The British Isle of England, Scotland and Wales dates back to 6500BC when the English Channel was formed, creating an island separate from the rest of Europe. Since then its been evolving, surviving invasions, occupation and two World Wars, and has shaped itself into a rich multicultural, yet proudly traditional, nation and a dominant world-player. Today the ever-changing face of Britain is an enticing mix of diversity, fascinating history, royal customs and breathtaking natural beauty that belies its tiny geographical mass.
Visa & passport
Australian citizens holding a valid passport may stay up to 180 days without a visa depending on reason for travel.
Local customs
Shaking hands is a common greeting. Smoking is banned in all public places, including pubs and restaurants throughout Britain.
Languages
English; some Welsh spoken in Wales and some Gaelic in Scotland.
Currency
Pound Sterling (GBP)
Electricity
230V 50 Hz
Handy tips in the free newspaper
Pick up a copy of Metro, a free colour newspaper distributed each weekday morning in the 16 major cities across Britain.
Metro contains information about what is hot and happening in the local area, entertainment previews, free events, food and drink recommendations, ticket offers plus local weather and travel information. During the school holidays it also has great information about things to keep the children amused (although don’t forget the British school holiday year is different). Designed to be read within twenty minutes, copies of Metro are placed in neat piles at the entrance of Underground stations so they can be picked up at the start of your journey.
Museums
Britain is famed for its many and varied tourist attractions, and a great place to start is at one of the thousands of fascinating museums across the country. All National Museums and Art Galleries are now free to the general public (although you do have to pay for some special exhibitions), including London’s fantastic National History Museum, home of the dinosaurs, a vast collection from the natural world, and hundreds of interactive exhibits to educate and entertain the children. Also included are the Science Museum and The Museum of London, the Tate Liverpool Modern Art Gallery, Manchester’s Museum of Science and Industry and many others.
Sport
Football, rugby and cricket are national obsessions and there can be no better afternoon spent than cheering on the local team to victory. Getting tickets to the biggest games isn’t always easy, but most of the major stadiums and grounds offer cheap, or free, behind-the-scenes tours for sports fanatics. You probably won’t get to see the big guns like Manchester United or Chelsea, but you can generally pick up other match-day tickets at the gate.
Accommodation
Your family will love these child-friendly accommodation options…
1. 1–2 The Mansions Apartments, London
Spacious apartments located in the heart of Earl’s Court, equipped with washing machines.
2. Holyrood Apartments, Edinburgh
Fabulous apartments located just off the Royal Mile, close to the Palace of Holyrood.
3. Mayflower Hotel, London
Few hotels offer rooms big enough to accommodate 4 people, however the Mayflower Hotel offers rooms with 2 double beds.
Activities
Keep the family entertained with these favourite activities…
1. Madame Tussauds Waxworks, London
A full day of fun for the whole family, featuring international celebrity wax figures and interactive displays.
2. London Eye, London
The worlds largest observation wheel, at 135m high, the London Eye provides views for up to 40km on a clear day.
Accommodation
Looking for a stay to remember?
1. Cringletie House & Castle, Edinburgh
Located 30 minutes from Edinburgh, Cringletie House & Castle is the perfect place for a romantic getaway.
2. Guoman Cumberland, London
Located at the top of Park Lane and Marble Arch, this modern hotel is home to celebrity chef Gary Rhodes.
Activities
Remember your visit to Britain with these great experiences…
1. West End Theatre, London
A visit to London is not complete without a night at the theatre to see one of the many West End shows.
2. Scottish Evening Dinner, Edinburgh
Wine and dine during a traditional Scottish evening, filled with music, song and dance. A colourful evening in true Scottish style.
Accommodation
Surround yourself with British history…
1. Duisdale Country House Hotel, Isle of Skye
A grand Victorian house and former hunting lodge, standing on the Sleat hillside, south of the breathtakingly beautiful Isle of Skye.
2. Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club, Edinburgh
A Baronial manor built in 1724, this hotel is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and has views of Edinburgh Castle.
Activities
Discover Britain’s history with a visit to these places…
1. Buckingham Palace State Rooms, London
Visit the official London residence of Her Majesty The Queen, which opens its doors to tourists in August and September.
2. Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Roman Baths, England
Visit the oldest occupied castle in the world, the mysterious collection of stones over 5000 years old and the Roman baths.
3. Loch Lomond National Park & Stirling Castle, Scotland
See Scotland’s largest freshwater loch and visit the castle that was the royal residence of the Stuart Kings of Scotland.
Accommodation
1. The Ritz, London
Dating back to the early 20th century, this is one of Britain’s most prestigious hotels, and the epitome of sophistication and beauty.
2. Royal Garden Hotel, London
Located on Kensington High Street and overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens, home of the late Princess of Wales.
3. The Balmoral, Edinburgh
Built to accommodate royalty on their way from London to the Scottish Highlands, this hotel is close to luxury department stores.
Activities
Live it up in Britain with personalised service…
1. Private Car Transfers, London
Travel to your London accommodation from Gatwick or Heathrow airports by private vehicle, operated on demand.
2. First Class Eurostar Ticket
The easiest way to travel between London and Paris. Travel first class and enjoy fine food and champagne served to your seat.
Accommodation
Looking for accommodation that offers real value?
1. 2 Hyde Park Square, London
Two children under 12 years stay free of charge, sharing a small sofa bed, when accompanied by 2 adults. Close to Marble Arch.
2. Thistle Marble Arch, London
Two children under 16 years stay free of charge when travelling with 2 adults and sharing existing bedding.
Activities
See the best of Britain and experience real value with these passes…
1. London Sightseeing Pass
Offering entry to over 60 London tourist attractions and exhibitions, this sightseeing pass provides great value and convenience.
2. Great British Heritage Pass, London
Providing entry to over 600 historic houses, castles and gardens across Britain, this pass ensures your visit is more affordable.
3. The British Museum, London
Spend days wandering the halls of this famous museum. With no entrance fees, it is a great way to save money.
Touring
Experience Britain’s scenic countryside…
1. Wild Green Tours, Edinburgh
A chance to get back to nature, with cultural, historical and gourmet experiences throughout Scotland’s Highlands and Islands.
2. EuroBike Cycling Tour, England
See dramatic castles and explore the pretty villages and coastal towns of England by bicycle.
3. EuroHike Walking Tour, England
Walk along the Cornwall coastline, through picturesque fishing villages and the past dramatic cliffs of the Lizard Peninsula.
Activities
See the sites and discover Britain’s great outdoors…
1. Trike Tours, Edinburgh
A fun and exhilarating way to see Edinburgh. Feel the wind in your hair, touring the historic and medieval sites by trike.
2. Central London Bicycle Tour, London
Cycle along the River Thames past London’s landmarks such as Big Ben, the London Eye and Westminster Abbey.
Abbey Hotel 3-star Bath, England Abbey Hotel (city centre) is the best located tourist hotel in Bath. Located in the oldest part of the city, it has the Roman Baths, Thermae Spa, Putney Bridge, Sally Lunn's, Bath Rugby Club, Parade Gardens, the main shopping centre and great restaurants all on its doorstep. Read More »
Currently, there is no product for this specific listing.
If you are interested this destination please contact a travel agent to find a great package or further information.
Currently, there is no product for this specific listing.
If you are interested this destination please contact a travel agent to find a great package or further information.