How much does it cost to visit England?

The cost of a round-trip flight from the US to England depends on your departure city, airline, and season. For a direct economy-class round-trip from New York (JFK) to London Heathrow (LHR), prices usually start around $500–$700 per person (including one carry-on and one checked bag) when booked in advance. If you’re departing from cities like Los Angeles or Chicago, expect to pay $650–$950 or more. Business class fares are significantly higher, typically starting around $2,200 per person for a round-trip ticket. Occasionally, budget airlines or promotional fares may be available, but be sure to check what’s included, as extra fees for baggage, seat selection, and meals are common.

The cost of an overnight stay in a 2- to 3-star hotel in England typically starts around $60 per person. More comfortable accommodations often begin at about $80 per night, while luxury 5-star hotels in London and other major tourist destinations can easily charge up to $1,100 per guest per night.

Generally, travelers will find small to mid-sized hotels, family-run guesthouses, or traditional inns throughout England. However, in London and other large cities, there’s also a wide selection of larger hotels and modern international hotel chains. Keep in mind that hotel prices in London and southern England are noticeably higher than those in other parts of the country.

Travelers exploring England will find plenty of attractions that are completely free. These include visits to the scenic Cotswolds, the world-renowned British Museum, and hikes through the stunning Lake District National Park.

However, many popular sites do charge admission. For example, visiting Stonehenge, the historic Roman Baths, or the observation deck at The Shard in London typically costs around $35 per adult.

If you'd like to explore attractions outside of London without renting a car, guided tours are widely available. Depending on the destination and inclusions, expect to pay around $165 per person. Of course, there’s plenty to enjoy in London itself. You might consider indulging in a traditional afternoon tea at The Ritz for about $90 per guest or taking a memorable boat cruise on the Thames, which also runs around $165 per adult.

Renting a car in England starts at around $60 per day for a small vehicle and about $85 per day for a more comfortable model. On top of that, fuel costs are approximately $2.30 per liter (roughly $8.70 per gallon). Renting a car is especially worthwhile if you plan to visit smaller coastal towns or explore rural parts of the country.

Alternatively, England’s major cities are well-connected by train. For instance, a one-way ticket on the 220-mile (350 km) route from London to Liverpool starts at about $36. Within cities, you’ll find a well-developed and affordable public transportation network. A single ride on the London Underground or a local bus typically costs around $3.30 per person.

Taxi fares, on the other hand, can be quite expensive. For example, a 15-mile (25 km) trip from Heathrow Airport to central London can cost up to $125. More budget-friendly ride-sharing options like Uber or Bolt are also widely available.

On average, a meal at a typical restaurant in England costs between $22 and $39 per person. For a more budget-friendly option, head to one of the many traditional pubs, where you can enjoy hearty fare at lower prices—and even strike up a conversation with locals.

During your trip, make sure to sample classic English dishes like a full English breakfast, roast beef with Yorkshire pudding, or the iconic fish and chips. Depending on the restaurant and the dish, these meals usually cost between $9 and $25 per person.

England also offers fantastic international cuisine, particularly Indian food, which is widely available and highly rated. You can enjoy a flavorful curry for around $9 to $17, often served with extras like papadoms, rice, and onion bhajis—sometimes included at no additional cost.

Keep in mind that eating out in London and southern England tends to be more expensive than in the northern parts of the country.