The British Isles are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the North Sea in the north and east. Although the United Kingdom is relatively small compared to some countries, the climate can be quite varied. The warm Gulf Stream of the Atlantic Ocean ensures a mild average annual temperature of 13 degrees Celsius in the south-east, allowing palm trees and other tropical species to thrive. Even during the winter months of February, places such as Cornwall and the West Country have an average temperature of 8 degrees Celsius. In other regions of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, temperatures are generally lower, with higher levels of precipitation. If you’re looking for mild weather, it’s best to visit the UK in the summer months. The temperatures during summer average out at around 20 degrees Celsius and the climate is generally dryer.
With several international airports in and around the city, London is also a great stop before moving on to destinations that are more far-flung. Ready to explore? Book your fights to the UK with SunExpress today!
The capital of England is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in general. Thanks to its heritage as an important banking and economic centre, London has become a modern metropolis and a thriving hub of business. The city is served by several airports, including London Heathrow Airport, London Stansted Airport and London Gatwick Airport – all handling international and domestic flights. London City Airport is the only airport within the actual city limits of London, handling a lower level of passengers than the other airports, but offering much more convenient transfers across London once passengers have arrived. There’s plenty to see and do once you land in London, with the bustling stalls of the Camden and Stables Markets, inspiring monuments of Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus, and the royal residences of Buckingham Palace.
Cornwall offers some of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the United Kingdom, with many unspoilt miles of natural wilderness providing the perfect routes for coastal walks. During these peaceful walks, expect to see plenty of wildlife, including gulls and other sea birds, and thriving plant life native to the region. Colourful parks and stately gardens offer a more peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life, while sleepy cottage rentals offer ideal accommodation for visitors looking to get back to nature and truly unwind. Another essential destination in this region is Bath, a city awarded UNESCO recognition for its cultural heritage. Snap a holiday selfie in front of the iconic sandstone houses of Bath, or pack your camera and head to the historic Stonehenge instead. This mysterious marvel continues to captivate people today and stands as one of the most popular destinations for travellers from home and abroad.
Birmingham is the second-largest city in the United Kingdom and offers almost as many sights and landmarks as London. Although the service sector is slowly gaining ground in Birmingham, the city is still strongly influenced by its manufacturing and industrial past. A short stroll through the historic factory streets of Digbeth, or the boutique stores and studios of the Jewellery Quarter provide you with plenty of bricks and mortar insight into the fascinating past of this iconic city. What’s more, the famous Bullring Shopping Centre is not just an impressive addition to the city skyline – this sprawling retail centre is home to hundreds of popular retailers and brands, including one of only a handful of Selfridges stores outside of London. A little further north lies Manchester. Another world-famous city that has left its mark, Manchester grew in prominence during the Industrial Revolution and is renowned for its importance in the textile industry. Today, Manchester is synonymous with sport, shopping and style.
Many visitors to the UK only have London in their sights, often overlooking the rest of this diverse island kingdom. There’s much more to discover beyond London and England, with Scotland offering its own sense of identity and cultural heritage. This brooding landscape of highland, mountains and mysterious lochs creates a romantic atmosphere that’s ideal for trips away with the other half. Glasgow and Edinburgh are both bustling cities with plenty on offer to keep you entertained for the duration of your stay. Scotland is famous for its whiskey, and no visit north of the border is complete without a trip to at least one of the historic distilleries still at work today. Once you’ve seen the best of England, Wales and Scotland, leave the UK and head further afield to the emerald isle, with a visit to Dublin. The Irish capital is famed for its relaxed atmosphere and party spirit, especially when there’s something worth celebrating.
Thanks to great rates on direct flights, a trip to the UK no longer needs to cost you a small fortune. From Izmir, you can enjoy direct flights to London Luton Airport (LTN), just a short train journey or car trip from the centre of London itself. If you’re looking to head further afield to other places in the UK, London is a great place to start. London Victoria Coach Station operates services to places throughout the UK, while London’s many rail stations provide quick and convenient train services to popular cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, Brighton, Edinburgh, Sheffield and many more.