— A RUNNING SERIES ON THE PODCAST

Britain Travel Guides

The biggest thread on the podcast, and the one that started it. Nearly thirty episodes of practical, tested advice on getting to Britain, getting around it, and not wasting your money once you’re there.

Written and recorded for Americans, by two Americans who have made most of the mistakes already.

  • 29Episodes
  • 26h 38mOf Listening
  • 2019Series Started
Play the Series
Browse Every Episode
Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower, Westminster

The Elizabeth Tower, Westminster. Photo by Julian Herzog, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

— ABOUT THIS SERIES

The Advice We Wish Someone Had Given Us

Anglotopia began with a drive from Land’s End to John O’Groats, and the first four episodes of this podcast are the trip diary. We were not experts. We got the driving wrong, the budgeting wrong, and the packing wrong, and we said so out loud.

Everything in this collection grew out of that. How to plan a first trip without trying to see the whole country in ten days. What the UK’s ETA requirement actually means for an American passport. Whether you can genuinely do London on a hundred dollars a day — and then whether you can do the rest of Britain on the same. What a rental car really costs once you add the insurance, the fuel and the parking, and why a rail pass is often the better answer.

We’ve talked roundabouts and speed cameras with a retired traffic officer, train travel with a BritRail specialist, and the expensive mistakes American visitors make over and over with nobody but ourselves. There are regional deep dives too — Oxford, Yorkshire, Wales, Cumbria, Bath and the West Country — and a yearly look at what’s worth building a trip around.

None of it is sponsored advice. If something is a waste of money we say so.

— NEW HERE?

Three Episodes to Start With

Start with the planning episode, then the two that will save you the most money.

— THE PLAYLIST

Listen Straight Through

Every travel guide episode in broadcast order, in one player.

Anglotopia Podcast | Discussing UK British Travel, History, Culture, London, British Slang, and More!
Anglotopia Podcast | Discussing UK British Travel, History, Culture, London, British Slang, and More!
Anglotopia Podcast Episode 1 - Planning the LeJog Trip and Cornwall
Loading
/
  • Anglotopia Podcast Episode 1 - Planning the LeJog Trip and Cornwall

    Anglotopia Podcast Episode 1 - Planning the LeJog Trip and Cornwall

    Jan 3, 2019 • 1:06:16

    This is Anglotopia's first ever podcast! We kicked this podcast off by discussing our drive from Land's End to John O'Groats. We also discussed the planning that went into the trip. Join us for an hour-long conversation into how our Epic Journey this...

  • Anglotopia Podcast Episode 2: Land's End to John O'Groats - Bristol to Durham

    Anglotopia Podcast Episode 2: Land's End to John O'Groats - Bristol to Durham

    Jan 3, 2019 • 1:02:28

    In this episode, we talk about our travels in Northern England during Anglotopia's Le Jog trip this past September. You can click below to listen to the podcast or scroll down further to watch it on YouTube. Please be sure give feedback, we appreciate...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 4 - Land's End to John O'Groats - Scotland

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 4 - Land's End to John O'Groats - Scotland

    Jan 4, 2019 • 1:16:01

    And finally, we get to the Scotland episode! In this episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, we resume talking about our Grand Adventure from last year. This episode is mostly about our visit to Scotland. We fell in love with the place and can't wait to go...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 5 - Planning Your First Trip to Britain

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 5 - Planning Your First Trip to Britain

    Jan 11, 2019 • 1:12:33

    In this episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, we've used a reader request. How do you plan your first trip to London? There's a lot of ground to cover and I'm sure we missed something things but we hope this is a good primer for planning your first trip...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 9 - Our Britain Bucket Lists

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 9 - Our Britain Bucket Lists

    Apr 23, 2019 • 1:00:07

    This week in the Anglotopia Podcast, we talk about our 'Britain Bucket Lists,' the things we would like to do the most in Britain in the next few years. Some are mundane, some are exciting adventures, all of them take in the best of Britain. What's on...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 13 - Catching Up On All Things British and British Travel in 2022

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 13 - Catching Up On All Things British and British Travel in 2022

    Mar 30, 2022 • 53:48

    After a long, unexpected hiatus, the Anglotopia Podcast has returned! In this episode we watch up on what's going on with Anglotopia, we talk about our exciting new Union Jack Lightbox product and how it came about, then we talk about the resumption...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Return to Britain - Current State of Travel to the UK

    Anglotopia Podcast: Return to Britain - Current State of Travel to the UK

    Aug 16, 2022 • 23:50

    In this special podcast recorded while I was in England last month, I talk about my travel experiences, traveling in the post-COVID age, dealing with the chaos of Heathrow, what it’s like to be in England after four years, and some first impressions...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Return to Britain - How to get the Oxford Experience Yourself

    Anglotopia Podcast: Return to Britain - How to get the Oxford Experience Yourself

    Aug 22, 2022 • 35:01

    In this second special podcast recorded while I was in England last month, I try to answer all the questions I received about my Oxford course. How can you have the Oxford Experience yourself? How much does it cost? What does it include? What is the...

  • Oxford, Dyrham Park, Steam Trains, and more!

    Oxford, Dyrham Park, Steam Trains, and more!

    Oct 3, 2022 • 39:10

    In the next installment of podcasts about my trip to Britain this past July, I talk about my final days in Oxford and what I did after. I rented a car and visited Dyrham Park and the next day went on an incredible steam train journey. I give some...

  • Anglotopia Podcast Episode 23 - British Tipping Customs, Getting out of London, and History of a Quaint Cottage with English Cottage Vacation

    Anglotopia Podcast Episode 23 - British Tipping Customs, Getting out of London, and History of a Quaint Cottage with English Cottage Vacation

    Jun 21, 2024 • 40:08

    Laura Kurton from English Cottage Vacation joins the podcast to discuss their all-inclusive travel experience in the Dorset countryside. They offer tailor-made itineraries for guests, including popular sites like Bath, the Cotswolds, and the Jurassic...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 24 – Exploring the Off-the-beaten-path Gems of Bath and the West Country

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 24 – Exploring the Off-the-beaten-path Gems of Bath and the West Country

    Jun 28, 2024 • 51:35

    Jules Mittra, the founder of In and Beyond Bath, discusses travel in the West Country of England with a focus on Bath and the Cotswolds. He emphasizes the importance of thoughtful travel and experiencing the off-the-beaten-path gems of the region....

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 26 - Q&A How to Move to the UK, Layover Travel, When To Go, and More!

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 26 - Q&A How to Move to the UK, Layover Travel, When To Go, and More!

    Jul 19, 2024 • 1:00:35

    This week on the Anglotopia podcast, we take a break from the guests and answer listener questions. In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan and Jackie answer questions about Britain from their listeners. They discuss topics such as when to...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 31 - Crossing the Pond – Your Guide to Stress-FreeTransatlantic Travel

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 31 - Crossing the Pond – Your Guide to Stress-FreeTransatlantic Travel

    Sep 6, 2024 • 1:06:35

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan and Jackie discuss tips and tricks for having a great transatlantic travel experience. They cover topics such as the different classes of travel, the importance of timing your flight, and the need...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 33 - Driving in the UK: An American’s Survival Guide – Road Signs, Roundabouts, and Rental Car Blunders!

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 33 - Driving in the UK: An American’s Survival Guide – Road Signs, Roundabouts, and Rental Car Blunders!

    Sep 20, 2024 • 1:18:06

    This week on the Anglotopia Podcast, we discuss the unique experiences and challenges faced by American drivers navigating the roads of the UK. We share personal anecdotes, practical tips, and insights into the cultural differences in driving,...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 43 - Anglotopia Returns to England - Our Impressions and Experience Reports - Part 1

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 43 - Anglotopia Returns to England - Our Impressions and Experience Reports - Part 1

    Dec 7, 2024 • 1:00:17

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan and Jackie share their experiences from a recent trip to England, highlighting the long-awaited return to the country, unique events attended, and the charm of London. The conversation covers the...

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 47 - The New UK ETA Requirement - What American Travelers Need to Know

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 47 - The New UK ETA Requirement - What American Travelers Need to Know

    Mar 30, 2025 • 32:14

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas discusses two significant topics: the release of a new book titled ‘British Monarchy: A Complete Guide to Britain’s Kings and Queens’ and the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for travelers to the UK. The book compiles a decade’s…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 48 - Anglotopia Returns to England Part 2 - Cotswold Travel Tips and Observations

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 48 - Anglotopia Returns to England Part 2 - Cotswold Travel Tips and Observations

    Apr 4, 2025 • 56:02

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan and Jackie continue sharing their recent UK trip, focusing on their days in the Cotswolds. After the busy London portion covered in part one, they slow down to enjoy quintessential English countryside experiences. The hosts describe their perfect Sunday with a traditional…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 50 - Anglotopia Unfiltered 50th Episode Q&A - Travel Tips, Tea Kettles & British Misadventures

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 50 - Anglotopia Unfiltered 50th Episode Q&A - Travel Tips, Tea Kettles & British Misadventures

    Apr 18, 2025 • 1:15:30

    In this celebratory 50th episode of the Anglotopia podcast, hosts Jonathan and Jacqueline Thomas reflect on their journey through British travel, culture, and history. They engage with listeners through a Q&A session, sharing insights on accents, culinary experiences, and travel mishaps. The conversation also touches on the importance of historical…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 53 - How to Do London on a Budget of $100 a Day

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 53 - How to Do London on a Budget of $100 a Day

    May 9, 2025 • 29:42

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas discusses the new goal for the Friends of Anglotopia membership club and shares insights on how to explore London on a budget of $100 a day. He covers various aspects of budget travel, including accommodation, free attractions, transportation, and dining options,…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 59 - Behind the Scenes of a Boutique British Tour Company - Mary Valentine Tours

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 59 - Behind the Scenes of a Boutique British Tour Company - Mary Valentine Tours

    Jun 20, 2025 • 57:10

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Mary Valentine, founder of Mary Valentine Tours, about her journey from academia to leading boutique tours across Britain. Mary shares her passion for British culture, her experiences with the Women’s Institute, and the unique insights she offers to…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 69 - The Anglotopia Guide to Cumbria and the Lake District

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 69 - The Anglotopia Guide to Cumbria and the Lake District

    Sep 12, 2025 • 49:30

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas explores the beauty and cultural significance of Cumbria and the Lake District. He shares his personal experiences, literary connections, and the planning process for his trip, including a writer’s retreat. The conversation delves into the stunning landscapes, historical sites, and the…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 73 - Exploring the Wonders of Wales with Welsh Travel Guide Amanda Whitehead of Conwy Tours

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 73 - Exploring the Wonders of Wales with Welsh Travel Guide Amanda Whitehead of Conwy Tours

    Oct 10, 2025 • 45:37

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas speaks with Amanda Whitehead, an official Wales guide with 25 years of experience. They discuss the unique aspects of Welsh tourism, the evolution of travel interests among American visitors, and the rich cultural heritage of Wales. Amanda shares insights on…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 75: Exploring Britain on $100 a Day - Complete Anglotopia Guide to the UK on a Budget

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 75: Exploring Britain on $100 a Day - Complete Anglotopia Guide to the UK on a Budget

    Oct 24, 2025 • 52:36

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, Jonathan Thomas discusses how to travel around Britain on a budget of $100 a day. He shares practical tips on accommodation, transportation, attractions, and dining, emphasizing the importance of planning and making use of available resources to save money. The conversation covers various…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 82 - Your Travel Guide to Britain in 2026 - Major Events, Exhibitions, Museums, and More!

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 82 - Your Travel Guide to Britain in 2026 - Major Events, Exhibitions, Museums, and More!

    Dec 26, 2025 • 50:41

    In this episode of the Anglotopia podcast, host Jonathan Thomas discusses exciting plans for 2026, including his personal goal of walking Hadrian’s Wall, the revival of Anglotopia’s online store, and major cultural events happening across Britain. He highlights significant Royal anniversaries, exhibitions, and theatre performances to look forward to, emphasizing…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Bonus Episode - Don't Make These Expensive Mistakes Traveling to Britain

    Anglotopia Podcast: Bonus Episode - Don't Make These Expensive Mistakes Traveling to Britain

    Feb 24, 2026 • 40:56

    After 25 years and roughly 25 trips across the Atlantic — including one where he ran out of money and had to beg his parents from a London phone box and another that ended with a $1,200 phone bill — Jonathan Thomas has learned how to travel Britain without going…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 90 - The Real Yorkshire - A Blue Badge Guide's Insider Guide to England's Biggest County

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 90 - The Real Yorkshire - A Blue Badge Guide's Insider Guide to England's Biggest County

    Apr 3, 2026 • 56:31

    In this episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, Jonathan Thomas sits down with Tim Barber, Yorkshire Blue Badge guide and founder of Real Yorkshire Tours, for an in-depth traveler’s guide to one of England’s most captivating and varied regions. Tim brings over a decade of guiding experience and a background in…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 91 - Roundabouts, Speed Cameras & Country Lanes - Driving in Britain Explained With a Retired UK Traffic Cop

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 91 - Roundabouts, Speed Cameras & Country Lanes - Driving in Britain Explained With a Retired UK Traffic Cop

    Apr 10, 2026 • 1:15:28

    In this episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, Jonathan Thomas sits down with Ben Pearson — retired West Yorkshire Police traffic officer, Police Interceptors TV veteran, bestselling author, and mental health advocate — for the ultimate American’s guide to driving in the UK. Ben spent 19 years on one of Britain’s…

  • Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 97 - City of Dreaming Spires - The Anglotopia Guide to Oxford - Travel, Tips, and Tricks

    Anglotopia Podcast: Episode 97 - City of Dreaming Spires - The Anglotopia Guide to Oxford - Travel, Tips, and Tricks

    May 29, 2026 • 1:11:02

    In this solo episode of the Anglotopia Podcast, Jonathan Thomas delivers his definitive guide to Oxford — his favorite city in England outside of London and the subject of his guidebook 101 Oxford Travel Tips and Tricks. From the bleary-eyed chaos of his first visit in 2012 with an angry…

  • BritRail 101: The Definitive Guide to Train Travel in Britain for Visitors with Expert Tim Roebuck

    BritRail 101: The Definitive Guide to Train Travel in Britain for Visitors with Expert Tim Roebuck

    Jul 24, 2026 • 00:58:26

    In this sponsored episode of the Anglotopia Podcast — brought to you by ACP Rail and BritRail — Jonathan Thomas sits down with Tim Roebuck, a man who has spent his entire career in rail travel: station manager, head of BritRail Travel International in New York, senior VP at ACP…

— THE FULL COLLECTION

Every Travel Guide Episode

In the order we recorded them, oldest first.

— IF YOU’D RATHER READ

The Companion Long Reads

We turn our favourite conversations into full feature articles — the same material, written up properly, for people who’d sooner read than listen.

Companion articles for this series are being written — check back soon.

— FROM THE ANGLOTOPIA NETWORK

More Travel Advice Across Anglotopia & Londontopia

Twenty years of trip reports, day-out guides and practical advice from our sister sites.

— WHAT THE GUIDES COVER

The Questions We Get Asked Most

Six things every first-time visitor writes to us about.

Getting There

Which airports actually make sense, when fares drop, and how to survive the transatlantic flight and the jet lag that follows.

Getting Around

Trains versus a rental car, rail passes, and what driving on the left is really like once you meet your first roundabout.

What It Costs

Real daily budgets, where the money actually goes, and the categories where Americans routinely overspend.

Paperwork

The UK’s ETA requirement, passports, and the admin you need sorted before you fly.

When To Go

Weather, school holidays, crowds and prices — and why the shoulder seasons are usually the answer.

Where To Go

Getting beyond London: the Cotswolds, Yorkshire, Cumbria, Wales, Bath and the West Country.

— NEVER MISS AN EPISODE

Follow the Anglotopia Podcast

New episodes every Friday, and a travel guide roughly once a month.

Free Podcast Newsletter

Subscribe to our special podcast newsletter below and never miss the latest episode of the Anglotopia Podcast.