With Easter 2023 out of the way, especially for those who never got to make much of a holiday of it, you may now be thinking of a quick getaway from Cape Town to the UK on the long weekend in June – or because of the distance, rather taking a nice long family holiday in the July school holidays.

Rennies Travel, as always, has some great deals for you to consider before you decide where to go. Or, if you are visiting friends and family or taking the option of tours you already know about and your destination is already decided, perhaps you will just find some useful information as we look into what is involved with travel to the UK.  Let’s begin with a couple of frequently asked questions…

When is the best time to travel to the UK?

Well, July and August are considered to be the peak season throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and of course Ireland (Northern Ireland is a part of the UK). At this time of year, they enjoy nice long days and the best weather, and this is considered to be the busiest part of the tourist season, so early booking is essential, both for flights and accommodation, especially if any are specials or packages respectively.

The merry month of May is the official start of spring and so May and June are also great months to be there. This is all assuming that you want to be there in Summer. Some go to enjoy snowy winters and the special joys that a white Christmas can bring!

What is needed to travel to the UK?

South Africans need a valid passport (No temporary documents) and a Visa to travel to the UK. Be warned that although the previous backlog has improved it is still advisable to apply right away if travelling there in a couple of months.

UK Tourism Hotspots

Now we get down to the nitty-gritty. What are considered to be the hotspots in the UK? Well, London of course is always a great favourite. It’s a vibrant city yet it is steeped in history with so many iconic places to visit. Big Ben, the Tower of London, the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace and so many more.

Scotland and Ireland are renowned for their rolling green hills, warm friendly pubs and the most hospitable people in the world, but they too have many great castles to visit (or stay at) and Wales has its own magic with tales of dungeons and dragons and a rich history of song and celebrations.

There is just so much that it is best to talk to a Rennies Travel Advisor to decide what to do and where to go – but here are a couple of good suggestions…

UK Holiday Packages from South Africa

We have 2 exceptional packages currently for those travelling to the UK soon, one in London and one in beautiful Ireland…

The Montague on the Gardens - London 

This charming four-star Georgian hotel is close to Covent Garden, the west end of London’s greatest theatres and the world's best shopping on Regents Street and Bond Street, with the tube just moments away. The chic “Leopard bar” offers live jazz whilst, by contrast, the conservatory is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea overlooking peaceful gardens.

This is a land-only, 3-night package available July to September from R12,606pp and includes 3 nights stay in a double room with full English breakfast daily.

Ashford Castle - Mayo - Ireland 

Your royal adventure begins when you enter through the grand stone gates of this remarkable 800-year-old castle. discover the exquisite interiors, delicious cuisine, passionate hospitality team, a wealth of estate activities and a state-of-the-art spa. As a national geographic unique lodge of the world, Ireland’s first Forbes five-star and former home of the Guinness family – this is an exceptional experience in every sense!

This 3-night package, available between May and Sept from R27,785pp, is a land-only package which includes your stay in the castle in a standard double Corrib room and a full Irish breakfast daily

Best flight deals to the UK

According to the Rennies Flight Finder, always a good yardstick of the best available flights to any destination at the time, flights to the UK are available on all the major international airlines (currently form R21,000) and it is best to search there when you know your specific destination and time of travel.

Rennies Travel takes you there

With an international footprint but our hearts firmly fixed in our beloved S.A. Rennies Travel has the experience and the expertise to ensure that travel to the UK – or anywhere else is seamless and a holiday to remember and savour. Contact us today for bookings and any information you need – we are here for you, keeping the wanderlust alive!