United Kingdom (UK) Holidays

Overview Tab

The formation of the United Kingdom began in 1536 when England and Wales entered into an official arrangement. Less than seventy years later in 1603, Scotland peacefully became part of the union when James VI of Scotland became James I of England. Today each of the separate countries maintains a degree of autonomy from London with local parliaments exercising mandated jurisdiction, while still adhering to a unified Kingdom. History is steeped throughout the regions and everywhere you explore today has tremendous significance from bygone periods.

Temperatures and weather patterns vary throughout the United Kingdom. In general the UK enjoys a temperate climate with significant rainfall year round. In England, August is the hottest month with an average peak temperature of 20 degrees and January being the coldest month where the mercury only measures around six degrees. On the other hand, Scotland has the coolest weather in the UK with a summer average of around 16 degrees.

The United Kingdom boasts many festivals and events that celebrate the British culture. Notable festivals include the Glyndebourne Opera Festival, Notting Hill Carnival and the Edinburgh Festival. Wimbledon is a major grand slam tennis tournament held in London. Other festivals include the Glastonbury Festival, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Cardiff International Film Festival.

Air

Most airlines fly from New Zealand to the United Kingdom via a third destination. London is generally the main entry point. Airlines flying from New Zealand to the UK include:

Flights from Auckland to the UK can take between twenty four to thirty six hours.

Luxury Hotels

The United Kingdom boasts some of the most exclusive luxury accommodations in the world, steeped in history and opulence. Many famous names include the Ritz, the Langham and the InterContinental. When travelling through the countryside, there are many intimate options that maintain an appropriate level of service and comfort.

To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Sights to See

England’s capital, London, the once beating heart of the largest empire the world has seen, offers many iconic attractions indelibly etched into the minds of many Australians. See with your own eyes Buckingham House, the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden. Explore the stunning art collection at the National Gallery, admire the artefacts in the British Museum, shop yourself silly on Oxford Street, stroll through Hyde Park and enjoy a play on the West End. This is London, a metropolis that offers countless opportunity to enjoy a city break tailored to your taste and style.

For a rural UK experience, journey up to England’s Lakes District to hike around the famous Windermere and Coniston Water, explore the Roman legacy by trekking along Hadrian’s Wall between Newcastle and Carlisle or experience the sheer ruggedness of the wilds of Scotland’s highlands. Alternatively, lose yourself in the Welsh valleys, appreciate the quaint Cotswolds or become overwhelmed with the Antrim coastline in Northern Ireland.

Big ticket attractions throughout the United Kingdom include the spiritual Stonehenge, Loch Ness and its accompanying monster, impressive Edinburgh Castle and Shakespeare’s grave at Stratford-Upon-Avon. Also consider exploring the Roman Baths in Bath, the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Island, the Cathedral in York and Windsor Castle.

Don't leave home without...

Any item that you happen to leave behind, can generally be easily replaced throughout the United Kingdom. However you may find it more expensive than buying the same item locally. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack your day bag for all seasons.

Things to be careful of…

Personal Safety

Most visitors enjoy their holiday to London without incident. However like any big city, it’s important to remain aware in the capital but not paranoid.