Facing continental Europe stands the United Kingdom, a country that intrigues, captivates and surprises. On its territory are four nations with a painful past: Scotland, England, Wales and Northern Ireland. And if they are now one, the remains of their history recall the centuries-old struggles of one another, and the invasions and migrations that Great Britain experienced: Romans, Celts, Vikings, Saxons, Normans, Angles... Reading a tourist guide about the United Kingdom is like getting to grips with this cultural pluralism and these different influences. It's about discovering London's hectic streets, its rock culture, its buildings and its districts with a strong identity. It's a walk through the docks of Liverpool in the footsteps of the Beatles. It is to immerse yourself in the tormented history ofBelfast. It's about admiring the landscapes of Cornwall or the Highlands. It is taking the boat to land on the Orkneys or Shetlands. It's going to a rugby match in Cardiff, a football match in Manchester. It's tasting a fish & chips and tasting a whisky. It's sleeping in a small cottage. It is to visit one of the many castles that the island offers. It means taking an interest in one of the oldest monarchies in Europe. So, despite the shock of the Brexit, left-hand drive and habits that are sometimes beyond us, the United Kingdom is very close by. Ferry, Eurostar, airplane and Channel Tunnel make it easy to reach the United Kingdom!

What to visit United Kingdom?

When to go to United Kingdom?

To know when to go to the United Kingdom, avoid relying on the country's reputation for weather. It should be noted that the country has several climates depending on the geographical area. In any case, it is better to have a good sweater and a windproof jacket all year round so as not to be surprised. As a general rule, summer is the ideal time to stay in the United Kingdom. Avoid the winter and mid-season if you plan to enjoy the countryside. On the other hand, for lovers of " sensations fortes " and nature, winter is the best time to contemplate the strength of the elements naturels  : under the rain and wind, the coast is magnificent, the colours sumptuous... and the tourists few, except of course during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

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Weather at the moment

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Weather all year round

The climate in the United Kingdom is generally oceanic, but it varies according to the region. Winter is often cold and wet, with temperatures ranging from 1 to 6°C. When the sea is warmer than the land, temperatures do not fall below zero degrees. Rainfall varies in different parts of the UK. In summer, the thermometer can reach 22°C, but in the evening, the temperature drops. Spring and autumn are unpredictable seasons.

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Budget

The currency is the pound sterling. The shock of the Brexit has caused the value of the pound to fall, which is influenced by the announcements and negotiations. The United Kingdom is a fairly expensive country. While prices are high, there are disparities between the capitals London, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Belfast, and the provinces (Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Cornwall...) where the cost of living is significantly lower.

Procedures

For the time being, and despite the Brexit, the conditions for entering the United Kingdom have not changed. To enter the United Kingdom, European citizens only need to have a valid identity card or passport. Under 18s traveling without their parents must have a valid identity card or passport, as well as an exit permit issued by their local police station or town hall. If you are a non-European citizen, you may be required to obtain a visa. Ask the authorities in your country for more information.

Health

In the United Kingdom, sanitary conditions are good and hygiene is generally respected in the majority of establishments. Tap water is safe to drink. To protect yourself from the sun, even if the risks are moderate, remember to wear sunglasses and a high factor sun cream, especially in Cornwall.

How to go to United Kingdom? Our advice & tips

There is a wide range of options to discover England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. You can combine the three countries (plan at least two weeks), or opt for a thematic stay: discovery of the English countryside, city breaks in London, Edinburgh, Belfast or Cardiff, romantic and cultural stays, a tour in the footsteps of Turner, or a trip around the English castles. There are also packages for sporting events (6 Nations rugby tournament, etc.).

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As a modern and touristic country, it is very easy to go alone to the United Kingdom, the road, rail and air transport networks being very developed and the means to get there are legion (plane, train, bus, car, boat...). In addition, the country has an excellent level of security. However, beware of pickpockets in tourist areas and large cities, especially London. Remember to book your accommodation well in advance.

To move between different cities or regions, there is a large amount of inland air, rail and road transport. Finally, if the car is ideal for travelling independently, but it is not very practical in the city. London has even become the pioneer of car-free capitals with several measures. Be sure to check these measures before you leave and remember that the British drive on the left! In the city, public transport is very developed.

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Pictures and images United Kingdom

Portobello Road Market, quartier de Notting Hill. Philippe GUERSAN - Author's Image
Full English breakfast. DronG - Shutterstock.com
Architecture georgienne dans le quartier de New Town. georgeclerk - iStockphoto.com
Portree. Zhuzhu - iStockphoto

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