It may be a small country, but many people have travelled to the United Kingdom on their bucket list. In fact, before the beginning of the pandemic, the UK was the 10th most-visited country in the world. A map of the United Kingdom will reveal its constituent countries as England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Each has its own unique identity, but as a whole, they provide a very rich history, from prehistoric to modern and a massive load of attractions.

Having played a major role in world affairs, the heritage and culture present a fascinating array of vibrant cities, landmarks and architecture, from tiny houses to huge castles, world-class arts & crafts and modern-day entertainments. The countryside is stunningly beautiful, from rolling hills to craggy mountains and sweeping, rugged coastlines.

There is always something to do besides sightseeing and soaking up heritage, with the events across the whole country representing life from all corners. The calendar is full of major sporting contests, arts, music, food festivals, quirky events and traditions peculiar to the UK. The food scene has transformed in the last few decades, and UK cuisine represents the ethnic diversity of the country.

This travel guide to the United Kingdom provides an overview of the main considerations that will help you decide when to time your visit.

Destinations

Best time to travel

You might say that the UK is a highly attractive destination any time of year because it has a wealth of attractions and a hugely rich history. The travel and tourism infrastructure is also very well established and developed. The best time to visit the United Kingdom depends on your preferred weather and whether you want to attend a specific event.

March – June

Spring in the UK is in March, April and May. Spring is a good time to visit the UK, especially late spring. The weather is mostly mild, with a propensity to fluctuate through quite a range of conditions and temperatures. Also, there aren’t floods of visitors at the main attractions. Attractions that were closed for winter begin to open in March and April, and the countryside also awakens, turning green, colourful and beautiful after the dullness of the colder months.

Weather

Spring weather is very changeable, plus the temperature and amount of rain can vary quite considerably from north to south. Scotland, Northern Ireland and North England experience a lot more precipitation and lower temperatures, particularly in hilly and mountainous areas. It pays to always have an umbrella with you in spring.

Events & Parties

The main spring events are sporting-based, mainly because of the risk of changeable weather or other types of gatherings. Top crowd pullers are the Cheltenham Festival, London Marathon, University Boat Race and the Grand National. Three of the countries’ saint’s days are in spring, including St. David (Wales), St. Patrick (Northern Ireland) and St. George (England).

Price Evolution

Spring travel and accommodation are cheaper in spring than in the summer, but for the cheapest prices, it is best to avoid the half-term school holiday, which in spring coincides with Easter. For attractions and sights, there will be fewer visitors, so there will be a greater choice of tickets and times available. You should also note that, in general, everything is a little cheaper the further north you travel.

June – September

The summer months are June, July and August. It is the most pleasant time of the year, and there is also a complete change of atmosphere among the population, as everyone enjoys the warmth and sunshine. If asked the question “when to visit the United Kingdom?”, most would answer that summer is the best time.

Weather

UK summers are pleasant but somewhat unpredictable. In recent years, there have been periods of significantly high temperatures. The average summer temperature ranges from 9-18°C, with highs of 30°C. There is always a chance of showery days and also days when it gets quite cool.

Events and Parties

Summer is the prime festival season in the UK. The most famous events are Glastonbury (June) and the Notting Hill Carnival (August). Other notables are Trooping the Colour for the King’s birthday (June), Stonehenge Summer Solstice (June), Wimbledon Tennis championships (July), Cowes Week (August), Edinburgh Fringe Festival (August) and Bristol International Balloon Festival.

Price Evolution

Other than half-term holidays and the Christmas period, summer is the most expensive time for visitors to the UK. Still, there are still some great hotel deals to be found. You can expect to pay premium prices at attractions and beauty spots, as well as any services connected to them, including refreshments.

September – December

Autumn is September, October and November. The weather in the United Kingdom in autumn is probably at its most changeable, but there are still many reasons to visit at this time of year.

Weather

It is not uncommon to see major fluctuations in temperature from one day to the next, and there’s always a chance Save of rain. The change of season is still a nice time to visit, as warm weather can continue through to mid-October. There can also be some very miserable days, too. You definitely need to pack warm clothing and a waterproof coat/jacket.

Events & Parties

Events and festivals in the UK in Autumn are probably at their most diverse as a collection. There are celebrations of national heroes, such as the Jane Austen Festival (Bath, September) and Roald Dahl Day (Great Missenden, September). There are also international gatherings like London Fashion Week (September) and uniquely British events, including the Braemar Highland Gathering (Scotland, September).

Price Evolution

You can expect to see prices generally decrease from September onwards, but there is a spike for the half-term holiday, usually the third week of October.

December – March

December, January and February are the winter months. It can be pretty miserable, but extreme is not a feature of the UK climate. Still, some attractions will close for the season, but all the main ones remain open.

Weather

Average winter temperatures range between 2-7°C, with occasional days dropping below 0°. Precipitation is high, and temperatures often feel colder due to high wind chill factors. Snowfall is not regular, except in the Scottish Highlands.

Events & Parties

The Christmas celebration is the focus of many events, with practically every town in the UK having some community festival of some sort. Every city – particularly London – is dressed for the occasion, and there are many big events, including New Year’s Eve (Hogmanay in Scotland is particularly special). For an international flavour, Chinese New Year (February) is widely celebrated.

Price Evolution

The number of visitors will reduce, but the Christmas season unofficially begins on 1 October. Travel and accommodation prices will gradually increase until they hit a peak that lasts from the week before 25 December to the first week of January.

Visas, currency and restrictions

Visa

Entry into the UK is very easy if you are from an EU country, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. A passport or National Identity Card is needed, and no visa to the United Kingdom is required. However, you need to register on the UK Visas and Immigration account.

For all other countries, a passport is essential, and visa requirements depend on your location. Any person from any country can check exactly what documents they need for UK entry on the government website. You can also check travel requirements on your own country’s government website.

Currency

The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British pound, also known as sterling. Prices are given as pounds and pence. Scotland has its own notes and coins issued by the Bank of Scotland, but they are exactly the same value as Bank of England notes and are legal tender everywhere in the UK. Notes are £50, £20, £10, and £5 an coins are £1, 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p, 2p and 1p.

Generally, no other currencies are accepted. Euros may be accepted in some places, but the exchange rates are very poor. It is best to carry some cash that can be exchanged at a bureau de change, Eurostar railway stations and in large towns. Exchange rates vary, so it pays to shop around.

Practically every establishment accepts payment by debit or credit card. However, chip-and-PIN is majorly applicable, so check if your card is valid for payments in the UK. Your bank will advise. This is very important because there is an increasing number of all sorts of establishments that do not accept cash.

Restrictions

At this moment, there are no Covid restrictions in the United Kingdom. However, the situation can change, so it is best to check government guidance before travelling. The website will identify any Red List countries and provide overall advice. You should also check if your own country allows you to travel to the UK.

There may be some restrictions on public transport networks that require you to wear face masks – these can be checked, but signs will be posted at railway and bus stations.