Exploring England is like stepping into a giant storybook. Charming villages, rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and historic cities make it a dream destination for travelers and hikers alike. Whether you're here for the picturesque countryside or your heart's set on the perfect self-guided hiking adventure, England has something to offer everyone.  

This guide will walk you through the best ways to travel to and around England, share tips for adventure seekers, and highlight England’s top destinations for hiking. 

Preparing for Your Journey  

When to Visit England for Hiking  

The best times to visit are late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October). This gives you pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful landscapes in full bloom or golden fall hues.  

Visa Requirements  

• US Citizens: No visa required for stays up to six months. Check the US Department of State website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations. However, travelers will need Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).  
• Canadian Citizens: Also exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 6 months. Check the Canadian Government website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations. However, travelers will need Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).  

Head to our ETA article for more helpful information and advice > 

Passport Validity 

• US Citizens: Six months validity recommended, at least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure. Check your passport validity. 
• Canadian Citizens: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date. Check your passport validity.  

It’s wise to keep photocopies of your important documents, including your passport and travel insurance, with you at all times.  

Check the US Department of State website or the Canadian Government website for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.    

Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for joining a Macs Adventure. Unexpected delays, mishaps, or emergencies can happen, and having the right coverage ensures you're prepared for anything. Make sure you're covered before your trip—you’ll thank yourself later! 

Traveling to England  

The Best Ways to Travel to England from the US  

If you're traveling from the US, flying is the easiest and fastest way to reach England. There are plenty of direct flight options available. Alternatively, if you're planning to hike in the northern regions, you can catch a connecting flight from London airports to airports in the north of England or Scotland, like Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. 

USA Airports with Direct Flights to London  

London-Heathrow Airport (LHR) & London-Gatwick Airport (LGW): These are major hubs for most transatlantic flights and are ideal if you're exploring southern England, including Cornwall and the Cotswolds. Here’s a list of USA airports with direct connections to London: 

• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) - Arizona 
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) - California  
• San Diego International Airport (SAN) – California  
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) - California  
• Denver International Airport (DEN) - Colorado 
• Miami International Airport (MIA) - Florida  
• Orlando International Airport (MCO) - Florida 
• Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) - Florida 
• Tampa International Airport (TPA) - Florida 
• Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) - Georgia  
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) - Illinois  
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) - Louisiana 
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - Massachusetts  
• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) - Michigan 
• Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) – Minnesota 
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) - Nevada 
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) - New Jersey  
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - New York  
• Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) - North Carolina 
• Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) - North Carolina 
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) - Ohio 
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) - Pennsylvania 
• Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) - Pennsylvania 
• Nashville International Airport (BNA) - Tennessee 
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) - Texas 
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) - Texas 
• George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) - Texas 
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - Utah 
• Dulles International Airport (IAD) - Washington 
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) - Washington  

These airports provide direct flights to London's major hubs, such as London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW), ensuring a seamless start to your English adventure!  

USA Airports with Direct Flights to Manchester 

Manchester Airport (MAN) makes a great entry point for exploring the Lake District, Yorkshire, or northern England.  

Some major airports across the US offer direct flights to Manchester Airport, making travel to England incredibly convenient. Here’s a list of USA airports with direct connections to Manchester: 

• Orlando International Airport (MCO) - Florida  
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) - Georgia 
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) - Nevada  
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - New York  

Pro-tip: Book flights early, especially if you’re planning to visit during England’s bustling summer season!  

USA Airports with Direct Flights to Edinburgh 

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) might be in Scotland, but it’s still a fantastic choice for traveling to the Lake District, Yorkshire and Northumberland. 

Several major airports across the US offer direct flights to Edinburgh Airport, making travel to England incredibly convenient. Here’s a list of USA airports with direct connections to Edinburgh: 

• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - Massachusetts 
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - New York 
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) - Pennsylvania 
• Dulles International Airport (IAD) - Washington 
• Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) - Illinois 
• Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) - Georgia 
• Orlando International Airport (MCO) - Florida 

The Best Ways to Travel to England from Canada 

Traveling from Canada to England is easiest by air, with numerous direct flight options available. Flying ensures a quick and seamless journey, connecting you to some of England's most popular destinations. 

Canadian Airports with Direct Flights to London 

London-Heathrow Airport (LHR) & London-Gatwick Airport (LGW): These are the primary hubs for transatlantic flights to England, ideal for exploring southern England, including Cornwall, and the Cotswolds. 

Many major airports across Canada offer direct flights to London's airports. Here’s a list of Canadian airports with direct connections to London: 

• Calgary International Airport (YYC) - Alberta 
• Vancouver International Airport (YVR) - British Columbia 
• St. John's International Airport (YYT) - Newfoundland 
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) - Nova Scotia 
• Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) - Ontario 
• Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) - Ontario 
• Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) - Quebec 

These airports provide direct flights to London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW), kickstarting your English adventure with ease! 

Canadian Airports with Direct Flights to Manchester 

Manchester Airport (MAN) is a great gateway to northern England, providing access to destinations like the Lake District, Yorkshire, and beyond. Currently, Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) - Ontario offers direct flights to Manchester. 

Canadian Airports with Direct Flights to Glasgow & Edinburgh 

Glasgow Airport (GLA) and Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located in Scotland, are convenient options for travelers heading to northern England, including destinations like the Lake District and Yorkshire. Canadian travelers can fly directly to Glasgow and Edinburgh from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) - Ontario. 

Pro-tip: Look out for direct flights from Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal for the quickest connections! 

How to Travel Around England  

Public Transport Made Easy  

England’s public transport system is efficient and straightforward. Trains and buses are available almost everywhere, making it easy to travel without renting a car.

Using Trains in England  

Trains are fast and scenic, perfect for longer journeys (like London to the Lake District). Purchase tickets in advance on easy-to-use apps like Trainline or National Rail for savings.  

Taking Buses and Local Transport  

For shorter distances, buses or coaches (like those run by National Express or Stagecoach) are your go-to. Apps like Moovit or Citymapper are great for navigating England’s local transport systems.  

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Options  

Taxis are everywhere in cities, but for rural areas, pre-booking one is often necessary. Apps like Uber operate in larger cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham, offering more affordable fares. In rural areas, however, you’ll likely need to rely on local taxi companies to get around. You accommodation will be able to either provide you with a phone number or arrange the taxi for you. 

Must-See Hiking and Adventure Destinations in England  

No trip through England is complete without exploring its incredible hiking destinations. Here are the must-visits for self-guided hiking enthusiasts: 

The Lake District  

Known for its dramatic mountains and shimmering lakes, the Lake District is a hiker’s dream.  

Guide to Hiking in the Lake District > 

The Cotswolds  

Think rolling hills, quaint villages, and honey-colored stone cottages. Hiking through the Cotswolds is like stepping back in time.  

Guide to Hiking in the Cotswolds > 

Coastal Walks in Cornwall  

Cornwall offers rugged coastal trails, charming fishing villages, and some of the most beautiful beaches in England. The South West Coast Path is a must for adventure seekers.  

Guide to Hiking in Cornwall > 

Yorkshire  

From the wild landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales to the moody North York Moors and rugged coastline, you’ll find stunning trails and rich history everywhere you turn.  

Guide to Hiking in Yorkshire > 

Packing Essentials for England

Dress for the Weather  

• Pack waterproof and windproof attire—England’s weather is notoriously unpredictable.  
• Layers are key. Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day, even in summer.  

Hiking Gear Must-Haves  

• Comfortable hiking boots suitable for varied terrain.  
• A lightweight backpack with water bottles and snacks.  

Gadgets and Accessories  

• Hiking poles to help with ascents and descents. 
• Portable chargers to keep devices alive on long hikes.  
• Maps, or better yet, if you’re on a Macs Adventure, download our navigation app that provides complete route guidance. 

Check out our what to pack for a hiking adventure article for a full packing list > 

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Adventure

Health and Safety for Hiking  

• Stick to clearly marked trails, especially in remote areas.  
• Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Cultural Tips for Visiting England

• England's tea culture is iconic! Tea is more than just a drink - it's a symbol of hospitality and comfort. Whether it's a traditional afternoon tea with scones or a quick cuppa at home, tea is a staple of daily life.   
• Accents vary greatly across England:  
  • The Cockney accent is famous in London.  
  • The Scouse accent is unique to Liverpool.  
  • The Geordie accent is heard in Newcastle.  
  • The West Country accent is distinct in places like Bristol.   
• Typical English phrases for greetings and small talk:  
  • "Alright?" (A casual way to ask "How are you?")  
  • "Cheers" (Used to say thanks or goodbye).  
  • "How's it going?" (A friendly way to start a conversation).  
  • "Lovely weather today" (A classic go-to for small talk, even if it’s raining). 
• Speaking of weather, British folk love talking about the weather - it's a great way to initiate small talk. 
• Pubs can be great places to mingle with locals after a long day of hiking.  

Staying Connected  

• Consider buying a local SIM card for affordable data plans.  
• Apps like Google Maps and WhatsApp are great for navigation and local communication.  

Handy Phone Numbers  

Having essential phone numbers saved can be a lifesaver while traveling. Here are some key contacts to keep handy during your trip: 

• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999 or 112  
• NHS Non-Emergency Helpline: 111  
• Your Embassy or Consulate: Check your country’s embassy website for the local contact number.  
• UK National Rail Enquiries: 03457 48 49 50  

Make sure you save these numbers in your phone and jot them down somewhere just in case! 

Sustainable Travel  

Responsible Tourism Practices  

Being a responsible tourist means respecting local cultures and minimizing your environmental footprint. Avoid single-use plastics, support local businesses, and follow the Leave No Trace principles when hiking.  

We’re working hard to lower our trip’s carbon emissions by collaboration with our local partners. Find out how we calculate our trip’s carbon score and discover more about our sustainable travel journey.  

England is a history book of adventures waiting to be discovered. From its breezy coasts to its tranquil countryside, there’s something for every type of traveler. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your English escapades.  

Some of our England adventures are super popular and typically sell out 6-9 months in advance, so we recommend booking a call with one of our travel experts to plan your perfect self-guided hiking trip in England!  

Your Next Adventure Awaits  

England is a land of charm, adventure, and endless exploration opportunities. Whether you’re wandering through the Cotswolds, marveling at the Lake District’s beauty, or walking along Cornwall’s coastal paths, one thing is certain—you’re in for a treat.  

Feel ready to start your self-guided hiking adventure in England? Share your plans, experience, or tips in the comments below. If you're still looking for inspiration, check out our expertly crafted trips for a seamless and unforgettable experience!