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Episode 129 – Happy Christmas 2024 from UKTP & partners

As the holiday season unfolds, we’re taking a moment to share heartfelt gratitude with our cherished listeners! Doug and I want to extend our warm wishes for a joyous Christmas and a bright New Year as we announce a festive pause before returning with a special year-end episode on December 31st. 

This episode 129 is a special thank you to all who have supported our podcast journey—whether you’re a regular listener, a website reader, or a social media follower. Our community has grown and thrived, and we are eager to continue this journey with you into 2025. 

We also have the pleasure of sharing holiday messages from some of our wonderful partners, each adding a sprinkle of festive cheer and exciting travel ideas for the coming year.

Ollie from Discover Real London, Lisa from Go Cotswolds, Andrew from Expedition Yorkshire, Chris from The English Bus, Domi from Scalens Studio, Riz from XFA Cars, John Cortese from Tripiamo, John from Boutique Tours of North Wales, Robert from North Coast Explorer Tours, and Charley from Take Walks and Devour Food Tours join us to share their holiday greetings and a peek into what they have planned for travellers in 2025. 

From iconic London tours to the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, Far North Scotland and Yorkshire, our partners reflect on the memorable experiences they’ve curated this year and invite you to explore more with them. 

As we wrap up another remarkable year, the connections we’ve made with our travel community are what we cherish most. Here’s to more adventures, laughter, and unforgettable journeys in the New Year. 

Happy holidays from all of us at UK Travel Planning!

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🎉We did it! We passed 350,000 downloads of the UK TRAVEL PLANNING PODCAST! 🎧Thank you to each and every one of you who has listened to the podcast. ❤️ And a HUGE thank you in particular to our monthly sponsors - we appreciate you so much. 

Thank you to all of our guests 💕 - we love chatting with you about your trips. Plus of course all our wonderful partners (who all agree to come onto the podcast - some on multiple occasions!) 

My next aim - 1 million! Come on team we can do it! 💪

#podcast #travelpodcast #travelpodcaster #uktravel #uktravelpodcast #uktravelplanning #uktravelplanningpodcast
In episode 127 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins is joined by Melissa Jones, a first-time international traveller from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who shares her exciting London trip report. Melissa recounts her solo adventures in London, from iconic landmarks like Trafalgar Square, Kensington Palace, and the Tower of London, to cultural gems such as the Victoria and Albert Museum. Discover her tips for planning an itinerary, navigating public transport, and the importance of pre-booking attractions to avoid long queues.

Melissa also shares her experiences of indulging in traditional British cuisine, including sticky toffee pudding, fish and chips, and a memorable afternoon tea at Claridge’s.

She offers insights into her shopping adventures, highlighting unique finds from Covent Garden’s antique market and London’s renowned department stores. Whether you’re curious about solo travel in London or eager to hear about Melissa’s favourite spots and tips, this episode is packed with inspiration for your own UK adventure.

#outandaboutwithuktravelplanning #uktravelplanningpodcast #uktravelplanning #uktravel #visitbritain #travelpodcast #solotravel #tripreport #visitlondon #highclerecastle #london🇬🇧
December is one of the most magical times of the year to visit London. ✨

The city comes alive with festive spirit, offering visitors an unforgettable experience filled with twinkling lights, seasonal events, and that quintessential holiday charm. 🎅

The streets are adorned with sparkling decorations, from the iconic Oxford Street lights to the enchanting displays in Covent Garden. 🎊

London’s historic landmarks, like Tower Bridge and St. Paul’s Cathedral, look especially beautiful when framed by festive illuminations or, if you’re lucky, a light dusting of frost. ❄️

For those looking for unique experiences, there’s plenty beyond the usual lists of activities.

👉 Head to Hampton Court Palace to experience an outdoor ice rink set against the stunning backdrop of Tudor architecture, or take a candlelit tour of the historic palace for a more atmospheric evening.

👉 For a quirky seasonal twist, visit the Cutty Sark in Greenwich, where special winter storytelling sessions bring maritime history to life for all ages.

👉 If you’re after something more serene, the Geffrye Museum offers a fascinating look at Christmas traditions through time, set in beautifully preserved period rooms.

👉 For foodies, indulge in a winter feast at the Pergola Paddington, an open-air rooftop dining experience made cozy with heaters, blankets, and festive menus.

December in London offers endless opportunities to soak up the festive atmosphere, making it a truly magical time to visit. With so much to do, you’re sure to leave the city with a heart full of holiday spirit and memories to last a lifetime. 🎄
In episode 126 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast unlock the secrets of London with our latest adventure, where we promise you’ll discover how to explore the best of the city without emptying your wallet.

Join us as we navigate through a London three-day itinerary masterfully designed by Daryl Bennett from GoCity, revealing not just the famous landmarks like the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral but also hidden treasures such as the immersive art of Frameless and the historical gems of the Florence Nightingale Museum.

In our previous conversation with Daryl (UK Travel Planning Podcast Episode #106), we uncovered strategies for maximizing the London Pass to make your journey enjoyable and cost-effective. In this episode, we test it out! 

Experience the ease and flexibility of the London Pass app, from the modern art delights of the Moco Museum to the historical depths of Apsley House and the majestic views from the Greenwich Meridian – Daryl’s itinerary offers something for every traveller. 

Whether a scenic Thames ride to Greenwich or an insightful Yeoman Warder tour at the Tower of London, our episode guarantees a comprehensive guide to making the most of your time in London with the London Pass. 

#outandaboutwithuktravelplanning #uktravelplanningpodcast #uktravelplanning #uktravel #visitbritain #travelpodcast #londonpass #londonitinerary #visitgreenwich #londoneye #stpaulscathedral #toweroflondon #cuttysark #mocomuseum
✨ London’s Christmas Lights ✨

Get into the festive spirit with some of London’s most magical Christmas light displays:

1️⃣ Covent Garden 🎄✨
2️⃣ Burlington Arcade 🎁💎
3️⃣ Cartier, New Bond Street 💎🎀
4️⃣ Royal Arcade 🌟🎄
5️⃣ Regent Street 🎅✨

And there’s more to come! Follow for more festive London spots over the next few days 🎄🎥 

#londonchristmaslights #festivelondon #christmasinlondon #outandaboutwithuktravelplanning #uktravelplanningpodcast #uktravelplanning #london