Travel Podcasts, Discovered
The UK Travel Planning Podcast is full of practical tips and advice to help you plan your dream trip to the UK whether you are visiting England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.
Travel expert Tracy Collins shares years of knowledge and experience of travelling to, and around, the UK to help you plan your UK itinerary.
Listen to special guest interviews full of travel inspiration and practical tips for popular and off the beaten path destinations. Learn more about the best ways to travel
100 most recent episodes displayed below
Visit website →We chat with Jack Wells, founder of Mystery Guides, about turning UK city exploring into a story-led treasure hunt using a physical book, real history and real hidden treasure. Tracy shares her own experience doing the Winchester guide - and why it's
What happens when the person who has edited nearly 100 episodes of this podcast finally puts all those travel tips to the test on his own UK trip? In this episode, our editor Ryan Fairweather from New Zealand shares highlights from his two-month visi
Planning a UK trip when standing still hurts, stairs are a gamble, and transport feels unpredictable can be genuinely daunting. In this episode, Laura Dilts shares how she built a London and Scotland itinerary around a back injury, without shrinking
We map a mother–daughter journey through London and Edinburgh, showing how a smart South Kensington base, well-timed museum visits, and scenic rail travel turned a packed plan into a calm, joy-filled trip. Highlights include the Ceremony of the Keys
Many visitors see a lot in London but still leave feeling like they do not quite understand it. In this episode, Tracy Collins is joined by Robin Launder, founder of Fantastic Walks, to explore how walking tours and storytelling bring London’s histor
London has some of the best museums in the world — but with so many options, how do you decide which ones are right for you? In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug guide you through London’s most popular museums to help you
If you’re wondering whether a London black cab tour is worth adding to your itinerary, this episode will help you decide. Tracy is joined by Ollie from Discover Real London to talk through what actually happens on a black cab tour, how it differs fro
Spring flips a switch across the UK, and we’re here for the first warm light, the wisteria‑framed streets, and the rush of longer evenings. We pull together clear, local advice from London to the Lake District, the Cotswolds, Devon, and the far north
Planning a London itinerary sounds simple… until you actually try to do it. With so many iconic landmarks, historic sites, museums, neighbourhoods and experiences to choose from, it is easy to overpack your days, waste time travelling across the city
UK Rail Planning Tips for Confident Travel Planning train travel in the UK can feel confusing, even overwhelming. Conflicting advice online, outdated blog posts, and well-meaning Facebook comments often leave visitors unsure which tickets to buy, whe
In this week's episode we walk through exactly what you need to know before visiting Highclere Castle, the iconic filming location for Downton Abbey. We share practical planning tips from our own recent visits, covering ticket options, how to get the
This week Tracy Collins sits down with Becki from Devour Tours to explore the vibrant food scene of London. The episode tackles the myth of "beige and boring" British cuisine, offering a mouthwatering guide to the best dishes, afternoon teas, food to
This week we explore the growing trend of set-jetting – travelling to destinations inspired by TV series, films, and books. With major new releases, returning favourites, and big anniversaries coming up in 2026, set-jetting is only getting bigger. Fr
Deciding whether to travel around the UK by train, by car, or by using a combination of both is one of the biggest planning decisions you will make. In this episode, we talk through the pros and cons of each option so you can decide what works best f
London should not feel like a sprint across Zones 1 to 3. In this episode, we share practical, real-world strategies to help you plan London in a way that saves time, protects your energy, and makes the city easier to enjoy. Rather than rushing betwe
We share a clear, practical plan for designing a realistic UK trip in 2026. From choosing dates and budget to matching transport with routes, this episode focuses on what actually matters so your itinerary feels calm and doable. We also cover key 202
We look back on our biggest year yet, highlight the most-loved London and regional episodes, and share what’s coming next. Expect more rail know-how, trusted partner recommendations, deeper dives into London neighbourhoods, and practical tools to hel
The lights are up, the markets are humming, and we’re taking a quiet moment to say thank you. This festive check-in is our love letter to the UK travel community that carried us through a milestone year—every listen, share, question, and review made
Listener Laura Norton returns to share how she turned a dream anniversary trip into reality. From Beatles must-dos in Liverpool and a week based at St Katharine Docks in London to a quick hop to Paris, a powerful D-Day tour in Normandy, and a relaxin
In Episode 178 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug take you to Liverpool, the vibrant northern city famous for music, football and maritime history. Discover must-see Beatles landmarks, the Royal Albert Dock, St George’s Hall and more,
Following on from last week’s episode, we follow Lauren’s UK sabbatical as it shifts from a teen-led literary road trip to a soulful pilgrimage in Pembrokeshire and a belated honeymoon through the Brecon Beacons and Cotswolds. From ancient holy wells
This week on the podcast Tracy chats with listener Lauren Eanes, who turned her family’s shared love of books into a literary-themed UK adventure. From Dickens’ Broadstairs and Winnie-the-Pooh’s Ashdown Forest to Tolkien and Lewis in Oxford and the l
In this episode, host Tracy Collins is once again joined by Lisa Benjamin from Go Cotswolds to dive deep into Stratford-upon-Avon - the world-renowned birthplace of William Shakespeare and a destination that deserves more than just a day trip. Togeth
In episode 174 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by resident train travel expert Doug Collins to share highlights from his six-week rail adventure across the UK. Travelling from London to Scotland and back again, Doug ex
Planning a trip to the UK and want to make the most of every moment? In this episode, Laura shares how she celebrated her 60th birthday with a 15-day journey across England and Scotland, combining solo adventure, accessible travel planning, and plent
This special episode was originally recorded for the Germany Travel Planning Podcast, where Tracy joined Cate to share insider tips for making the most of a London layover. Turn your short stop in London into a compact yet rewarding adventure. Learn
The Night Riviera is one of only two UK sleeper trains, and it might be the most relaxing way to wake up in Cornwall. UK Travel Planning’s rail expert Doug Collins shares his first-hand ride and the small choices that make a big difference to comfort
London becomes a magical winter wonderland at Christmas, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and iconic decorations. But visiting during the holidays also means closures, no public transport on Christmas Day, and the need to book key experiences
Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoot
This week on the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Amy Carpenter from Texas, who shares her unforgettable two-week adventure exploring England with her husband, Mark. Amy takes us through the highlights of their carefully pl
In this episode, guest host Karen interviews Tracy about her favourite London experiences, from afternoon teas and hidden gems to festive traditions and foodie highlights. Highlights include: • The Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, a histo
Lori-Ann and Nick Mancini transform their daughters' Irish dance opportunity into an unforgettable 20-day family adventure across Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England, blending cultural experiences with memorable exploration. • Flying dire
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by her friend Karen for a deep dive into her favourite places in London. Drawing on years of living, working, and exploring the capital, Tracy shares the landmarks, gardens, m
Michael Goldsmith shares his deeply personal journey across the UK, inspired by his family's connection to the Titanic, and fulfilled through a carefully planned itinerary that combines ship, rail, and coach travel. He explains how research and perso
The beautiful and historic North East England offers visitors dramatic scenery, centuries of history, and friendly locals in a region filled with special places to explore. • North East England includes the stunning Northumberland coast, Newcastle, D
Mary and Chris from Minnesota share insights from their fifth trip to the UK, spanning 28 days across South Wales, Cornwall, the Jurassic Coast, and East Anglia. Their adventures in a tiny Fiat 500 took them to castle ruins, stunning gardens, Roman r
We share 12 common mistakes first-time visitors make when planning a trip to London, along with alternative suggestions for a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Our practical advice is based on decades of experience visiting and living in London
St Albans offers a perfect day trip from London with its rich Roman heritage, medieval architecture, and renowned foodie scene, all just 20 minutes by train from central London. • Just 20 minutes by train from St Pancras International • Home to exten
When you think of travel in England, the historic city of Bath might be high on your list - and for good reason. In this episode, we dive into everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit to Bath. Drawing on our many personal experiences an
Rita Fox and her wife, Katie, embarked on a life-changing journey through England and Scotland, tracing their ancestors' footsteps and discovering not only their family history but also unexpected connections that continue to enrich their lives today
Doug and Tracy reveal the 15 most common mistakes travellers make when planning UK train journeys, drawing from their extensive experience helping thousands plan stress-free rail trips across Britain. • Getting advice from non-experts who share outda
Returning guest Deborah Harsen shares the highlights from her sixth UK adventure, exploring the east coast from London to Edinburgh by train with her husband while sharing practical tips and magical moments from their journey. • Deborah's lifelong lo
Dreaming of meandering through the Cotswolds countryside or cruising along Scotland's North Coast 500? Before you grab those keys, there's crucial information you need to know about driving in the UK that could make or break your road trip experience
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with New Zealander Abigail Hannah, who recently spent a month exploring the UK in winter. From sparkling Christmas lights in London to bracing coastal walks in Brighton and cosy family mo
Stonehenge ranks among Britain's most iconic landmarks, drawing nearly a million visitors yearly to marvel at the mysterious stone formation that has stood for over 4,000 years. We share everything you need to know about visiting this UNESCO World He
In episode 152 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, guest Kristen Gonzalez shares her eight-day family adventure through England with her husband and parents in their late 70s, highlighting their experiences in London and the Cotswolds during April. Sh
Doug joins me to answer your most common questions about UK train travel, sharing expert advice drawn from years of experience navigating Britain's railways. • Getting to the correct platform: Arrive with plenty of time, check departure boards, use r
Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the UK monarch, represents centuries of British heritage while offering visitors a glimpse into the royal lifestyle through its magnificent State Rooms and gardens. We share comprehensive insights f
Nathan shares his experiences from a March 2025 trip to London with his wife Sara, where they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary and rediscovered the city after nearly two decades since their last visit. • Dealing with unexpected travel disrup
London is generally safe compared to other major global cities. Still, like any busy metropolis, it has its share of tourist scams and petty crime that visitors should be aware of. • Keep valuables secure in anti-theft bags and hotel safes • Plan rou
Charlie Sullivan from Walks and Devour Tours returns to share exciting new small-group experiences in London and Edinburgh that offer exclusive access and immersive storytelling beyond typical tourist experiences. • New Brixton food tour exploring Ca
In episode 146 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy delves into one of London's most iconic landmarks: Westminster Abbey. With its rich royal history and stunning Gothic architecture, this working cathedral is a must-visit for anyone exploring th
Train journeys through Scotland offer spectacular scenery and connect major cities, but they can present unexpected challenges when severe weather strikes. • Travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness via the scenic coastal route through Dundee and Aberd
Ready to unlock the secrets of managing money during your travels in the UK? This episode is packed with essential insights for navigating cash, credit, and debit card payments efficiently. We start by diving into the intricate world of British curre
This week's episode immerses you in the beauty and experiences Wales has to offer. John Hadwin joins us to unveil hidden gems and top recommendations for exploring this remarkable country. You’ll learn about the rich history, stunning scenery, and mo
Get ready to uncover the wonders of one of London’s most significant landmarks, the Tower of London! Standing proud on the banks of the River Thames, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of history, filled with captivating tales that s
The Caledonian Sleeper offers a unique overnight train experience connecting London with Scotland, providing travelers both transportation and accommodation in one seamless journey. We share our recent experiences on both the Lowlander service (Londo
Are you dreaming of a trip to the Scottish Highlands? Have you always wanted to drive the legendary North Coast 500? I In this episode, we embark on a journey through Scotland’s breathtaking North Highlands, uncovering what you need to know before se
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with Daniel Hancock from Bath Insider Tours about the enchanting city of Bath and its surrounding areas. Daniel shares his journey from a market research career to becoming a tour guide,
In episode 138 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, join Tracy as she reconnects with Ollie from Discover Real London Black Cab Tours. This episode takes you on a journey through the unique experiences offered by Ollie's team, including the popular Tou
Discover the wonders of Yorkshire with our special guest, Andrew Ward from Expedition Yorkshire, as he shares his insider knowledge and personal experiences of England's largest county. Venture through Yorkshire's diverse landscapes, from the breatht
Discover the enchanting world of the Cotswolds with us and special guest Lisa Benjamin from GoCotswolds. Lisa brings her expertise and love for this quintessential English region, sharing her top five must-do experiences. From picturesque villages to
In episode 135 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, join host Tracy and Doug as they delve into the fascinating world of World War II sites in London and its surroundings. With numerous inquiries from travellers, they share their insights into the most
Get ready to learn how to transform your UK travel experience with exceptional airport transfer services by tuning in to our latest episode featuring Riz from XFA Cars. As a beloved figure among our listeners and online community, Riz is known for hi
In episode 133 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, join Tracy Collins as she unveils her top five must-experience adventures in London, perfect for both first-time visitors and those seeking to add something special to their next trip. From iconic lan
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 cove
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 t
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
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 wit
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
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 L
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
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, B
Join Tracy and Doug in episode 124 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast as they recount their exciting three-day itinerary in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Building on their extensive UK journey, this episode delves into the highlights of their Belfast adv
In this week's episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with Cathy Stevens, who shares her unforgettable London trip report. Cathy and her husband recently took their eleven-year-old granddaughters on the trip of a lifetime to London. P
What if you could uncover County Durham's hidden gems and rich heritage through the eyes of a local expert? In this week's episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Anna Unger, a Blue Badge guide who lives and works in the northea
In this week's UK Travel Planning Podcast episode, Tracy is joined by Ashley Dowling, who shares her remarkable journey through the UK. From iconic London landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Tower of London to a unique day
In episode 120 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Alex Graeme, founder of Unique Devon Tours. Alex takes listeners on a journey through the beautiful county of Devon, sharing his passion for the region and the story be
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug take you through their whirlwind 17-day trip around the UK, exploring every country within it. From the bustling streets of Birmingham to the scenic landscapes of the Isle of Skye, the
In episode 118 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins chats with her first New Zealand guest, Victoria Greig. Victoria and her husband, Murray, embarked on an epic 7.5-week journey across the UK earlier this year. In this episode, Vict
In episode 117 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast we shine a spotlight on County Durham in the northeast of England. Joining us is Michelle Gorman, managing director of Visit County Durham, who guides us through this stunning region, renowned for its
In episode 116 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy welcomes back Heather Welday, who previously appeared in our 100th celebratory episode. Heather shares an in-depth report of her family’s June 2024 trip to England, packed with valuable insights
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins welcomes back Lisa Benjamin from Go Cotswolds to delve into everything you need to know before planning a trip to the Cotswolds. Lisa shares her expert advice on navigating this stunnin
In episode 114 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins chats with Krista Beck about her family's unforgettable 12-night journey through the UK. Krista dives into their experiences in Bath, the Cotswolds, and London, sharing the joys of visit
In episode 113 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by Hannah Blalock for an exciting trip report. Hannah, who recently travelled to the UK with her family, shares her experiences and insights from their 15-day adventure. From t
In episode 112 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by John Cortese, founder of Tripiamo, to discuss the ins and outs of self-driving in the UK. Tripiamo offers a comprehensive online guide designed to help travellers navigate t
In episode 111 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins welcomes friend and fellow podcaster Amanda Kendle from the Thoughtful Travel Podcast. Amanda shares her recent UK trip and reflects on how being a thoughtful traveller enhanced her expe
In episode 110 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with Leanne McHarg, from New South Wales, Australia, to share an in-depth trip report of her family’s recent adventure to the UK. Leanne provides a detailed account of their three-week jou
In this episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Chris Horsey, founder of The English Bus. Chris explains the unique experiences that their highly rated small group tours offer, from London to popular destinations. W
In episode 108 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins sits down with Lauren, who recently travelled from Australia to Europe with her family. Two weeks of their trip were spent exploring England. They delve into the intricacies of planning
In episode 107 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins sits down with Lisa Benjamin, co-founder of GoCotswold, to uncover the charm of the Cotswolds. Lisa shares her inspiring journey of meeting her husband, founding the company together, an
In episode 106 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins chats with Daryl Bennett from GoCity, the expert on the London Pass. Discover how this multi-attraction pass can help you save money while exploring top London sites like the Tower of Lo
In episode 105 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy and Doug share their top 10 favourite experiences in London for 2024. From special ceremonies at the Tower of London to black cab tours, food tours, museum visits, and exploring beautiful Greenw
In episode 104 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy is joined by Oz from Tailored Tours to discuss some of the exciting private day tour options available from central London. Oz shares insights into creating bespoke tours for an unforgettab
In episode 103 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins welcomes travel enthusiast and blogger Mandy, who shares her extensive seven-week adventure across the UK. Mandy, an experienced traveller from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Austr
In episode 102 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins chats with guest Cate, who recently spent some time living in Brighton. Cate shares her insider tips, favourite places to visit in Brighton, and experiences exploring the surroundin
In episode 101 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy Collins is joined by special guest Alison Liscum to discuss essential packing tips for a trip to the UK. They discuss the benefits of using carry-on luggage where possible to avoid lost items an
Welcome to the 100th episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast! In this celebratory episode, host Tracy Collins is joined by a lineup of special guests from around the world. Listeners share their favourite episodes and how the podcast has influenced
In episode 99 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, hosts Tracy and Doug delve into the fascinating world of Windsor. This highly requested episode covers everything from the rich history of Windsor Castle to the abundance of activities and attractions
In episode 98 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy chats with special guests Vernetta and Therron Thomas to hear about their fascinating trip to England. From experiencing the highs and lows of transportation and lodging to sampling local cuisine