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Visiting London in 2025: 12 Essential Tips for Planning Your Perfect Trip · UK Travel Planning

• 0:00
  Tracy Collins: Are you planning a trip to London in 2025?
• 0:03
  Tracy Collins: In this episode, I'm sharing 12 essential tips to help you make the most of your visit to one of London's most iconic cities.
• 0:09
  Tracy Collins: From insider advice on creating the perfect itinerary to navigating public transport and exploring beyond the famous landmarks, this episode is packed with practical guidance and inspiration.
• 0:19
  Tracy Collins: Stay tuned for episode 132 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast to learn how to plan your London adventure with confidence and ease.
• 0:30
  Intro: Welcome to the UK Travel Planning Podcast.
• 0:32
  Intro: Your host is the founder of the UK Travel Planning website, tracey Collins.
• 0:37
  Intro: In this podcast, tracey shares destination guides, travel tips and itinerary ideas, as well as interviews with a variety of guests who share their knowledge and experience of UK travel to help you plan your perfect UK vacation.
• 0:53
  Intro: Join us as we explore the UK from cosmopolitan cities to quaint villages, from historic castles to beautiful islands, and from the picturesque countryside to seaside towns.
• 1:09
  Tracy Collins: Welcome to episode 132 of the UK Travel Final Podcast.
• 1:13
  Tracy Collins: I'm Tracey Collins and in today's episode, I'm thrilled to share 12 essential tips for planning your trip to London in 2025.
• 1:22
  Tracy Collins: Now, having lived in London and recently spent several months based there, I've had the chance to experience this amazing city not only as a resident, but also as a tourist.
• 1:32
  Tracy Collins: Now, while I can't claim to be a local in the traditional sense, my perspective blends the expertise of someone who knows the city inside and out with the curiosity and insight of a traveller seeking out the best experiences.
• 1:44
  Tracy Collins: So London is a city like no other vibrant, historic, diverse and endlessly fascinating, whether it's your first time visiting or you're returning to explore more.
• 1:54
  Tracy Collins: These tips, along with extensive resources on the website London Travel Planning and our podcast, will give you the confidence to plan your trip and truly enjoy all this incredible destination has to offer.
• 2:05
  Tracy Collins: So let's dive straight in and start going through each of the 12 tips.
• 2:10
  Tracy Collins: So my first tip is to start with a well-organized itinerary.
• 2:15
  Tracy Collins: It's the best way really to start by creating a clear, well-structured itinerary.
• 2:20
  Tracy Collins: It's no surprise that many visitors feel overwhelmed and you may be listening to this podcast right now and you are feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions, events and activities available in really one of the world's most iconic cities.
• 2:34
  Tracy Collins: The good news is that with a bit of preparation, you can remove the overwhelm and craft a trip that will suit your travel style and interests.
• 2:42
  Tracy Collins: So, first of all, decide what time of year you want to visit London.
• 2:45
  Tracy Collins: I know for some of you it may be pre-decided depending on your vacation, but if you do have some flexibility, it is worth considering when you want to visit London.
• 2:55
  Tracy Collins: And often I know we talk to lots of people and there's loads of people in our Facebook group who will say they visited in spring, they visited in summer, and then they've seen the recent pictures of me in London during the festive season, and now they desperately want to go during the festive season and visit London, which, to be honest, is amazing.
• 3:10
  Tracy Collins: I do love it, but each season offers a different and a very unique experience.
• 3:14
  Tracy Collins: So spring obviously brings just the gorgeous blooms in the parks and gardens.
• 3:19
  Tracy Collins: In summer you get the lovely long days, which are perfect for sightseeing.
• 3:23
  Tracy Collins: Autumn can be pretty mild and you obviously get the beautiful trees changing colour.
• 3:28
  Tracy Collins: It's really gorgeous and then in winter it just transforms London into a festive wonderland with Christmas lights and markets.
• 3:36
  Tracy Collins: So if flexibility is an option, consider shoulder seasons as well for fewer crowds and better prices.
• 3:41
  Tracy Collins: So obviously at certain times of year it is more expensive to stay in London.
• 3:46
  Tracy Collins: It's busier in London.
• 3:47
  Tracy Collins: I've literally just been in London for the last few weeks I'm recording this at the beginning of December and it was starting to get crazy, crazy busy and it is an expensive time to go to London.
• 3:59
  Tracy Collins: But oh my goodness, it is magical Summer again, very busy, because a lot of people from all over the world are determined they want to visit London during their school holidays, which I get, and school holidays in the UK are August, end of July into August.
• 4:13
  Tracy Collins: So obviously you're going to get a lot of British people as well who want to go to London on holiday.
• 4:18
  Tracy Collins: So once you've decided when you want to go next, determine how long you want to stay in London itself.
• 4:24
  Tracy Collins: Now, while it's tempting to try and cram everything into a short visit, ideally you want to plan for at least three days to see the highlights, but if you can allow five to seven which give you a deeper dive into some of London's vibrant neighbourhoods and attractions, obviously, if you're just going to visit London, you may have up to a week or two weeks to spend the time in London, and I will kind of mention some ideas if you are in London for that length of time as well.
• 4:48
  Tracy Collins: But once you've got your date set and trip duration, you really need to start thinking about your daily activities.
• 4:54
  Tracy Collins: So if you have a look on our London Travel Planner website, we've got London Travel Planner, which is a great resource to help you get started, as it breaks down the planning process into manageable steps and will help you shape the perfect itinerary for your travel style and needs.
• 5:08
  Tracy Collins: Now be realistic about what you can achieve in a day, and I have to remind myself of this all the time because I try to fit so much in when I'm in London.
• 5:17
  Tracy Collins: London is a huge sprawling city and it's easy to underestimate travel times between attractions.
• 5:22
  Tracy Collins: So best, best advice group activities by area and maximise your time and reduce travelling around the city.
• 5:29
  Tracy Collins: For example, dedicate a day to explore Westminster so you can see Big Ben, westminster Abbey, churchill War Rooms.
• 5:35
  Tracy Collins: Another day you may want to spend it in South Kensington, so you've got the museums down there.
• 5:40
  Tracy Collins: You've got Natural History Museum, victoriabert.
• 5:42
  Tracy Collins: My favorite is everybody listen.
• 5:43
  Tracy Collins: If you're listening, you'll know, vna absolutely is my favorite museum in london.
• 5:48
  Tracy Collins: I always go there.
• 5:50
  Tracy Collins: I know it about me and kensington gardens, all down in south kensington.
• 5:54
  Tracy Collins: So, um, you've got loads of different.
• 5:56
  Tracy Collins: Oh, there's just so much to see.
• 5:58
  Tracy Collins: So what we have done recently on the london travel planner website is we have start, we have written guides for each area of London, so do take a look at those.
• 6:08
  Tracy Collins: If you're going to be in Covent Garden, you can find out what to do and see.
• 6:10
  Tracy Collins: If you're going to go to Piccadilly, you can find out what to do and see.
• 6:13
  Tracy Collins: If you're going to be in Southbank, you can find out what to do and see and where to stay as well in each of these areas.
• 6:19
  Tracy Collins: So if you're unsure where to start, we do have some sample itineraries on the website.
• 6:23
  Tracy Collins: So we've got one day, two day, three day and five day itineraries.
• 6:26
  Tracy Collins: So have a look at those to give yourself some ideas.
• 6:31
  Tracy Collins: And finally, don't forget to leave room for flexibility and spontaneity, because some of the best memories come from unplanned moments.
• 6:36
  Tracy Collins: Like you know, you find a quaint cafe, or, you know, find a hidden park, or you meet a friendly local in a cafe and you start having a chat.
• 6:44
  Tracy Collins: And if you need tailored advice to bring your itinerary together, you can book a London itinerary consult with myself and Doug and we can help you fine tune your plans, answer logistical questions.
• 6:55
  Tracy Collins: We can even provide personalized recommendations to make your London adventure truly memorable.
• 7:01
  Tracy Collins: Remember, a well thought out itinerary is your foundation for a stress-free and enjoyable trip to London.
• 7:07
  Tracy Collins: With the right tools and resources, like those available on our website, you'll be ready to explore this incredible city with confidence and ease.
• 7:16
  Tracy Collins: So tip number two is to book key attractions, accommodation and experiences in advance.
• 7:22
  Tracy Collins: So now, london is such a popular global destination.
• 7:26
  Tracy Collins: That means that many of its iconic attractions and accommodations and dining experiences book out quickly.
• 7:32
  Tracy Collins: So you need to plan ahead.
• 7:34
  Tracy Collins: It's really important to plan ahead to avoid disappointment and make the most of your time.
• 7:39
  Tracy Collins: You know if there's something in particular you really want to do really need to think ahead.
• 7:43
  Tracy Collins: Do you need to get that booked?
• 7:45
  Tracy Collins: So for accommodation, especially during peak times like summer or December, early booking really will ensure that you have access to the best locations and prices.
• 7:54
  Tracy Collins: So we know whether you're dreaming of a luxury stay at the Ritz I wish or seeking a budget-friendly option near Covent Garden, really securing your spot in advance will make all the difference.
• 8:03
  Tracy Collins: Now for attractions, iconic experiences like going to Buckingham Palace state rooms, visiting Harry Potter studios they can get booked up months in advance, seriously months in advance.
• 8:17
  Tracy Collins: Popular landmarks like Westminster Abbey, tower of London, st Paul's Cathedral are also best kind of working out day what day you want to go.
• 8:25
  Tracy Collins: Going early on in the day, getting tickets beforehand, especially if it's a busy time like school holidays, is really worth doing.
• 8:33
  Tracy Collins: I honestly would recommend booking a tour where you skip the line as well.
• 8:37
  Tracy Collins: Get by stick, skip the line tickets.
• 8:39
  Tracy Collins: I don't know about you, but I don't want to spend my precious holiday time standing a great big long line Again.
• 8:46
  Tracy Collins: Theatre tickets for West End shows and high-demand dining experiences include traditional afternoon teas, like again at the Ritz.
• 8:52
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, I think I should be invited for afternoon tea at the Ritz because, honestly, it's on top of my bucket list.
• 8:58
  Tracy Collins: But if you want to do those sort of things, you need to book in advance.
• 9:01
  Tracy Collins: But again, you know I book a lot of my tours in London and buy tickets through Get your Guide because there's some flexibility if you want to cancel.
• 9:10
  Tracy Collins: So that's something that I do.
• 9:11
  Tracy Collins: I find that it's useful.
• 9:12
  Tracy Collins: You know, if I want to change things around.
• 9:14
  Tracy Collins: You can quite a lot of those things you can cancel up to 24 hours before, so it just gives you some flexibility.
• 9:20
  Tracy Collins: Now, if you're planning day trips or using the train network, remember that train takes off and cheaper when booked a little bit early, and it's especially true for longer journeys, for example, if you're going to go from London to Edinburgh or some of the other popular routes, because booking early will make generally you will get a cheaper ticket.
• 9:36
  Tracy Collins: Now, again, if you feel overwhelmed, I will say that we have a London itinerary consultation here.
• 9:41
  Tracy Collins: We can help you navigate the process, offering you tailored advice and recommendations.
• 9:45
  Tracy Collins: But do check out on the website we have got an article about how far ahead should you book for London, so do check out that article.
• 9:53
  Tracy Collins: As I always say, with just a little bit of early planning, you will have a more smooth and stress-free trip to London.
• 10:01
  Tracy Collins: Not saying that you can't do things last minute, but we do hear often that people miss out on the things that they really want to see because they get booked up.
• 10:11
  Tracy Collins: You know even things like places like the Sky Garden, which is free.
• 10:14
  Tracy Collins: You will need to get on when that opens, which is generally the Monday, two weeks before they open the bookings.
• 10:20
  Tracy Collins: You need to get booked because for popular times, sort of between four and six, they will get booked up.
• 10:26
  Tracy Collins: Those slots will go.
• 10:28
  Tracy Collins: So it's worth doing.
• 10:30
  Tracy Collins: Tip number three is to choose the right neighborhood to stay in.
• 10:33
  Tracy Collins: So London is a huge city, as I've said, with many unique neighborhoods which each offer something different.
• 10:39
  Tracy Collins: So choosing the right place to stay is key to enhance your experience and make the most of your time in your city.
• 10:45
  Tracy Collins: So someone who's lived in London and I frequently return to explore as a visitor and know how overwhelming this decision can feel, and actually it's often the question that we get asked so often where should I stay in London?
• 10:58
  Tracy Collins: Where is it safe to stay in London?
• 11:00
  Tracy Collins: So we have created guides to help you decide where to stay in London.
• 11:03
  Tracy Collins: So we literally have a guide to each of the different areas.
• 11:08
  Tracy Collins: We will say which person which you know, depending on your interests, which is the best area for you to stay in.
• 11:15
  Tracy Collins: As someone who's lived in London and frequently returns to explore as a visitor, I know how overwhelming this decision can be and we often this is the question that we get asked where should I stay in London.
• 11:25
  Tracy Collins: So we've created guides to help you decide where to stay, based on your travel style, preferences and budget.
• 11:31
  Tracy Collins: So, whether it's your first or your 10th visit, honestly these tips will steer you in the right direction.
• 11:37
  Tracy Collins: So, when selecting your neighbourhood, think about what kind of experience you want.
• 11:42
  Tracy Collins: Are you focused on sightseeing or want to be close to iconic attractions?
• 11:45
  Tracy Collins: Covent garden is a fantastic choice for its central location, great transport links and vibrant atmosphere.
• 11:51
  Tracy Collins: Or you're traveling with kids?
• 11:52
  Tracy Collins: Kensington and its family-friendly vibe.
• 11:55
  Tracy Collins: New museums, like the natural history museum, is ideal.
• 11:57
  Tracy Collins: Are you looking for more of a luxurious experience?
• 12:01
  Tracy Collins: Well, mayfair offers elegance, high-end experiences.
• 12:04
  Tracy Collins: Do you want something a bit more off the beaten path?
• 12:07
  Tracy Collins: Somewhere like Shoreditch, for its street art food scene and eclectic vibe, might suit you more.
• 12:12
  Tracy Collins: So I mean the beauty of London is its connectivity, because there's excellent public transport so you can easily get around from almost any area.
• 12:19
  Tracy Collins: So, whether you're staying in Bloomsbury, near the British Museum, or in the City of London, for its historical charm, you're really well positioned to explore.
• 12:27
  Tracy Collins: So our pro tips for this is really consider paying a bit more to stay central, especially if it's your first visit, because this will save you travel time and, honestly make your trip more enjoyable.
• 12:40
  Tracy Collins: Really, really, we often get asked to have a look at accommodation options and they're further out and, honestly, the time that you're going to spend getting in and out on the tube and, believe me, at rush hour being on the tube is not particularly pleasant.
• 12:54
  Tracy Collins: It can get very, very busy and also, after a long day when you've been kind of walking around, you're just getting onto the tube or getting on a bus and then having to have another walk back to your accommodation.
• 13:05
  Tracy Collins: Believe me, is not fun.
• 13:06
  Tracy Collins: If you're visiting during the holidays or for a special event, book accommodation well in advance to secure your spot and for a range of options, including hotels, service departments and unique stays.
• 13:17
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, check out our London Area and Accommodation Guide, which I will link to in the show notes, so your accommodation is going to be your base.
• 13:25
  Tracy Collins: So choosing the right neighbourhood will set the tone for your London adventure, will set on us the tone for your London adventure.
• 13:34
  Tracy Collins: So, honestly, have a look at our resources and let them help you find the perfect stay for you so that you have a memorable trip.
• 13:39
  Tracy Collins: Tip number four is to master London's public transport system.
• 13:42
  Tracy Collins: So getting around London is straightforward once you understand the city's excellent public transport system and it really is good.
• 13:48
  Tracy Collins: You've got options like the underground, tube, buses and even uber boats on the Thames, and you'll find it easy to travel between attractions, neighborhoods and beyond.
• 13:58
  Tracy Collins: And obviously, there is London Black Cabs, there is Uber in London, so you have options to get around.
• 14:06
  Tracy Collins: Now we're talking about public transport.
• 14:09
  Tracy Collins: One of the first decisions you'll need to make is how to pay for your travel.
• 14:12
  Tracy Collins: So the two most popular options are contactless payment and or the Oyster card, both of which have their pros and cons.
• 14:21
  Tracy Collins: Now we've broken these down in detail in an article contactless versus Oyster card to help you decide which option is best for your needs.
• 14:30
  Tracy Collins: Now, spoiler alert there is no right or wrong choice.
• 14:34
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, this is one of the most emotive questions that comes up on the Facebook group.
• 14:39
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, there is no right or wrong choice.
• 14:42
  Tracy Collins: Whichever you go for, you'll benefit from the same daily and weekly fare caps, making travel affordable and hassle-free.
• 14:50
  Tracy Collins: You just need to have a look and decide which option is the best for you.
• 14:54
  Tracy Collins: So have a look at our article and decide which one you want to do, because, honestly, pros and cons, and some contactless will suit.
• 15:02
  Tracy Collins: Some people have an Oyster card will suit others.
• 15:05
  Tracy Collins: It's a very personal choice.
• 15:07
  Tracy Collins: Now for step-by-step guides to use in London's transport options.
• 15:11
  Tracy Collins: Just check out the website, because we have guides to using the Tube, we have guides to navigating London buses and we have guides to using Uber boats for that scenic journey down the Thames.
• 15:20
  Tracy Collins: So our tips for this, for travelling around London by public transport, is download the TFL Go app.
• 15:27
  Tracy Collins: Doug swears by this and I use this when I'm in London.
• 15:30
  Tracy Collins: It's an official app that provides real-time updates on the train, bus and tube schedules and really it's invaluable, especially if there's any delays or disruptions, because you will find out on that app.
• 15:41
  Tracy Collins: So plan your journey.
• 15:43
  Tracy Collins: I always do that.
• 15:45
  Tracy Collins: Always check before I'm going in the morning which tube I'm going to take or which bus I'm going to take.
• 15:50
  Tracy Collins: So I use Google Maps or CityMapper will give you the detailed directions and the travel times.
• 15:57
  Tracy Collins: If you can avoid peak times Rush hour, 7 to 9 am, 5 to 7 pm and honestly, it can get very busy.
• 16:06
  Tracy Collins: There were some trains that I took recently when I was in London where it was very crammed.
• 16:11
  Tracy Collins: I get a little bit claustrophobic, so I try to stay at the end of the tube trains if possible and avoid it when it looks like there's too many people on there.
• 16:19
  Tracy Collins: But just be aware of that that those are the peak times when it will be busy.
• 16:23
  Tracy Collins: When using the tube, listen out for announcement and watch your step when boarding or exiting trains.
• 16:28
  Tracy Collins: You'll hear, you'll see mind the mind the gap.
• 16:30
  Tracy Collins: You'll hear mind the gap.
• 16:31
  Tracy Collins: And there's a reason for that, because sometimes there's quite a big gap between getting off the tube and on the tube, depending on what tube station you're at.
• 16:38
  Tracy Collins: But really, if you master london's public transport system, you'll save time, money and energy and it'll help you make the most of your visit, whether you're taking a tube ride, a bus journey or taking a leisurely trip along the Thames.
• 16:50
  Tracy Collins: Navigating London like a local really adds to the adventure and often, we will be told, it is just so much easier than people expected.
• 17:00
  Tracy Collins: So tip number five is explore London's free attractions.
• 17:03
  Tracy Collins: So London's many free attractions make it easy to stick to a budget while enjoying a world-class experience, and London is not a cheap city by any means.
• 17:12
  Tracy Collins: So it's wonderful to know that there are so many free attractions that you can go to.
• 17:16
  Tracy Collins: So a lot of the museums in London are free the British Museum, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the V&A Museum brilliant museums.
• 17:26
  Tracy Collins: A lot of the art galleries are free.
• 17:29
  Tracy Collins: The Tate Modern is free, the National Gallery, national Portrait Gallery, all free Parks.
• 17:35
  Tracy Collins: Obviously the parks are free and there's some wonderful, wonderful parks to go to in London.
• 17:39
  Tracy Collins: My personal favourite is Greenwich Park.
• 17:41
  Tracy Collins: I love Greenwich anyway, but you get some fantastic city views from Greenwich Park.
• 17:46
  Tracy Collins: So they're all free.
• 17:47
  Tracy Collins: Now we have an entire article which I think is the 39 best free things to do in London, which is on the website.
• 17:53
  Tracy Collins: Again, I'll link to that.
• 17:53
  Tracy Collins: So do check that out.
• 17:55
  Tracy Collins: Incorporate some free activities in your itinerary.
• 17:59
  Tracy Collins: Save a bit of money.
• 18:01
  Tracy Collins: Tip number six is to experience some of the seasonal highlights of London, which I kind of alluded to earlier when I talked about what season to visit.
• 18:08
  Tracy Collins: But one of the joys of visiting London is that every season brings its own unique experiences, really makes it a year-round destination.
• 18:15
  Tracy Collins: You know, from springtime we've got the beautiful flowers to the festive winter markets, london's calendar is brimming with exciting events and activities, honestly, no matter when you visit.
• 18:27
  Tracy Collins: In spring, you've got Chelsea Flower Show.
• 18:29
  Tracy Collins: You could celebrate St Patrick's Day.
• 18:31
  Tracy Collins: In summer, there's got Chelsea Flower Show.
• 18:32
  Tracy Collins: You could celebrate St Patrick's Day.
• 18:32
  Tracy Collins: In summer there's Wimbledon, you've got the BBC Proms, there's just so much.
• 18:37
  Tracy Collins: You've got outdoor cinemas.
• 18:39
  Tracy Collins: In autumn, you can go to the beautiful parks and you'll see the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red.
• 18:47
  Tracy Collins: I mean just gorgeous.
• 18:48
  Tracy Collins: Bonfire Night, guy Fawkes Night on the 5th of November You'll see firework displays across the city.
• 18:54
  Tracy Collins: In winter you've got Christmas in London.
• 18:56
  Tracy Collins: All the Christmas lights honestly gorgeous.
• 18:59
  Tracy Collins: You have seasonal performances, you've got different ballets, You've got pantomimes and, of course, new Year's Eve the end of the year ends with the fireworks over the Thames.
• 19:08
  Tracy Collins: You will need tickets for that, but wow, there's just something on all the time in London.
• 19:14
  Tracy Collins: So for a full list of events and activities by season or the main events and activities I cannot list everything you can check out our guides to visit in London.
• 19:21
  Tracy Collins: We have got seasonal guides and we also have month-by-month guides.
• 19:25
  Tracy Collins: So visiting London in January, visiting London in May, visiting London in September.
• 19:29
  Tracy Collins: So we have all those guides on the website and they've got information about key events, what the weather will be like, what to pack, insider tips, basically to help you align your itinerary with what London has to offer.
• 19:41
  Tracy Collins: So you can check out you visit in September.
• 19:43
  Tracy Collins: Check out article things to do in London in September and you'll get an idea of everything you need to know for that month.
• 19:49
  Tracy Collins: Tip number seven is to take a day trip from London, so I mentioned it in last week's episode.
• 19:57
  Tracy Collins: We highly recommend adding a day trip or two to your London itinerary.
• 20:02
  Tracy Collins: London is not only an incredible city to explore, but it's also, honestly, a fantastic base for venturing into nearby destinations that showcase england's charm, history and natural beauty, and really a sport for choice.
• 20:15
  Tracy Collins: So whether you're fascinated by royal history, academic excellence or scenic seaside escape, there's a day trip from london that's perfect for you, or two or two.
• 20:24
  Tracy Collins: A few favorite spots include windsor, where you can explore, you know, iconic windsor castle.
• 20:30
  Tracy Collins: Who doesn't want to go to Windsor?
• 20:31
  Tracy Collins: Bath, renowned for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture.
• 20:34
  Tracy Collins: I was there last week, actually at their Christmas market.
• 20:41
  Tracy Collins: Cambridge, which is one I have to say is absolutely one of my favourite day trips.
• 20:43
  Tracy Collins: You've got the stunning colleges, the beautiful riverside I love punting down the River Cam and then you've got Canterbury, because you've got the cathedral and medieval streets.
• 20:51
  Tracy Collins: But there's so many places to choose from now, if a private tour or group tour is more your style, we also have a number of preferred partners who can whisk you from the capital to your chosen day trip destination, and these chairs will offer a hassle-free way to explore, you know, with expert guides providing fascinating insights along the way.
• 21:10
  Tracy Collins: So you can find detailed guides on how to get to these destinations by train, or with some tour guide recommendations, plus more on the website and also if you tune into episodes 96 and 97 of the UK Travel Planner podcast this podcast, we dive deeper into the best day trips from London by train.
• 21:27
  Tracy Collins: So whether you're looking for that relaxing escape to get out of the city or you want cultural experiences, honestly these resources will help you make the most of your time beyond the capital.
• 21:38
  Tracy Collins: So do take a look.
• 21:41
  Tracy Collins: Tip number eight is to explore beyond the icons.
• 21:45
  Tracy Collins: So while landmarks like Big Ben and the London Eye are iconic must-sees, you're not going to miss them.
• 21:50
  Tracy Collins: The true charm of London lies in its diverse and character-filled neighbourhoods.
• 21:54
  Tracy Collins: And I know I've just said the London Eye, and I know some people are going to be going.
• 21:58
  Tracy Collins: Well, that's not.
• 21:59
  Tracy Collins: It has been there since 2000.
• 22:02
  Tracy Collins: It was built for the millennium and I personally love the London Eye, I love going on the London Eye and I love seeing the London Eye and if London is not.
• 22:10
  Tracy Collins: London is a city where it's constantly evolving and you have the modern and the old next to each other and that's absolutely fine and that's something that I love about London.
• 22:19
  Tracy Collins: But you can step off the beaten path because there are hidden gems, you know, that will showcase the city's culture and history in different ways.
• 22:27
  Tracy Collins: So I recommend these are some of my hidden gems that I recommend that you go.
• 22:33
  Tracy Collins: Greenwich you know it's known for its maritime history.
• 22:36
  Tracy Collins: You can visit the Cotysark, the Royal Observatory, and enjoy the I mean it's the riverside atmosphere.
• 22:42
  Tracy Collins: I just love Greenwich.
• 22:43
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, you really, if you have enough time, you have to include Greenwich in your itinerary.
• 22:49
  Tracy Collins: Also, east End, which is, you know, east End there's incredible street art, bustling markets.
• 22:55
  Tracy Collins: Then you get to find a fascinating blend of cultures.
• 22:58
  Tracy Collins: If you head to the East End, there's just lots and lots of amazing hidden gems to go and see in London, from secret gardens to tucked away museums.
• 23:07
  Tracy Collins: If you check out our article to Hidden Gems in London, you'll find out lots of the different lesser known treasures across the city, and exploring these unique spots will add a layer of depth to your trip and provides a glimpse into the local side of London that many visitors might miss.
• 23:25
  Tracy Collins: So check out also our neighborhood guides as well, because they may inspire you to venture beyond the usual tourist trail and discover the city's.
• 23:33
  Tracy Collins: You know, many hidden wonders.
• 23:35
  Tracy Collins: Also we work with one of our preferred partners is discover real london black cab tours, and they have an excellent I think it's kind of like the second tour that they do often when people visit london, which will show you more of the hidden gems of the city.
• 23:49
  Tracy Collins: So if you've already done a trip and you're aware you know you've already been to Big Ben, houses of Parliament, tower of London, buckingham Palace and you want to see beyond the kind of those main icons, then doing a secret London hidden gem tour with Discover Real London would be an excellent option.
• 24:09
  Tracy Collins: Now, tip number nine learn London etiquette.
• 24:12
  Tracy Collins: Okay, so London has its own set of unspoken rules and social norms and understanding them will honestly make your visit much smoother and more enjoyable, because if you follow these customs you'll blend in seamlessly with the locals and you'll be able to navigate the city and you won't annoy some of the locals as well, and I have to remind myself as well when I'm in London for these things.
• 24:34
  Tracy Collins: So quick.
• 24:35
  Tracy Collins: One main one I'm going to say on the escalators and the tube, stand on the right hand side.
• 24:40
  Tracy Collins: You will find that people will be using the left hand side to go down or up quickly and if people are rushing to get a tube, they will go on the left-hand side.
• 24:51
  Tracy Collins: So if you block that left-hand side, especially during busy times, you will really frustrate commuters and annoy them.
• 24:58
  Tracy Collins: So that is a big no-no.
• 25:01
  Tracy Collins: Stay on the right, do not stand on the left on the escalators.
• 25:05
  Tracy Collins: Now, queuing, we all take it.
• 25:07
  Tracy Collins: We're British and Londoners obviously British take queuing seriously.
• 25:11
  Tracy Collins: So whether you're waiting for a bus, you go to an attraction grabbing a coffee, always join the line and wait your turn.
• 25:17
  Tracy Collins: Really, jumping the queue is considered extremely rude and I know I mentioned it again in last year's episode.
• 25:23
  Tracy Collins: Really, you'll just get the stare.
• 25:24
  Tracy Collins: So please don't, please don't jump the queue.
• 25:28
  Tracy Collins: So on public transport, it's important to keep conversations to a minimum and a low volume.
• 25:35
  Tracy Collins: You'll notice that there's not a lot of conversation goes on in the tube, not a lot of eye contact either During peak hours.
• 25:40
  Tracy Collins: Just be mindful of personal space as well.
• 25:43
  Tracy Collins: Keep bags off seat and out of aisles and just make sure that everybody can travel around comfortably.
• 25:47
  Tracy Collins: Make sure when you're boarding a train or a tube, let people off before you get on, and often the guys will be shouting out saying like please move along the tube train as well to let people on.
• 26:02
  Tracy Collins: Well, just quick one about tipping.
• 26:03
  Tracy Collins: Tipping isn't such a big deal in the UK.
• 26:06
  Tracy Collins: It's not a massive expectation.
• 26:09
  Tracy Collins: Some places they won't expect you to tip like in a bar.
• 26:10
  Tracy Collins: It's not a massive expectation.
• 26:12
  Tracy Collins: Some places they won't expect you to tip like in a bar.
• 26:13
  Tracy Collins: Most restaurants will add a 10% to 12.5% service charge to your bill.
• 26:17
  Tracy Collins: So check before tipping any additional amount because it already may be included If the service charge isn't included.
• 26:23
  Tracy Collins: Leaving 10% really is custodary.
• 26:26
  Tracy Collins: But tipping is not expected in pubs.
• 26:30
  Tracy Collins: But if you're in a taxi or cab, rounding up your taxi fare or leaving a small tip for excellent service is a nice gesture.
• 26:36
  Tracy Collins: Again, on tours if you go on a tour, leaving a tip is a nice gesture.
• 26:40
  Tracy Collins: £5, £10 note is usually kind of expected, not unexpected, but it's a nice thing to do.
• 26:46
  Tracy Collins: So tip 10, savour London's culinary and cultural delights.
• 26:52
  Tracy Collins: Now, people, I know when you visit london I bet you're thinking well, I'm not sure about food.
• 26:56
  Tracy Collins: British food does not have a great reputation, does it?
• 26:59
  Tracy Collins: I remember doing a tour of about a year and a half ago of borough market with walks actually devour tour it was and um, at the beginning of the tour everybody was asked what was?
• 27:08
  Tracy Collins: What did they think about british food before they arrived?
• 27:10
  Tracy Collins: And the most common answer was beige, beige.
• 27:14
  Tracy Collins: Everything is beige.
• 27:15
  Tracy Collins: But actually, you know, in London you will get traditional British fare, but you also get global cuisine as well.
• 27:22
  Tracy Collins: It's just a paradise, honestly, for food lovers and culture seekers.
• 27:26
  Tracy Collins: Really.
• 27:26
  Tracy Collins: There's some real must-try experiences and I know everybody wants to do fish and chips.
• 27:31
  Tracy Collins: So have some fish and chips in a traditional pub, have a Sunday roast, honestly, and you know if you're going to go into a pub, you know they're not just about food.
• 27:42
  Tracy Collins: This is also a cultural hub steeped in history and tradition.
• 27:45
  Tracy Collins: You know pubs are just a way of life for us.
• 27:48
  Tracy Collins: If you're unsure where to start, we have a London pub guide which is packed with recommendations for atmospheric spots where you can indulge in having some fish and chips in a lovely pub or some pub grub in a London pub.
• 28:03
  Tracy Collins: Now, afternoon tea, again, is something we highly recommend.
• 28:06
  Tracy Collins: So whether you want to go to the Ritz, you want to go to Fortnum and Mason or you want to find somewhere in, you know, quirky, charmer, covent Garden, there's an afternoon tea that will suit everybody.
• 28:15
  Tracy Collins: You get traditional afternoon teas.
• 28:16
  Tracy Collins: You get themed afternoon teas Honestly, there are so many to choose from, it's crazy.
• 28:21
  Tracy Collins: So, themed afternoon teas Honestly, there are so many to choose from, it's crazy.
• 28:24
  Tracy Collins: So we do have an afternoon tea guide which I will link to again in the show notes so you can check out which ones you may want to book.
• 28:30
  Tracy Collins: Borough Market again, very popular.
• 28:32
  Tracy Collins: So this, honestly, is a paradise for foodies.
• 28:36
  Tracy Collins: You've got everything from artisan cheeses, freshly breads, exotic street food, you know.
• 28:42
  Tracy Collins: Just wander around, sample the flavors, discover a world of culinary, culinary delights all in one place and do a food tour.
• 28:51
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, I did a food tour with devour and loved it.
• 28:54
  Tracy Collins: And we actually have an entire episode of the podcast um, which I did last year, which was all about visiting borough market on a food tour.
• 29:01
  Tracy Collins: So I'd look up that episode.
• 29:03
  Tracy Collins: I'll link to that in the show notes because we had a wonderful time.
• 29:06
  Tracy Collins: And I'm just going to also mention one of our favourite ways to experience the city's history and culture is through the pubs, like I've mentioned going to try some pub food, having some fish and chips.
• 29:18
  Tracy Collins: Now for an unforgettable experience.
• 29:21
  Tracy Collins: We highly recommend the london historic pubs and food tour, which I took with devour.
• 29:26
  Tracy Collins: I think it's a year and a half ago.
• 29:28
  Tracy Collins: I went with my friend, terry and she's still talking about that tour.
• 29:32
  Tracy Collins: She absolutely loved it.
• 29:33
  Tracy Collins: She's british, she loved it and it wasn't just about trying some of the traditional british dishes, because we did.
• 29:39
  Tracy Collins: We had scotch eggs and we had oh I'm trying to think what we had.
• 29:43
  Tracy Collins: We tried some beer, we had some pork pies.
• 29:46
  Tracy Collins: It was brilliant.
• 29:48
  Tracy Collins: But one of the best things about it is that we actually visited some of London's oldest and most atmospheric and historic pubs.
• 29:56
  Tracy Collins: You'll learn about pub culture and some of the fascinating stories between some of these establishments.
• 30:03
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, it was amazing.
• 30:05
  Tracy Collins: So I'd highly recommend that tour.
• 30:07
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, it's one of my favorite all-time tours I've done anywhere.
• 30:11
  Tracy Collins: I love food tours and food tours are like my favorite, but that particular tour and sophie who was our tour guide it honestly, it's still in our memories and that was 18 months ago that we did that tour.
• 30:23
  Tracy Collins: So you know, whether you indulge in fish and chips, explore Borough Market or take a historic pub tour, london's culinary and cultural delights, honestly, will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of the city's heritage as well.
• 30:37
  Tracy Collins: You'll find out why Oyster Cards are called Oyster Cards as well.
• 30:40
  Tracy Collins: If'll find out why oyster cards are called oyster cards as well if you do that tour of Borough Market, because you do get to try some oysters.
• 30:45
  Tracy Collins: But you will find out exactly why the card that we use to pay for the tube is called an oyster card.
• 30:53
  Tracy Collins: Enjoy it, let me know how you got on and let me know what you enjoyed the most.
• 30:59
  Tracy Collins: So tip 11 is prepare for the weather.
• 31:02
  Tracy Collins: I'm going to give some packing hints and tips here Now.
• 31:06
  Tracy Collins: London's weather is famously unpredictable, so being prepared for all eventualities, honestly, is a key to enjoying a trip.
• 31:14
  Tracy Collins: You know whether you're visiting the height of summer or the depths of winter.
• 31:17
  Tracy Collins: Having the right wardrobe and essentials will ensure you are comfortable and ready for whatever the British skies throw your way.
• 31:24
  Tracy Collins: Now here's some essential packet tips Layer up.
• 31:27
  Tracy Collins: You know the weather can change dramatically throughout the day.
• 31:31
  Tracy Collins: It can start cold, then it can be warm in the afternoon.
• 31:34
  Tracy Collins: I know in the winter, when I've been going out to see some of the Christmas lights, you go into some of the shops, and the shops are absolutely red, hot.
• 31:41
  Tracy Collins: You go on the tube.
• 31:42
  Tracy Collins: It's really, really hot, so you need layers so you can add layers on, take layers off Now.
• 31:48
  Tracy Collins: Also be ready for a possibility of rain, regardless of the season.
• 31:52
  Tracy Collins: I have a lightweight, waterproof jacket that I take with me everywhere and that folds up when I put it in my day bag.
• 31:58
  Tracy Collins: I'd highly recommend that.
• 32:00
  Tracy Collins: Another essential tip honestly comfortable shoes.
• 32:03
  Tracy Collins: You are going to be doing a lot of walking.
• 32:06
  Tracy Collins: Really, london is a city best explored on your feet.
• 32:09
  Tracy Collins: You're going to be doing walking, so make sure that you've got comfortable walking shoes.
• 32:14
  Tracy Collins: So break them in before you arrive.
• 32:16
  Tracy Collins: Don't just buy a new pair and then arrive in London because it can expect some blisters If you're visiting in London.
• 32:28
  Tracy Collins: Waterproof boots are a great option In summer.
• 32:29
  Tracy Collins: I know I wear sandals, but maybe trainers or sneakers are also a good idea.
• 32:32
  Tracy Collins: Now in summer, actually, london can be incredibly, incredibly hot.
• 32:36
  Tracy Collins: I will also mention here as well, just when you're thinking about accommodation, a lot of hotels in London do not have air conditioning, so if that is important to you, make sure that you find a hotel that does have air con, because it can get very hot and very stifling and very still in London in the summer.
• 32:54
  Tracy Collins: So make sure you've got sunglasses, hat, make sure that, honestly, that you keep cool and hydrated.
• 32:59
  Tracy Collins: So have a reusable water bottle with you at all times in the winter.
• 33:04
  Tracy Collins: Warm coat, scarf, gloves, hat, you know, even thermal layers if you feel the cold easily.
• 33:11
  Tracy Collins: Now I always carry a small day bag with everything in it.
• 33:14
  Tracy Collins: You know, with my, my um fold up raincoat, I have a water bottle in there, sunscreen for summer, but my hand warmers for winter I don't know what I did before hand warmers.
• 33:25
  Tracy Collins: Now for detailed advice tailored to each season.
• 33:29
  Tracy Collins: Honestly, check out our London Packing Guide.
• 33:31
  Tracy Collins: You've got everything in there that you need to know.
• 33:33
  Tracy Collins: We've got wardrobe essentials, we've got useful gadgets that we recommend.
• 33:36
  Tracy Collins: But that guide will ensure you're fully prepared for London's changing weather and really enjoy your trip in comfort and style.
• 33:44
  Tracy Collins: We've also got an excellent episode of the podcast I think it's episode 101, where I chat with Alison about her packing for her trip to London, and lots of hints and tips in that particular very popular episode.
• 33:58
  Tracy Collins: So last tip is to use all our resources.
• 34:01
  Tracy Collins: So we have created over the last few years an extensive collection of resources to make your London trip stress-free.
• 34:08
  Tracy Collins: We've got articles on planning every aspect of your trip on LondonTravelPlanningcom.
• 34:12
  Tracy Collins: We have podcast episodes with insider tips and expert advice from myself and Doug and other guests, and we have our Facebook groups where you can connect with fellow travelers, and we have got a London travel planning free Facebook group.
• 34:25
  Tracy Collins: So pop up and join that Now.
• 34:27
  Tracy Collins: By sticking with us, you'll avoid the overwhelm of contradictory advice and enjoy honestly, we promise a more streamlined planning experience.
• 34:36
  Tracy Collins: So that wraps up our 12 essential tips for planning your trip to London in 2025.
• 34:40
  Tracy Collins: Don't forget to check out our website, blog articles, podcast episodes for even more guidance and, if you're feeling overwhelmed, consider booking a one-to-one itinerary consultation with Doug and me for some tailored advice and personalized recommendations.
• 34:55
  Tracy Collins: Now, thank you for tuning in to episode 132 of the UK Travel Planner Podcast.
• 35:00
  Tracy Collins: Until next time, as always, happy UK and London travel planning.
• 35:05
  Tracy Collins: Thank you for tuning in to this week's episode of the UK Travel Planning Podcast.
• 35:11
  Tracy Collins: As always, show notes can be found at uktravelplanningcom.
• 35:15
  Tracy Collins: If you've enjoyed the show, why not leave us feedback via text or a review on your favourite podcast app?
• 35:21
  Tracy Collins: We love to hear from you and you never know, you may receive a shout out in a future episode.
• 35:27
  Tracy Collins: But, as always, that just leaves me to say until next week, happy UK travel planning.