England - Travel Guide - Tripmasters Travel

England – Travel Guide

England charms visitors with its royal heritage, from grand palaces like Buckingham to over 1500 historic castles dotting green hills. Natural beauty abounds in England’s lush countryside, along its picturesque coast, and within well-loved national parks like the Lake District. Believe it or not, quaint villages and towns invite exploration of England’s deep cultural roots, from renowned universities to literary greats who still influence the world. England’s history comes alive in iconic cities like London, with landmarks, museums, and world-class shopping amid a vibrant modern energy. Experience for yourself why England has captivated visitors for centuries.

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All about England

England FAQ

What is England known for?

Perhaps the most important thing about England was its impact on the world through its royal family, having once ruled over an empire where the sun never set. You can experience England`s royal past and present by visiting sites like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey (with Big Ben), and Sandringham House, just to name a few. Many other noteworthy characteristics that make England desirable to tourists come directly from the royals` historic influence. Over 1,500 castles, most of which were built on orders or with the blessing of past kings and queens, are open to the public today, as are hundreds and hundreds of historic palaces, stately homes, and manors constructed by members of the nobility. Also tied to the royal family, throughout hundreds of years of history, is the Church of England, whose cathedrals attract millions of tourists and pilgrims to England each year. Canterbury Cathedral, in Kent, is the headquarters of the Church of England. St. Paul`s Cathedral is a landmark in the London skyline and is not to be missed either.

England is known the world over for its natural beauty, seen everywhere from its beautiful coastline and seaside towns such as Brighton and Blackpool to its quaint villages and breathtaking national park system (of which the Lake District, Peak District, and the Yorkshire Dales are three of the most popular parks, not just in England but in all of Europe). Finally, England is known for its culture, which still heavily impacts the world today. It ranges from a long literary, artistic, and intellectual tradition, to festivals that celebrate both England`s long history and the cultures of the people who are more recent arrivals. With such a rich cultural tapestry, is it any wonder that England is also known for its authentic souvenir shopping (ranging from wines and cheeses to English wool)? (London is also a world-class city when it comes to luxury shopping and cutting-edge fashion.)

What are the best places to visit in England?

The best places to visit in England depend on how much time you have to explore the country! If you have a week or less, we suggest staying close to London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, and one of the most important cities in the world. You could spend weeks and weeks in London and not see absolutely everything it has to offer, but three or four days at least will be sufficient in experiencing the best of the best. In the Thames River Valley, you can visit such towns as Windsor, home to the eponymous castle that is also a royal residence; and the epicenter of English-language higher education, Oxford. Speaking of higher education, Cambridge, home to another storied institution, is less than an hour away by train from London, as is surrounding East Anglia.

If you have more than a week to explore the country, you can pick and choose a little more when it comes to how many places you can visit and for how long. The Land of Shakespeare is the area where The Bard himself spent his most formative years, mostly in Stratford-upon-Avon. Less than an hour to the south and southwest you will find perhaps England`s most charming countryside escape: The Cotswolds, and the nearby cities of Cheltenham and Gloucester. South West England has even more beautiful cities and sights to explore, ranging from its largest city, Bristol, to the iconic prehistoric Stonehenge monument, to the legendary seaside resort of Bath and the coastal cities of Plymouth and Exeter. Another seaside resort on the southern coast that is very popular is Brighton, located to the east of Southampton.

Heading north into The Midlands, you have Birmingham, the largest city, and the smaller cities of Coventry and Nottingham are featured prominently in legends that have endured for centuries. The North, part industrial and part agricultural, is one of the most bustling and diverse parts of England. You can find one of an assortment of vacation experiences in the distinctive Yorkshire region, as well as in North West England, where such unforgettable cities as Manchester and Liverpool are just a skip and a jump from the Lake District and the country`s largest lake, Windermere. After a lake getaway, head 45 minutes north to Hadrian`s Wall and follow the path all the way from Cumbria to Tyne and Wear in North East England.

How many days should I spend in England?

We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel, and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.

What is the best way to get around England?

Whatever your pleasure, transportation in England is modern, easy to navigate and fits a variety of budget ranges. The best way to travel in England ultimately depends on your goals: Do you want to travel by train in England, or maybe you want to visit as many cities as possible or exploring the towns dotted throughout the country; if so, driving may be the way to go.

By Car: If you want to enjoy the countryside at your own pace, renting a car is a great way to see England. England`s road network is one of the most highly-developed in the world, and freeways and highways connect all large population centers with one another. Two-lane country streets and avenues are also great for exploring via automobile. It`s a roughly four-hour drive (excluding traffic) from London to Manchester, and it is a similar drive time from London to Plymouth. It is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from London to Birmingham. For more information on getting around by car, check out: Driving in England.

By Train and/or Ferry: The train system in England is administered by National Rail. It is one of the most extensive systems in the world and one of the easiest to use as well. Handicapped accessibility is available in most major and mid-sized train stations. Train stations are connected to a number of airports in England, making it easy for visitors to move directly to the city center. (Such airports that have train stations include London-Heathrow, London-Gatwick, London-Stansted, Luton, Birmingham, and Manchester.) Train journeys between London and Manchester usually take about two-and-a-half hours, and 90 minutes between London and Birmingham. Also, another related mode of transportation that will come in useful for travelers will be the London Underground, administered by Transport for London (TfL), which connects all of Greater London on 11 lines and with 270 stops.

The Eurostar trains, operating separately from the National Rail, leave from London St Pancras International train station and utilize the Channel Tunnel to connect London with Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Marseille. There are train-to-ferry connections in multiple cities, most of which connect the southern coast with the Channel Islands and France: Dover, Newhaven, Portsmouth, Southampton, Lymington, Poole, Weymouth, and Penzance.

What is the currency of England?

England, like the other constituent nations of the United Kingdom, uses the pound sterling (£). US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for pounds upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the country. For more detailed information, consult our guide by clicking here Tipping in the United Kingdom.

Best time to visit England

England is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Naturally, as a country with rich history and distinct natural beauty, people vacation here all twelve months of the year.

However, the shoulder seasons are recommended over other times of the year.

The months of April, May and early June comprise the first shoulder season, and the second shoulder season begins in the middle of September, lasting through the end of October. During this time, lines at key tourist attractions should be shorter, and prices for travel and accommodations will be off their summertime peaks.

People who visit England in the winter will be wowed as dustings of snow routinely occur across the north of the country, and less frequently in the south. By the spring, daylight hours have become extended and the precipitation England is known for slowly makes way for drier and more pleasant conditions. Those conditions can also be enjoyed in the autumn, just before the Christmas markets open for business in cities and towns across the country. No matter what time of year, we can help you plan an England vacation you will be sure to enjoy. In this guide, we`ll let you know what to expect as far as weather, holidays and festivals are concerned.

January – March

The first three months of the year would be considered the low season in England. Few crowds will be seen at most attractions, and prices for accommodations will be at their lowest, except in London. Operating hours for attractions will be curtailed, and in the countryside, some attractions may close completely through March. The weather will be cold and wet, as the throes of the rainy season peak in January and February. The sun will also set early, around 4 p.m. in London in January, and still setting below 6 p.m. in early March. Snow is possible across England in the first three months out of the year; it is more likely north of Birmingham.

Weather in Newcastle-upon-Tyne will be cold, with highs averaging in the mid-to-upper 40s and lows in the upper 30s. Manchester starts out the year with an average high in the mid-40s and a low in the upper 30s; by March the average warms to the low 50s with lows around 40. Birmingham will be slightly colder in the mornings, with lows averaging in the mid-30s, but otherwise similar to Manchester for average highs. London`s highs in January average in the mid-40s, warming to the low to mid-50s by March, with lows in the low 40s. Bristol`s highs average in the upper 40s and low 50s for the first three months out of the year, with lows around 40. Cold fronts can push temperatures below these averages at any time through March.

Holidays and Festivals:

January 1 – New Year`s Day. Public holiday in England.

January 2 or 3 – Observed holiday for New Year`s Day if New Year`s Day falls on a weekend. If New Year`s Day falls on a Saturday, the holiday is publicly observed on January 3. If New Year`s Day falls on a Sunday, the holiday is publicly observed on January 2. Public holiday in England.

February 14 – Valentine`s Day

Last week in February – Jorvik Viking Festival, York, featuring battle re-enactments with actors in period costumes.

Three Sundays before Easter – Mothering Sunday, the English equivalent of Mother`s Day

March or April – Good Friday. Public holiday in England.

March or April – Easter Monday. Public holiday in England.

April – May

The low season transitions into the shoulder season in England in the month of April, with the entire country in the shoulder season by May. Crowds will continue to be manageable at sights across England, and while hotel prices will rise from their wintertime lows, they will still be quite affordable. Rain chances will still be high in early April, but begin to taper off as April turns into May.

Newcastle-upon-Tyne should see highs in the mid to upper 50s with lows in the mid-40s. Manchester should see similar temperatures. Birmingham on average should warm from the mid-50s to the lower 60s as April turns into May; lows should be in the upper 30s and low to mid-40s. Highs in London in April average in the upper 50s, with mid-60s arriving by May. Lows should average between 45 and 50. Bristol should see similar conditions, but with slightly cooler mornings.

Holidays and Festivals:

March or April – Good Friday. Public holiday in England.

March or April – Easter Monday. Public holiday in England.

Early April – Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race, southwest London. One of the oldest ongoing rowing races in the world, having been held annually since 1856.

Late April – London Marathon

Late April and early May – Leeds International Festival, a `festival of new ideas and innovation`, celebrating the art and cultural trends of tomorrow. It includes the Live at Leeds music festival.

April 23 – St. George`s Day, the feast day of the national saint of England. The day is a celebration of English culture, with religious services and parades in towns across the country.

Early May – Arcadia London, a large-scale music festival complete with fireworks and light shows. Usually timed with the May bank holiday.

Early May – Chimney Sweeps Festival, Rochester, northwest of Canterbury. A festival that has its origins over four centuries ago, it was supposedly the day the chimney sweeps of the town could celebrate the arrival of spring. It is notable for its performances from Morris dancers, skilled in the English folk dance of the same name.

Early May – Keswick Jazz Festival, the largest jazz music festival in England, held in Keswick, Cumbria.

Early May to early June – Plymouth History Festival, a celebration of Plymouth`s history, which includes its past and present as a leading shipping port and the story of the Plymouth Pilgrims, among others.

First Monday in May – Early May bank holiday. Public holiday in England.

Mid-May – Bath Festival, a two-week combination of the prestigious former Bath music and literature festivals.

Mid-May – Great Manchester Run, the largest 10k in Europe, and the third highest-attended running event in England.

Late May – Chelsea Flower Show, one of the highest-profile flower shows in the world, held in Chelsea, London.

Late May to mid-June – Bath Fringe Festival, celebrating alternative and avant-garde performances in music, theatre, dance and other fine arts.

Last Monday in May – Spring bank holiday. Public holiday in England.

Last Monday in May – Cooper’s Hill Cheese Roll, Gloucester, Cotswolds. A fun run in which competitors run after a nine-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep hill; the winner gets to claim the cheese wheel. Participants fly in from all over the world.

June – July

Shoulder season continues into June, but by the beginning of July the entire country will be in high season. Crowds will begin to increase as families begin to travel for their summer vacations. In the middle of July, many children in public schools across England start their summer break. Expect long wait times at many well-known attractions. By July prices on accommodations and travel will increase to their highest price points of the year and will stay there for most of the summer.

Rain is still a possibility throughout the months of June and July, but the chance of encountering a rain shower each day lessens as summer begins. Newcastle-upon-Tyne`s average temperatures in these months are in the mid to upper 60s, with average lows in the mid-50s. Manchester should see similar conditions. Birmingham`s weather should warm from the mid-60s to the low 70s as June turns into July; lows should average between 50 and 55. London`s highs average in the low to mid-70s with lows in the mid-to-upper 50s. Bristol`s temperatures should rise from the upper 60s in June to the low 70s in July; lows should be in the 50s.

Note that in recent years, heat waves have not spared England, and temperatures can rise as much as 20 to 25 degrees above the averages outlined on this page. It is not a given that air conditioning will be included in every accommodation option, so plan ahead and make sure your accommodations have air conditioning if you desire to have this amenity.

Holidays and Festivals:

June – Trooping the Colour, London, on either the second or third Saturday in June. Military bands and pageantry play out in London for the Royal Family and for onlookers, in honor of the Queen`s official birthday. (Queen Elizabeth II`s actual birthday is April 21.)

Early June – Keswick Beer Festival, the largest beer festival in the North of England, featuring a live music and performance component.

Mid-June – Golowan Festival, Penzance, a midsummer celebration commemorated with bagpipe band performances, a parade, bonfires and fireworks.

Mid-June – Royal Ascot horse races, near Windsor. One of the most prestigious horse races in Europe, it has been attended by the reigning monarch nearly every year since 1711.

Third Sunday in June – Father`s Day

Late June – Love Supreme, Sussex, a jazz, soul and blues music festival.

Last week in June – Glastonbury Festival, Somerset, the largest pop and rock music festival in England (and the largest open-air festival in the world), routinely booking major headliners such as Beyoncé, U2, and Coldplay.

Early July – Wimbledon Tennis Championship, London. The oldest and perhaps most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, having been played since 1877.

Early July – Early Music Festival, York, a music festival dedicated to music composers and genres from the 18th century and earlier.

Early July – London Pride Parade, the largest and oldest LGBT pride parade and festival in the United Kingdom.

Mid-July to early September – The Proms, London, a series of classical-music performances in Royal Albert Hall.

Late July – Tramlines Festival, Sheffield, a large-scale open-air music festival featuring nationally-known and local indie rock and pop artists.

August – September

August is the final month of high season across England. The steady stream of tourists will begin to slow at many sights in September. School will be in session across the country the first week of September, and most people will have taken their summer vacations before September begins. Prices will begin to retreat from their early summer peaks, but you will not notice discounts in hotel rates until just after the end of September. These will also be the last two months of lower rain chances before the onset of the rainy season in October.

Temperatures in Newcastle-upon-Tyne should average in the upper 60s in early August, retreating to the low 60s by late September, with lows in the low to mid-50s. Manchester should see similar conditions. Birmingham and London`s high temperatures average in the upper 60s and low 70s in August and September, with Birmingham having cooler average lows, in the 40s and low 50s, and London having warmer conditions in the mornings, in the mid-50s to 60 degrees. Bristol`s daytime temperatures, on average, hover between 65 and 70 degrees in August and September, with lows around 55.

Holidays and Festivals:

First week in August – Cambridge Folk Festival, one of the largest and best-known folk music festivals in the world.

First week in August – Pride Festival, Brighton, a particularly lively LGBT pride festival in the southern coastal resort city well-known across Europe for its welcoming attitudes.

Second week in August – The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, where hot air balloons take to the skies above the city of Bristol and the Avon River Gorge.

Mid-August – Kettlewell Scarecrow Festival, near Skipton, North Yorkshire, a festival celebrating literal straw men in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

Last week in August – Notting Hill Carnival, London, a large celebration honoring the vibrant cultures that comprise London`s Caribbean community.

Last Monday in August – Summer bank holiday. Public holiday in England.

Late August to early November – Blackpool Illuminations, a festival and tram parade featuring buildings along the famed Blackpool waterfront district decorated in colorful lights.

September – Great North Run, the largest half-marathon in the world, between Newcastle upon Tyne and South Shields.

September – Totally Thames, London. A community festival presenting many free cultural events along the south bank of the Thames River.

September – Jane Austen Festival, Bath, a ten-day celebration of all things Jane Austen, including cosplay portions, in a town that was close to Austen`s heart.

Various dates in September – Heritage Open Days, a `celebration of local heritage, architecture and culture`, many historical sights across England waive their admission fees.

Mid-to-late September – London Fashion Week Festival, one of the `big four` fashion weeks in the world, along with New York, Paris and Milan.

Mid-to-late September – York Food and Drink Festival, a gastronomic delight in York, a city which is quickly becoming one of England’s top “foodie” destinations.

October – December

The low season kicks in across the country by the middle of October. As daylight hours become fewer and fewer, attraction hours will be shortened, usually beginning in the month of October. Also at this time, sights in the countryside may close entirely for the winter. Prices for accommodations and travel will retreat and will hit yearly lows in the month of December, except in London, and for the weeks around Christmas and New Year`s. The rainy season will begin across most of the country in October and precipitation chances will be at their highest in November and December. The first frost, on average, reaches the north of England in the third week of November and the south of England in the last week of November. Snow is not unheard of in the month of December.

The North of England will see highs retreat from an average in the mid-50s in October to the mid-40s in December, with lows cooling from the mid-40s in October to the mid-30s in December. Birmingham`s October highs average in the upper 50s, and by December the city sees maximum temperatures in the mid-40s. Lows start out in the mid-40s in October, cooling to the mid-30s by the end of December. London`s highs routinely top 60 degrees in October, but by the end of December, temperatures during the day will only average in the upper 40s. Lows retreat from an average of 50 in October to 40 in December. Similar conditions can be found in Bristol, with Bristol cooler than London by approximately 2-3 degrees on average. South West England in particular will see heavy rains the final three months of the year.

Holidays and Festivals:

Mid-October – BFI London Film Festival, a film festival screening over 300 films over the span of two weeks, organized by the British Film Institute.

Late October – Great South Run, a 10-mile run through the streets of Portsmouth.

October 31 – Halloween. Originally a pagan festival native to England, Halloween nowadays is celebrated similarly to the United States, with children dressing up and requesting a trick or a treat.

November 5 – Guy Fawkes Night, commemorating the failed Gunpowder Plot bungled by Guy Fawkes on this day in the year 1605. The night is celebrated with fireworks, bonfires, and effigy-burning of Guy Fawkes.

Second Saturday in November – Lord Mayor`s Show, London. Traditional pageants are held in the City of London, including elaborate and ornate horse-drawn coach parades, and fireworks shows.

November 11 – Remembrance Sunday, honoring the English servicemen and women who participated in the two World Wars and later conflicts. Two minutes of silence are observed nationwide at 11:00, people wear poppies on lapels, and the Royal Family lays wreaths at The Cenotaph on Whitehall in London to honor the casualties England suffered in World War I.

Third Saturday in November – Glastonbury Carnival, one of the largest illuminated parades in England, a local tradition in Glastonbury which stretches back over 160 years.

Late November to early December – Christmas festivals across Britain. York’s St. Nicholas Fayre and Keswick’s Victorian Fayre come highly-recommended.

December 24 – Christmas Eve (some closures)

December 25 – Christmas. Public holiday in England.

December 26 – Boxing Day. Many shops open early and offer deep discounts, similar to Black Friday sales in the United States. Public holiday in England.

December 27 or 28 – Observed holiday for Christmas if Christmas falls on a weekend. If Christmas falls on a Saturday, the holiday is publicly observed December 28. If Christmas falls on a Sunday, the holiday is publicly observed December 27. Public holiday in England.

December 31 – New Year’s Eve (some closures).

Tipping in England

The questions “when?” and “how much?” can leave some travelers confused, as the practice varies. This guide attempts to cover most situations that you, as a tourist, will encounter.

Tipping in England.

Hopefully using these “tips” will provide a smooth experience when interacting with locals in restaurants, bars, hotels, tour operators, and taxis.

Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use pounds?

The currency of the UK (which consists of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) is the pound sterling. U.S. dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for pounds upon arrival. In Scotland some banks print their own notes, which can be used in Scotland; it is a better idea to use pounds throughout the UK, you can not go wrong. In our culture we can put everything on credit and debit cards, however, in Europe you will find it useful to always keep a little cash on hand. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the country.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?

As in many other areas of Europe, the UK will often employ a `service` charge. This is not always easy to determine, some restaurants print their service charge policy on their menus (long gone by the time you pay your bill), while others make the service charge very clear on the bill. The charge is most commonly 12.5% but can reach 15%. If it is not noted then the restaurant is not complying with law. In such cases you can ask your server or a manager and they will usually be more than happy to answer. In any case where a service charge is added, or the menu notes `service included,` be aware that this may or may not be passed on to the waiting staff. Ask the manager how the service charge is applied, as often only a portion, if any at all, ends up going to the servers. An `optional` charge is occasionally added to the bill; make sure you`re not blindly paying it. This is another way restaurants collect money which may be distributed as tips. Adjust it to the level you feel comfortable with and feel free to round to the nearest pound- up or down – and always ask if you feel uncomfortable with the charges.

In larger and more frequently visited cities (London, Edinburgh, Cambridge, Glasgow, etc.) tipping is more and more common; Americans are accustomed to leaving 20% at minimum, however the most common practice in the UK is to leave between 10 and 12%. In nicer restaurants up to 15% (provided that the service charge is not included) is a good rule of thumb. It is worth note that in the UK serversmustbe paid the national minimum wage and restaurant owners are NOT ALLOWED to calculate tips into that figure to raise servers wages to the minimum. If there is no service charge, then likely the server is only earning that minimum wage and will be appreciative of any additional tip.

If you are truly disappointed by the service or the food, forgo a tip altogether. Don`t worry, here they won`t chase you into the street demanding a tip or bad mouth you to the other customers. It just doesn`t work that way.

In cafes or bistros there are usually change bins or donation bins close to the register, most with notes attached that make it clear tips are appreciated. Here it is easiest to simply round up slightly to the next whole pound, no more. Nobody is expected to tip for self-service food (for example: if you order at a counter, pay at a register, and then pick your food up at a window or if you pick up a `grab and go` sandwich from a deli case). If the food is brought to your table then leaving small change, up to £1, is perfectly adequate. Tip £1 or £2 to delivery people who bring food from a restaurant to you at another location.

Pubs are a different beast entirely.The UK is famous for it`s pubs but tipping is not customary. Play it cool. Say `and one for yourself` when leaving the change behind. This offer of a drink is not usually permitted while barkeeps are working, so they will pocket the change as a tip! Additionally, some pubs have table service which is equivalent to bus staff. It is ok to leave some change for them, considering that they often end up running your drinks to your table and taking additional orders. If your change is brought on a silver tray (yes, it really happens!) they are quietly requesting a tip. Oblige if the service was good.

Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?

Tipping in hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs in the UK is a kind gesture. Tips are not expected but are greatly appreciated. The most commonly tipped employees are the porters and chambermaids, although in anything less than a 4-star hotel it is rarely common. If a porter helps to carry your bag(s) to your room the customary tip is £1 or £2 per bag, usually no more than £5 total. For chambermaids a £1 or £2 tip, daily, is more than adequate. Leave these tips on the bed or the bedside table. Hotel Concierge staff can be very helpful for first time travelers; they are a wealth of information from directions to restaurant suggestions and reservations. Tip them a few pounds for their helpful service, if so desired. Some hotels (and upscale restaurants) will have restroom attendants, tip them with small change and bless them, since without them, there would be no toilet paper or soap there. Tip hotel staff who bring room service to your room at your discretion.

Watch out for this: Many hotels now have begun adding an included service charge of around 10% – 12% on your total bill so make sure to keep an eye out for this when you are checking out. If you do not understand your bill, ask to have it explained.

In smaller hotels and guesthouses tipping is not expected as they tend to be family run establishments. Such places appreciate repeat business, referrals, or positive feedback on recommendation sites. B&B owners would probably not know what to do when confronted with a five-pound note. In this case, a gesture such as a nice bunch of flowers would convey your gratitude.

Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?

The first thing you will notice (particularly in London) about taxi service is that there is a big difference between a taxi (usually a black-colored cab) and a mini-cab. Literally anyone who can drive can become a mini-cab driver whereas taxi drivers have received lengthy training, tend to know their way around much more efficiently and are required by law to take the shortest route between points. The price of a black cab is usually markedly steeper than that of other services, but is worth the extra charge.

Tipping drivers is unusual, but appreciated, especially if they help you with your luggage or provide you with useful info about getting around. Most commonly rounding the fare to the nearest pound is customary, which is also a convenience for both the passenger and driver. While some may find this surprising, remember that multiple surcharges for a fare are already built into the metered price in taxis. If by chance your ride was very long or you asked the taxi driver to wait for you while running an errand and he obliged you can tip up to 10% or £5, whichever is the lesser. Needless to say, if your driver was rude or took you on an out of the way route to hike up the fare (which is illegal in black cabs, unless inevitable due to construction), do not leave a tip. If you`ve hired a private driver leave around £20 per day. If they went above and beyond you can always tip more. Always remember when travelling abroad that it is good practice to agree to a fare before the cab driver begins driving.

Tour Guides: Is a tip required?

Tipping tour guides is very much appreciated but not expected. Common practice is in the range of £5 per person for half a day, or £10 per person for a full day. Although most tour operators include a `tip` in quoted prices bear in mind that the guides are often paid a low wage, so if one is particularly enthusiastic or informative do not hesitate to slip them a little extra if you wish! The guide may refuse at first but politely insist if you have really enjoyed your experience. Alternately, offer to buy their lunch if you are on a full day trip and it is not included.

Miscellaneous: Is there anyone I should tip that I would not normally?

Other Services: In the event that you are in the UK for a special occasion (wedding, honeymoon, graduation gift, birthday, etc..) and employ the services of a hairdresser, make-up artist, party planner, personal shopper, tailor or spa services (which are usually all-inclusive and do not require additional gratuity) andthe like, use your best judgment in tipping. Factor in the cost and quality of service and, as a general rule, stay in the 10% range.

Final Thoughts:

Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. This is also true for hotel staff, however if you should encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.
When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.

Driving in England

The thought of driving in England, like in other nations where cars drive on the left-hand side of the road, can be daunting for American travelers who are used to driving on the right.

With that said, many American tourists do drive when exploring England, and apart from the three largest cities (London, Birmingham and Manchester).

In many rural areas, roads can be winding, and in some urban areas, roads can be narrow. Keep your concentration and practice defensive driving and you should be fine. It is recommended that you read the UK Highway Code before driving in England or any of the other nations of the United Kingdom. Click on the `More Tips` link to find the Highway Code URL.

If you take the time to read our package on driving in England, you will most likely have a stress-free trip. Enjoy exploring one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Europe.

Documents

Driver`s License

U.S. driver`s licenses are valid for 12 months in the United Kingdom; if you want to drive longer than that, you need to apply for a UK license. If you lose your U.S. license, make sure you apply for an International Driving Permit before leaving home and bring it with you at all times. This may help you in such a stressful event.Additional Documents

Bring your passport, your driver`s license, including an International Driving Permit if you applied for one, a European Accident Statement (ask your car rental company), paperwork for accident and breakdown coverage, insurance certificate, and registration.Insurance

Third-party insurance is the legal minimum drivers must buy before driving in the United Kingdom. Fines of £300 will be given to violators.Glasses

If you wear glasses or contact lenses for driving in the United States, you are required to wear them in the United Kingdom as well.Warning Triangles and Visibility Vests

First-aid kits, warning triangles, and fire extinguishers are required before driving in the United Kingdom; your car rental company should already have these placed in your car. Make sure you check before leaving. If broken down on a carriageway, place your warning triangle approximately 150 feet behind your car. High-visibility vests are not required in the United Kingdom but many people choose to include them in their first-aid car packages.Headlamp Beam Deflectors

Beam deflectors are not required for driving in the United Kingdom but are required in other EU countries, so if you plan on driving to France, you will need to make sure the headlights are fixed before leaving. Ask your car rental company how you will apply headlamp beam deflectors. Some cars require stickers, others require for the beam to be adjusted manually.Snow Chains

Snow chains are legal in the United Kingdom but they must be used only on snow-covered roads and not in a way that will damage the road surface. Once back on smooth concrete, snow chains must be removed.Lights

Headlights must be used in the time period that corresponds to 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise. Side lights and rear registration lights must be lit during nighttime hours as well. Lights can be dipped at night in urban areas and in daytime weather that is cloudy or foggy. Headlights must be used during times of reduced daytime visibility, but they must be turned off when the visibility improves.Other

Emergency, police and fire services in England can be accessed by calling 999. Another number that can be used in the case of emergencies is 112, and that is a number that can be dialed from any mobile phone for free. Non-emergency services can be accessed by dialing 111.

General Rules

Drinking and Driving:

The legal limit of blood alcohol content in England is 0.08%, which is similar to the legal limit in the United States. Punishments for drinking and driving are heavy in England: the maximum sentence is six months` imprisonment, a fine of up to £5,000 and a minimum twelve months` disqualification from driving. Tourists will not be allowed to drive in England after the first offense. The rule for drinking and driving is simple: don`t do it. Take a taxi or some other form of transportation if you want to drink at pubs or nightclubs.Seat Belts:

Seat belts are mandatory for drivers as well as for front and back seat passengers.Cell Phones:

Cell phones are only allowed to be used by drivers in England if the call can be conducted hands-free (like through Bluetooth and car speakers). You will be given a citation and be made to pay a fine of £200 if you are caught using your cell phone without these hands-free devices.Navigation Aids

Navigation aids such as GPS are allowed while driving in England, but the phone must be mounted to the windshield or dashboard, and you must not press any navigation buttons on the GPS or phone while driving. A fine of £200 can and will be given to violators.Speed Trap Detectors:

In England, both fixed and mobile radar and laser speed camera detection devices are legal. Scramblers and jammers are illegal.Driving Age:

The driving age in England is set at 17; learner`s permits are issued beginning at 15 years, 9 months. Drivers coming from the United States must be over the age of 17. Many car rental companies will not rent to people under 18, and may charge premiums to drivers under the age of 25.Using Indicators:

Indicators must be used when overtaking and any other time it is applicable. English drivers are also known to use hand gestures in traffic to signal turns, to merge onto roads and roundabouts, and to allow drivers into their lanes. You will find that you will use both indicators and hand signals while driving in England. If a driver is nice enough to let you into a roundabout or lane, wave back at them, like you would in the United States.Overtaking:

According to the UK Highway Code, you should remain in the center or outer lanes if you are overtaking a number of slower moving vehicles, instead of changing lanes multiple times. Once you have finished overtaking, return to the left lane. Slower vehicles should remain in the left lane, unless overtaking. Slower vehicles should not be in the right lane at all. Do not drive on the hard shoulder; that is for vehicles to park their cars when experiencing distress or after an accident.Roundabout:

Also according to the UK Highway Code, you should use your indicators and hand signals to let other drivers know your intentions. Remain aware of the speed of the traffic around you and keep at the same speed limit when entering and exiting the roundabout. Always give priority to traffic coming from the right-hand side, unless signs tell you otherwise. Look at the road markings and make sure you have the right of way before entering the roundabout; if you don`t have that right of way, wait for other vehicles or pedestrians to pass. When taking the first exit on the roundabout, turn your left signal on and approach the left lane. Keep left and signal left to exit. If you are exiting on the right, keep to the right until you are ready to exit and then use your left signal after you pass the exit before the one you want to take. For intermediate exits, choose the lane that is more appropriate and stay in that lane until you pass the last exit before the one you want to take and signal left.Lights:

Speeding typically results in a fine of £100, although speeding over 45% of the posted limit could cause your driving privileges to be revoked. Fines and penalties have become harsher over the years for using your phone while driving. As of March 2017, this includes using your phone while in traffic. Careless driving (swerving, not driving inside the lines) will set you back £100. More dangerous driving behavior will send you directly in front of a magistrate. Driving without insurance will incur a minimum fine of £300. Children not using correct car seats will result in the parents being fined £500.Children:

Car seats must be used for children who have either not reached the age of 12 years or the height of 135 cm (53 inches). Rear-facing car seats must be used for children under the age of 15 months, after which time front-facing seats are required. Car seats may be installed in the front but rear-facing car seats may not be used in the front if the passenger side has an airbag equipped.Accidents:

In the United Kingdom, you must stop after an accident if someone else besides yourself is injured, no matter if there is only one car or multiple cars involved. The same rule applies if vehicles (other than your own) or property are damaged, an animal outside the vehicle is injured or killed, or if street lamps or signs are damaged. You are required to make sure medical assistance is coming to the scene, if needed. The emergency number is 999. After that, you must stay long enough to exchange names, contact information and insurance and registration information. If you want to report the incident to the police, it must be done within 24 hours of the accident. If you can exchange insurance and nobody is injured, police do not necessarily need to be involved. Inform your insurance company of the accident; failure to promptly do so can result in your claim being dismissed, even if the accident was not your fault. Do not admit liability for the accident as this can hurt your standing with the insurance company should you file a claim afterward. If the other person involved in the accident does not have insurance, a claim can be filed with the governmental Motor Insurers` Bureau.

Parking

Parking tends to be an issue in many English cities. Street parking is at a premium in many areas and car parks can be far removed from some attractions. Even though car parks may not be centrally located all the time, they will probably be your best bet for parking. You will most likely pay at a machine; some machines take credit/debit cards but many will require cash. Keep pound coins and low paper denominations on hand for parking. Expect to pay at least £2-3 per hour for parking in most major English cities. In Greater London, the aforementioned costs per hour for parking easily double, if not triple. Make sure to obey maximum hour rules at car parks, or you could incur a steep fine for overstaying. Car parks tend to have good security, including closed-circuit cameras, but do not leave valuables in a parked car in any case. Disabled parking permits from the United States are only accepted at the discretion of local jurisdictions so check with a police officer before parking. Bring your U.S. parking permit, but as stated before, there is no requirement for England to honor an American parking permit.

Gas Stations

Gas stations in England (which they call `petrol stations`) are quite similar to the ones in the United States. Nearly all gas stations are self-service, although you will find a few full-service stations in rural areas. You can pay at the pump or inside and credit/debit cards are taken at nearly every gas station. Unlike in the U.S., you typically pay for gas after you filled up, not before. Most gas stations also offer a convenience store component and many (but not all) offer bathrooms. As a rule, it is usually cheaper to get your gas in towns and cities instead of at service parks along busy motorways.

Unleaded (95 and 98 octane) and diesel fuel are the most popular fuel options; make sure you figure out which type of fuel your car needs, and make sure you pick the right one before filling up. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is also an option at many locations for certain car types. As far as business hours are concerned, 24-hour gas stations exist in the United Kingdom, but they are not as ubiquitous as in the United States. Gas stations tend to open early, between 5 and 7 a.m., and stay open until at least 9 or 10 p.m., if not as late as midnight.

Useful Words

Some useful words to commit to memory, with the American meaning afterward:

Bonnet – Car hood
Boot – Trunk
Car park – Parking lot, parking garage
Central reservation – Divider, median
Give way – Yield
Indicator – Turn signal
Lorry – Truck
Motorway – Highway, freeway, parkway
Pavement – Sidewalk
Windscreen – Windshield
Traffic light – Stop light
Amber – Yellow (as in the stop light color).

Speed Limits

These are the current speed limits nationwide. Note that many local jurisdictions reserve the right to lower these numbers.

Motorways – 70 mph
Dual Carriageways – 70 mph
Other standard roads – 60 mph
Built-up areas – 50 mph (30 mph in areas with street lights)
Rural areas – 60 mph (single carriageways).

More to Know

– Read the Highway Code before leaving, so you are up-to-date on driving laws in the United Kingdom, which vary slightly from American laws. You can read the Code for free online at www.gov.uk/browse/driving/highway-code-road-safety.

– Be vigilant at all times while driving. In England, cars drive on the left side of the road, with the steering wheel on the right side of the car. As you become more comfortable with driving in England, you may be more tempted to let your guard down. It`s at these times when you can cause an accident, either with another car or on your own, being unfamiliar with right-side steering cars. Concentrate at all times, and if you are lost, exit the motorway and find a gas station or shop where you can receive directions.

– Direction signs on motorways have a blue backdrop and signs on trunk roads will have a green backdrop. Signs on local roads are white with a black border, and speed limit signs are typically white circular signs with a red perimeter. Speed limit signs are posted in miles per hour, not kilometers per hour.

– Be nice and courteous while on the road. Local drivers will be more forgiving of minor faux pas if you have a cheerful attitude.

Choosing a Car in Europe

If you plan to rent a car in Europe, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with the operation of the manual transmission. The vast majority of rental cars have manual transmissions. There are only a limited number of automatics available.
The very concept of ‘car’ is radically different between North America and Europe. Whereas in the US and Canada size really matters, Europeans look for fuel economy and have cramped parking conditions in mind. Here are some hints on choosing the right car when renting.Transmission – Not Automatically Automatic

The very first thing to bear in mind is the transmission. Whereas most rental cars in North America will be equipped with automatic transmission, manual transmission is the norm in Europe. In addition the gearshift will be to the left of the driver. If you are not familiar with a manual transmission be sure to select an automatic. And remember that the ‘exotic’ automatic transmissions may sell out fast, so book early.Interior Space

Most rental cars are standard European or Japanese vehicles, built for cramped road conditions and comparatively short journeys. Especially the lower categories (Sub-Compact and Compact) are typical ‘city cars’ for the occasional user. Even ‘mid-size’ in Europe would be rated Compact in the US. So expect tighter conditions and choose a larger vehicle if traveling long distances.Seats and Legroom

Cars are smaller and Europeans are used to them, so this leads to different car ratings. In the US, a car rated for two adults and two children, would be rated for five adults in Ireland. If you are in any way larger than the average European (5 ft 7 in, 165 pounds) go for a larger vehicle.The Trunk

Luggage space in European and Japanese cars can be tight. Sub-Compact and Compact vehicles will more than likely be of the hatchback type with no actual trunk and a somewhat cramped storage area in the back. Getting four adults and their luggage into a Sub-Compact is nearly impossible. If you are planning to take your full baggage allowance go for a Mid-Size at least. Do not plan on leaving your luggage in view while touring, this will attract undesirable attention.Extras – You Don’t Need Them

When looking up European rental cars you might notice that air conditioning or cruise control are not necessarily included in the specifications. You will not really miss them. While air conditioning can occasionally be nice during the short Irish summer, cruise control would be of no practical use at all.

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