England Travel Notes
My London, Leicester stops, real opinions and places to explore.
- Languages
- English
- Currency
- Pound Sterling · GBP
- Cash
- A Small Backup Is Enough.
- Cards
- Yes. Widely Accepted.
- Tap To Pay
- Very Common.
- WiFi
- Available. Quality Varies.
- Mobile Data
- SIM Or eSIM · Check Coverage
- Small Shops
- Varies. Keep Cash Handy.
- Tipping
- Check The Service Charge
What To Wear
What To Pack
Pack a light raincoat and comfortable walking shoes for London and Leicester. Layers work better than one heavy outfit for changing weather and warm trains. Winter evenings need a warmer outer layer.
Money And Payments
Cash And Cards
Card and phone payments cover most everyday spending, especially in London. You can use contactless on London transport. Keep a small cash backup for the occasional stall or business that needs it; you do not need to plan your whole trip around carrying cash.
Travel Cards
A contactless travel card may work on London transport, but use the same card or device throughout each journey. Its digital wallet token and physical card are treated separately.
Tipping Culture
Restaurants often add a discretionary service charge, especially in London. You do not need to tip twice. In a pub, buying a drink at the bar does not normally call for a tip. Example: if a £50 meal already includes £6.25 discretionary service, you do not need to add another tip. A pint bought at the pub counter does not normally need one.
Getting Around
Getting Around London
In London, use the same contactless card or device for the whole journey so fares and caps calculate correctly. A phone and its physical bank card count separately. London bus journeys only need a touch in.
Traveling Between Stops
London and Leicester have intercity rail connections. Check the departure station and restrictions on your ticket: an Advance fare can be tied to a specific train. London fare caps do not cover a Leicester journey.
Staying Connected
Using T Mobile In England
England is listed for international roaming on eligible T Mobile plans. Data allowances, speeds, and call charges depend on your plan. Check before you travel.
Mobile Data For This Trip
Have data ready for live train changes and the final walk from the station. Download both London and Leicester directions if travelling between them; public WiFi is a bonus rather than your ticket backup.
Where To Stay
Choosing Your Area
In London, a convenient Tube station matters more than a famous postcode. In Leicester, compare the station and city centre with your evening plans. Check the last journey back before choosing a cheaper distant room.
Before You Arrive
Before You Fly
Check whether your passport needs a UK ETA or a visa before travelling. An ETA is travel permission, not a visa for every nationality. A London airport change can require border entry and a long transfer.
Sources And My Visit
Practical information was researched and checked on 22 October 2026. My reviews describe my own visits. Area comparisons are planning advice, not hotels I claim to have inspected. Entry advice must match your passport, residency, route, and travel date.
London
Skuna Sauna, BBQ, Hot Tub & Igloo Boats (Canary Wharf)
So much fun! A must do! Especially when it’s cold or if it’s snowing. They have bathrooms and changing areas. There are plenty of restaurants nearby as well if you want to eat before or after. You will get a free welcome drink.
Mezemiso
Amazing! I came here all alone for my birthday and they really made me feel so happy and comfortable. I had a great time, and the staff were amazing. Can’t wait to come back.
The White Ferry, Victoria (PUBLOVE)
Best Hostel for the location for the price that you’re gonna find. And when you stay here, the bar is open for you 24 7.
Timmy Green
SO GOOD!
Buckingham Palace
I was there 2 days before the Queen died and 2 days after. It was crazy.
London Eye
It’s cool, but it’s way too fast. Everyone is running to take pictures in the same spot, so it becomes tricky. For me, the Uber boat was a lot better. Cheaper, and a better experience.
The London Dungeon
Every single city in the whole wide world needs to do something like this so we can learn about history in an immersive experience. So we laid out, so unique, full of things that are unexpected, leaving you on your toes.
WeWork Office Space & Coworking
STUNNING LOCATION!!
Tower Bridge
Is it worth the price? No not really. You have to walk up a whole bunch of stairs to get all the way to the top and then the only cool thing is the glass bottom. You can also pay to get a customized penny.
Ballie Ballerson London
Stepping in, I was mesmerized by the glowing colors and vibrant atmosphere. They took me and my girl Sarah to our super cute booth made of balls, so fun!
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two One Two
COOLEST EXPERIENCE EVER! So basically you get sent into prison and get to experience what it would be
Leicester
Papa Frites
This place is SO good!!! I got the tenders with hot sauce and peri peri mixed and the cone fries with both hot spices and lemon pepper! Unreal! When I tell you, I ate EVERYTHING, I mean it! There was nothing left on my plate and I came back
My Travel Stories
