UK Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

The United Kingdom is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

While Northern Ireland is part of the UK, the Republic of Ireland is a separate country.

HOT Tip

You'll hear a huge variety of accents across the UK. Don't panic if you don't understand every word at first. Even locals sometimes struggle to understand each other!

New Zealand passport holders can usually visit the UK for up to six months as a visitor without needing a visa.

Always check the latest UK entry requirements on SafeTravel before you travel.

The UK uses the British Pound Sterling (£) and locals often refer to pounds as quid.

The UK’s tipping culture is a bit more generous than ours in New Zealand, but nowhere near the American level.

As a general rule, aim to tip around 10% at restaurants, unless the service was truly dreadful (in which case, don’t feel obliged).

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory.

A good rule of thumb for tipping:

• Restaurants: 10 to 12.5%
• Taxis: Round up the fare
• Hotel porters: £1 to £2 per bag
• Pubs: Not expected, but always appreciated

Check your bill before tipping, as many restaurants automatically add a service charge.

In pubs, the old phrase “And one for yourself” still gets a run.

After a 24+ hour journey from New Zealand, navigating London can feel overwhelming.

While Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted all have excellent rail connections into London, many travellers appreciate the ease of a pre-booked airport transfer, especially after a longhaul flight.

HOT Tip

If you're landing in London early morning after an overnight flight, book your airport transfer and first night's accommodation before leaving New Zealand. You'll thank yourself later.

The UK has one of the world's most extensive transport networks.

London Underground (The Tube)

The Tube is often the fastest and easiest way to get around London. Use your contactless credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or a Visitor Oyster Card.

Trains

Train travel is one of the best ways to explore the UK. Journey to Edinburgh, Manchester, Bath, York, Liverpool and more. Booking rail tickets several months head can save you significant money.

Driving in the UK

Hiring a car makes it much easier to get around, especially if you’re planning to explore the Scottish Highlands, Cornwall, Lake District, Snowdonia, Cotswolds or Northern Ireland.

Remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road, just like New Zealand.

HOT Tip

Avoid travelling on the Tube during weekday peak hours if possible. The difference in comfort is remarkable.

Advance train fares can often cost less than half the price of tickets purchased on the day of travel.

One thing every visitor learns quickly is that UK weather can change on a dime.

Spring - March to May

Mild temperatures, blooming gardens and fewer crowds.

Summer - June to August

The warmest months for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Autumn - September to November

Beautiful autumn colours and generally fewer tourists.

Winter - December to February

Christmas markets, cosy pubs and occasional snow, particularly in Scotland and northern England.

HOT Tip

Always pack a waterproof jacket, regardless of the season. The UK is famous for experiencing four seasons in one day.

Queueing matters

Brits take queueing seriously. Skip the line and you'll likely receive some very disapproving looks.

Football is huge

Football is more than a sport in the UK. If you have the opportunity, attend a live match for an unforgettable experience.

Embrace British humour

Sarcasm is practically a national language. Don't take everything literally and you'll fit right in.

HOT Tip

A friendly Cheers works for almost everything - Thank you, goodbye, sounds good and even you're welcome!

Explore London

No UK holiday is complete without visiting Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge and the British Museum.

Discover Scotland

Experience Edinburgh Castle, Loch Ness, Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands.

Visit the Cotswolds

Picture-perfect villages, historic pubs and quintessential English countryside.

Explore Northern Ireland

Don't miss Giant's Causeway, Belfast and Causeway Coastal Route.

Experience Wales

Discover castles, mountains and spectacular coastal scenery.

Many travellers spend most of their holiday in London, but some of the UK's most rewarding experiences lie beyond its capital.

Picture yourself driving through the Scottish Highlands, exploring charming villages in the Cotswolds, hiking coastal paths in Cornwall, discovering historic castles in Wales, or enjoying a traditional pub lunch in a market town that hasn't changed in centuries.

Our UK specialists can help you create an itinerary that combines world-famous highlights with authentic local experiences.

Whether you're planning a UK self-drive holiday, a family adventure, a rail journey or a once-in-a-lifetime Britain and Ireland itinerary, let your local House of Travel UK specialist help you make every day count.

To roam or not to roam, that is the question. For stays longer than a few days, a local SIM card or eSIM is usually far more cost-effective than international roaming.

Many plans include generous data allowances and UK-wide coverage.

Yes, tap water throughout the UK is safe to drink and readily available.

HOT Tip

Bring a reusable water bottle. Many cafés, attractions and public spaces offer free refill stations.

If you want a truly memorable UK holiday, spend a night in a castle.

From Scottish Highland estates and historic English manors to luxury castle hotels in Wales and Northern Ireland, there are incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in Britain's rich history while enjoying modern comforts. Many castle stays offer fine dining, falconry experiences, whiskey tastings, historic tours and beautiful gardens and grounds to stroll through.

The UK is incredibly family-friendly. The kids will love a Harry Potter Studio tour, discovering Edinburgh Castle, visiting the Tower of London, the Natural History Museum, Warwick Castle, the National Railway Museum, Legoland Windsor, Madame Tussauds and so much more.

Many museums across the UK are free, making it easier to travel with children without constantly reaching for your wallet.

The UK uses Type G plugs. Kiwi travellers will need a UK travel adapter.

The UK is generally a very safe destination.

For emergencies call: 999

This connects you to:

• Police
• Ambulance
• Fire Service
• Coastguard

HOT Tip

Register your travel plans with SafeTravel before departure and keep digital copies of key travel documents stored securely online.

Speak to your local House of Travel UK specialist and let us help you plan your dream UK holiday. From London's iconic sights and Scotland's breathtaking landscapes to Wales' castles and Northern Ireland's spectacular coastline, the UK offers something for every type of traveller.