8-Day England Itinerary - London, Oxford, The Cotswolds & Bath

This week, we’re heading to England for a magical blend of iconic city moments, storybook villages, and grand Georgian elegance. From London’s world-class museums, royal landmarks, and buzzing neighborhoods to the honey-stone cottages of the Cotswolds and the thermal waters of Bath, this 8-day itinerary captures the very best of southern England.

Join Tyla as she shares travel-tested tips from multiple trips across the UK, reveals her favourite cosy corners of London, and guides you through Oxford’s historic lanes, the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds, and the unforgettable charm of Bath.

Grab a cup of coffee, get comfy and let's escape to England together!

In this episode you'll learn...

• Best times of year to visit London, Oxford, the Cotswolds & Bath
• Must-see sights and essential experiences in London
• The prettiest Cotswolds villages to add to your route
• How to navigate transport, driving tips, and helpful booking tools
• Hidden gems, cosy pubs, and beautiful scenic stops along the way!

Links & Resources Mentioned

• Booking Trains - Omio and Trainline
• Official Cotswolds Website
• Roman Baths Official Website

What's next? 

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✨Download the itinerary at travelwithtyla.com

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Transcript

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Imagine a place where history and everyday life intertwine. Narrow lanes and red double decker buses wind past bookshops, markets, and cozy cafes. Georgian stone buildings rise above quiet gardens, while a gentle river flows beneath century-old bridges. Beyond the city, rolling hills and honey-colored villages glow warmly in the sun, and ancient thermal waters invite you to slow down and simply be. This is the cinematic cozy magic of England. And today I'm taking you on an eight-day journey through London, Oxford, the Cotsworlds, and Bath. Hi friends, and welcome back to Travel with Tyler, the travel podcast where each week we build a gorgeous European itinerary together, step by step. I'm Tyler, your host, travel planner, and Europe-obsessed storyteller. And today's itinerary is one that is beyond magical as England has this unique atmosphere that oozes with history, coziness, century-old tea rooms, and that sense of old and new weaving together so seamlessly. Now, this eight-day itinerary is absolutely perfect if you're visiting England for the first time. But it's equally lovely for returning travelers who want a comfortable balance of big city classics, charming university towns, countryside villages, and elegant Georgian architecture. As always, I'm here to guide you through exactly what to see, what to expect, how to pace yourself, and where to soak in those magical little moments that make a trip truly unforgettable. This itinerary is also ideal for travelers who love history, architecture, literature, culture, and even food. Yes, England actually does have some pretty delicious and hearty meals you will want to try. Add in some iconic London landmarks and idyllic Cotsville villages that look straight out of a storybook, and you've got a pretty epic trip through England. Now, in terms of seasons, England really shines between late spring and mid-autumn. May, June, and September are particularly lovely with mild weather, lighter crowds, and long evening light. July and August are by far the busiest, but also wonderfully vibrant, especially for West End theatre lovers and long walks in the countryside. If you can only travel between mid-April and mid-May, then rest assured you'll be delighted, as this is when the forest floor turns a vibrant purple thanks to a carpet of bluebells adding yet another layer of magic and wonder to your visit. That being said, if you want to see the English countryside at its most colourful, then you simply must plan a visit in October, as this is when the autumn foliage is at its peak. Plus, if you adore anything festive, then December is when London and Bath transform into the dreamiest Christmas destinations, with grand light displays, mold wine, and cozy Christmas markets. The cotwards are also lovely at this time of year with lower visitor numbers, and if you add in a gentle dusting of snow, then you can recreate your favourite scenes from the holiday movie. Though I can't guarantee any appearance from Jude Law. Okay, let's not delay this dreamy England voyage anymore. When you're ready, grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let's escape to England. Each airport offers easy and fast connections into the city. And depending on your energy levels, you can choose a fast express train available to and from Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, and Stansted, or opt for a more affordable public transport option, including available metros and buses. These typically take longer, but you can save a lot of your travel dollars doing so. The most convenient and expensive way to reach the city centre is by taxi, Uber, or a pre-booked private transfer. Just be aware, no matter which airport you are coming from, it will likely be over £100 to reach the city centre. But if you're seeking comfort and ease navigating London traffic after a long flight, then this really is the best choice. Just a little side note, if you plan to travel to London from either Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam, then the easiest way to do so is by taking the Eurostar train, which takes you from the centre of one city straight to the other. It really is such a great way to cross the channel and also avoid having to get in and out of the city centre. Okay, now getting back to the itinerary. Once you reach London City Centre, it's time to check into your hotel, freshen up, and maybe take a few moments to rest. But if you can, please try to avoid taking a nap as staying awake is by far the best way to beat the jet lag and adjust to your new time zone. For your accommodation, I recommend choosing to stay somewhere central. Covent Garden is great for the theater and market atmosphere, while South Kensington is better if you're seeking to be in the Karma Museum District. For the most central, you simply cannot beat Westminster, with close proximity to icons such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. My personal favourite area to stay in is Notting Hill for its more colourful, residential, and slightly whimsical atmosphere. But as it is a little further out, it will make getting around a little more complicated, so maybe save it for a second visit. All that being said, no matter what neighborhood you choose, London will do its very best to wrap you up in its unique rhythm and infectious energy. Now, since this is your arrival day, I do want to advise you to take things slowly. One of my top first day London recommendations is to take a gentle afternoon walk, allowing yourself to slowly begin soaking in the electric vibe of London, but without overwhelming your jet-lagged brain. A perfect route is to begin at Trafalgar Square, where the stone lions keep watch over the fountains, and then wander through the arcades of Covent Garden with its buskers, boutiques, and charming cafes. From there, continue towards Leicester Square, where neon signs glow and theaters line the streets. It's lively and fun, but still easy enough for tired travelers. And if you are visiting at Christmas, then you can continue this walk up Regent Street where you'll see the iconic Angel Canopy, and then onwards to Oxford Street, where over 300,000 LED lights and 5,000 stars hang above the street and create a truly sensational sight. As you find yourself becoming hungry, I then suggest finding a classic British pub for dinner. There's something so warm and cozy about starting your trip with a roast dinner, a pint of local ale, and the hum of conversation around you. The first proper British pub I went to was with a group of friends, and we couldn't help but giggle as everything on the menu had been written in either old English or Cockney slang, so we actually didn't know what we ordered until it showed up on the table. It was a risk, to be sure, but thankfully everything tasted delicious. This type of experience is both comforting and unmistakably British. You may even say it's the perfect welcome to England. Welcome to your second day in England, and today is all about seeing the London classics. It's the places you've most likely seen in photos or heard about in movies and books. I suggest starting your morning in the Westminster area where history oozes from the very architecture that surrounds you. Planning a visit to Westminster Abbey early in the day is ideal as you'll skip the major crowds and enjoy seeing inside this impressive structure as the morning sunlight streams in through the towering stained glass windows. This is also where centuries of royal coronations, weddings, and monumental moments have occurred. So it is a rather important site on our explorations, and you'll need to book tickets online in advance. Once you step outside, you'll likely hear Big Ben chiming just across the street. This grand clock tower is iconically London, so take a moment to savour it and realize that you are in fact in London. From here, start walking towards Buckingham Palace. Approaching through the leafy pathways and gardens of St. James Park is by far the most idyllic way to reach the palace. And if you time your visit right, you might even be able to catch the changing of the guards. This ceremonial display takes place daily from late March to August, and every other day for the rest of the year, but always at 11am. The 45-minute display of music, colour, and choreography is certainly impressive. And if you visit in summer from late July to August, then you can also gain a rare glimpse inside the royal residence, as its many state rooms are made open to the public while the royal family takes leave to their summer residence at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. Tickets to enter the palace must be booked in advance, and having done so myself several years ago, I must say the experience is well worth it. Then in the afternoon, you can decide whether you want an aerial view of London or a slower, more scenic experience from the water. The London Eye is a giant observation wheel located on the south bank of the River Thames and is both quick and impressive. From inside its glass capsules, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. But if you're seeking a longer and more relaxing experience, then a cruise along the River Thames is fantastic, as you'll get to pass several major landmarks, including St. Paul's Cathedral, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the breathtaking Tower Bridge. Either choice is wonderful, and it really depends on your travel style as to which one you would most like to do. Now, if you are a musical or theatre fan like myself, then I highly recommend catching a West End performance this evening. London's theatre scene is world-class, and seeing a show here is so special. If I was planning a trip for myself to London, then I can assure you I would be going to a different show every single night. As of November 2025, shows such as Les Miserables, The Lion King, Hamilton, Wicked, and my all-time favourite, Mamma Mia, are currently playing. Plus, there are just so many others, I could honestly dedicate an entire episode just to reviewing musicals in London. But shockingly, if theatre is not your thing, then this would also be a great night to head to the Soho neighborhood for dinner, where you can sample some of the city's finest and tastiest restaurants and bars. The great thing about being in a city as large as London is that there really is no shortage of activities and options for how to spend your time. We're going to begin this morning with visiting one of London's world-famous museums. So if you love ancient artifacts and global history, then the British Museum is the one for you. Home to the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian sculptures, and treasures from around the world, there is so much here to keep history-loving travelers entertained for hours. Alternatively, the Natural History Museum offers striking Victorian architecture and fascinating exhibits. From dinosaurs to gemstones. And for those interested in World War I and II history, then the Churchill War Rooms and the Imperial War Museum is a great addition to your itinerary. Lastly, for art lovers, the National Gallery is home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Turner, and so many more. While the Tate Modern is one of the world's largest modern art galleries. All of these museums are worth visiting, but for the sake of your limited time in the city, it's best to choose just one and either extend your time in London or return again in the future. I must say it is impossible to cram every single thing you can see and do in London into just three days. So if you would like me to do an entire episode dedicated to just sightseeing in London one day in the future, then send me an email at infotravelwithtyler.com. Now for lunch today, I suggest heading to Borough Market, which is one of London's most iconic food markets. This is where aromas from every corner of the world mix together. You'll see sizzling pans of street food, fresh baked bread, exotic spices, artisanal cheeses, pastries, oysters, and so much more. Walking through the market feels like travelling through a dozen countries at once, and it's impossible not to find something new and delicious to try. I always recommend sampling small bites from the different stalls, so you can try as many different cuisines as possible. By the afternoon, it's time to make your way to the Tower of London, one of the city's most fascinating historical landmarks. Join a guided tour to really understand its significance and history, or you can purchase an audio guide and explore the site at your own pace. As you wander, you'll step inside the halls where kings, queens, prisoners, and legends once stood. And no visit to the tower is complete without seeing the Crown Jewels exhibit. I promise nothing will prepare you for just how brilliant and impressive these jewels really are. After your visit to the Tower of London, make your way to the nearby tower bridge, and if you have time, take a walk across it for sweeping views across the city and river Thames. Now, here's a little insider secret. For the best photo of the bridge, make your way to a place marked on Google Maps as Girl with a Dolphin. It's a sculpture located right on the banks of the river and provides you with the most epic view of the Tower Bridge. Now, if you're feeling up to it, meaning you still have some energy left after two massive days exploring London, then consider ending your day with a drink, light dinner, and sunset views from the Shard. Completed in 2012, this iconic building is still the tallest structure in all of London. And yes, it's expensive and you will need to dress up a little bit to match the ambiance, but on a clear day, seeing the city stretch all the way out to the horizon is truly unforgettable and the dreamiest way to end your time in London. Welcome to day four, which marks our shift from big city energy to something a little more serene and scholarly. To really maximize this day, you're going to want to wake up early and head to Heathrow Airport to pick up your rental car. It might sound strange to go back to the airport, but trust me, driving out of Heathrow is incredibly simple, while driving out of central London is a maze of bus lanes, cyclists, confusing turns, and just way too much stress. By starting your drive from Heathrow, it keeps things easy and shortens the drive to Oxford to just over an hour. General tip for exploring the UK by car the A-roads refer to major highways and motorways designed to connect large cities in the fastest way possible. While they are efficient, traveling on B-roads, which are the smaller regional roads that connect towns and villages, are much more scenic and will give you more of those quintessential English countryside views. So the route you take really comes down to what you value more: efficiency or scenery. Google Maps will always choose the fastest and often ugliest way of getting somewhere. This also happens in cities too. So doing a little research beforehand and planning out your routes a little more thoughtfully can have a major impact on your journey and the trip as a whole. Now getting back to the city we are focusing on today, Oxford. Arriving here feels both enchanting and otherworldly, as I promise you'll find yourself gasping and thinking you've traveled back in time with just about every turn you make. I suggest you start your visit at the Radcliffe Camera. This perfectly circular stone building is one of Oxford's most photographed landmarks. And seeing it in person surrounded by cobblestone paths and bicycles leaning against railings is a moment you'll want to slow down and remember. For an amazing aerial view, walk across the courtyard and inside the University Church of St. Mary the Virgin. Here you will find a ticket desk where you can purchase passes to climb to the very top of the church and enjoy 360-degree views over the city, including the Radcliffe camera. Now, if you are seeking a little more knowledge about the city and its academic pass, then I also recommend joining a free walking tour. These tours typically last two hours and depart every day at both 11am and 2 p.m. So you'll need to do a little juggling to fit everything in, but it is totally possible. Now, if you've listened to some of my previous podcast episodes, then you may already know that I am a very big fan of these free walking tours found all over Europe and in most major cities. They are in fact donation-based tours, so make sure to have some pounds spare in cash to hand over at the end. But in my experience, they have always been worth it to get a better understanding and appreciation of the city that I am visiting. And for something you will definitely need to book in advance, the Bodleian Library and Divinity School are among the university's greatest treasures. The library is home to ancient manuscripts and ornate reading rooms, while the Divinity School has been used multiple times as different sets throughout the Harry Potter movies. And I cannot stress this enough, but there are very limited spots on guided tours each day, so if this is something you are interested in, then you'll need to secure your tickets at least a few days in advance. Moving on, if any of my fellow book lovers are listening, then you simply cannot miss adding in a visit to Blackwell's Bookshop. This impressive shop spans four floors, including a massive two-tiered basement and feels like a sanctuary for anyone who loves reading. Take your time as you browse quietly, flip through limited editions you would find hard to get anywhere else, and maybe even take home a little treasure. If you have time, a quick wander through Oxford's covered market will reveal all sorts of small vendors selling local crafts, as well as cozy cafes perfect for a warm drink and reading your newly purchased book. Then, if the weather is pleasant, consider renting a punting boat for a memorable paddle along the river. Most boats can be found on the riverbank near Magdalen College, and while it will be slightly chaotic at first, it is a lot of fun and a very Oxford thing to do. You can explore some of Oxford's most beautiful waterways and get in a good workout while you're at it. Now, if you're more interested in taking in the views but don't want to do all the work, then you can also hire someone to do the rowing for you, allowing you to just sit back and relax. For an alternative outside experience, I also recommend taking a walk around the Christchurch Meadow where the manicured gardens and grand architecture are rumored to have inspired the Hogwarts Dining Hall. The nearby Foley Bridge and walkways along the River Thames are also another great place to enjoy some of the city's more natural delights. Now, I will admit this is a big day and can be packed with as much or as little sightseeing as you like. Personally, I really adore Oxford and could easily spend several days here exploring, but for the sake of keeping Keeping this itinerary compact, we're going to say farewell and continue driving towards our base for the next two nights, hidden somewhere in the majestic cotswolds. For your countryside accommodation, I suggest booking something quintessentially Cotswolds, which means charming thatchroof cottages, whimsical village inns, boutique hotels, or B ⁇ Bs. Basically, the more fairy tale and magical it looks, the better. A filling pub dinner will also go down a treat after this action-packed day. Now I hope you sleep well tonight as we're going to dive deeper into this enchanting part of England tomorrow. It's now day five, which means we're entering full fairy tale England territory. Start your morning with a leisurely wander around the village you have chosen to stay in. Some of my personal favorites include Bidbury and Upper or Lower Slaughter. They're just a little more quieter and serene than some of the more popular and busy nearby villages. Cotsfords region as a whole is pure magic with its famous golden stone cottages, rolling green hills, colourful flower boxes, and quiet lanes where time seems to stand still. I suggest you spend the day exploring some of the area's most iconic villages. There really are so many to choose from that there isn't a right or wrong answer on how best to plan it. As I mentioned just before, Upper and Lower Slaughter are among my favorites and feel like hidden gems nestled in the countryside, with peaceful streams and little stone bridges dotting the village. Bourton on the Water is another great village to visit as it has a lively charm with its shallow river and low footbridges. But it is quite popular, so if possible, try to avoid it during the middle of the day or on weekends. Snows Hill is also a wonderfully photogenic village, especially if you visit in lavender season, while the Broadway Tower, perched on a hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A wonderful way to end this more laid-back day is with a proper English afternoon tea. I recommend booking one at a charming country inn or boutique hotel where you'll be served warm scones, clotted cream, strawberry jam, delicate sandwiches, and pastries paired with a large selection of delicious teas. It's a very British experience and a beautiful way to unwind as you are now over halfway through your trip. If it's a cooler night, then cozy up near the fireplace at your accommodation and just enjoy the simple pleasures of being in the countryside, surrounded by nature and enjoying the slower pace of living. It's a dramatic contrast to only a few days ago as you navigated the buzz and chaos of London. So remember to just slow down and savour this time. Holidays are for relaxing after all. Well, it's officially day six, and we're starting a slow and soothing travel day towards the city of Bath. Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast, then begin this incredibly scenic drive. Along the way, and if you're not already staying there, then stop in the village of Bidbury, home to the famously picturesque Arlington Row, a cluster of stone cottages that appear straight out of a painting. Take a wander and enjoy the many beautiful vistas before continuing on to Cyrencester, which is by far the largest village in the Cotswolds and is considered the region's capital. Here you can take a stroll, grab a coffee, or do a little bit of shopping. And if you still haven't quite had your fix of cute Cotswold villages, then make one last stop at Castle Coombe, often called the prettiest village in all of England. Imagine ivy-covered cottages, bubbling streams, and quiet pathways weaving through the nearby forest. To put it simply, it's idyllic, and the hedge-covered roads to get there only add to all the dreamy countryside charm. Now, once you reach Bath, you may want to return your rental car because the city is wonderfully walkable. Then you can check into your accommodation and enjoy your first evening wandering the warm, honey-colored streets and admiring the Georgian buildings glowing softly at twilight. Bath is one of my favorite cities in the UK, so I cannot wait to share more adventures with you tomorrow. Welcome to day 7 and a wonderful full day spent exploring in Bath. This is a city that, as you explore, feels cinematic in every way, and it starts to make sense when you realize that Bath is often used as the backdrop for many popular period films. We're going to begin this morning by visiting the site that gives the city its name, the Roman Baths. This archaeological site has become synonymous with the Roman occupation of the area and is one of the best preserved Roman sites in the world, sharing the story of the ancient spa culture that once thrived here. The pools, ancient stones, and exhibits work brilliantly together to bring the past to life. And I must say, you really haven't visited Bath if you haven't visited the Roman baths. Tickets are timed and should be booked in advance to secure your preferred viewing. As you step outside, you'll notice the Bath Abbey with its striking yet peaceful architecture on display. From here, take a short walk to reach Poulteny Bridge, one of Europe's most beautiful bridges. Standing proudly above the flowing river below and lined with Georgian shopfronts dotted along the sides, it's an impressive sight to behold. By far one of the best parts of Bath is its elegant Georgian architecture, so be sure to visit the circus and royal crescent while here. These sweeping architectural marvels are some of the most photographed spots in the entire country. As you walk slowly, make sure to take it all in and imagine the many society gatherings and historical events that took place here centuries ago. Now, if you're a film or TV lover, then you'll be excited to know that Bath has served as a backdrop for many productions, including Bridgetton, Persuasion, Le Miserables, and countless Jane Austen adaptions. You can even join themed walking tours, which may sound a little cheesy, but I swear they are so much fun. I did a Bridgetton tour when I last visited, and it provided ample pinch-me moments, character references, and laughter shared with fellow Bridgetton fans. The guides do a truly fantastic job of sharing behind-the-scene anecdotes and filming secrets. On that note, there is also a Jane Austen museum here where you can learn all about this trailblazing author's life as well as enjoy some freshly baked scones in the adjacent tea rooms. By the late afternoon, you may be feeling a tad tired, so what better way to relax than by heading to Therme Bath Spa? With its heated rooftop pool overlooking the city and countless treatments on offer, it's the ultimate way to spoil yourself on your final night. And as they say, when in bath, do as the Romans did and go to the spa. If the spa is not of interest to you, then another fantastic escape into nature awaits you at the Prior Park Landscape Garden. Accessible in less than 10 minutes by bus from the city. As this park does belong to the National Trust, there is a fee to enter, but you will be rewarded with immense greenery and one of only four palladium bridges in the world. The bridge has also featured in many popular series and films, including Bridgetton and, of course, Pride and Prejudice. To end this magical day, I suggest dining at one of Bath's cozy pubs or charming restaurants. With such a gorgeous backdrop, it really isn't hard to understand why the city manages to capture the hearts of all who visit. Alas, we have made it to day 8 and your final day of the trip. Depending on your continuing plans, you can either head back to London by train or car for some last-minute sightseeing. Or head straight to Heathrow Airport for your long haul flight home. Now, if you are continuing on to other major cities in the UK or even Europe, Bristol Airport is the closest by car and offers plenty of budget flights to many exciting destinations. But if you're not ready for your UK adventures to be over, then I recommend driving west to explore the artistic city of Bristol and the breathtaking landscapes of South Wales, or you can even drive further south to discover the dramatic coastlines of the English counties of Devon and Cornwall. No matter where your journey takes you, you'll never forget the timeless memories and many magical moments spent here, exploring the beauty and charm of London, Oxford, the Cotswolds, and Bath. Now, before we say goodbye, here are just a few helpful tips and suggestions that will help make planning your trip to England so much easier and smoother. Starting off strong with some insights on how to get around and navigate. The country is incredibly well connected by train and roads, making this itinerary wonderfully easy to follow. To get between cities like London, Bath, and Oxford, the trains are fast, clean, and usually reliable, but be aware that strikes, delays, and last-minute changes can disrupt your travel days. Also, booking in advance either through platforms like Trainline or directly with rail companies will always be cheaper than waiting until the day before or the day of departure. So make sure to book early and save your money for something a little more exciting. Now, for visiting the Cotsworlds, you will definitely need a car as public transport through this area is more sparse and getting to and from some of the more remote villages will be impossible without a car. Plus, having a car allows you to maximize flexibility and your time spent sightseeing. Just a few reminders about driving in the UK. Here you'll be driving on the left, so a noticeable change for any North American travelers, but the same for Australians and New Zealand visitors. Also, roundabouts are everywhere. They seem to prefer these two traffic lights, so just make sure to brush up on your roundabout etiquette. And lastly, many village roads are narrow, hedge lined, and very charming, but also very tight, so try to be as spatially aware as possible. And if driving isn't your thing, then don't worry, as you can still enjoy the cotswolds through organized day tours or local transfers from neighbouring cities. It won't be as relaxed or flexible as having a car, but you can still adapt this itinerary and enjoy the beauty of this spectacular region of outstanding natural beauty. And of course, we can't talk about transport without mentioning London. For the city's many metros and buses, you can either purchase an Oyster card from one of the ticketing machines or simply tap on with a contactless bank card on buses. But please remember you must also tap off when using metros and trains, as these journeys are measured based on zones. So if you fail to tap off, then you will be charged the maximum zone fee. Overall, London's transport system is great once you get the hang of it. At the beginning, it can be incredibly overwhelming, but give it a day or two and you'll start to feel like a pro. Moving on, my next tip is specifically about packing. This trip blends big cities, countryside villages, and cobbled stone historic streets, so comfort and variety without overpacking really is key. I suggest you bring a pair of good walking shoes as you're going to be on your feet a lot, especially in London, Oxford, and Bath. You should also pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella because English weather loves to surprise you with random rain showers even on sunny days. And I know I say this all the time, but layers really are your best friend because, as I just mentioned, the weather can change rapidly. Lastly, if you're planning to see a West End show or enjoy a fancier dinner or evening in a cocktail bar, then make sure to add in one slightly dressier outfit too. Also, super important, power outlets in the UK are the standard Type G, which means they have three rectangular prongs, so make sure to come prepared with the correct adapter. Next, I want to quickly cover a few timing tips that will help make your days run so much smoother. Most museums typically open around 10am and close between 5 and 6 p.m. So just make sure to factor this into your sightseeing. Also, many big attractions like the Roman Baths, the Bodleian Library, and Westminster Abbey use timed entry slots. So booking ahead is essential to make sure you can enter at your preferred time. And a quick note on food the English tend to eat earlier than most Europeans, so it's common for pubs and some restaurants to stop serving food around 9 or 9.30 p.m. So if you're hungry later in the evening, you'll likely have fewer options, especially in the countryside. For managing your money, England is very card friendly. Even the tiniest of cafes in the countryside will likely take contactless payments, but still having a little bit of cash on hand is super helpful for things like markets, walking tours, or even just parking meters. Now, in terms of trying to manage your budget, London is by far the most expensive stop on this itinerary, especially when it comes to meals, hotels, and attractions. Bath and the Cotswolds can also get pricey during peak season, so if you're traveling between May and September, make sure to book your accommodation early so you can get the best variety and value for your money. My next tip is actually about tipping. I briefly touched on this in last week's episode, and I just want to reiterate it here because we are now talking specifically about tipping in England. As with most places in Europe, tipping in England is appreciated but not expected in the same way it is in other countries. In fact, many restaurants automatically add a 10 to 12.5% service charge to your bill, so in a way, your tips have already been factored into the total price. Adding more just means you are grossly overpaying in a city like London that is already known for being extremely expensive. Now, for staying connected to the internet while you travel, you'll find that most hotels, cafes, and museums in England have free Wi-Fi. But I cannot attest to the quality and reliability of it. For example, when I was last in Oxford, it was crazy how poor the Wi-Fi connection was, and even my phone data struggled quite a bit. So to make sure you always have access to the internet for basic things like accessing Google Maps and retrieving train bookings, I recommend sorting out your mobile data ahead of time. When I travel, I always come prepared by buying and installing an eSIM from companies like Eralo or Holofly before I even leave my home country. ESIMs have truly changed the way I travel, especially when I arrive in a new country, and the first priority is just trying to figure out how to get to my accommodation. It's taken all the stress away and allows me to get from A to B with ease and confidence. Activating an international plan with your home provider also works well, but the cost does add up quickly as most charge you a rate per day. In terms of safety, England is a very safe destination, but here are a few gentle reminders to make sure you avoid any issues. It may seem simple, but make sure to look both ways twice when crossing the road as traffic comes in the opposite direction to what many visitors are used to. London is also a hotspot for pickpockets, so just keep an eye out for any suspicious behavior and keep your belongings close. Also, make sure to hold your phone tightly to avoid being a target and having it swiped from under your nose. The next thing I just want to say is as a courtesy and for good etiquette, when in small villages, especially in the Cotswolds, try to keep your voices lower in the evening as the locals really value peace and quiet. And perhaps most importantly, queuing is basically a national pastime here, so always join the end of the line and wait your turn politely. Now we're almost at the end, and I'm so proud of you all for making it this far. My next tip is a list of the most useful apps to make things easier as you move around. Starting off with City Mapper, which is excellent for navigating public transport around London, while Google Maps allows you to download offline maps for more rural areas. Yes, please don't be surprised if you lose connectivity along some of the smaller, more remote roads in the countryside. The National Trust app is also great for finding and exploring the country's best heritage sites. Another app I always mention that is excellent for booking train tickets is Trainline, but Omeo is also a great alternative. Lastly, Open Table is excellent for help finding and booking restaurants during your stay. And my final little bit of practical information before we wrap things up is for anyone traveling with mobility issues or concerns about accessibility to many of England's historic cities and buildings. I highly suggest checking the websites of specific attractions you would like to visit, as many now have published excellent accessibility guides, including information on ramps, lifts, and even quiet visiting hours to assist with planning your visit. So that's all the practical tips I've got for you today, but I hope it's helped to ease any fears you may have about planning your trip and maybe even given you the confidence to go ahead and start booking it. Travel around Europe really is a lot easier than it seems at first, so take a deep breath, enjoy the process, and just get started. England is certainly one of those destinations that leaves you with a feeling: a blend of nostalgia, elegance, coziness, and wonder. On this trip, you've walked through centuries of history in London, wandered the academic halls of Oxford, breathed in the countryside charm of the Cotsworld, and soaked in the refined beauty of Bath. Thank you so much for coming along on this adventure with me today. If you enjoyed this episode, then please don't forget to follow the show and leave a review. And if you want the full written itinerary with links to all the places I've mentioned, then make sure to check out the show notes or visit my website, travelwithyla.com. Next week, we're heading to a magical floating city of canals, golden light, and timeless romance. That's right, we're off to Venice to sip Aperol Spritz and eat our body weight in Chiquetti. I'm so excited for it and I can't wait to take you with me. Until then, keep dreaming, keep exploring, and keep that European wonderlust alive.