Are you looking to move to the UK from the USA? The UK is captivating with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, making it the new home for you!
This blog is your one-stop guide for Americans considering a move across the Atlantic, from the “whys” to the “how-tos.”
This blog includes:
- The allure of the UK
- The best places to settle
- The visa application process
- Why Santa Fe is your secret weapon for a smooth and successful move.
Moving to England Should Be Your Next Adventure
Here are just a few reasons why the UK might be your dream come true:
1. A Cluster of Cultures:
The UK is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and cuisines. From bustling London with its global influences to charming villages steeped in Celtic history. Want to experience different cultures? Explore London’s vibrant Chinatown, savour a classic Cornish afternoon tea, or cheer on your local football team!
2. Hidden Gems Galore:
Venture beyond the iconic landmarks and discover the UK’s hidden treasures:
- Hike the breathtaking trails of the Lake District National Park
- Explore the mysterious stone circles of Stonehenge,
- Go fossil hunting along the outstanding Jurassic Coast.
Foodies will love uncovering local specialties like clotted cream in Cornwall or indulging in a hearty Welsh Rarebit. Speaking of food, the British love their street food. Most markets in the UK will have homemade local delicacies and cakes! Unleash your taste buds at Greenwich Market and devour the world’s best cuisines, all under one roof!
History at Every Corner:
The UK boasts a rich and fascinating history. Explore ancient Roman baths in Bath, wander through medieval castles, or visit historic sites like Buckingham Palace. Explore captivating historical walking tours and museums that transport you back in time.
London: A treasure trove of historical sites. London offers iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Big Ben. Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been the coronation church for English monarchs for centuries.
Edinburgh, Scotland: Must visit the Edinburgh Castle. It sits on a volcanic rock and offers beautiful views of the city. The castle also provides a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval history. The Palace of Holyroodhouse served as the royal residence in Scotland for centuries.
Bath, England:This Roman spa town boasts well-preserved Roman Baths, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The elegant Georgian architecture and The Jane Austen Centre transport visitors back to the Regency era.
Oxford and Cambridge, England: Home to prestigious universities, these historic towns offer a glimpse into England’s academic heritage. Explore the grand university colleges, historic libraries, and museums.
Hadrian’s Wall: This UNESCO World Heritage Site, a formidable Roman defensive barrier. The 1st and 2nd centuries AD saw the construction of Hadrian’s Wall, which stretches across northern England. Walk along the wall segments and explore the Roman forts and museums to learn about Roman Britain.
York, England: A city with Viking and Roman history. York boasts Jorvik Viking Centre, a reconstruction of a Viking settlement, and York Minster, a magnificent Gothic cathedral.
These are just a few suggestions to get you started. Explore the wealth of historical sites in the UK!
Embrace the Great Outdoors
The UK offers a diverse landscape for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through rolling hills, cycle through scenic countryside lanes, or surf the waves on the dramatic coastlines. Enjoy the different seasons, from colourful spring flowers to winter evenings by a cosy fireplace in a quaint pub.
Hiking: The UK boasts numerous scenic trails perfect for hiking. From the rolling hills of the Peak District National Park to the dramatic peaks of the Lake District National Park. You can also explore the rugged coastlines of Wales and Scotland for breathtaking ocean views.
Mountain Biking: The UK caters to mountain bikers of all skill levels. From challenging single tracks in Scotland to family-friendly routes in the forests of England, there’s something for everyone. Several national parks like Afan Argoed in Wales offer dedicated mountain biking trails.
Rock Climbing: The UK has a long history of rock climbing. Rock climbing enthusiasts often flock to the Peak District National Park, Malham Cove in Yorkshire, and Pembroke Coast in Wales.
Water Sports:The UK coastline offers a variety of water sports activities. Go surfing, coasteering, or kayaking along the shores of Cornwall, Wales, and Scotland. Several companies offer kayaking tours on tranquil lakes and rivers throughout the country.
Horseback Riding: Explore the picturesque countryside on horseback. Many riding schools and trekking centres offer guided rides through national parks, forests, and beaches.
Uniquely British Experiences
Here are some things you won’t find anywhere else:
- Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a classic British tradition with scones, cream, sandwiches, and tea during Afternoon Tea.
- Pub Culture: The pub is the heart of many communities – a place to meet friends, enjoy a pint, and soak up the local atmosphere.
- World-Class Education: The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities. Whether you’re seeking an undergraduate degree or postgraduate studies, there are loads of different academic programs to choose from. The UK education system provides a high-quality and enriching experience.
Remember, this is just a glimpse into what the UK has to offer. The UK is a great place to live with its welcoming people, interesting traditions, and many opportunities to explore.
Why Move to the UK from the US?
Countless reasons why Americans choose to relocate to the UK. Here are just a few:
- Rich History and Culture: Immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of history, from Roman ruins to Shakespearean theatres.
- Universal Healthcare: The National Health Service (NHS) provides peace of mind with accessible healthcare.
- Excellent Public Transportation: Robust train and bus networks connect you across the country.
- Explore Europe with ease! The UK is your perfect launchpad! Budget airlines, Eurostar trains, and ferries make it easy to explore Europe from there. Channel hop and immerse yourself in all Europe has to offer, all just a trip away!
- City Life: The UK has cities for everyone, from busy London to charming Birmingham.
- Slower Pace of Life: Escape the hustle and bustle and embrace a more relaxed approach to living.
- Perfect for Families: The UK offers a fantastic variety of youth groups for children of all ages and interests. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:
The Scout Association is open to boys and girls aged 4-25. They offer a program focused on outdoor activities, skills development, and leadership training.
Girlguiding UK is a program for girls aged 4-18 that focuses on personal development, exploration, and adventure. Activities include crafts, camping, and community service.
Army Cadets, Air Training Corps, and Sea Cadets are organizations for children between the ages of 12 and 18. They provide a structured and enjoyable way for kids to learn about the military. Each group focuses on a different branch of the armed forces. The activities offered by these groups help kids develop leadership skills and teamwork.
Sports clubs: offer kids chances to play sports like football, rugby, swimming, and gymnastics. These clubs focus on building skills, teamwork, and a love for sports, and are for all ages.
These groups help kids learn social skills, make friends, and have fun in a safe environment.
Where to Live in England:
England, the heart of the UK, offers a variety of options depending on your lifestyle preferences. Here’s a quick peek at some popular destinations:
- London: The vibrant capital city with world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and a thriving cultural scene. (Think Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the West End!).
- Manchester: A dynamic northern city known for its musical heritage, industrial past, and friendly atmosphere. Manchester is a very upcoming city! It’s got mini London feel at a fraction of the cost.
- Oxford and Cambridge: Home to prestigious universities. These historic towns offer a charming mix of academic life and English countryside.
- The Cotswolds: Picture rolling hills, picturesque villages, and honey-coloured stone cottages. Perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Finding a Home in the UK
Here are a list of websites that are perfect for looking for homes, with the most common real estate companies in the UK
Online Property Websites:
- Rightmove: rightmove.co.uk (The largest property website in the UK)
- Zoopla: zoopla.co.uk (Rightmove’s biggest competitor)
- OnTheMarket: onthemarket.com (Offers a user-friendly search tool and app)
Additional Listing Websites:
- Prime Location: primelocation.com (Focuses on luxury properties)
- Placebuzz: placebuzz.com (Offers a focus on specific areas)
- Purplebricks: purplebricks.co.uk
Common Estate Agents in the UK
- Savills
- Knight Frank
- JLL
- KFH
- Fine & Country
Resources and Considerations:
- Net House Prices: nethouseprices.com (Provides property valuation estimates)
- The Government Estate Agent Guide: [Buying a home – GOV.UK] (Official government guide for property buyers)
- Money Saving Expert: mse.com (Provides financial advice for buying property)
Additional Tips:
- Consider registering with estate agents in your desired area for more detailed listings.
- Look for properties with “Sold Subject to Contract” status to understand market trends.
- Factor in additional costs like stamp duty and solicitor fees when budgeting.
Disclaimer: This list is not exhaustive, and the best websites for your search will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Moving to the UK: The Visa Lowdown
The visa process for Americans moving to the UK can seem daunting, but don’t worry! The type of visa you need depends on your reason for relocation. Here’s a basic overview:
- Skilled Worker Visa: Ideal for those with a job offer in a qualifying role.
- Student Visa: For those pursuing education in the UK.
- Family Visa: To join a spouse or close family member who is a UK resident.
- Investor Visa: For those with significant funds to invest in the UK economy.
Want to learn more information? Head to:
- https://uk.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/resources-for-u-s-citizens/moving-to-and-living-in-the-uk/
- https://www.gov.uk/world/coming-to-the-uk-usa
How to move to England from the USA
Santa Fe: Your Stress-Free Move Partner
Santa Fe is your trusted partner for a stress-free and seamless move to England from US. As one of the leading international moving companies, we specialise in providing door-to-door moving services. Are you looking for local relocation services or a international moving company? Santa Fe is on hand to support you and your family.
Our comprehensive services include professional packing, meticulous logistics, and unwavering support throughout the customs clearance process. We understand that every move is unique, which is why we offer a personalised service.
We’re a relocation company that specialises in making your move to the UK seamless. Here’s how we can help:
- Door-to-door International moving service
- Professional packing and logistics
- Customs clearance support
- Dedicated relocation expert
- Storage Solutions
- Shipment Tracking with Ai Technology
- Smart Home Surveys
Ready to Make the Move?
If you like history, cities, or a relaxed lifestyle, the UK has something for you to explore and enjoy. With Santa Fe by your side, you can navigate relocating from USA to UK with confidence and ease.
Contact Santa Fe today and let’s turn your dream of moving to the Britain from US into a reality!
