travelling overnight also helps to save money on a night in a hostel or hotel, so taking a bus is usually the cheapest way to travel to England!

READ MORE: Cheap Places to Visit in the UK on a Budget

Cheap Travel to England by Ferry

Ferries to England operate from surrounding countries like France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland and Spain.  Personally, it’s not my favourite way to travel due to seasickness , but booking an overnight ferry can also save you money on accommodation and become part of your trip, more than just a flight to a destination.  

Journeys tend to be long and can get rough in poor weather – but in good weather, think of it as a mini cruise.  I haven’t used them myself, but there are ferry journey comparison sites like Ferries.co.uk which list available routes.

Cheap Travel in England

Cheap bus travel in england.

Bus travel is the cheapest way to travel in England, in particular using Megabus which offers some routes for as low as £1.  They don’t cover all routes though, so it depends on your destination, but for value, they really are hard to beat! 

Book your tickets online, and be sure to be at the bus station in plenty of time for your journey to be first in line and get your pick of the seats.

Within towns & cities, most bus companies will offer a ‘Day Rider’ ticket which is usually cheaper than buying a return and means you can ride anywhere on that bus company during that day. 

Some cities like Sheffield, Manchester and Newcastle have tram and metro services which are usually easier to navigate than complex bus routes, and of course, London has the underground which can seem complicated at first but is easy once you figure it out!  Buses are the cheapest way to travel in London, although it does take longer than the underground.

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Cheap Train Travel in the UK

Train prices can vary dramatically depending on the route and the time of day you want to travel.  British rail companies like you to be organised, so booking your train in advance can mean vast savings!  Even booking just the day before instead of buying at the station makes a big difference. 

There are several websites where you can book online, and then use a ‘Fast Ticket’ machine to collect your ticket from the station, using the credit or debit card you used to purchase the tickets. 

I like the website First Transpennine Express as you can buy tickets for any rail company, and they don’t charge a booking fee like most of the other sites.

Peak journey times are around rush hour in the morning and afternoon, so try to avoid travelling then if you can.

If you are looking online and still find your tickets to be too expensive, try breaking up your journey.  If your chosen route has a change in it, try searching for a train to the change station, and then a separate ticket to the final destination. 

Or mix it up and try looking at a map to see if you can figure out another route!  I saved £20 on a single journey just by doing that.

Car Sharing in the UK: Bla Bla Car

Kind of like Airbnb for cars, Bla Bla Car is an excellent example of the Sharing Economy actually helping real people save money on their petrol costs, and allowing you to travel around the UK on a budget.  Input your journey requirements and see who is going that way and can pick you up.  In my experience prices are a lot cheaper than travelling by train, and if you can get the right route a lot simpler too. 

Try and be flexible with dates to give you more chance of finding a suitable journey, and check the reviews of potential drivers to make sure you get a responsible and safe driver.  The payment is processed online, then after the journey provide your driver with your booking code to release the payment & allow you to both leave a review for each other.

Hitchhiking in England

Hitchhiking isn’t common in England, although it might be possible I have never done it here myself.  There are safety issues to consider if you are a solo female traveller and as it is quite unusual to see anyone hitchhiking I don’t know how much luck you would have finding a ride so I wouldn’t recommend it.  

Cheap Accommodation in the UK

Cheap Hotels and Hostels in the UK

Finding budget accommodation in the UK isn’t too hard.  Hostels can be found in most locations in the UK, check Hostelworld or  Booking  for your destination to find the best deals.

YHA is a national charity that has hostels all over the UK and helps to create opportunities for young people to experience more of the country, arranging school trips and summer camps.  You can stay at one of their many hostels, donate, or even volunteer at one of the hostels if you apply on their website .

If you are travelling in a couple, often simple bed & breakfasts can work out cheaper than two hostel beds, or only slightly more expensive – the extra privacy is often worth the extra cash.  They can usually be found on booking.com as well.

Travelodge is a chain of budget hotels that are spread throughout the country, their rates tend to be cheaper during the week and for off-peak times, but prices are worth comparing as they don’t advertise on comparison sites like booking.com.  Similarly, Premier Inn is a slightly more expensive, slightly higher quality than Travelodge which is worth a look too.

Accommodation in London is more expensive than anywhere else in the country, and usually, prices in the South of England are more expensive than in the rest of the country, so you will have to adjust your budget accordingly.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Why You NEED to Visit the North of England

Couchsurfing in England

Couchsurfing is available in a lot of areas of the UK; where homeowners offer up their sofa for guests willing to exchange cultural knowledge and perhaps cooking a meal or two for a free place to crash for a while.  Check reviews carefully before you agree to stay, and exchange a few messages with your potential host to see if you get along.

Airbnb in England

Airbnb offers an alternative to hotel & hostel stays where you stay in someone’s home in their spare room, or sometimes have a whole flat to yourself. 

Prices vary wildly depending on location and size of the space you book.  It can work out cheaper especially if you are travelling in a group, or staying for a long period of time as you usually have access to a kitchen so you can cook ‘at home’ to save money on buying meals out. 

Again, check reviews carefully and be sure to confirm your arrival time and arrangements for picking up keys.  When searching on Airbnb, the prices are quoted per night, then they will calculate the full price including service charge and cleaning fees – sometimes what looks to be a cheaper option at first look can end up being more expensive than you expected once the total cost has been calculated.  Read my full Airbnb guide for more information .  

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Free Things to do in York

Cheap Things to do in England

There are plenty of free things to do in England, from exploring destinations on foot to hiking and biking around the countryside or visiting free attractions and museums.  If you are planning to spend a lot of time in England and visit some of the most famous historic sites such as Stonehenge and Hadrian’s Wall then it might be worth paying for a membership to the National Trust or English Heritage which both work out as excellent value if you make the most out of it.

Have you been travelling around the UK on a budget?  Do you have any tips and tricks to share?  I’d love to hear your stories!

Like this post? Pin it to read later:

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

20 thoughts on “ The Cheapest Way to Travel in England ”

I hope you have a great time in England – I haven’t been to Bognor Regis so I can’t comment on that but London and Liverpool are both wondrful cities to explore!

my flight to London will be on Wednesday.. will spend 10 days there.. also plan to go to Liverpool and bognor regis.. after 24 years.. don’t really know what to expect.. thanks for the tips 🙂

UK is a dream destination for us and we hope to get there sooner rather than later. London and the English countryside is something we look forward to. We know that UK is expensive, hence these tips are something that will come a long way in helping cut costs/

Awesome, I love all the suggestions and links you included here. Very useful!

Hi Cindi! Thanks for stopping by 🙂 Actually I haven’t been to the Cotswolds, but from what I gather that is more of a countryside area. York is a beautiful small city, with plenty of countryside close-by – perfect for a weekend trip from London. But if the countryside is what he likes & you only have a day perhaps the Cotswolds might be better?

Claire, thanks for all this info! We’re taking our 18 yr old grandson to London for his hi school graduation. if we can only do one day trip, should we do The Cotswalds or York? He’s very interested in seeing the countryside. Thanks! Cindi

Thanks Claudia! I prefer the train, definitely! When you find a good rate it’s a bargain but sometimes it is so expensive!

Great post, reminds me of our journey to the UK. We tried all different transport methods but for us the Train was the clear winner especially for the long distances between cities. We traveled from London to Manchester for less than £30!

Staying at hostels in the UK have saved my budget countless times. I don’t even look into hotels anymore because I can extend my stay or do more activities if I spend less on accommodations. Finding error fares is also a golden rule!

Great idea! I tend to save money on accommodation so I can eat nice food 😉 But I still like to treat myself to a private room every now and again

Thanks Marie! 🙂

Ah yes, students get discounts on so much stuff! I’m too old for that now unfortunately, but great tip for students out there! Thanks 🙂

I wish Brexit will go away and it was all a dream! Hmm, I suppose it depends on where you can get good flight deals to/from home as your first concern, and the time of year if you are travelling a long period – summer in the UK & Northern Europe is better, then head South to the Mediterranean in cooler months!

Same. I budget transportation and getting around so I can get comfy place to stay

I definitely want to visit UK. Hopefully next year it’s still a good time. Not sure how Brexit will change by next year. Is UK better to start off from or end up in if I’m planning a Europe trip. Keep in mind, coming from Asia.

Thanks for the great tips! I was living in the UK for a year before I started university, and our favorite way to travel was by taking the train. Our international student cards also got us some huge discounts off transport, tickets, and even clothes! So I recommend that too if anyone is traveling as a student 🙂

These are great tips for anyone travelling to the UK. I especially like the car sharing tip such a brilliant idea.

What great tips — I hope to explore the UK very soon. I personally try to budget my flights and general spending so that I can spend a bit more on a comfy room 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

Thanks Helena! There are always ways to save money travelling, they just take a bit of work sometimes 🙂

I love budget travel tips to destinations that are generally considered expensive. Great post thanks for sharing!

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Travel over 750 kilometres to five locations - from Halong Bay down to Hoi An - on the ultimate Vietnam adventure!

• Length 15 Days
• No. Of Activities 27
• No. Of Meals 20
• Avg. Group Size 5 - 20
• Ending Point Hoi An

I had amazing time on the Vietnam tour this July, I would highly recommend to anyone thinking of doing this tour, we had so much fun. Once in a lifetime experience!

Aoife, Facebook, 5 January 2023

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Backpacking Sri Lanka

Experience the best of stunning Sri Lanka with all the usual Backpacking Tours comforts you have come to expect! Sri Lanka is known for its incredible natural beauty, extraordinary biodiversity and miles of unspoiled beaches.

• Avg. Age 20-45
• No. Of Activities 28
• Starting Point Colombo
• Ending Point Colombo

I’ve been on two tours with Backpacking Tours now (Vietnam and Sri Lanka). Both times were two of the best experiences of my life and would recommend it to absolutely anyone.

Heather, Facebook, 3 Mar 2023

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Backpacking Bali

Absolutely epic! Cliff temples in Uluwatu, sunset at Tanah Lot, SUP in Nusa Lembongan, so many waterfalls, snorkel with sea turtles, Gili T beaches and more.

• Length 18 Days
• No. Of Activities 32
• No. Of Meals 23
• Avg. Group Size 5-15
• Starting Point Kuta
• Ending Point Kuta

I can’t recommend this company enough! This is my third tour with backpacking and again it’s a very well organised and hits all the major spots you would want to see in Bali!

Beth Jones, Facebook, 14 Oct 2018

Turtle Conservation: Bali

The Turtle Conservation project is located on the charming island of Nusa Penida. Through this programme, you will contribute to the protection of the turtle population in Nusa Penida.

• Avg. Age All Ages
• Starting Point Denpasar
• Ending Point Nusa Penida

The turtle conservation team in Bali were the absolute best! without them, I would not have enjoyed myself as much as I did, and I feel like I was able to help make a difference. The biggest impact my volunteering trip had on me was the people and culture of Bali, showing me new perspective to life. Do it, best decision I've ever made!

Nicola, New Zealander, 19

Volunteer Kindergarten: Bali

Work in local kindergartens in Ubud’s surroundings, teaching the children basic English in an informal and fun way!

• Avg. Age 18+
• Ending Point Ubud

It might seem scary but you will meet so many new and amazing people, it is an experience you do not want to miss out on. The local team were the most genuine and amazing people, very helpful and there for you if you need literally anything. Volunteering has opened my eyes in so many aspects. I would love to do it again.

Rachel Dutrieux, Netherlands, 21

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Backpacking Philippines

The Philippines is truly an unbeatable destination, if you’re into authentic experiences in the world’s most incredible tropical islands, then this is the trip for you.

• Length 14 Days
• No. Of Activities 12
• No. Of Meals 21
• Avg. Group Size 8-22
• Operator Trusted Partner
• Starting Point Manila
• Ending Point Coron

The organization of the trip was super good. The trip has been very active - we have seen and experienced a lot. Nevertheless, we could pull back and do our own thing if we wanted to. I would like to give special praise to our group leader Mike Mazurkiewicz. He was very well organized, always very nice and polite and also very interesting as a personality. I can definitely recommend this trip!

Kristina, March 3, 2023

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Backpacking India

Uncover India's magic! Experience Delhi and Rajasthan's vibrant culture, awe-inspiring architecture, exotic foods, and desert adventures. It's a journey bursting with unforgettable memories and experiences!

• No. Of Activities 20+
• No. Of Meals 19
• Avg. Group Size 8 - 22
• Starting Point Delhi
• Ending Point Delhi

Such an amazing trip and experience! If you have ever thought about visiting India, this is a great way to do it.

Lydia Eales, 24, Canada

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We started in 2013 with a 21-day "Backpacking Through Thailand" tour. Today, we offer many group tours and volunteer programs around the world! 

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‘The working class can’t afford it’: the shocking truth about the money bands make on tour

As Taylor Swift tops $1bn in tour revenue, musicians playing smaller venues are facing pitiful fees and frequent losses. Should the state step in to save our live music scene?

W hen you see a band playing to thousands of fans in a sun-drenched festival field, signing a record deal with a major label or playing endlessly from the airwaves, it’s easy to conjure an image of success that comes with some serious cash to boot – particularly when Taylor Swift has broken $1bn in revenue for her current Eras tour. But looks can be deceiving. “I don’t blame the public for seeing a band playing to 2,000 people and thinking they’re minted,” says artist manager Dan Potts. “But the reality is quite different.”

Post-Covid there has been significant focus on grassroots music venues as they struggle to stay open. There’s been less focus on the actual ability of artists to tour these venues. David Martin, chief executive officer of the Featured Artists Coalition (FAC), says we’re in a “cost-of-touring crisis”. Pretty much every cost attached to touring – van hire, crew, travel, accommodation, food and drink – has gone up, while fees and audiences often have not. “[Playing] live is becoming financially unsustainable for many artists,” he says. “Artists are seeing [playing] live as a loss leader now. That’s if they can even afford to make it work in the first place.”

Potts, who works at Red Light Management – home to everyone from Sabrina Carpenter to Kaiser Chiefs and Sofia Kourtesis – feels like there is an industry equivalent of the Spider-Man meme in which they are all pointing to one another. “People who work at labels think bands make loads of money touring, while booking agents think they make loads of money on publishing and so on,” he says. “Everyone thinks artists make money from the other side of the industry they’re not involved in.

“Artists are the biggest employers in the industry. They pay for the tour manager, session musicians, agent, manager, crew, insurance, travel, accommodation, equipment, rehearsal space, production. Everything. I don’t think people know this is all the stuff that the artist pays for and does.”

“Greater transparency is needed,” says Lily Fontaine, lead singer of Leeds band English Teacher. On paper, the four-piece appear to have made it. They are signed with a major label, Island, have played on Later With … Jools Holland, get healthy BBC Radio 6Music airplay, their debut album has received five-star reviews and they are about to embark on their biggest tour to date, which includes an 800-capacity home-town show.

“The reality is that it’s normal for all of these achievements to coexist alongside being on Universal Credit, living at home or sofa surfing,” says Fontaine. During the making of their debut album, she and bandmate Lewis Whiting did the latter while unable to afford rent.

In their four years of existence, English Teacher have yet to turn a profit from touring. “We’ve never directly paid ourselves from a gig,” says Whiting. “A headline tour usually comes out with a deficit. The only thing that we ever make any kind of profit on is festivals, because the fees can be higher, but any money left over just goes towards the next outgoings.” A successful show for the group in the past has been defined by whether they can flog enough merch to afford a supermarket food shop.

So how do they survive? “In the world of artists, we’re in a lucky position,” says Whiting. “We try to pay ourselves £500 a month each from the band pot.” However, they’ve been reliant on their advance for this, which is now gone. “We’re now in that stage where we’re gonna have to figure out where that £500 a month is gonna come from,” says Fontaine. “Because the gig fees won’t be able to cover that.” The band estimate that their 16-date UK tour in May will generate roughly £800 profit. But, says Fontaine, “realistically, I don’t think there will be any profit because things always go over budget”.

For many artists, fees aren’t increasing in line with costs. “There’s been no real incline at all,” says Potts. “For support slots, I don’t think the fees have changed in the last 10 years or so that I’ve been managing, whether that’s £50 at the smaller end or £500 quid for some of the biggest shows.” Fees for headline shows can vary enormously for bands, even on the same tour. Playing a 200-capacity club in Newcastle may land you £600, while a 1,500 cap in London may net you £3,000.

And fewer people are coming to shows at the small-to-mid-sized end of things. “In our audience data, we see there is a gap in new audiences coming through post-pandemic,” says the FAC’s Martin. “As well as a bit of a drop-off in some of the older audiences returning to live shows.” However, despite stagnant fees and shrinking audiences, touring activity in the UK is at a peak. Due to the costs of touring Europe (which can be thousands in taxes and carnet alone) 74% fewer UK bands are now touring Europe post-Brexit. “It’s much more difficult to tour in Europe so there are more artists trying to perform domestically,” says Martin. “That creates a saturation problem.”

For this article, the Guardian has seen 12 tour budget sheets for various bands and artists varying from up-and-comers to firmly established and successful acts, all of whom regularly undertake headline tours across the UK in venues ranging from 150 to 2,500 capacity. Almost all of these result in losses. Understandably, most shared their balance sheets on the condition of anonymity. One four-piece indie band, whose last two albums went Top 10 in the UK charts, reported a loss of £2,885 from a six-day UK tour. The only tour that shows anything resembling healthy profit was a 29-date tour for a solo artist who came away with £6,550. Not bad going for a month’s work but, as Martin points out, “that’s then his touring done for the next six months. So it’s not enough money.”

Nubiyan Twist are a nine-piece Afro-jazz outfit who have a loyal following and tens of millions of streams on Spotify, “We pride ourselves on being able to put on a big show, like your Fela Kutis or James Browns, these epic spectacles,” says bandleader Tom Excell. “But it’s getting more difficult, without a shadow of a doubt.” For an upcoming eight-show tour of Europe, they are predicting a loss of £4,931.28. The only way they can justify doing it is because they got funding from the BPI Music Export Growth Scheme. “I would have just pulled the plug if it wasn’t for that,” says Excell. “I’ve got a two-year-old and I can’t be away from home for that long and come back with a loss.”

Even when the band get more lucrative fees for festivals it’s still tough. They will be paid £5,000 for a festival performance this summer but the total profit after band wages (as Excell pays all his band members in full first) expenses and commissions are paid out will be £277.60. “After four albums and 15 years doing this, to still be having to gamble on whether I’m going to make anything, while everyone else gets paid a guaranteed amount, is a struggle,” admits Excell.

Such thin margins leave little wiggle room, as the space-surf band Japanese Television (who headline 100-300 capacity venues) found out when their booking agent reduced their 13-date UK and EU tour to eight shows with a five-day gap in the middle that will add a further loss of around £1,200 to a tour that is already set to lose them around £700. “Records and T-shirts are basically what keeps us going,” says the band’s Tim Jones. “The only way this tour is working for us is because we just put out our second album and we did about 60 presales on the vinyl and that was basically enough to pay for the van. It’s a hobby that just about pays for itself.”

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The question is: who else will be able to afford to pursue music as a hobby? “It depresses me how many middle and upper class people there are in the music industry,” says manager Potts. “Because the working class just can’t afford to fork out £150 a day for van hire. The only artists doing that are people who have deeper pockets and can afford to take the hit.”

Of course, every act is different in terms of what they justify as reasonable outgoings and not everyone has the same costs, but Potts says from his experience, generally speaking, bands with four or five members now need to be playing 2,000+ capacity venues nationwide to “really start to see things tip”. That tipping point is out of reach for the majority. “Most people don’t actually get to that level,” Potts says. “Just look back at any festival lineup from 10-20 years ago and see which names are still on festival bills and how many you’re like: what happened to them?”

The gap between those who are flying and those who are floundering has become even more stark. “It feels like the top 1% have become the top 0.5%,” says Martin. “The level of artists we’re talking about here that are struggling to make things stack up financially would really surprise people.”

In 2022, the Grammy-winning Pakistani singer Arooj Aftab posted on X: “Touring has been amazing. We headlined a ton, had massive turnouts and have proven ourselves in all the markets. Yet still, running tens of thousands in debt from the tour and I’m being told that it’s ‘normal’. Why is this normal? This should not be normalised.”

I’m told that one US artist – who released one of the most critically acclaimed albums of 2023, which went Top 10 and placed very highly on numerous year-end polls and was nominated for a major award – worked out that the only way she could make her UK tour work was by sub-letting her home.

It’s a far cry from Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras jaunt. “The very high end of the live industry is reporting record profits,” says Martin. “You can’t have a healthy music ecosystem where at one end you’ve got people going ‘we’ve made more money than we’ve ever made’ and at the other end you’ve got relatively successful artists that are sofa-surfing while signed to a major label.”

Is there an answer? “When you’re touring Europe, you realise how much state funding in the arts there is,” says Excell. “It really needs more state funding and support from the top down.”

Martin echoes this. “The government needs to start looking at spending money on the music industry as an investment rather than as a cost,” he says. “But you also need to support a sector in a time of crisis. And this is a time of crisis.”

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How to get tickets for Janet Jackson’s 2024 UK tour

The Queen of Pop’s Together Again tour will see her come to UK stages for the first time in five years

Janet Jackson stans, the wait is officially over. After bringing her superior glamour and showmanship to stages across North America as part of her Together Again tour, Ms Jackson has announced today (April 29) that she’ll be extending that tour to the UK and Europe. 

Janet will come to the UK in September and August later this year, marking the first time the popstar has performed in here since appearing at Glastonbury in 2019. She’ll be celebrating 50 years in entertainment (having started at the ripe old age of seven) and the 35-year anniversary of one of her most critically acclaimed albums,  Rhythm Nation .

Excited? Here’s how to secure tickets. 

When is Janet Jackson going on her UK tour 2024? 

The singer will be playing four dates in the UK in the autumn. She’ll start in Birmingham on September 27  before heading to London on September 28 , Glasgow on September 30 and Manchester on October 1 . 

When do tickets go on sale?

General sale goes live on Friday, May 3 at 9am on Ticketmaster . 

Is there a presale? 

Mastercard holders will get to enjoy early access via this link on Tuesday, April 30 at 9am, while fans with the O2 Priority app can get their hands on presale tickets from Wednesday, May 1. 

There’s also a chance to secure tickets early if you sign up to an artist presale over on Jackson’s website here . 

How much will tickets cost? 

Tickets will cost between £69.80 and £160.60 for Janet Jackson’s UK tour dates.

Where else is Janet Jackson touring as part of her 2024 European tour?

Before coming to the UK, the singer is set to play in Paris . Then, after her show in Manchester, she’ll head back to mainland Europe and perform in Antwerp , Munich , Cologne , Berlin and Amsterdam . 

What has been said about the tour? 

When Jackson started her Together Again last year, Billboard called it ‘one hell of a party’ and Rolling Stone   wrote: ‘ She still dances with the type of effortless, sweat-free ease that’s made her such a standout in all eras of her career.’

Did you see that   the UK is officially one of the world’s best road trip destinations ?

Plus:  These are the UK’s top 10 hotels right now, according to TripAdvisor .

Stay in the loop: sign up to our   free Time Out UK newsletter   for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

British backpacker found dead in South American hostel bed

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A British backpacker has been found dead at his holiday accommodation in Colombia.

The 36-year-old’s body was found in his bed at the Black Sheep Hostel in the city of Medellín.

The man’s girlfriend is said to have discovered his body after flying in from the UK and heading to his room for an emotional reunion after checking in at reception.

A hostel worker alerted police just after midday yesterday. The man had last been seen at 10pm local time on Sunday.

Several empty medicine bottles were found beside him, according to local reports.

Further tests are now ongoing to try to discover the cause of death.

There is nothing at this stage pointing to it being crime-related.

Local press say 20 non-migrant foreigners have been found dead this year in different circumstances in the Aburra Valley, the natural river basin of the Medellín River and one of the country’s most populous valley in its Andean region.

All but one died in Medellín. Thirteen were American and another one British. Only one of the deaths is being treated as a homicide.

The Black Sheep Hostel is a traveller’s favourite in Medellín.

It describes itself online as a New Zealand/Colombian-run establishment in a peaceful area of Medellín called Patio Bonito in El Poblado near to two major shopping centres and an area with hundreds of bars and restaurants.

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

MORE : British student ‘faces long stretch in hellhole jail for drug smuggling in Colombia’

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Janet Jackson UK tour 2024 - full list of dates including Manchester

Huge announcement from global music icon Janet Jackson who will be coming back to the UK in 2024

• 09:44, 29 APR 2024

Music icon Janet Jackson has confirmed a UK tour celebrating her 50th anniversary in entertainment. American superstar Janet will bring her Together Again tour to the UK, which also celebrates 35 years since her seminal album Rhythm Nation.

She will play gigs in Birmingham, London, Glasgow and Manchester in the Autumn. The UK leg will end with a night at Manchester's soon-to-open Co-op Live arena .

It will be the first time Janet has played in Manchester since her last planned UK tour in 2016 was cancelled due to "scheduling difficulties" just weeks before she was due to perform.

READ MORE: Co-op Live boss reveals exact reasons for delays to opening

A statement from Janet's tour promoters today said: "Off the back of Ms. Jackson’s highly successful and sold out Together Again tour in North America, five-time GRAMMY ® ️Award-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame®️ Inductee Janet Jackson reveals she will be extending her tour to Europe, adding in multiple stops across the continent. This will be Ms. Jackson’s first UK performance since her iconic 2019 Glastonbury Festival performance."

The European leg of the tour will start in autumn 2024 kicking off in Paris, France on the 25th September at Accor Arena before making multiple stops in the UK, Germany and Belgium before concluding the tour in Amsterdam, Netherlands at Ziggo Dome on the 10th October. The announcement of UK tour dates from the Miss You Much hitmaker follows her 35-date US tour Together Again, which will hit the road this summer across the States. The tour builds on the colossal success of her 2023 run, which earned the icon the highest selling trek of her career. Promoters add: "The Together Again Tour will offer everyone the chance to finally reunite with Ms. Jackson in celebration of her 50th anniversary in entertainment and spotlight the milestone for one of her most critically acclaimed albums - 35 years of “Rhythm Nation” featuring her biggest chart-topping hits."

It has also been announced that Wyclef Jean will join Janet for the UK tour dates as special guest. Janet, 57, is the youngest member of the legendary Jackson musical family.

How to get tickets

Tickets will be available on general on-sale beginning Friday, May 3rd at 9am from Ticketmaster here and further details from JanetJackson.com .

Is there a pre-sale?

Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale and preferred tickets in select markets starting on Tuesday 30 April at 9am local. Preferred ticket access is available to Mastercard cardholders in the UK on Friday 3 May at 9am. Visit here to find out more.

2024 Europe Tour dates

Wed, 25th Sept - Paris, France - Accor Arena Fri, 27th Sept - Birmingham, UK - Utilita Arena Sat, 28th Sept - London, UK - The O2 Mon, 30th Sept - Glasgow, UK - OVO Hydro Tue, 1st Oct - Manchester, UK - Co-op Live Thu, 3rd Oct - Antwerp, Belgium - Sportpaleis Sat, 5th Oct - Munich, Germany - Olympiahalle Sun, 6th Oct - Cologne, Germany - LANXESS Arena Tue, 8th Oct - Berlin, Germany - Uber Arena Thu, 10th Oct - Amsterdam, Netherlands - Ziggo Dome

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Ryan Gosling gives subtle shoutout to Eva Mendes on press tour with T-shirt

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This Ken is wearing his heart on his sleeve.

Ryan Gosling showed his support for Eva Mendes’ career during an interview with the UK’s Hits Radio on Monday, choosing to wear a shirt that promoted his partner’s upcoming project as he chatted about his own new movie.

The “Barbie” actor, 43, sported an ivory tee reading “Desi, Mami and the Never-Ending Worries” — the title of the Skura Sponge owner’s debut children’s book ($20) — as he sat next to his “The Fall Guy” co-star, Emily Blunt, to chat about their action comedy.

The illustrated book, which releases September 17, tells “the story of a little girl facing endless scary worries” at bedtime and how her mother helps her overcome them.

While Mendes, 50, has been taking a break from acting, she’s now adding “author” to her résumé, telling People , “Desi, Mami and the Never-Ending Worries is a love letter to my kids and yours.”

This isn’t the first time the “Notebook” actor has worn a tribute to his longtime love while promoting one of his films; he wore an “E” necklace at the “Barbie” premiere in Los Angeles last summer.

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And the “Hitch” star is just as supportive of Gosling’s career, showing off a Ken T-shirt with her partner’s photo on it while the actor promoted “Barbie” last summer.

While the notoriously private couple has never officially confirmed that they’re married, Mendes did call the “La La Land” star her “husband” during a November 2022 interview.

She also showed off a  tattoo tribute  to Gosling in 2022 that reads “de gosling,” hinting that she might have added Gosling’s last name to hers by adding “de,” meaning “of” in Spanish.

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“Europe shall gather in Worship”: Sleep Token announce extra November tour dates, plus UK/EU support band

The masked metal cult will precede their UK arena tour with some dates on the European mainland

Sleep Token have announced a string of live dates in mainland Europe for November.

The concerts, which will run from November 9 to 22, will precede the masked metal superstars’ UK arena tour, which starts on November 25.

See the full list of dates below.

Tickets to the European dates go on sale tomorrow (April 30) at 10am CEST.

The band have also announced that their support act for the Europe and UK shows will be pop-metal artist Bilmuri.

Sleep Token comment on social media: “Come November, Europe shall gather in Worship.

“Opening proceedings in Europe, as indeed the United Kingdom, will be the Bilmuri collective.

Metal Hammer Newsletter

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“Prepare.”

Sleep Token are currently in the US and will start their Teeth Of God North American run tomorrow at the Financial Theatre in Phoenix, Arizona.

The band are promoting their 2023 album Take Me Back To Eden , which was released via Spinefarm.

Metal Hammer gave Take Me Back To Eden a glowing 8/10 review upon release.

Journalist Dannii Leivers wrote: “Combining feeling and sound in a potent, masterful statement, …Eden is Sleep Token’s strongest effort to date.

“And, while they’ll always be Marmite, there’s no question it will delight those already onboard.

“This is a record that not only expands the band’s universe and continues to prod metal’s boundaries, but considers what it means to be human. Otherworldly they may be, but there’s the deepest empathy within.”

Sleep Token have since inked a deal with major label RCA.

The band announced the signing by calling it the start of their “new era”, which they’d previously teased by unveiling new masks in December 2023.

Mask designer Lani Hernadez-David stated in an interview with Metal Hammer that month: “I’m sure they have something in mind that the fans will appreciate greatly.

“There’s definitely a new era coming, but I won’t speak too much on that, because I’m not really clued up on it.”

Sleep Token 2024 tour dates:

Apr 30: Phoenix Arizona Financial Theatre, AZ May 01: Albuquerque Revel, NM May 03: Austin H-E-B- Center at Cedar Park, TX May 04: Dallas Toyota Music Factory, TX May 06: Tampa Yuengling Center, FL May 07: Atlanta Coca-Cola Roxy, GA May 08: Asheville Exploreasheville.com Arena, NC May 10: St. Louis The Factory, MO May 12: Denver Red Rocks Amphitheatre, CO May 14: Des Moines Vibrant Music Hall, IA May 15: Chicago The Salt Shed, IL May 16: Chicago The Salt Shed, IL May 18: Columbus Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival, OJ May 19: Pittsburgh Petersen Events Center, PA May 20: Philadelphia The Met Philadelphia, PA May 22: New York City Radio City Music Hall, NY May 24: Boston MGM Music at Fenway, MA May 25: Montreal Place Bell, QC, Canada May 27: Toronto Massey Hall, ON, Canada May 28: Toronto Massey Hall, ON, Canada

Nov 09: Nuremberg Arena, Germany Nov 10: Frankfurt Festhalle, Germany Nov 12: Linz Tips Arena, Austria Nov 13: Budapest MVM Dome, Hungary Nov 15: Prague O2 Universum, Czech Republic Nov 16: Chemnitz Messe, Germany Nov 18: Amsterdam Afas Live, Netherlands Nov 19: Brussels Forset National, Belgium Nov 21: Hamburg Barclays Arena, Germany Nov 22: Berlin Velodrom, Germany Nov 25: Glasgow OVO Hydro, UK Nov 26: Manchester Co-Op Live, UK Nov 28: Birmingham Utilita Arena, UK Nov 29: London The O2, UK Nov 30: Cardiff Motorpoint Arena, UK Dec 02: Leeds First Direct Arena, UK Dec 03: London The O2, UK

Get tickets.

Louder’s resident Gojira obsessive was still at uni when he joined the team in 2017. Since then, Matt’s become a regular in Prog and Metal Hammer, at his happiest when interviewing the most forward-thinking artists heavy music can muster. He’s got bylines in The Guardian, The Telegraph, NME, Guitar and many others, too. When he’s not writing, you’ll probably find him skydiving, scuba diving or coasteering.

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Craig David announces ‘Commitment’ 2025 UK arena tour with Lemar

The dates include a slot at The O2 in London

Craig David has announced details of a new ‘Commitment’ tour set to take place across the UK next year. Find ticket details below.

• READ MORE: Craig David – ’22’ album review: a silky R&B revival record

Announced today (April 29), the new run of tour dates will take place across February 2024, and see the UK R&B icon perform in 11 cities across the country. Joining him for the run will be singer Lemar, who is expected to break out hits including ‘If There’s Any Justice’ and ‘Dance (With U)’.

The dates start on Sunday, February 2, and kick off with an opening night at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, before continuing with a performance at the Armadillo venue in Glasgow two nights later (February 4).

From there, gigs in Newcastle, Milton Keynes, Brighton, Cardiff and Nottingham are lined up for the remainder of the month, and the run of shows close off with stops at Manchester’s Co-Op Live arena, Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena, Bournemouth’s International Centre and finally, The O2 in London on February 20.

Tickets go on sale this Friday (May 3) at 10am BST – visit here to buy yours . A number of pre-sale options are also available and will be on sale from Wednesday (May 1). Check out a full list of tour dates below.

Craig David’s 2025 ‘Commitment’ tour dates are:

FEBRUARY 2 – Leeds, First Direct Arena 4 – Glasgow, Armadillo 5 – Newcastle, Utilita Arena 7 – Milton Keynes, Marshall Arena 8 – Brighton, Brighton Centre  11 – Cardiff, Utilita Arena 12 – Nottingham, Motorpoint Arena 14 – Manchester, Coop Live 15 – Birmingham, Resorts World Arena 18 – Bournemouth, International Centre 20 – London, The O2

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“I can’t wait to bring my band back to the UK for my 2025 Commitment arena tour,” said David of the newly announced dates. “Looking forward to having a party and mixing up the classics and maybe something new…”

The singer first burst onto the scene with his critically acclaimed debut album, ‘Born To Do It’, a genre-defining record that solidified him as a huge name in the UK R&B scene. One of his biggest hits remains as the 1999 track ‘Re-Rewind’, which has gone on to become a UK garage classic.

In the time since the song put him on the map, David has gone on to gather 14 BRIT Award nominations, two Grammy nominations, four MOBO awards, three Ivor Novellos, and collaborate with everyone from Sting to Diplo to KSI.

He also has one of Ibiza’s most long-standing residencies, playing Ibiza Rocks for what will be the seventh year later this summer.

In other Craig David news, earlier this year it was confirmed that the singer – as well as AJ Tracey and Annie Lennox – was among those to have joined the #Justice4Windrush campaign.

The campaign aims to ensure that more of the 15,000 people eligible for compensation after historical wrongful deportation from the UK are able to claim their money.

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