What Things Cost in the UK: Travel Essentials

This section of The Tudor Travel Guide is designed for Tudorphiles who love to pack their bags, hit the road and connect to the past by standing in the places where Tudor history was made! Once again, I welcome Philippa Brewell from British History Tours, who partners with me on this podcast. Together, we explore a common travel query for overseas visitors: what things cost in the UK. We share our top tips for how to travel to Tudor-themed locations in the UK on any budget.

Please note: This page is intended as a show notes page to accompany the relevant Travel Essentials podcast episode. I recommend you listen to the conversation and use this blog for reference. You will find links to the topic under discussion towards the end of this blog.

What Things Cost in the UK: Travelling by Road, Rail or River

Travel in London: As the capital city, London can be an expensive place to visit. With careful planning, you can choose transport, accommodation and entry/admission options that suit your budget. Generally, the Thames Clipper boats, buses or trains are the most economical travel options. Oyster Cards or contactless credit/debit cards can be used as payment for most travel options across London within the London fare zones. See the relevant links below for further information.

Remember, if you are planning to drive in London, it is advisable to check which areas are within the congestion charge zone and the ULEZ (Ultra Low Emissions Zone) before you travel. We also recommend checking parking availability and prices with your hotel ahead of your trip.

Booking times: Booking your hotel as soon as possible is always best. However, the best deals for train tickets are available around 8-12 weeks before you travel. Look out for upgrade options too – for some longer journeys, an upgrade can result in a comfier journey!

Attractions: Here in the UK, we’re lucky to have free entry to many museums, churches and cathedrals. English Heritage also cares for many sites that are in ruins, including many abbeys and castles. Some of these can also be accessed free of charge. Check their website or app for further information. Again, some useful links are included at the end of this article.

Recommended Places to Stay: Freston Tower, Suffolk

Finding a wonderful place to stay is essential to that perfect vacation or road trip. Arguably, built to coincide with Elizabeth I’s visit to Ipswich in August 1579, Freston Tower is steeped in history. Coupled with breath-taking views across the River Orwell, it’s not to be missed off your accommodation list. Thanks to one of our listeners, Lisa, for sharing her top accommodation tip with us. Freston Tower is managed by The Landmark Trust. If you want more information about it, follow this link.

What Things Cost in the UK: Some Essential Links

We hope you enjoyed listening to Philippa and me discussing what things cost in the UK. Please see the links below if you want to learn more about any resources we mention in the podcast. You may also be interested in reading an earlier blog article on The Tudor Travel Guide: Visiting the UK: A History Lovers’ Essential Guide.

Other Useful Links:

Thames Clippers
Transport for London
Tube Travel, London
Uber Travel, London
Bus Travel, London
Oyster Card, London
Congestion Charge, London
National Trust
English Heritage
Visit England, free entry
London to Edinburgh Sleeper Trains

I hope you have enjoyed listening to this podcast episode and have picked up a couple of tips around what things cost when travelling around the UK – and how to save some money along the way. Remember, this is your port of call for any questions about travelling to and around the UK and visiting your favourite Tudor places.