The United Kingdom, though it is a small island nation, once ruled a vast empire, and its influence can be seen all over the globe. But what makes the United Kingdom so special is that it is essentially a collection of sister nations, each with their own distinct personality, and it is this union that has created such a strong impression on the international community.
England
You cannot mention England without mentioning the city around which the country revolves; visit the heart of the nation by staying in the city of London, a truly international hub, where old British culture meets the new. Stop by bluesy Liverpool or see the blossoming city of Manchester, which has a mix of northern charm, and southern trade. Or escape the big cities altogether, by striking north to the picturesque Lake District or the eerie Moors of Yorkshire or adventure out to the West Country in the south, where the coastal beaches are among some of the most beautiful in the world.
Northern Ireland
Go out in the vibrant city of Belfast, which has emerged from its fraught past and transformed itself into the flagship city of Northern Ireland, where visitors can wander the streets lined with Victorian buildings, or enjoy the spirited nightlife of the city. Outside of the urban areas, Northern Ireland is probably best known for the Great Causeway, one of the UK’s most recognisable landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wales
The fabled birthplace of King Arthur, Wales suits its legendary history. Slate black mountains rise between glassy lakes, and lush valleys welcome rivers, hidden pools, glens and forests. It is a land of magic, and nowhere in this country feels more magical than Snowdonia, a stunning national park, where visitors can hike and camp within this fantastic part of the Welsh countryside.
Scotland
From the UNESCO protected, and undoubtedly lovely capital of Edinburgh, to vibrant and young Glasgow, the cities of Scotland are as exciting as its rugged highland landscape. Discover the unbridled beauty of Scotland by seeing Loch Lomond, and pitting your mettle against Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, or throw back a dram of whiskey in the lowlands on the eastern coast.
Fly to the UK
If you’re embarking on a long haul flight to the UK chances are you will have to stopover in an international hub like Singapore or Dubai. Flights from North America and Europe are typically direct. The main international airlines that fly to the UK are Qantas, Air New Zealand, American Airlines, British Airways, Air Canada, United, Air China, South African Airways, Korean Air, United and Emirates.
Most international airports fly into London, and we’ve listed all the major airports below. If you’re interested in flying domestic, you can read our full list of
airports in the UK
.
London: Heathrow (LHR)
Gatwick (LGW)
London City (LCY)
Luton (LTN)
Stansted (STN)
Birmingham: Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Manchester: Manchester (MAN)
Edinburgh: Edinburgh International Airport (EDI)
Glasgow: Glasgow International Airport (GLA)
When should I go?
The UK is famed for having all the seasons circulate in a day, but the best time to visit the UK is generally in their spring (March-May) and summer (June-August) seasons where you’re less likely to be bogged down by rain, and brisk North Sea winds.
What do you need to know?
Currency: Great British Pound (GBP)
Visa: If you’re part of the European Union or the Commonwealth, you do not need to apply for a visa in advance of visiting the UK, and you will be issued with a 90 day visa on arrival. If you are outside of those regions, then you can check the
UK government’s site
for up to date visa requirements.
