10 England travel tips you need to know before you go

Are you planning a trip to the magnificent England? Then you’re in the right place! England offers a rich history, enchanting landscapes, picturesque villages, and world-famous cities like London. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the breathtaking coastline with spectacular cliffs like the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, and historic university towns such as Oxford and Cambridge, there’s always something new to discover. The friendly locals, the beloved tea culture, and the surprisingly diverse cuisine make it an unforgettable destination. To help you make the most of your trip, I’ve gathered the essential England travel tips to help you plan an unforgettable journey.

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About England

England, located in the southern part of the island of Great Britain, perfectly combines history and modern charm. As the largest country in the United Kingdom, it is surrounded by the North Sea, the Channel, and the Irish Sea. England shares borders with Scotland and Wales and forms an iconic part of Great Britain. It captivates with its variety, from vibrant cities to idyllic landscapes.

Exmoor National Park

England is famous for world-renowned landmarks like the mysterious Stonehenge and the Tower of London, where history comes alive. But there’s much more to explore! Whether you dream of the charming villages and green hills of the Cotswolds or the energetic vibe in cities like Manchester and Liverpool, there’s always something for you.

Stonehenge

Of course, London is a must-see, but England has many hidden gems. Think of Cornwall and Dorset’s rugged coastlines, with their spectacular cliffs and peaceful beaches. Or the serene beauty of national parks like the Peak District and Lake District. From cozy pubs with fireplaces to trendy restaurants and boutique hotels, British hospitality and style are everywhere.

Jurassic Coast

England’s irresistible mix of historical treasures, stunning nature, and cultural diversity makes it the perfect destination for everyone. Whether you want to soak up culture, relax in nature, or seek adventure… England has it all.

With so much to see and do, it’s smart to prepare for your trip. You don’t need to plan everything in advance, but a little organization can go a long way. Here are 10 helpful England travel tips for an unforgettable journey!

10 England travel tips you need to know before you go

1. How to travel to England?

There are several ways to travel from Belgium to England, depending on your preference for speed, comfort, or cost. One of the most popular options is the Eurostar train, which takes you directly from Brussels to London in about two hours. This is a fast and comfortable way to travel, avoiding long airport waits.

If you prefer to travel by car, you can use the Eurotunnel Shuttle, which lets you drive through the Channel Tunnel. This option is convenient if you want to travel with your own vehicle. Another car option is the ferry. Various ferry services connect Belgian or northern French ports, such as Calais or Dunkirk, with English ports like Dover. The ferry crossing takes about two hours.

White Cliffs of Dover

Flying is also an option. Several airlines offer flights from Belgian airports to airports in England, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. This is usually the fastest option, but consider check-in times and transportation to and from the airport.

Depending on your budget and preferences, choose the travel option that suits you best.

2. Passport, visa, and vaccinations

When traveling to England from Belgium, you need a valid passport. Since Brexit, an ID card is no longer sufficient. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay. For short tourist visits, Belgians do not need a visa as long as they stay less than six months. If you’re going for work or study, you might need a visa depending on the purpose and length of your stay.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for visiting England. It’s a good idea to keep your basic vaccines up to date, like tetanus. Staying informed about the latest COVID-19 regulations and vaccinations is also recommended, as rules may change. Always check the latest travel advisories before departure.

3. How to get around in England?

In England, there are various ways to travel depending on your destination and budget. Trains are a popular and efficient option for travel between cities. The English rail network is extensive, allowing easy travel to major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Booking tickets in advance can save you money.

Within cities, public transport is well-organized. In London, you can use the famous “Underground” or “Tube,” which is quick and convenient. Buses and trams are also common, especially in cities like London, Manchester, and Sheffield. The iconic red double-decker buses in London offer a comfortable way to explore the city.

If you want more freedom, renting a car is a good option, especially for exploring the countryside or smaller towns. Keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road in England. For short distances in cities, you can also rent bikes or simply walk.

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are available but can be more expensive, especially in larger cities.

4. Driving in England

As a Belgian, you’ll notice some key differences when driving in England. The most obvious is driving on the left side of the road. This takes some getting used to, especially at turns and intersections. If you rent a car, the driver’s seat is on the right, and you shift gears with your left hand. Roundabouts work differently too: you drive clockwise, and traffic on the roundabout always has the right of way. This can be confusing if you’re driving your own car with the steering wheel on the left side.

Speed limits are in miles per hour (mph). In urban areas, it’s usually 30 mph (around 48 km/h), and on highways, it’s up to 70 mph (around 112 km/h). Pay close attention to signs, especially if your speedometer is in kilometers per hour. Google Maps can show your speed in miles, making it easier to follow the limits. On narrow country roads, you can drive surprisingly fast, but locals often take it slow, so stay alert!

Seatbelts are mandatory for everyone in the car, and you can only use your phone hands-free while driving. Your Belgian driver’s license is valid in England, but make sure your insurance and vehicle documents are in order for a smooth trip.

During our road trip in southern England, I noticed cars often park on the road, leaving only one lane. English drivers are surprisingly patient and polite, letting each other pass without honking, even in busy times. This makes driving more relaxed than you might expect.

Amberley

Parking near big cities and popular attractions usually requires payment, and you absolutely cannot park on double yellow lines. Always check signs, as some areas require a resident’s permit, or have time restrictions.

Finally, when driving through the beautiful English countryside, watch out for animals crossing the road. Squirrels, pheasants, foxes, and even sheep can appear unexpectedly, so keep an eye on your speed and enjoy the peaceful drive through stunning landscapes.

Bibury

5. Best time to visit England

The best time to visit England depends on what you want to do. May to September is popular due to mild and often drier weather. With temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees, it’s perfect for everything from city walks and exploring the countryside to iconic trips like Stonehenge or the English coast. Outdoor activities are ideal during this period, and sunny days are common!

If you love festivals, summer is the time for you. Think of the famous Glastonbury Festival in June or Wimbledon in July. However, summer also brings more tourists, and accommodation prices can rise.

Autumn (September-November) offers a quieter, perhaps even magical side of England. Trees turn golden and red, making it perfect for a park stroll. The weather is still mild enough for a city trip or a countryside walk.

Castle Combe

Winter (December-February) brings the charm of Christmas markets and festive celebrations, especially in December when England feels like a fairytale. Though it can be cold and rainy, that’s part of the charm.

In spring (March-May), England bursts into life with blooming flowers and fresh green landscapes, avoiding the summer crowds.

The weather in England can be unpredictable, so a small umbrella or raincoat is always handy. Wearing layers is your secret to enjoying this beautiful country in any season!

Brighton

6. Booking an accommodation in England

When booking accommodation in England, you have various options based on budget and preference. In cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham, you can find luxury five-star hotels, as well as affordable chains. Looking for a more authentic experience? Consider a bed & breakfast (B&B), where you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and a traditional English breakfast.

For longer stays, renting an apartment is a good option. This gives you more space and the ability to cook for yourself. In the countryside, charming cottages and holiday homes are available, ideal for those seeking peace and nature.

On a tight budget? Hostels are an excellent option. They offer shared dormitories or private rooms at low prices, especially in tourist cities.

Note: In London and during summer, prices can rise quickly. It’s wise to book well in advance, especially during busy times like summer or Christmas. This ensures you get a good spot and better rates.

Below, you can explore the different accommodations available in your dream destinations in England.

7. Paying in England and tipping

In England, you pay with British pounds (GBP, £), so it’s useful to have some cash for small purchases. However, don’t worry, you can pay almost everywhere with your bank card or credit card, and contactless payment is very popular. Ensure your card supports international payments or consider a travel card with good exchange rates to save on fees. ATMs are widely available, even in small villages, but check for potential transaction fees from your bank.

Tipping in England is customary, but not always required. Restaurants often add a 10-12% service charge to the bill, especially in larger cities. Always check the bill! If service is not included, a tip of 10-15% for good service is common. In pubs, tipping is less common but still appreciated. For taxi drivers, rounding up or giving a small extra tip is polite.

Tipping is not strictly necessary but a nice way to show appreciation for good service. It’s usually very appreciated!

8. Wifi/ 4g in England

England generally has good wifi and 4G coverage, especially in cities and tourist areas. Many hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free wifi, as do stations and public spaces. Handy if you want to save on data. Within Europe, you won’t face extra roaming charges, so you can use your Belgian data, minutes, and texts worry-free.

Be aware that 4G coverage in rural areas, like the Cotswolds, may be less reliable. In remote areas, the connection can be weaker, so it’s useful to plan ahead or use wifi when possible.

If you’re coming from outside Europe, a local prepaid SIM card is a cost-effective option. You can easily buy one at telecom shops or kiosks and enjoy local rates for mobile data and calls. Alternatively, opt for an e-sim.

Don’t forget that England uses type G power outlets. So, if you want to use your chargers and devices, make sure to bring one or more travel adapters. This way, you’ll stay powered up without any worries!

9. Must-try specialties in England

During your visit to England, there are a few culinary classics you shouldn’t miss!

First, the iconic fish and chips. These are crispy fried fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick fries, salt, and a dash of vinegar. You’ll find this delicious dish on almost every street corner, in fish shops, or cozy pubs.

Another must-try is the full English breakfast. This hearty meal includes eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. Perfect to keep you going all day!

No trip to England is complete without afternoon tea. This charming tradition includes a selection of teas, sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of cakes. Many cafés and hotels offer special packages for the full experience.

Looking for something simpler? Try cream tea, especially popular in Cornwall and Devon, featuring scones, clotted cream, and jam. In Cornwall, you spread the jam first, followed by the cream, while in Devon, the cream goes on first, then the jam. Both regions fiercely defend their method, making for a fun debate. Try both and discover your favorite!

Cream tea with traditional British Scones with clotted cream, raspberry jam.

Then there’s the Sunday roast, a delicious meal with roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding, perfect for a Sunday afternoon.

Don’t forget the Cornish pasty, a hand-held pastry filled with meat and vegetables. It’s the perfect snack on the go!

Traditional Cornish pasty filled with beef meat, potato and vegetables

Whether you choose a hearty roast or delicate scones, English cuisine offers something for everyone.

10. Traces of history

England is rich in history, where traces of the past can be found around every corner. From majestic castles and grand estates to mysterious stone circles and Roman ruins, the country offers countless opportunities to dive into its fascinating past.

One of the most iconic sites is Stonehenge, the prehistoric stone circle that has captured imaginations for centuries. Castles like Leeds Castle, Hever Castle and Arundel Castle showcase the power and grandeur of former kings and queens. Roman influences can be seen in the beautiful city of Bath, with its ancient baths, and along Hadrian’s Wall, once the northern frontier of the Roman Empire.

Leeds Castle

Stonehenge

Bath

If you plan to visit several of these remarkable sites, English Heritage and the National Trust are essential. English Heritage manages hundreds of historical places, while the National Trust cares for natural areas, estates, and gardens. Memberships grant you discounted or free access to their sites, often with added perks like tours and events.

By joining these organizations, you not only gain access to England’s fascinating history but also help preserve it for future generations.

There’s no doubt that a trip to England is well worth it. It’s a captivating destination with something for everyone, from rich history and vibrant cities to stunning nature. However, good preparation is key to fully enjoying your time. Hopefully, these England travel tips will help you plan your trip well, so you can make the most of your stay and discover all the highlights of this diverse country.