Backpacking the United Kingdom is a totally different vibe from Scandinavia or the Baltics—less about wilderness extremes, more about history, culture, cities, and varied landscapes. It’s easy to travel, but costs can add up if you don’t plan smart.
🇬🇧 London (Start Here)
5
Most backpackers begin in London.
- Iconic sights: Big Ben, Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace
- World-class museums (many free!)
- Markets like Camden & Borough for cheap eats
- Great nightlife and diversity
👉 Stay 3–4 days (there’s a lot to see)
🏰 Edinburgh (Historic & Atmospheric)
6
Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
- Walk the Royal Mile
- Hike up Arthur’s Seat for views
- Explore castles and medieval streets
👉 2–3 days
🌄 Scottish Highlands (Wild Nature)
6
For raw landscapes, head to the Scottish Highlands.
- Visit Isle of Skye
- Explore Glencoe and Loch Ness
- Incredible hiking and scenery
👉 Best with a tour or rental car
🎓 Oxford & Cambridge (Classic England)
7
Oxford and Cambridge are perfect day trips.
- Historic universities
- Beautiful architecture and river scenes
- Relaxed, intellectual vibe
👉 Day trips from London
🌊 Cornwall (Coastal Escape)
5
Cornwall feels almost Mediterranean in summer.
- Beaches, cliffs, coastal hikes
- Surfing and small seaside towns
- Warmer weather than the rest of the UK
👉 2–3 days (but travel time is long)
💸 Budget Snapshot
The UK is mid-to-expensive (especially London).
- Hostel: €25–50/night (London higher)
- Food: €8–15 (cheap meals)
- Transport: trains can be expensive → book early
- Beer: €5–8 🍺
👉 Backpacker tips:
- Use buses (like National Express) for cheap travel
- Book trains early for lower fares
- Take advantage of free museums
🗓️ Suggested 7–10 Day Route
- Day 1–4: London
- Day 5–6: Edinburgh
- Day 7–8: Scottish Highlands / Isle of Skye
- Optional: Oxford/Cambridge or Cornwall
🧭 When to Go
- Best: May–September (milder weather)
- Spring/Autumn: fewer crowds
- Winter: cozy cities, but wet and dark
⚠️ Things to Know
- Weather is unpredictable (always carry a rain jacket)
- Very easy transport system
- English everywhere (obviously)
- Plug type: UK (different from EU)
⚖️ Honest Take
- Pros: huge variety, culture, history, easy travel
- Cons: not cheap, weather can be hit-or-miss
👉 Compared to Scandinavia: less dramatic nature, more culture/history
👉 Compared to Baltics: more expensive but more iconic landmarks