• Visiting London in 2025: 12 Essential Tips for Planning Your Perfect Trip
    Jan 14 2025

    In episode 132 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy shares invaluable insights for planning an unforgettable trip to London in 2025. Drawing from her extensive experience living and travelling in the city, Tracy offers 12 essential tips that cover everything from crafting the perfect itinerary to exploring beyond London’s iconic landmarks.

    Discover how to maximise your visit by choosing the right time of year, booking key attractions in advance, and selecting the ideal neighbourhood for your stay. Learn how to navigate London’s public transport system with ease and explore the city’s many free attractions to keep your travel budget in check.

    Tracy also highlights the importance of experiencing London’s seasonal highlights, taking day trips to nearby destinations, and venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths to uncover hidden gems. Additionally, she provides guidance on London etiquette, savouring the city’s culinary and cultural delights, and preparing for the unpredictable British weather.

    Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, these practical tips and resources will help you plan your London adventure with confidence and ease.

    📝 Show Notes - Episode 132

    🎧 Listen to next

    • Episode #96 - Best day trips from London by train (Part 1)
    • Episode #97 - Best day trips from London by train (Part 2)
    • Episode #68 - Where to stay in London

    🇬🇧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your UK itinerary? Book a personalised consultation with Tracy and Doug Collins! Get tailored advice, refine your itinerary, and have your travel questions answered.

    We’ll help you make the most of your UK adventure with expert insights and practical tips. Spots are limited—book now!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • Mastering Your UK Itinerary: 12 Essential Tips for 2025
    Jan 7 2025

    In episode 131 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, join host Tracy Collins as she shares her top 12 travel tips for visiting the UK in 2025. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of this enchanting country, these essential tips will help you navigate the UK with ease and confidence. From understanding the new entry requirements to crafting a perfect itinerary, Tracy covers everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable adventure.

    Discover how to plan your itinerary wisely, explore beyond London, and choose the best mode of transport for your journey. Learn why booking ahead is crucial, how to pack smartly for the UK's unpredictable weather, and the importance of respecting local customs. Tracy also highlights the benefits of supporting local businesses and the necessity of travel insurance.

    With a wealth of resources available from UK Travel Planning, Tracy ensures you're equipped with all the guidance you need to make the most of your UK adventure. Tune in for expert advice and insider tips that promise to enhance your travel experience.

    📝 Show Notes - Episode 131

    🎧 Listen to next

    • Episode #80 - How to plan a UK rail trip
    • Episode #78 - Step-by-step UK trip planning guide
    • Episode #79 - How to plan a UK road trip

    🇬🇧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your UK itinerary? Book a personalised consultation with Tracy and Doug Collins! Get tailored advice, refine your itinerary, and have your travel questions answered.

    We’ll help you make the most of your UK adventure with expert insights and practical tips. Spots are limited—book now!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    32 mins
  • Reflecting on an Incredible Year: Celebrating Milestones and Adventures on the UK Travel Planning Podcast 2024
    Dec 31 2024

    What an incredible year it has been for the UK Travel Planning Podcast! With over 200,000 downloads this year and listeners across 177 countries, we are celebrating a global community that shares a passion for exploring the wonders of the UK. Join me, Tracy Collins, as we reminisce about our journey through 2024, highlighting unforgettable experiences and milestones.

    From our memorable 100th episode to heartfelt encounters with listeners like Susan, Wren, Milo, and Melissa, this episode is a tribute to the connections that make our travel adventures so special. Our travels have taken us from the stunning landscapes of Wales to the bustling streets of London, and in this episode, we're diving into the stories that shaped our year.

    Reflecting on the 51 episodes released this year, I'm thrilled to share some exciting updates about our sister podcast, the Global Travel Planning Podcast, celebrating its first anniversary.

    Get ready for a roundup of our top episodes, personal highlights, and a sneak peek at what's in store for 2025. Whether it's discovering the historic castles of Scotland or unearthing hidden gems in Northern Ireland, our journey is far from over.

    Thank you for being part of this incredible community, and here’s to many more adventures and connections in the year ahead!

    📝 Show Notes - Episode 130

    🎧 Listen to next

    • Episode #100 - Celebrating our 100th episode
    • Episode #119 - Exploring the UK in 17 days
    • Episode #86 - London like a local with Discover Real London Black Cab Tours

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    11 mins
  • A Festive Thank You from UK Travel Planning & Partners
    Dec 17 2024

    As the holiday season unfolds, we're taking a moment to share heartfelt gratitude with our cherished listeners! Doug and I want to extend our warm wishes for a joyous Christmas and a bright New Year as we announce a festive pause before returning with a special year-end episode on December 31st.

    This episode 129 is a special thank you to all who have supported our podcast journey—whether you're a regular listener, a website reader, or a social media follower. Our community has grown and thrived, and we are eager to continue this journey with you into 2025.

    We also have the pleasure of sharing holiday messages from some of our wonderful partners, each adding a sprinkle of festive cheer and exciting travel ideas for the coming year.

    Ollie from Discover Real London, Lisa from Go Cotswolds, Andrew from Expedition Yorkshire, Chris from The English Bus, Domi from Scalens Studio, Riz from XFA Cars, John Cortese from Tripiamo, John from Boutique Tours of North Wales, Robert from North Coast Explorer Tours, and Charley from Take Walks and Devour Food Tours join us to share their holiday greetings and a peek into what they have planned for travellers in 2025.

    From iconic London tours to the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, Far North Scotland and Yorkshire, our partners reflect on the memorable experiences they've curated this year and invite you to explore more with them.

    As we wrap up another remarkable year, the connections we've made with our travel community are what we cherish most. Here’s to more adventures, laughter, and unforgettable journeys in the New Year.

    Happy holidays to all of you from myself and the team at UK Travel Planning!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    12 mins
  • Explore North Wales & Beyond: Customised Cruise Shore Excursions with John Hadwin
    Dec 10 2024

    In episode 128 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy again welcomes John Hadwin from Boutique Tours of North Wales.

    Known for his exceptional private tours around North Wales, John shares his insights and expertise in catering to cruise passengers looking to explore beyond the ship's offerings.

    In this engaging episode, John discusses his background in tourism, including his time with Cunard and how he developed a niche in providing tailored tour experiences for cruise passengers. Learn about the variety of itineraries available at ports like Holyhead and Liverpool, each offering unique insights into Wales's local culture and hidden gems and beyond.

    John also addresses common concerns about private tours versus cruise ship tours, explaining the benefits of smaller, personalised experiences and how to plan the perfect day ashore.

    For those interested in booking, John shares tips on securing a tour and making the most of your time in port.

    ⭐️ Guest - John Hadwin of Boutique Tours of North Wales
    📝 Show Notes - Episode 128

    🎧 Listen to next

    • Episode #89 - Unforgettable Adventures: Boutique Tours of Wales with John Hadwin
    • Episode #52 - Exploring North Wales with Doug Collins
    • Episode #32 – Trip Report: A month road trip around the UK


    🇬🇧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your UK itinerary? Book a personalised consultation with Tracy and Doug Collins! Get tailored advice, refine your itinerary, and have your travel questions answered.

    We’ll help you make the most of your UK adventure with expert insights and practical tips. Spots are limited—book now!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    32 mins
  • Solo Travel in London : Trip Report with Melissa Jones
    Dec 3 2024

    In episode 127 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Melissa Jones, a first-time international traveller from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who shares her exciting London trip report. Melissa recounts her solo adventures in London, from iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Kensington Palace, and the Tower of London, to cultural gems such as the Victoria and Albert Museum. Discover her tips for planning an itinerary, navigating public transport, and the importance of pre-booking attractions to avoid long queues.

    Melissa also shares her experiences of indulging in traditional British cuisine, including sticky toffee pudding, fish and chips, and a memorable afternoon tea at Claridge's. She offers insights into her shopping adventures, highlighting unique finds from Covent Garden's antique market and London's renowned department stores. Whether you're curious about solo travel in London or eager to hear about Melissa's favourite spots and tips, this episode is packed with inspiration for your own UK adventure.

    ⭐️ Guest - Melissa Jones
    📝 Show Notes -
    Episode 127

    🎧 Listen to next

    • Episode #121 – Trip report with Ashley Dowling
    • Episode #116 – Trip report with Heather Welday
    • Episode #108 – Trip report with Lauren Minns


    🇬🇧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your UK itinerary? Book a personalised consultation with Tracy and Doug Collins! Get tailored advice, refine your itinerary, and have your travel questions answered.

    We’ll help you make the most of your UK adventure with expert insights and practical tips. Spots are limited—book now!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • Discover London with the London Pass (3 day London itinerary challenge)
    Nov 26 2024

    Unlock the secrets of London with our latest adventure, where we promise you'll discover how to explore the best of the city without emptying your wallet. Join us as we navigate through a three-day itinerary masterfully designed by Daryl Bennett from GoCity, revealing not just the famous landmarks like the London Eye and St. Paul's Cathedral but also hidden treasures such as the immersive art of Frameless and the historical gems of the Florence Nightingale Museum.

    In our previous conversation with Daryl (UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode #106), we uncovered strategies for maximizing the London Pass to make your journey enjoyable and cost-effective. In this episode, we test it out!

    Experience the ease and flexibility of the London Pass app, from the modern art delights of the Moco Museum to the historical depths of Apsley House and the majestic views from the Greenwich Meridian - Daryl's itinerary offers something for every traveller.

    Whether a scenic Thames ride to Greenwich or an insightful Yeoman Warder tour at the Tower of London, our episode guarantees a comprehensive guide to making the most of your time in London with the London Pass.

    Don't forget to use our discount code at checkout - UKLP5 - for 5% discount when you purchase a London Pass.

    🇬🇧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your UK itinerary? Book a personalised consultation with Tracy and Doug Collins! Get tailored advice, refine your itinerary, and have your travel questions answered.

    We’ll help you make the most of your UK adventure with expert insights and practical tips. Spots are limited—book now!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    26 mins
  • Planning a visit to the Isle of Skye Scotland [Itinerary and Essential Tips]
    Nov 19 2024

    In this week's episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, join host Tracy Collins as she recounts her recent journey to the enchanting Isle of Skye. Following a thrilling itinerary that took her and Doug from Birmingham to Cardiff, Chester, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, they finally arrived at Skye, one of the UK's most sought-after destinations.

    Tracy and Doug delve into the details of their Skye adventure, sharing insights on their ferry ride from Mallaig to Armadale and their stay in charming pods at Edinbane.

    The episode is packed with practical tips for travellers, such as the importance of pre-booking ferries and restaurants, and the need for patience when navigating Skye's single-track roads.

    The couple explores Skye's breathtaking landscapes, including the Quiraing, Staffin Beach, and Neist Point.

    They also highlight must-see attractions like the Fairy Glen, Dunvegan Castle, and the Talisker Distillery, providing listeners with a comprehensive guide to making the most of their Skye experience.

    🇬🇧 Feeling overwhelmed planning your UK itinerary? Book a personalised consultation with Tracy and Doug Collins! Get tailored advice, refine your itinerary, and have your travel questions answered.

    We’ll help you make the most of your UK adventure with expert insights and practical tips. Spots are limited—book now!

    Support the show

    🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

    ➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
    ➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

    Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

    Thank you ❤️

    Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

    Show more Show less
    25 mins