Essential Travel Tips for England
Such is England’s reach on popular culture, you may think you already know the country before you visit. However, if you’re expecting to be surrounded by well-heeled characters reminiscent of James Bond or the eccentricity of Monty Python, then think again.
While the everyday English do not match their onscreen portrayals, this is a country filled with peculiarities that are good to know before you embark on your journey, especially when venturing outside London. From practicalities like train prices to etiquette tips on how the English approach queueing, it’s always important to be ahead of the game in this wonderful and varied country.
1. Pack a Jacket, Even in Summer
Preparing for all types of weather is essential when visiting England. The country’s maritime location in the North Atlantic means that even in summer, biting winds and unexpected rain showers can scupper your plans. It’s wise to put a jacket in your suitcase and always check the weather conditions before heading out. As a rule, London tends to be a couple of degrees warmer than other parts of the country.
2. Be Ready to Discuss the Weather
Talking about the weather is ingrained in the English culture. The more miserable the forecast, the more likely people are to chat about it. Be prepared to share your thoughts on the day’s weather and express hope that it will brighten up as the week progresses.
3. Train Prices Are Steep
Unlike some other countries in Europe, England’s train system was privatized many years ago, leading to some of Europe’s highest train prices. To save money, it’s advisable to book ahead of time (around 12 weeks before travel for the best rates) and look out for cheap advance fares. Alternatively, coaches like National Express and Megabus offer far cheaper prices when traveling across the country and are great for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Explore Beyond London
While London is big and full of iconic landmarks, it isn’t everything. If you have time, explore beyond the capital to discover a variety of landscapes, people, and cultures. From the wild coastlines of Cornwall to the soaring hills of the Lake District, there’s much to see in this ancient land.
5. Remember Different Plug Sockets
Although England is part of Europe, it uses type G plug sockets. Therefore, if you’re backpacking around Europe, make sure you have the right power adapter upon your arrival in England, as it differs from the rest of the continent.
6. Many Museums Are Free
England is home to many of the world’s greatest museums, and you won’t need to pay a penny to enter them. Especially great for rainy days, visit places like the Natural History Museum or the National Gallery without spending a dime, allowing you to save money for a pub visit afterward.
7. Pronouncing Place Names Can Be Challenging
England has many peculiar place names, and some towns and counties have pronunciations that don’t match their spelling. For instance, Bicester is pronounced “biss-ter,” and Gloucester is “gloss-ter.”
8. Enjoy the Beer Garden
The English love to enjoy a pint outdoors on sunny days. Find a table in a local pub’s beer garden and savor a few cold pints to truly embrace the culture.
9. Expect Diverse Accents
Traveling just a few miles can often lead to a change in accent, so prepare your ears. Regional accents are diverse, and while they’re still English, they can sometimes be difficult for even fellow residents to understand.
10. Never Jump the Queue
The English are quite orderly when it comes to queueing, and anyone who jumps a line can expect disapproving looks. Therefore, it’s always best to get in line and patiently wait your turn.
11. Frequent Apologies
You’ll hear “sorry” quite often. Even in situations where the fault lies with you, it’s common for the English to extend apologies.
12. English Food Is Underappreciated
The stereotype of poor English food has become outdated. Across the country, towns and cities now feature superb restaurants that emphasize fresh, locally grown produce. Alongside traditional dishes, you’ll find a variety of international cuisines and an increasing number of Michelin-starred restaurants.
13. High Standards for Beer
The pub culture is strong in England, with a great appreciation for diverse beer styles. Gone are the days when warm, stale beer defined English pubs; today, you can find everything from real ales in historic pubs to craft beers in modern taprooms.
14. Summer Brings Festivals
From Glastonbury in June to Reading and Leeds in August, England hosts numerous music festivals throughout the summer. Regardless of when you visit, there’s likely a festival happening nearby. For smaller, value-friendly festivals, look for events like Birmingham’s Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival.
15. Health Care Access
Visitors from EU countries can receive some treatment through the National Health Service (NHS) if they fall ill during their visit by using their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
16. Navigating Measurement Systems
Be prepared for a mix of metric and imperial measurements in England. For instance, roads are measured in miles, while height is often discussed in feet and inches.
This article provides important tips for anyone traveling to England, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Make the most of your trip by embracing the local culture and preparing for the unique aspects of this fascinating country.
