The United Kingdom is a popular choice with visitors from the Philippines; according to the most recent data, nearly 50,000 visas a year are issued to Pinoy business and tourist travelers. As mainland UK is a relatively small island, with many free museums and parks, it is possible to travel fairly cheaply and freely around it by car or even enjoying the freedom of a motorbike.
One of the best road trips you can take uses the M4 motorway which links London to the beautiful west country and on to the jaw-dropping mountains and valleys of Wales.
Upon arrival
Wherever you are in the world, your trip to the UK is likely to start at London’s Heathrow airport, which links the UK with 204 destinations and offers frequent flights to and from Manila. Check into a nearby hotel for a good night’s sleep so you can start your adventure feeling fresh.
If you’re keen to visit London’s landmarks, you could take a quick detour at this stage – you may find the train more useful for this part – but as soon as possible, get back to exploring the great British countryside. Make sure your vehicle is reliable, safe and comfortable, with plenty of legroom and luggage space so that you can enjoy your journey in style.
City lights to scenic sights
Within half an hour’s drive of Heathrow, you will find the first delight of your road trip; Windsor Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1070, and the scene of two royal weddings in 2018, Windsor Castle is the most visited royal estate, with over 1.4 million visitors in 2017/18. Food lovers should try a traditional British cream tea in one of the many tea shops near the castle.
From Windsor, join the M4 again and drive further west to the Roman city of Bath, with its amazing archaeological finds. Bath also features beautiful Georgian architecture and will be popular with fans of Jane Austen’s elegant novels. For a real treat, book into the Pump Room for lunch or tea. From Bath, continue along the M4 to stunning Wales, home to lush green valleys, sparkling seas and famous Mount Snowdon.
British road trip essentials
The weather in Britain is notoriously changeable, so prepare to pack lots of layers and waterproof clothing! Places such as the Pump Room in Bath are fairly smart, so you may like to keep at least one fairly nice outfit to hand, but on the whole, wear clothes you will be comfortable and able to explore
If you are planning to hike in Wales, make sure you pack strong walking boots. As with any road trip, make sure your phone is charged, keep some water in the car, and take a map in case the sat nav lets you down.
The UK has many beautiful places to offer, but a road trip along the M4 route will open up the best of what Britain has to offer. Whether you’re interested in imposing castles, regency novels or delicious scones piled high with jam and clotted cream, this promises to be a trip to remember. Prepare to discover all that is Great about Britain.
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