UK & Ireland

What is the best time of year to visit the UK?
The best time to visit the UK is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (June to August) is also popular for its warm weather and many festivals, but it can be crowded and more expensive.

Where to go on holiday in the UK?
There are so many amazing places to visit in the UK, you'll be spoilt for choice! Whether you're looking for a city break, a countryside escape, or a cultural adventure, the UK has something for everyone. Some of our favourite spots are London for its world-class attractions and vibrant vibe, Edinburgh for its charming history and festivals and Wales for its fascinating coastal heritage bursting with myths and legend. And don't forget to explore the lovely Cotswolds, the lively Manchester, and the wild Scottish Highlands on your road trip! If you're planning a holiday in the UK, explore our UK travel guide and find out how to make the most of your time on your holiday.

How long should I plan a holiday to the UK?
That depends on how much you want to see and do in this wonderful country! The UK is quite small compared to some other destinations, but it has so much diversity and beauty that you could easily spend weeks exploring it. We recommend at least 10 days to enjoy the highlights of England, Scotland, and Wales, but if you have more time, you can also visit Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man. Whatever your itinerary, you'll have a fantastic time in the UK!

How to find the best holiday package to the UK?
Come in store and chat to one of our House of Travel UK travel specialists or visit our UK deals section on our website or sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest holiday package deals directly to your email.

Where to stay in the UK?
The UK offers a wide range of accommodations whether you're looking for a cosy B&B, a luxurious hotel, or a unique castle stay, you'll be spoilt for choice in the UK. You can find amazing accommodation options in every city and region, from London and Edinburgh to the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands.

What should I pack for my trip to the UK?
Pack layers to accommodate the variable weather, including a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. Don’t forget your travel adapters for UK outlets, and bring clothing suitable for both urban exploration and countryside adventures.

Do I need travel insurance for the UK?
Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to the UK. We offer a range of travel insurance options suitable for European travel. Find more information on our website.

Can I use New Zealand dollars in the UK?
No, you will need to exchange your New Zealand dollars (NZD) for British pounds (GBP). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Do I need to hire a car to get around the UK?
If you want to see the countryside and the quaint villages, hiring a car is a wonderful way to travel at your leisure. But if you're staying in big cities like London, you might want to skip the hassle of driving and parking and use the public transport instead. It's fast, convenient, and connects you to most places you want to go. You can also hop on a train or a bus to visit other towns and cities across the UK.

Do I need to tip?
The UK’s tipping culture is more prolific than NZ, but nowhere near as common as the USA. As a general rule, tip 10% in all restaurants. Unless, of course, you had terrible service. Unlike NZ, hospitality wages in the UK are borderline crumbs and peanuts, and wait staff heavily rely on earning good gratuities. 
The phrase “And one for yourself” is still (kind of) common in pubs and bars. How much they take is where the risk lies. Fortunately it’s not the price of a drink but depending on your bar tender, they might take 50p; they might take a pound. When in doubt, pay in cash and round up.

What are the must-see attractions in the UK?
The UK is full of amazing places to explore and discover. You can't miss the iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle, the Roman Baths, and the British Museum. You'll also love the stunning scenery of the Lake District, the Cotswolds, and the Scottish Highlands.

How can I get around the UK without a car?

London Underground: Also called the tube. Probably the easiest and most economical means of getting around the capital (definitely get yourself an Oyster card). You can now also use your credit card to tap and go for the tube, however, we would still recommend getting an oyster card for ease. When the tube folk are doing track work, it's usually done at weekends, so always check which lines are operating on your day of travel. Especially if you're heading to the airport! For more information click here.
Uber: Uber is all over London and most major cities but you won’t find it in smaller towns and villages - yet!
Taxis: In the city, don’t always presume Uber is cheapest. Many of the longstanding taxi firms got savvy and are now competitively priced, and sometimes cheaper.
Black cabs: A resolutely London thing to do, but you’ll be paying by the metre. And in London, when traffic moves at a snail’s pace, you won’t go far for £20.
Trains: One of the best ways to get around the country, the UK’s train system is centuries old and therefore well established. It’s efficient, quick and easy. Eg, London to Manchester is a two hour train journey, compared to five hours in a car. Book three months in advance for the cheapest tickets. If you book on the day of travel, you’ll be paying premium. Check routes, fares and timetables here.
Oyster Card: In London, invest in a Visitor Oyster card to pay for journeys on the bus, Tube, tram, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail, River Bus and most National Rail services. Use it like a pay-as-you-go smartcard and only top up when necessary. Fares are cheaper than buying a paper single ticket and if you’re savvy, and cap your daily journeys, it’ll work out half the price per day of a Day Travelcard. 

What are some family-friendly activities in the UK?
Similar to NZ, attractions for children may be numerous, but they don’t always come cheap. Many of London’s museums, plenty of which are ‘hands-on’ do offer free admittance, but that also makes them popular (read as busy). Family passes for most big attractions are common, but with enough research you can still find some free castles to visit (relics especially), and with plenty of parks, lakes, rivers and canals, you can easily find a cost-free pretty spot. Unique to the UK, canal locks are generally quite fascinating for kids – and won’t cost a penny. Most pubs are child friendly but it’s not uncommon to find an “over 18s only” sign, and they’ll be quite strict about it. 
Make sure to visit and take part in interactive experiences at places like the Warner Bros. Studio tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.