A trip to the UK is on many people’s bucket list, whether it be a trip to London to see the sights we associate with Mary Poppins and fairytales, or a walk around Loch Ness, desperately trying to spot the mythical monster.
There’s so much the nation has to offer all year round, including many typically British things you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re heading to Britain over the next few months, then here are the eight things you really shouldn’t miss out on…
1. Discover The Coast
Source: discoverbritainmag.com
The British coast is incredibly diverse. From north to south you’ll find dozens of picture perfect spots, glorious walks, and incredible attractions. There’s something for everyone.
For those looking for the scenery and incredible walks, the Jurassic Coast running from Devon to Dorset is well worth exploring, while you’ll find plenty of rugged and beautiful landscape along the coast of Scotland too.
However, Britain has plenty of fun along the coast too. Towns and cities like Brighton, Blackpool and Margate are bursting with things to do, from rollercoasters to amusement arcades, donkey rides, all alongside great nightlife too, where partying is almost a given.
2. Watch A Football Match
The UK is well known for its football, with the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool and Celtic well-known across the world. However, there are hundreds of football teams that you can enjoy watching across the country on a Saturday afternoon, with many smaller teams having incredibly picturesque grounds too.
Of course, if you’re looking for the big-match atmosphere though, then it’s best to stick with the top two flights of English and Scottish football, with the likes of Anfield, Celtic Park, Stamford Bridge and Old Trafford well known for their atmospheres. If you are travelling though, do make sure you get tickets in advance as they can often sell out well ahead of matchday.
3. Play Bingo
Source: liveabout.com
Bingo is a game that is well-known around the world, but few love it quite like the British. There are bingo halls in most towns and cities and they are perfect for a night out with a bit of a difference.
Over the past 18 months bingo has grown hugely online, and whether you’re an online player looking to have a go in a real-life bingo hall for the first time, or you simply want to give it a go, then you won’t find a better place to play than some of the UK’s bingo halls.
It is worth reading up on the game before you do play though. The Moon Bingo blog is great for this, as it doesn’t only offer advice on how to play, but also insight into etiquette in UK bingo halls, which is always worth knowing before stepping through the doors.
4. Eat Fish & Chips
When it comes to cuisine, there are plenty of foods associated with Britain, but it’s the fish and chips most visitors crave. Brits love their fish and chips, and whether it be a trip to the seaside or a traditional Friday evening meal, they can’t get enough of them.
Whether you’re in London, Manchester, the Lake District or anywhere along the coast you’ll find some fantastic fish and chip shops. Each year, the UK has an annual competition where the top 50 in the UK can be found.
5. Have A Sunday Roast
Source: essentialsurrey.co.uk
Sticking with the food theme we have the Sunday roast, another British staple and another must-try. Many restaurants and pubs in the UK switch up their menus on a Sunday and you’ll find some quite delectable dishes. With meat, potatoes, vegetables and Yorkshire puddings piled high, all smothered in gravy. It’s enough to make your mouth water.
Similarly, there are awards that are handed out yearly to the best Sunday roasts in the UK, with plenty in the capital including Roast, The Harwood Arms and The Marksman well known for their Sunday offering. The Scran and Scallie in Edinburgh is also often revered as one of the best too.
6. Visit The Cotswolds
For those wanting to really see a picturesque England, the Cotswolds is a must visit. The area covers six different counties and as you work your way through you’ll encounter numerous stunning little villages, with thatched roof cottages, quaint little pubs, and old, beautiful churches. It’s been an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty since 1966 and has long been a popular tourist destination, offering an idyllic view of rural England.
Stow-on-the-Wold is one of the best villages to base yourself, with lovely coffee shops, book stores, and various antiques shops to browse, while the likes of Bourton-on-the-Water just a 10 minute drive away is also worth stopping off at.
Elsewhere, Batsford, Chipping Campden and Broadway are also stopping points that people love to take a break, enjoy the sights and sounds, and get a tasty meal before calling it a day.
7. Head To The Hills
Source: visitlakedistrict.co
If the rolling hills of the Cotswolds aren’t enough though, there are plenty more to choose from across the country. Scafell Pike, Snowdon and Ben Nevis are the three biggest peaks in the UK, while you’ll find some stunning walks in the Highlands, Lake District, and the Peak District, where you’ll find the start of the Pennine Way. The Pennine Way is a 268 mile trail that takes you right through the heart of the country, beginning in Edale and finishing on the Scottish border in Kirk Yetholm. Many walkers make the journey each and every year, enjoying the glorious landscape and meeting new friends along the way.
8. Watch A West End Show
Any trip to London should be completed with a trip to the West End to enjoy a show or two. Broadway aside, it’s the best place in the world to watch a show, with some stunning theatres and even better shows.
The likes of Cars, Phantom of the Opera, The Mousetrap, Jersey Boys, and many more take to the stage all year round, and you’ll find theatres packed out every night. It’s a fine way to cap off any trip to London or indeed Britain as a whole.
