Insider Tips for Tourists Visiting The UK

Insider Tips for Tourists Visiting The UK. Do It Like A Local!

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Are you planning a trip to the UK?

From the bustling city of London to the stunning landscapes of the national parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. But to truly experience the UK like a local, you need to know the insider tips.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide of top tips for tourists, straight from the mouths of locals. From using cheap transport passes to trying classic English meals and visiting free attractions, we’ve got you covered, so you’ll be experiencing British culture like a local.

Let’s dive in!

Be Prepared for the Weather

Most tourists to the UK come in the summer and it’s…unpredictable. Sometimes there’s a heatwave that lasts for weeks with blazing sunshine and mid 90’s F. Then again, it could rain the whole time and be in the 60’s. The Brits are used to it and will swap from shorts and flip-flops to a raincoat and ‘wellies’ on the same day without missing a beat.

So, it’s important to pack accordingly. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, a warm sweater and comfortable shoes, but do bring your hot weather gear too (luggage allowance anyone?). It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out. Don’t let the rain or cold weather put a damper on your trip – embrace it! Some of the best experiences in the UK involve getting outside and experiencing the elements, like taking a walk in the countryside or enjoying a hot cup of tea in a cozy café.

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Indulge in Classic English Meals

One of the best ways to experience British culture is through its food. When in the UK, be sure to indulge in classic English meals like fish and chips, the Sunday roast, and Cornish pasties. Fish and chips, a staple of the British diet, consists of deep-fried battered fish served with thick-cut chips and mushy peas (optional down South but non-negotiable ‘Up North’). If your trip takes you to Suffolk, a favourite of ours is the Aldeburgh Fish and Chip shop right on the beach!

Sunday roast is a traditional meal served on Sundays that includes roasted meat (usually beef, lamb or chicken), roast potatoes (awesome),vegetables, and gravy. Many ignore the rule these days, but traditionally the amazing Yorkshire Pudding (which is a batter kind of dumpling that you have with the meat course) is only served with roast Beef. Cornish pasties are a savory pastry filled with meat, potatoes and vegetables. Best in Cornwall but available all over the country. Look for local pubs and restaurants that offer these dishes for an authentic experience.

The real national dish of the UK is actually curry. Eat at the ‘local’ curry house and just ask around to get a recommendation.

Don’t Worry About Tipping (Too Much!)

Tipping in the UK is not as widely expected as in other countries, but it is appreciated and most locals will tip in a restaurant (but not a barman if just ordering drinks) and a taxi. It is not especially common in other situations.

That said, this is the basic British tipping etiquette:

Restaurants: A 10-15% tip is customary in sit-down restaurants if service is not included in the bill. If service is included, additional tipping is at your discretion.

Taxis: Round up to the nearest pound or tip 10-15% of the fare.

Bars and pubs: It’s not expected to tip bartenders, but you can offer to buy them a drink instead (now and again, not every time!)

Hotels: Tip porters around £1 per bag and the housekeeping staff around £1 per night.

When in doubt, sad as it might seem, the UK custom is probably that you don’t need to tip!

Use Cheap London Transport Day Passes

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Getting around London can be expensive, but using public transport is an affordable way to see the city. A day pass for the Tube, buses and trains is a cost-effective way to get around, particularly if you plan to make multiple journeys in a day. All Londoners use an Oyster card, which provides discounts on public transport. The card can be purchased at train stations, newsagents and online. Another option for tourists is the Visitor Oyster Card, which additionally offers discounts on attractions, tours and restaurants. The card can be delivered to your home before you leave for your trip.

Visit Free Attractions

The Brits love a free day out and luckily that’s well-catered for around the country. The UK is home to numerous free attractions, including museums, galleries, and parks. The British Museum and National Gallery in London are two popular options, but smaller towns and cities also have their own unique offerings. In London, the Tate Modern and the Natural History Museum are also free to enter. Outside of London, the Manchester Museum and the National Museum of Scotland are both free to visit. Check online before you travel to find free attractions in the areas you plan to visit.

Try the Theme Parks

Theme parks are a favourite pastime for many Brits, and whilst the variety and scale are nowhere near what you’d get in the US, the UK has several great options to choose from, such as Alton Towers and Thorpe Park. These parks offer rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Alton Towers is located in Staffordshire and is known for its thrill rides, including Nemesis and Oblivion. Thorpe Park, located in Surrey, is home to some of the UK’s most exciting rollercoasters, including Stealth and Colossus. Both parks are open from March to November, so plan your visit accordingly.

Find a Sandy Beach off the Beaten Track

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While the UK is known for its pebble beaches, there are also many sandy beaches to be found off the beaten track. Check out destinations like Bournemouth or St. Ives for a relaxing day by the sea. Bournemouth, located on the south coast, has a seven-mile stretch of sandy beach and is home to the Bournemouth Pier. St. Ives, located in Cornwall, is a picturesque seaside town with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Both destinations have a range of activities on offer, from surfing to boat trips, making them perfect for a day out with the family. If you’re heading to Cornwall, Padstow makes a fantastic base (and we love the romantic Stargazy Fisherman’s cottage as a home from home) both for St Ives and a range of smaller secret beaches (and the food in Padstow is amazing!).

The locals will always know of a smaller more secluded sandy spot, so a bit of sleuthing will turn up some incredible and less busy golden sand secrets. Devon, Cornwall and Wales have the most and are likely to have the best sunny days but there are top-notch beaches all over the country. In Scotland, there are some spectacular white sand bays but the water is a bit chilly!

Experience British Culture Like a Local

To really get the local vibe of the UK, there’s a few things all Brits have done, either habitually or as a ’must do’ on their staycation holidays.

1. Enjoy traditional afternoon tea at a local tea room. Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British experience and one that every tourist should try. The meal typically consists of tea, sandwiches, scones, and cakes, and is often served in a picturesque tea room or hotel. Look for local tea rooms that offer a traditional afternoon tea experience, or consider booking ahead at famous venues such as The Ritz in London. In Devon and Cornwall, there’s the cream tea variation on this which is plain scones with jam and clotted cream – delicious! A great spot to try that is the legendary Jamaica Inn on Bodmin Moor which you will drive right past if you venture to North Devon – and their cream tea is first class.
2. Attend a football match (soccer game) to experience the passion of British sports fans. Football (or soccer, as it’s known in some countries) is one of the most popular sports in the UK, and attending a live match is a great way to experience British culture. Check the fixtures of local teams to find a game during your visit, but be prepared for the passion and energy of British sports fans! Tickets are either very hard to get or very expensive for major games, so aim for a more local match to get the best bang for your buck.
3. Visit a local pub for a pint of beer and to mingle with the locals. Pubs are a cornerstone of British culture and are a great place to sample traditional beers and ales. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub with a roaring fire or a bustling sports bar, there’s a pub for everyone in the UK. Strike up a conversation with locals and get insider tips on the best places to visit in the area.

As a visitor to the UK, it’s essential to be aware of some common social norms. British people are generally polite and reserved, so it’s advisable to avoid loud or boisterous behaviour in public spaces (except at the football!). When greeting someone, a firm handshake is customary. In situations involving queues or lines, be patient and wait your turn – queue jumping is considered very rude.

Where to Stay

All over the country there’s a wide range of accommodation options for tourists, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, consider staying in a bed and breakfast (B&B) or guesthouse. These smaller establishments are often run by locals and offer a more personalized experience. Another option is to rent a holiday cottage, which allows you to stay in a charming countryside setting and experience rural life. Alternatively, if you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying in a hostel or backpackers’ lodge, which can be found in most major cities, or in the countryside, you can opt for camping or glamping. One we like to return to often is Away with the Clouds Glamping in Bodmin – which would fit perfectly with a visit to Cornwall.

Hiking in the National Parks

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Brits love a good walk. For most that’s a walk to the pub and, to be honest, the mountains aren’t that mountainous. Nonetheless, the UK is home to several stunning national parks, including the Lake District, Snowdonia, and the Peak District. These parks offer a range of hiking trails for all abilities, from gentle strolls to challenging mountain climbs. The Lake District, located in the northwest of England, is a popular destination for hiking and is known for its breathtaking views and picturesque villages. Snowdonia, located in North Wales, is home to Wales’ highest mountain, Mount Snowdon, and offers a range of hiking trails for all levels. The Peak District, located in central England, is another popular destination for hiking and is known for its rolling hills and dramatic landscapes. Be sure to pack appropriate hiking gear and check the weather forecast before heading out.

Visit as a Tourist, Leave as a Brit!

Visiting the UK can be a wonderful experience, but you’ll get the most out of it if you plan ahead and come prepared for the weather. If you follow these tips, you’ll get to experience British culture like a local and have a brilliant time!