A little more
United Kingdom.
A lot less roaming.

Travelling to United Kingdom: what to know before you go

The United Kingdom brings together England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, from London's museums and theatres to Highland glens, prehistoric stone circles, castle-topped towns and coastal paths. Distances are short but variety is huge, so it suits city-breakers, walkers and history lovers, especially those willing to venture beyond London.

Where to go

• London. Many of the major museums, including the British Museum, the Natural History Museum and Tate Modern, are free to enter.
• Edinburgh. Scotland's capital is built around a castle on a volcanic rock, with the Royal Mile running down to Holyrood Palace and Arthur's Seat rising behind.
• Scottish Highlands and Skye. Lochs, mountains and single-track roads.
• The Lake District. England's largest national park, with fells to climb, lakes such as Windermere and Ullswater, and the homes of William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.

Best time to visit

Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September) often bring the best balance of mild weather, long days and fewer crowds. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, with school holidays and festivals.

Staying online in United Kingdom

Mobile coverage is good in cities, towns and along main roads and railways, with 4G across most populated areas and 5G in many cities. Coverage is patchier in the Scottish Highlands and islands, in parts of Wales and in some national parks and rural valleys, where you may have no signal for stretches. Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, pubs, hotels, museums and on many trains. Download offline maps before visiting remote areas. Install an eSIM before you fly and switch it on when you land.