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UK Travel Planning

Tracy Collins

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 around the UK (including by train), about British culture and history and much more! 

Tune in and let us help you plan your perfect UK itinerary with all the places and experiences you have been dreaming of. UK Travel Planning - helping YOU plan YOUR perfect UK vacation.

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  • Avg 49 min
  • English

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  • #216
    Tuesday · 48 min

    Visiting England in Autumn: Lake District, Cotswolds and Devon

    Golden woodlands, quiet villages and cosy pubs. Autumn in the UK has a magic you do not get in high summer. In part one of our two part autumn special, three local experts share what really changes across September, October and November in the Lake District, the Cotswolds and Devon. Lake District autumn colour hotspots including Tarn Hows and Wastwater How September, October and November differ for weather, light and atmosphere Walk ideas for non hikers and why low-level routes often win in autumn Mountain Goat tours running through autumn, including the September-only Mountain Passes tour The Cotswolds in the quieter months and why market towns suit autumn travel Best timing for Cotswolds autumn colour, plus Hidcote and Batsford Arboretum Harvest farm shops, local produce and Bonfire Night fireworks Go Cotswolds autumn favourites, Oxford departures and the Bath Christmas market dates Devon's tree tunnels, woodland colour and wildlife on Dartmoor and Exmoor Cider, apple orchards, top farm shops and the rise of English vineyards What stays open through autumn and when visitor hours start to shorten LISTENER DISCOUNTS Mountain Goat Tours, Lake District: 10% off with code UKTRAV10 https://www.mountain-goat.com Go Cotswolds: 5% off with code UKTRAVPLAN https://www.gocotswolds.co.uk Unique Devon Tours: https://www.uniquedevon.tours Show notes - Episode 216 Part two lands next week with the far north of Scotland and London. If autumn is in your plans, send us a message via SpeakPipe and tell us where you are heading, and do share this with anyone planning a UK trip. Reviews help other travellers find the podcast. We also write a free weekly newsletter, The Great British Trip, every Saturday morning: https://thegreatbritishtrip.substack.com/ Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • August 27 · 48 min

    London in September 2026: What's On + Travel Tips

    September in London feels calmer, brighter and more walkable once the school holiday rush fades. This is the first episode of our monthly London bonus series from London Travel Planning, looking ahead each month at what is on, what to book and what will sell out before you get there. This episode is sponsored by WalksDevour, and I am joined by Charley Sullivan from their London team. Everything you need to know if you are visiting London in September 2026, from the weather to the tickets that sell out first. September crowds: what changes once the school holidays end Weather and packing: highs of 19 to 20°C, lows of 12 to 13°C, and why layers win Daylight hours: 13.5 at the start of the month, 11.5 by the end Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum: sold out, and how to get tickets for 2027 British Museum membership: what it costs and what priority booking gets you Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, extended to April 2027 Buckingham Palace State Rooms: the last month of the year they are open Ceremony of the Keys: a rare photo-free experience, and how to visit with the VIP WalksDevour option Free and quirky: Totally Thames, Open House Festival and the Southwark Bridge sheep drive London Fashion Week and the Last Night of the Proms UK ETA: what it costs, when to apply and which sites to avoid Tour of the month: London in a Day, plus private options and accessibility Correction: the Sheep Drive is on Sunday 27 September 2026, not October as mentioned in the episode EXCLUSIVE LISTENER OFFER: 5% off WalksDevour tours with code UKTP5. Book before midnight UK time on 10 September 2026, valid on any tour departing to the end of 2026. 👉 Book with WalksDevour here Do you have a question about visiting London or about the WalksDevour tours? Leave us a message on SpeakPipe, and we will put it to Charley in the next bonus episode on 24 September. 📝 Show Notes - Bonus episode 1 Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #215
    August 25 · 55 min

    Walking Land's End to Bath: A UK Trip Report

    Catherine joins us to share what it is really like to walk 420 kilometres (260 miles) from Land's End to Bath over three weeks, and why the UK makes long-distance walking surprisingly doable, even if you are not an ultra-hiker. Choosing Land's End to Bath as the first leg of a Land's End to John o'Groats dream Booking through a specialist company: one-night stays and luggage transfers made easy The 20 kg luggage limit and how to pack for it Taking the Night Riviera sleeper train from Paddington to Penzance Spring timing to beat the Cornwall crowds A typical walking day, from breakfast to bags downstairs by 8 South West Coast Path highlights: St Ives, Padstow, Port Isaac and Clovelly Tintagel, Glastonbury and Wells: detours worth rearranging plans for Perranporth at sunset and the Watering Hole on the beach Handling tough days: rethinking mileage and using local buses to skip sections Gear that earns its place: layers, waterproofs and walking poles to save your knees Finishing at Bath Abbey and celebrating at Thermae Bath Spa If this episode has you dreaming of swapping four wheels for two feet, please subscribe, share it with a friend who loves walking holidays, and leave a quick review on your favourite podcast app. We also write a free weekly newsletter, The Great British Trip, which lands every Saturday morning with inspiration, practical tips and train travel advice for your UK trip. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 215 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #214
    August 18 · 42 min

    London Travel Planning - 10 Questions Visitors Always Ask

    How many days do you actually need? What should you budget? And what is the fastest way in from Heathrow? Tracy and Doug answer the 10 questions listeners ask most about visiting London, with the numbers and the reasoning behind each one. - How many days: why 4 to 5 is the first-timer sweet spot - When to go: the months we avoid, and why April catches people out - Getting around: zones, the £8.90 daily cap, Oyster versus contactless - Heathrow into London: Elizabeth line, Piccadilly line or the 15 minute Express - UK ETA: £20, two years, and the fake sites charging ten times that - Dual citizens: what you need to know if you are planning a UK trip - Budgeting: what to allow per person, and where it really goes - Food hacks: supermarket meal deals, explained for visitors - Day trips: Jane Austen's House by train, and Bath from Paddington - Where to stay: the Tube station rule that beats picking a postcode - Free London: which major museums and galleries cost nothing - Where to eat: Roast at Borough Market, Pick & Cheese, Cafe in the Crypt Plus two new things from us: London Trip Quick Answers, a 30 minute live Zoom where you bring your specific trip questions to Tracy and Doug, and a new bonus episode on the last Thursday of every month covering what is on in London the month ahead. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 214 Got a London question we did not cover? Send it to us on SpeakPipe. Please share this episode with anyone planning a UK trip, and if you enjoy the show a review really helps more travellers find us. We also write a free weekly newsletter, The Great British Trip, available on Substack every Saturday morning. Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #213
    August 11 · 33 min

    Small Group Tours of Scotland: What It Is Really Like on a Rabbie's Tour

    We chat with Graham, a Rabbie's driver-guide in Edinburgh, about what turns a simple day trip into a friendly, personal experience. We break down how small group touring works, from the first meet-up at the bus station to the last stop, with practical tips on choosing a route and packing for Scotland's weather. Why a 16 seater bus changes the whole feel of a tour What a driver-guide actually does beyond driving How the morning meet and greet and check-in works at Edinburgh Bus Station Building a relaxed group dynamic without forcing it Balancing storytelling, scenery, music and quiet time How long you get at stops and why flexibility matters Who books these tours: solo travellers, couples, families and return visitors Popular routes including Loch Ness, Glencoe, Skye, castles and whisky tours Why multi-day tours sell out and which one Graham recommends first What to bring: waterproofs, comfy shoes, layers, charger and power bank Our best tip: pick the tour that excites you most Book here and use the code UKTP10 for 10% off. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 213 If you're planning your own UK trip and have a question, do leave us a voice message through SpeakPipe. If you enjoyed this one, please share it with someone who's dreaming of Scotland, and leave us a review on your favourite podcast app. Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #212
    August 4 · 38 min

    Guide to London's Main Train Stations

    The departure boards are flashing, the station is heaving, and there is still no platform number. If that scene makes your heart race, you are exactly who we made this episode for. With more than 25 years working on the UK railways, Doug joins Tracy to walk through London's mainline stations in plain English, so your first UK rail trip starts with calm, not panic. Why London has multiple terminal stations, and how that affects boarding and timing Which London stations serve which parts of the UK and Europe, including the Eurostar A quick station by station guide to King's Cross, St Pancras, Euston, Paddington, Waterloo, Victoria, Liverpool Street and Marylebone How airport links shape your choice of station and where to stay in London How to check your train before you leave using National Rail tools and live running info How to read departure boards, including final destination and stopping patterns Why platform numbers often appear late, and why that is completely normal Ticket barriers, using the wider gates with bags, and when to ask staff Seat reservations being free, when to reserve, and how unreserved coaches work Luggage rules, keeping your bags secure, and what accessibility assistance can cover Peak versus off peak basics, and when cheaper tickets are more likely Doug's Calm Down Checklist for a smooth, stress-free departure If this takes some of the mystery out of London's stations, please subscribe, share it with a nervous traveller, and leave a quick review on your favourite podcast app. Want personal help with your trip? You can book Doug for a 30 minute train travel Q&A or a full consultation. And do subscribe to our YouTube channel for Doug's new confidence series. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 212 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #211
    July 28 · 41 min

    6 Week UK Road Trip: England and Scotland

    Rochelle talks us through a 41-day UK road trip from Bath to the Scottish Highlands and back to London, sharing what worked, what surprised her, and how planning early made the whole trip calmer. We swap honest notes on UK driving, smart booking tactics, and the tours, meals and accidental stops that turned into lifelong memories. Planning a long UK itinerary without trying to do too much Leaving Heathrow before the Easter crowds and saving London for the end Coping with UK driving as visitors, from narrow lanes to complex roundabouts Using phone navigation when the in-car sat nav falls short The full route: Salisbury, Bath, the Cotswolds, the Peak District, the Lake District, Northumberland, Skye, Inverness, Pitlochry, Berwick-upon-Tweed, York and London Favourite moments: the Old Man of Storr at sunrise, York food finds, a surprise stop at St Abbs An accommodation mix including a castle stay and a standout manor hotel A laundry strategy for multi-week travel, from washing machines to heated towel rails UK food highlights: Sunday roasts, scones, Scotch egg, haggis, black pudding, Irn-Bru and cider London experiences: early Tower of London entry, a food and pub walking tour, and meeting fellow listeners Discover Real London black cab tours for orientation, photography and a James Bond and Ted Lasso trip to Richmond If you've enjoyed the show, why not leave us feedback via text or a review on your favourite podcast app? Share it with anyone planning their own UK road trip. We love to hear from you, and you never know, you may receive a shout out in a future episode. ⭐️ Guest - Rochelle C 📝 Show Notes - Episode 211 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #210
    July 21 · 48 min

    Top 10 Things to Do in London in 2026

    Planning a London trip? In this episode we share the experiences that earned a place on our 2026 favourites list, and how to make each one work for your own itinerary. From food tours and royal palaces to day trips, exhibitions and a night in a real Tudor castle, everything here is something we did ourselves this year. Which two London food tours are worth booking (and the historic pubs they take you to) How to combine Changing of the Guard, Kensington Palace + afternoon tea at the Orangery in one day The best small group day trips from London: Dover, Canterbury, Oxford, Stratford + the Cotswolds How to reach Jane Austen's House at Chawton by train and taxi, step by step Two walking tours that reveal a Westminster and Soho most visitors never see The exhibitions to book now: Queen Elizabeth II - Her Life in Style at the King's Gallery Our honest Chelsea Flower Show verdict: timing, crowds and whether it's worth the ticket price Where to eat in 2026: Pick and Cheese, Mercato Mayfair + the Sunday roast at Borough Market Three gardens for a calm reset from the crowds (two of them free) Why Mr Fogg's murder mystery evening is one of London's most fun nights out The museums that surprised us, including the Postal Museum's underground Mail Rail How Mystery Guides turn an afternoon into a self-guided treasure hunt The 500 year old castle near Bristol where you can sleep where Henry VIII did 📝 Show Notes - Episode 210 If you have a question after listening, or a favourite London experience of your own, send us a message via SpeakPipe. If you know anyone planning a trip to London or the UK, share the episode with them, it really helps us. And if you've enjoyed the show, why not leave us feedback via text or a review on your favourite podcast app? Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #209
    July 14 · 24 min

    10 Ways We Help You Plan Your UK Trip

    Tracy and Doug step back from the destinations to share who they are and ten ways they help you plan a smarter UK trip, from the podcast and websites to consultations, products and a 30,000 strong community. Two Brits who know the UK inside out, now based in Australia, with Doug's near 30 years on the railways behind every train answer. In this episode: The lived experience behind the podcast, and why it shapes the advice Why a real person beats a generic AI itinerary or conflicting internet advice Where to start when UK trip planning feels overwhelming Practical help for UK train travel: tickets, railcards, reservations and routes Cutting wasted time and money by fixing geography and removing duplication Honest partner recommendations, personally vetted so you can book with confidence Visual planning through YouTube, Shorts, Reels and station walk-throughs Planners, toolkits and ebooks that save hours of research One to one consultations, video itinerary reviews and last minute Q&A sessions Facebook communities for reassurance, tips and real traveller experiences Wherever you are in your planning, pick one resource and start there. Listen to the podcast, read the articles on the website and watch Doug's videos on YouTube. Know someone planning a UK trip? Please share our resources, websites and podcast with them. And if you've enjoyed the show, send us a SpeakPipe message or leave a review on your favourite podcast app. It really helps. Happy UK Travel Planning! 📝 Show Notes - Episode 209 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #208
    July 7 · 51 min

    Northern England Road Trip: Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District and County Durham

    Tracy and Doug take you through the Northern England leg of their recent trip: a route across County Durham, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District that blends driving, trains and small group tours. The idea is simple. Copy what worked, skip the stress, and let the small practical tips make the big scenery easier to enjoy. In this episode: Picking up a hire car at Edinburgh Airport quickly via the tram, and why full cover takes the excess worry away Beamish Living Museum of the North: pit village life, period shops, the trams and a family history connection Planning Haworth around the steep cobbled hill, the right shoes, the car parks and Brontë Parsonage opening days A Yorkshire Dales loop taking in Ribblehead Viaduct, Dent station, Hawes and Wensleydale Creamery Finding "Darrowby" in Grassington for the All Creatures Great and Small filming locations Adding Malham Cove and Bolton Abbey, with a note on parking costs and access Switching from car to trains, including the Settle to Carlisle line and a York base right by the station Using Mountain Goat small group tours for the Dales and the Ten Lakes Spectacular to skip the driving and parking pressure Practical reminders: automatics, driving on the left, passing place etiquette and carrying coins for the loos Got a question after listening, or planning a trip to the north yourself? Send us a SpeakPipe message, and please share the podcast with anyone planning a UK trip. If you've enjoyed the show, a review on your favourite podcast app really helps. Happy UK Travel Planning! 📝 Show Notes - Episode 208 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #207
    June 30 · 49 min

    Scottish Islands Trip Part 2: Guide to Visiting the Isle of Mull

    Puffins that waddle right up to you, dolphins pacing the bow, sea eagles overhead and a sea cave so famous it sparked a Mendelssohn symphony. It all sounds like a once in a lifetime trip. We wanted to make it something you can actually plan, even if you are travelling without a car and juggling real-world ferry times, bus links and unpredictable Scottish weather. We pick up the journey in Oban and talk through a clear Inner Hebrides itinerary built around public transport: ferry over to the Isle of Mull, bus to Tobermory for a few nights, then a full day boat trip to Lunga for puffins and on to Staffa for Fingal's Cave. Along the way we share the unglamorous details that make or break island travel, like when to arrive as a foot passenger, what layers you genuinely need on the water, how popular tours sell out, and why bringing your own food is non-negotiable on some boat days. From there we cover the wider Mull experience with a guided wildlife tour for golden eagles and white tailed eagles, then travel across to Fionnphort for a day on Iona. We talk about Iona Abbey, the island's distinctive feel, the Book of Kells connection, and how to book ferries in the right order and handle cancellations when they happen. The trip finishes with a scenic ride to Fort William and an overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper, turning the journey home into part of the adventure. Subscribe, share with a friend planning a UK trip, and a quick review on your favourite podcast app means the world. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 207 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #206
    June 23 · 49 min

    UK Top 10: Best Cities, Castles, Museums and Day Trips

    We put ourselves on the spot with ten UK travel categories and share the places, journeys and moments we genuinely love after decades of travelling around the country. The conversation turns into a practical lesson on how to choose priorities for a first UK trip without getting overwhelmed. Favourite cities outside London, with York and Edinburgh highlights Best day trips from London, including Bath and multi-stop guided options Standout UK train journeys, from Settle to Carlisle to the Caledonian Sleeper British foods worth trying, including Scotch eggs and classic cakes Favourite churches and cathedrals, with Winchester, Salisbury and Canterbury Castles we recommend, from the Tower of London to Wales and Northumberland Wildlife and landscape moments, including puffins and Highland scenery Museums we never skip, from the V&A to the National Railway Museum Best seasons to visit the UK, comparing spring and early autumn One-place picks for first-time visitors, from Chatsworth to the Cotswolds If you'd like to get in touch, leave us a message on SpeakPipe. Share this with anyone you know who is planning a trip to the UK. If you've enjoyed the show, please leave us a review on your favourite podcast app. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 206 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #205
    June 16 · 42 min

    12 Things to See, Do and Experience in Edinburgh

    Edinburgh looks compact until you start climbing its hills, chasing viewpoints and discovering how much the Old Town packs into its closes and lanes. Fresh from five days in the city, Tracy and Doug cut through the noise with a clear, listener-friendly menu of their 12 favourite things to do in Edinburgh, drawn from decades of visits between them. Pick what fits your time, your budget and your energy. We start with the big hitters worth planning around first, then the practical bits that make or break a day: booking tickets early, timing your visits and wearing shoes that can handle steep streets. Here's what we cover: Edinburgh Castle: Crown Jewels, St Margaret's Chapel and why you need to book ahead in summer The Royal Mile: closes, courts, wynds and the hidden gardens most visitors walk straight past The Real Mary King's Close: Edinburgh's buried 17th century street, and what to expect if you don't love enclosed spaces Palace of Holyroodhouse: Mary Queen of Scots, Holyrood Abbey and why to check for last minute closures Arthur's Seat or Calton Hill: which viewpoint suits you, depending on your fitness level National Museum of Scotland: free entry, a brilliant rainy day option and a rooftop view most people miss Greyfriars Kirkyard: Greyfriars Bobby, grave robbers and the city's spookier side Camera Obscura: Victorian optical magic and five floors of illusions for families Edinburgh food and drink: haggis at Makars Mash Bar, whisky tastings and our favourite afternoon tea in the whole of the UK at The Dome Royal Yacht Britannia: take the tram to Leith Day trips with Rabbie's: St Andrews, Fife, Alnwick and Bamburgh (use code UKTP10 for 10% off via our link) Islander workshop: make your own Harris Tweed bag, and book ahead because it sells out Planning your own trip to Edinburgh? Leave us a SpeakPipe message with your questions, share this episode with anyone heading to Scotland, and if you enjoy the podcast we'd love you to leave a review on your favourite app. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 205 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #204
    June 9 · 54 min

    12 Things That Will Confuse You About London (Until You Know the Rules)

    London has its own unwritten rules and once you know them, the city makes so much more sense. In this episode Tracy and Doug share 12 things that confuse visitors most, so you can move around with confidence and make the most of every day. They cover: Tube map versus real distance and when walking beats taking the Underground London zones, daily caps, Oyster card versus contactless Tube etiquette: letting people off, escalator rules, and mind the gap Tower Bridge versus London Bridge and how to tell them apart Last entry times and planning attraction visits realistically Changing of the Guard: checking schedules, arriving early, and using a tour for the best view Yeoman Warders at the Tower of London: how they live and why a VIP tour is worth it Red phone box photos and why to check before stepping inside London black cabs and The Knowledge: why they are unlike any taxi in the world Afternoon tea versus high tea versus cream tea: what to expect and how to book Sundays in London: restricted trading hours and booking your Sunday roast Service charge and tipping: how to spot the 12.5% and avoid paying twice Pronunciation: Leicester Square, Greenwich, Southwark, Holborn, Tottenham, and the Marylebone debate. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 204 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #203
    June 2 · 1 hr 9 min

    Visiting London and the UK in Summer: Weather, Events + Best Places to Visit

    In this episode we bring together five local experts to share what UK summer travel really looks like from June through August, with practical advice on crowds, long daylight hours and booking ahead. We hop from Devon to the far north of Scotland, down to London, across the Cotswolds and up to the Lake District to help you plan days that feel memorable rather than hectic. Timing summer travel around school holidays and why June can feel calmer Booking accommodation and restaurants early, especially in rural areas Devon highlights including Dartmoor, coast days, literary tours and vineyard tastings Far north Scotland advice on long daylight hours, wildlife spotting and midge conditions London summer energy with parks, Thames walks, late-night galleries and seasonal royal access Cotswolds summer blooms with Hidcote, Kiftsgate, lavender fields and village fêtes Avoiding the Cotswolds honeypot villages by exploring quieter spots and countryside trails Lake District summer highlights including lake cruises, mountain passes, heritage railways and traditional local events Send us a message via SpeakPipe and if you've enjoyed the episode, a review on your favourite podcast app goes a long way in helping others find us. Happy UK Travel Planning! Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #202
    May 26 · 51 min

    Scottish Islands Road Trip Part 1: Lewis and Harris Travel Guide

    White sand beaches, ancient stone circles, single-track roads, and ferries that sell out months ahead. Scotland's islands are pure magic when you plan them properly, and we've just come back from an Outer Hebrides road trip ready to share the route and the reality so you can plan your own Lewis and Harris adventure with confidence. We start with the nuts and bolts: driving north from the Midlands, choosing the scenic Glencoe route, staying overnight in Ullapool, and taking the CalMac ferry to Stornoway. Then we get into what actually makes or breaks a Scottish islands itinerary, booking ferries first, locking in accommodation early, and building in flexibility for the weather. We also cover food strategy, from stocking up in Stornoway for self-catering to why reservations matter, plus a few standout places we genuinely rate. From there it's all on-the-ground tips for Lewis and Harris: how to handle passing places on single-track roads, what to watch for with lambs and livestock, when petrol stations might be shut, and why bilingual Scottish Gaelic signs are part of the experience. We finish with the moments you should not miss, beaches like Uig Sands and Luskentyre, the Callanish Stones, blackhouses, and local crafts including Harris Tweed, before giving an honest take on Skye's crowds, parking, and overtourism. Subscribe so you catch Part 2 on Mull and Iona, and if you enjoyed this one, a quick review on your favourite podcast app means the world. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 202 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #201
    May 19 · 39 min

    Before You Visit Edinburgh: 12 Things to Know Before Your First Trip

    We share 12 essential Edinburgh travel tips that help you avoid the common first-timer mistakes and plan a visit that actually feels relaxed. From pronunciation and neighbourhood choice to seasonal crowds, daylight, and the best add-ons beyond the Royal Mile, we make it easier to build an Edinburgh itinerary that fits your pace. Saying Edinburgh and Princes Street correctly Deciding how many nights you need and why three works well Choosing between Old Town and New Town for where to stay Understanding the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and why August requires advance booking Planning for hills, cobbles, steps and viewpoint walks like Calton Hill and Arthur's Seat Getting off the Royal Mile for better wandering, food and souvenirs Considering The Real Mary King's Close and booking ahead in summer Planning around Edinburgh daylight hours, fast-changing weather and seasonal pros and cons Taking the train from London to Edinburgh and using trams and buses once you arrive Visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse and checking closure dates Making time for Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia Building in breathing space plus easy day trips if you stay longer If you want help putting your full Scotland (or UK) itinerary together, Doug and I are available for consultations. Leave me a message via SpeakPipe and let me know what city or area you'd like me to talk through next. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 201 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #200
    May 12 · 55 min

    UK Travel Planning: Best Tips, Train Myths, and Must-See Destinations [200 Episodes Special]

    We celebrate 200 episodes by sharing the practical UK travel planning tips that save you time, money, and stress, plus the misconceptions that trip up first-time visitors. We also share the places that still surprise us and what we’re building next to help you plan a UK trip that feels doable and memorable. • grouping London attractions to cut wasted travel time • using supermarket meal deals to keep costs down • booking must do attractions in advance without overplanning everything • planning UK train routes early and comparing ticket and pass options • clearing up train myths around tickets “selling out” and paid seat reservations • building realistic itineraries with transfer time, rest breaks, and weather backup plans • getting beyond London with day trips to see more of the UK • destinations that surprised us most including Scottish islands and the Settle Carlisle line • British food myths plus what to try and why a food tour helps early on • what’s coming next including “before you visit” guides and London monthly events episodes • how to use our websites, YouTube channel, Facebook groups, freebies, and consults 📝 Show Notes - Episode 200 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #199
    May 5 · 1 hr 18 min

    Day Tours from London: What to Expect on an tour with The English Bus

    Some of the best day tours from London don't start with a train timetable - they start with stepping onto a small group minibus and letting someone else handle the route. We get out of London for the day and show how small group tours make big-ticket places feel easy, personal and genuinely memorable. We talk through four standout routes with The English Bus and share what to expect on the road, on the ground, and when it comes to booking. why a day trip from London changes how you see England meeting Chris Horsey and the English Bus approach to small group touring hearing from Lucy, one of the English Bus guides, on what makes each route special Stonehenge and Bath as a high-impact pairing across thousands of years of history Kent as a "petri dish" of English history from Romans to WWII White Cliffs viewpoints, Dover Castle highlights and how to use your time there Canterbury as an underrated city with cathedral time and a guided walk back Stratford upon Avon priorities including Shakespeare's birthplace Cotswolds villages, back roads, and why small vehicles matter for access Oxford walking tour tactics including watching for open college doors booking advice, lead times, age suitability, mobility considerations, and London pick-up points enter the exclusive 5% discount at checkout - UKTP5 - The English Bus ⭐️ Guest - Chris Horsey and Lucy from The English Bus 📝 Show Notes - Episode 199 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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  • #198
    April 28 · 1 hr 11 min

    12 Things That Will Confuse You in the UK (Until You Know the Rules)

    If you have ever been asked “You alright?” in Britain and wondered whether you look unwell, you are not alone. We’re decoding the everyday UK habits that catch travellers off guard, even when they’ve visited before. Tracy and Doug share a light, practical guide to the social rules that locals follow without thinking, so you can step off the plane feeling more confident and less confused. We talk through 12 classic British culture shocks that show up on UK holidays and London city breaks: the sacred art of queuing, the automatic “sorry” that appears even when someone else is in the wrong, and the understated way we describe everything from weather to opinions. We also dig into British humour, where irony and sarcasm often come with a straight face, plus the quiet etiquette on public transport where eye contact can feel like a major event. Along the way, we tackle UK travel essentials that save time and embarrassment: how ordering works in a pub, what “buying a round” really means, how tipping works in restaurants versus pubs, and why UK place name pronunciation is basically its own sport. We also clear up the difference between Great Britain and the United Kingdom and why Scottish and Welsh identity matters. If you’re planning UK travel, subscribe for weekly destination guides and practical tips, share this with a friend visiting Britain, and leave us a review so more travellers can find the podcast. 📝 Show Notes - Episode 198 Planning your UK or Ireland trip? Rabbie's small-group tours are a brilliant way to see more without the hassle of driving or planning it all yourself. With departures including Edinburgh, London and Dublin, it's easy to add a multi-day adventure to your itinerary. See their tours and current offers: Rabbies. com. Use code UKTP10 for 10% off. Support the show 🗺 FREE UK Trip Planning Roadmap - plan your UK trip step by step ⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you: UK Trip Quick Answers - a 30-minute live Zoom for your UK trip questions. Video Reviews (available anytime) - send us your itinerary for detailed feedback. 1:1 Consultations - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. 🚆 Travelling by train? - Get expert help from Doug, our resident rail expert with 25+ years on the UK network. 🎤 Leave us a voice message ➡️ Sponsor our show ➡️ Leave us a tip Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries. Disclaimer: Some links are affiliate links. Using them supports the podcast ...

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Showing 1–20 of 23 episodes