London becomes a magical winter wonderland at Christmas, with sparkling lights, festive markets, and iconic decorations. But visiting during the holidays also means closures, no public transport on Christmas Day, and the need to book key experiences well in advance.

In this episode, Tracy shares practical tips on:

• What’s open and closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day
• How to get around when public transport stops (and the National Express option)
• Where to book a Christmas Day meal — and why reservations are essential
• Stocking up on groceries before supermarkets close
• The best lights, markets & festive highlights to add to your itinerary
• How to plan for New Year’s Eve fireworks and the New Year’s Day Parade

Later, Tracy is joined by Ollie from Discover Real London to chat about their private Black Cab Christmas Lights Tours - a cosy, personalised way to experience the city’s festive sparkle.

Whether you’re exploring markets, strolling quiet streets on Christmas Day, or celebrating New Year’s in London, this episode has everything you need to plan your perfect holiday trip.

Visit London Travel Planning for articles on London's Christmas lights and festive activities.

Consider supporting the podcast from just $3 per month to help us continue providing valuable UK travel planning information.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 170

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #71 – Unveiling the Magic: London at Christmas [Top Things to Do and See]
• Episode #23 – Visiting London in December
• Episode #154 Winter Travel in London and the UK From Coastal Walks to Christmas Magic

Support the show

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations (Jan–Feb 2026 slots NOW available) - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. Book before 1 Nov 2025 to secure today’s price

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Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

Scotland promises unforgettable adventures, but even the best-planned trips can be derailed by a few common mistakes. In this episode, we reveal fifteen pitfalls travellers often make and share practical advice to help your Scottish journey run smoothly.

Here are just some of the mistakes we discuss:

• Visiting Edinburgh in August during the Fringe Festival or Military Tattoo without booking accommodation and restaurants well in advance
• Underestimating the impact of midges in the Highlands and islands during summer
• Forgetting how unpredictable Scottish weather can be — even in the middle of July
• Limiting your trip to just Edinburgh or Skye when Scotland offers so much more
• Attempting to squeeze too much into a short itinerary, especially on long drives like the NC500
• Failing to secure accommodation, ferries, or restaurants months ahead in popular destinations
• Assuming driving is the only way to explore Scotland, instead of considering scenic train journeys
• Not packing layers and waterproofs for every season
• Calling Scots “English” or mispronouncing place names like Edinburgh (“Edin-bra”) and Glasgow
• Skipping traditional Scottish food and drink, such as haggis, neeps and tatties, a full Scottish breakfast, whisky tastings, or even Irn-Bru
• Rushing instead of allowing time to slow down, soak up the atmosphere, and connect with locals

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, don’t let these simple mistakes spoil your adventure. Take the time to explore beyond the tourist hotspots, prepare for every kind of weather, and immerse yourself in the culture, history, and warm hospitality that make Scotland such a special destination.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 169

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #145 – Exploring Scotland by Rail: Edinburgh to Inverness Train Travel Tips
• Episode #140 Navigating the North Coast 500: Essential Tips for Your Scottish Adventure
• Episode #58 Edinburgh Travel 101: Essential T

For more information and to book a consult or video review, visit our website UK Travel Planning.

Support the show

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations (Jan–Feb 2026 slots NOW available) - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. Book before 1 Nov 2025 to secure today’s price

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!

This week on the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Amy Carpenter from Texas, who shares her unforgettable two-week adventure exploring England with her husband, Mark.

Amy takes us through the highlights of their carefully planned itinerary, from the bustling streets of London to the charm of the Cotswolds, iconic castles, and literary landmarks. Highlights included Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason, and quiet moments at St Dunstan in the East.

In the Cotswolds, they based themselves in Bourton-on-the-Water, explored honey-coloured villages, and visited Sudeley Castle at dusk. A lifelong Jane Austen fan, Amy fulfilled a dream by visiting Bath, Winchester, and Chawton. Staying overnight at Hever Castle was a standout, giving them the rare chance to explore the grounds after closing time.

Along the way, Amy discovered a love of steak and ale pie, picked up 21 tea towels as keepsakes, and gathered plenty of tips for fellow travellers — from using trusted transfer services to the importance of planning ahead.

Whether you are a history buff, a Jane Austen devotee, or simply dreaming of your own UK escape, Amy’s trip report is filled with practical advice and plenty of inspiration for your next journey across the pond.

📝 Show Notes - Episode 168

🎧 Listen to next

• Episode #127 - Trip Report with Melissa Jones
• Episode #123 - Trip Report with Cathy Stephens
• Episode #114 - Trip Report with Krista Beck

For more information and to book a consult or video review, visit our website UK Travel Planning.

Support the show

⭐️ Need help planning your UK trip? Choose the option that works best for you:

• Video Reviews (available anytime) — send us your itinerary for detailed feedback.
• 1:1 Consultations (Jan–Feb 2026 slots NOW available) - live Zoom session with Doug & Tracy. Book before 1 Nov 2025 to secure today’s price

🎤 Leave us a voice message via SpeakPipe

➡️ Sponsor our show by clicking here
➡️ Leave us a tip by clicking here

Work With Us - Contact info@uktravelplanning.com for brand partnerships and business inquiries.

Thank you ❤️

Disclaimer: Some outbound links financially benefit the podcast through affiliate programs. Using our links is a small way to support the show at no additional cost. I only endorse products, programs, and services I use and would recommend to close friends and family. Thank you for the support!