In episode 97 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug discuss easy day trips from London by train, focusing on destinations like Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury (for Stonehenge), Bath, and Oxford.  They cover the best train stations to depart from, estimated travel times, and what to look forward to at each destination. They emphasize the ease of these train journeys and how they are within a 2-hour (ish) range from London, making them perfect for a day trip.  Whether you're a...

In episode 96 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, hosts Tracy and Doug Collins discuss easy day trips from London by train. They delve into the details of five convenient and captivating destinations, providing insights into which train station/s to depart from, travel durations, and must-see attractions in each destination.  From the historic city of York to the vibrant seaside town of Brighton, the hosts share tips and recommendations for making the most of each day trip. Additionally, they...

In episode 95 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we have a memorable trip report from our guest, Deb Pecka, who shares her whirlwind experience of a few days in the UK, packed with adventures.  Despite attending a conference in London, Deb managed to explore the city’s highlights and even embarked on a day trip to Windsor, Stonehenge, and Avebury, all with the help of Riz from XFACars. Join us as we delve into Deb's itinerary, from her arrival at Heathrow to her exploration of London,...

In episode 94 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Domi of Scalens Studio to discuss London's top 10 photography locations.  Domi shares her expertise as a professional photographer and provides insider tips on the best spots for capturing iconic images. From the famous Tower Bridge to hidden gems in Notting Hill and beautiful views over London, this episode is a must-listen for anyone planning a visit to the UK's capital. Tracy and Domi also discuss the...

In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins sits down with guest Michelle Chang to delve into the world of flight booking. As an experienced world traveller, Michelle shares her expert tips on how to book better flights, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, using Google Flights effectively, and uncovering hidden cost-saving strategies. With practical insights and valuable advice, Michelle guides listeners through the intricacies of optimizing flight options and...

In episode 92 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we explore the coastal city of Portsmouth, England, with our special guests, Kevin and Pauline Patterson!  Listen in as they share insider tips and recommendations for exploring the rich history and vibrant attractions of Portsmouth.  From the iconic Mary Rose to the historic dockyards and scenic harbour views, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone planning a visit to this charming city.  So, grab a cuppa, sit back, and...

In episode 91 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy interviews Charley Bennett, the ground operations manager for Walks in London and Devour Food Tours. They dive deep into London's vibrant food culture and discuss their favourite food tours and hidden gems.  From iconic pubs serving traditional ales and classic pub snacks to family-run businesses at Borough Market, they share their love for British cuisine and the rich history behind the culinary experiences.  Charley's expertise and...

In episode 90 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we delve into the best tips for planning your London adventures. We've got you covered from accommodations to restaurants, tickets to tours.  We discuss the importance of booking ahead, especially during peak months, and advise when to make reservations for accommodation, restaurants, London theatre and popular attractions.   Whether scoring a table for afternoon tea or securing tickets to popular attractions like Buckingham Palace and the...

In episode 89 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy chats with John Hadwin, the expert driver tour guide behind Boutique Tours of Wales.  John offers exclusive, personalised guided tours of North Wales, taking guests on scenic road trips, historic castle visits, and unforgettable experiences in stunning locations. With his custom executive vehicle with spacious seating, John ensures an exceptional and comfortable travel experience.  Tracy and John discuss the unique offerings of his tours,...

In episode 88 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we delve into the rich history of Edinburgh's Greyfriars Kirkyard with our guest, Charlotte Golledge of Edinburgh Black Cab Tours.  Charlotte, also known as the death historian, is an expert on this historic site and a passionate advocate for sharing its stories with visitors. With her extensive knowledge of graveyards and funeral practices, she provides unique insights into the cultural significance of Greyfriars, uncovering hidden details and...

In episode 87 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy chats with special guest  Charlotte Golledge from Edinburgh Black Cab Tours. Charlotte brings over 20 years of experience in the tourist industry and a deep understanding of Scottish history to the conversation. She discusses the range of tours offered by Edinburgh Black Cab Tours, from Outlander-themed excursions to Highland experiences, providing valuable insights into the diverse tour options available for visitors to Scotland. She...

Unlock the secrets of London's winding streets and vibrant history with Oliver, founder of Discover Real London Tours, as he takes you on an insider's journey in the latest episode of our podcast. From the cosy confines of an iconic black cab, Oliver lets you in on how his team of driver-guides bring the city's rich tapestry to life, navigating through the thrum of London's heart with the famed 'Knowledge'. Your adventure through the historic and contemporary marvels of this metropolis will...

In episode 85 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, hosts Tracy and Doug Collins share their experiences of Walks Tours in London.  They delve into the special access and insider experiences the tours provide, highlighting their favourite moments from the Tower of London, including the Opening Ceremony and the Ceremony of the Keys.  They also discuss their tours of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, emphasizing the value of having knowledgeable guides and the unforgettable...

In episode 84 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy is joined by Charley Bennett, the ground operations manager for Walks Tours in London. Charley shares her extensive background in travel and working in the tour industry.  She discusses what makes Walks Tours special, their small group philosophy, and exclusive access to iconic sites. Charley highlights some of Walks Tours' most popular tours in London, including the "London in a Day" tour, the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London...

Welcome to episode 83 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast! This week our special guest is Riz from XFA Cars.  Tracy chats with Riz about the stress-free service his company XFA Cars provides for travellers getting from London airports to their destinations. Riz shares insights into the importance of a smooth airport transfer, the benefits of a personalised service, and the attention to detail when it comes to luggage and flight monitoring.  Tracy also shares positive feedback from the UK and...

Welcome to Episode 82 of the UK Travel Planning podcast! Today, we have a special treat for you as we're joined by guest Tanya Munro, who recently embarked on an exciting 35-day trip to the UK and the Republic of Ireland.  In this episode, Tanya shares her in-depth trip report, from her favourite accommodations to the highlights of each destination, and provides valuable insights and tips based on her extensive travel experience. From scenic drives in Fort William to the charming streets of...

Ever dreamt of exploring London, but the hefty cost of sightseeing has stopped you? This week, we're embarking on a budget-friendly journey, uncovering London's hidden treasures that won't cost you a penny. Picture this - you're sipping your cuppa, overlooking the city from Sky Garden, the stunning sky-high atrium in the Walkie Talkie building, and later watching the iconic Changing of the Guard outside Buckingham Palace. All for free! I'll guide you on how to secure a spot at these...

Ever dreamt of a UK train trip but don't know where to start? We've got you covered. In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, we share twelve practical tips for planning a UK train trip.  Tips include the importance of utilizing resources such as the Guide to UK Train Travel eBook and UK Travel Planning website which provide practical tips, itineraries, and information on navigating the rail network. We also address the issue of cost, providing insights on how to save money on...

Ready to kickstart the New Year with a bang and embark on a memorable UK adventure? In this week's episode Tracy and Doug Collins discuss 12 tips for planning a UK road trip. They recommend using Tripiamo - a resource for North American drivers planning to drive in the UK. They stress the importance of booking car hire in advance, choosing the right size of car, and considering hidden costs like toll roads and roadworks. They also emphasise the need to request an automatic transmission if...

In episode 78 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy and Doug Collins discuss 10 steps to help you plan your trip to the UK. They cover topics such as deciding when to go based on seasons and budget, researching destinations and itineraries, checking passport and visa requirements, booking flights and insurance, and planning accommodations and transportation. Tracy and Doug also offer resources, including a free planning booklet and an itinerary consultation service, to assist you when...

Are you ready to embark on a festive journey across the UK with us this holiday season? With the joyful chimes of Christmas bells ringing in the air, join your host Tracy Collins and a variety of guests as they light up your holiday vacation plans with unique experiences around the UK. From the glittering Christmas markets in Bath to winter walks in the far North of Scotland, from the fairy-lit cottages of the Cotswolds to the historic Christmas decorations at Castle Howard in Yorkshire, we...

In episode 76 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy chats with Matt Archer-Beck about his 2-week family road trip adventure around England.  Matt takes us through their itinerary, sharing the highlights of their journey including the Lake District, Cotswolds and Northumberland.  Along the way, they explore their family history, catch a performance of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the English countryside.  Tune in to hear Matt's tips for...

In episode 75 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast Tracy and Doug Collins chat with guest Wes Wetherell about his UK rail trips around the UK in 2022 and 2023.  Wes shares his experience planning and navigating multiple train lines, as well as visiting charming villages and exploring the beautiful countryside. Wes also chats about his experience of two itinerary consultations with Tracy and Doug which helped him to fine-tune his itineraries.  Join us as we dive into the intricacies of UK...

Dive into the fascinating world of London's iconic landmarks. Drawing inspiration from their popular article on the UK Travel Planning website, Tracy and Doug share their personal favourites among the 22 landmarks featured. From the historic Tower of London to the bustling Trafalgar Square, they cover a wide range of famous attractions that often find a place in every visitor's itinerary. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, get ready for an engaging discussion as our...