Travel in the UK is simple compared to many other parts of the world, and in this compact country you're never far from the next town, the next national park, the next pub, or the next impressive castle.
When to go
It won't take long to appreciate the British obsession with weather. Generally, temperatures are mild and rain can fall any time, but the key word is changeable - be prepared for anything and you won't get a surprise.
Summer (June to August) normally gets the most sunshine, but the sun isn't guaranteed. Winter (November to February) may enjoy clear spells between bouts of snow, while spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) sometimes produce the best weather of the year.
May to September is undoubtedly the best period to travel in Britain, although July and August are busy in coastal towns, national parks and historic cities like Oxford, Bath, Edinburgh and York. April and October can be good for avoiding crowds, although hotels and attractions close from mid-October to Easter.
Overall, the least hospitable months for visitors are January to March when it's cold and the days are short. In Scotland, north Wales and the hills of northern England, roads can sometimes be closed by snow. Reaching the islands can also be a problem as high winds disrupt ferries. For winter visits, London and the big cities are an exception; they're busy all the time, and there's such a lot to see that the weather is immaterial.
What to take
- A rain jacket
- A portable unbrella
- Comfortable shoes
- A small day-pack (for carrying that rain jacket ...)
- A taste for beer that isn't icy cold
Right there. When you're in need.
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