What is great about working in the UK even with just a Working Holiday Visa, (now known as the Tier 5 – Youth Mobility Scheme), is that you get to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years, which basically means you also get to travel and discover the hidden treasures around the British Isles.
As a foreigner, however, getting around may not be that easy, especially when language might be a barrier. Not to worry, there are plenty of tour companies and travel operators that you can rely on. To make your trip more enjoyable, group travel offers the chance to meet people and find your feet.
There are lots of options for group travel around the UK and travelling is a great way to break up your stay in between jobs during your working holiday in the UK. Here we’ve rounded up some great companies for exploring the UK.
Trailfinders
Considered as the best tour operator by the Telegraph Travel Awards 2014, Trailfinders definitely live up to its name – constantly looking for trails that will feed the wanderlust in you. Operating for 44 years and counting, you can expect the highest standards in customer service, and the company only hires staff that has a wide experience of the destinations that they are offering.
HF Holidays
If you’re more of a nature lover, you should sign up for a group tour with HF Holidays. They offer the largest walking and outdoor leisure tours in the UK. They have 19 country houses in their portfolio that are used as a base for hiking and biking trips. What sets HF Holidays apart is that you can learn a new skill or hobby during your tour.
Across the Pond Vacations
For a group of 15 or more people, Across the Pond Vacations can custom-design a group tour in the UK and Ireland. You can choose from several tour packages for London, England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Holiday packages include hotels, transportation, sightseeing tour to various attractions and so much more. Even meals arrangement can be included upon request. What better way to truly explore the UK, right?
Scenic Tours
From the company name, you can pretty much surmise what Scenic Tours can offer. As an escorted tour operator, they offer tour programmes as well as a river cruise. There are also long-haul trips available to many destinations, including Australia, New Zealand, and North and South America.
21st Century Travel (UK) Ltd
This company offers luxury guided tours around London and Britain that departs daily from central London. They also offer other types of tours in and out of London, such as Thames Cruises, Black Taxi Tours, and Stonehenge Tours. Small groups can also enjoy Out of London Mini Coach Tours.
Once you have chosen which group tour company to hire, make sure to prepare for your trip. Start by getting the latest updates and travel advice by following @FCOtravel on Twitter. This is one way to avoid any hiccups along the way. Then again, you can always rely on a tour operator to provide you with the necessary information that will make your trip smooth and easy.
Photo by Ian Cylkowski on Unsplash