The United Kingdom

The UK has a temperate maritime climate, which means the weather can be changeable throughout the year. Generally, the months May to September most suitable for a visit (but read above what the perfect months are), with more pleasant temperatures and longer days. For those who want to avoid the crowds, spring and early autumn are ideal times to travel.

As a Dutch traveller, you have no visa required for a stay of up to 6 months in the UK. However, there are a few other things you need to look out for!

In fact, for a trip to the UK (including Scotland), you need a valid passport needed. Dutch ID cards are in principle no longer accepted.

In addition, you have a ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) required for stays of up to 6 months. This is a digital travel authorisation that you apply for no later than 3 days before arrival via the official UK ETA app or -website (Note: only through official channels!). As rules can change, we recommend always checking the latest information on the government page of Netherlands Worldwide.

Travelling between the countries of the UK is easy:

• Train: railway network is extensive and connects major cities.
• Bus: long-distance buses are an economical option.
• Car: with a hire car, you have the freedom to travel at your own pace.
• Aeroplane: domestic flights are available, especially convenient for longer distances.
• Ferry: there are ferry services between Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Okay, we understand that sometimes you lose track! Because what exactly is the difference between the United Kingdom, Great Britain and England? Below is a brief explanation:

• England: a country within the United Kingdom.
• Britain: the island comprising England, Scotland and Wales.
• United Kingdom (UK): a sovereign state consisting of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Time in the UK differs 1 hour from the Netherlands all year round. This is because in the UK they also work with summer and winter time with the clock being set one hour forward in summer. Nice and easy!

What you have to take into account, however, is the fact that they indicate the time differently. By this we mean that in the UK, they put the words a.m. (ante meridiem, before noon) and p.m. (post meridiem, after noon) after the times. See our blog about AM/PM for a detailed explanation!

The United Kingdom (UK) consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Great Britain refers to the island comprising England, Scotland and Wales, i.e. without Northern Ireland.

So what is the difference? England is one of the four countries within the United Kingdom and, together with Scotland and Wales, forms the island of Great Britain.

England has never been synonymous with Britain; they have always been separate entities. Confusion often arises because people use the terms interchangeably. Britain refers to the island containing England, Scotland and Wales, while England is only part of it.

We always find this a difficult question. Because there is so much beauty to discover in every country! So read our blogs and put together your ideal trip. Anyway, to answer the question anyway, here are a few places we think you should not miss! 

• Lake District: Breathtaking lakes and mountains, perfect for hikers and nature lovers.
• Cotswolds: Picturesque villages with honey-coloured stone houses and rolling hills.
• Cornwall: Beautiful coastlines, surfing beaches and charming fishing villages.
• Bath: Historic city known for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture.
• York: Medieval city with an impressive cathedral and cosy streets.

Absolutely! England has a rich history with modern culture. Whether you are interested in castles, museums, nature or bustling cities, England has it all.

Want to go to the sun? yes... then you probably won't see well here... But well there are other destinations of course for!

For Dutch travellers, a visa is not required for stays of up to 6 months, as described above. However, you must have a valid passport and a ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for stays of up to 6 months. This is a digital travel authorisation that you apply for no later than 3 days before arrival via the official UK ETA app or -website (Note: only through official channels!).

Yes, tap water in England is safe to drink. In some areas, the water may have a different taste due to minerals, but it is drinkable everywhere.

No, Scotland is a separate country within the United Kingdom, just like England. Although together they form the island of Britain, they each have their own culture, legal system and educational structure.

The best time to visit Scotland is in spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October). These months offer pleasant temperatures, long days and you will find fewer tourists. Moreover, the landscapes are at their most beautiful during these seasons.

Again, a tricky question because Scotland also has a lot of beautiful places. The country is not known for its breathtaking nature and historical sights for nothing. A few destinations that should therefore not be on your list:

• Isle of Skye: Spectacular landscapes with mountains, cliffs and waterfalls.
• Edinburgh: Historic city with a beautiful castle and lively festivals.
• Loch Ness: Famous lake with the mythical monster Nessie.
• Glencoe: Impressive valley with a tragic history and beautiful hiking trails.
• Cairngorms National Park: UK's largest national park with diverse flora and fauna

Scotland can be pricey (you can read more about that in our blogs), especially in popular tourist areas and during high season. However, with good planning and choosing budget-friendly accommodation and dining options, you can definitely keep costs down. 

Definitely! Scotland offers a unique mix of landscapes, friendly people and a rich history. Whether you love hiking in the Highlands, exploring castles or enjoying local whisky, Scotland has something for everyone.

For a good impression of Scotland, we recommend at least 7 to 10 days. This gives you time to visit both cities and Edinburgh and Glasgow explore as the natural beauty of the Highlands and islands like Skye!

No, Scotland is no longer part of the European Union since the UK left the EU in 2020.

For Dutch travellers, a visa is not required for stays of up to 6 months, as described above. However, you must have a valid passport and a ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) for stays of up to 6 months. This is a digital travel authorisation that you apply for no later than 3 days before arrival via the official UK ETA app or -website (Note: only through official channels!).

Yes, tap water in Scotland is safe to drink. In some rural areas, the water may have a different taste due to minerals, but it is drinkable everywhere.