- Direct flights from Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester take around 9-10 hours
- Most UK visitors hire a car, as parks and hotels are spread out
- Plan park days carefully and book key experiences in advance
- Summer is hot, humid and stormy most afternoons
- Airports
- Orlando International (MCO), about 20-40 minutes to the main resort areas; some UK charters use Orlando Sanford (SFB)
- Best time to go
- Late January-May and October-early December
- Type
- City
Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. Walt Disney World alone has four major parks and two water parks, Universal Orlando has added Epic Universe to its line-up, and SeaWorld, LEGOLAND and the Kennedy Space Center are all within reach. For many British families it is the trip of a lifetime, and it repays careful planning.
Beyond the parks there are outlet malls, Gulf and Atlantic beaches, springs and wildlife. For the wider picture, see our Florida guide, and add a few days in Miami or the Keys if you want a beach finale.
Things to do in Orlando
- Walt Disney World – Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, plus Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.
- Universal Orlando – Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Epic Universe and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
- SeaWorld and Aquatica – rollercoasters, marine shows and a water park.
- Kennedy Space Center – about an hour east, with rockets, the Space Shuttle Atlantis and sometimes a launch.
- LEGOLAND Florida – in Winter Haven, best for younger children.
- Natural springs – swim in clear spring water at places like Wekiwa or Blue Spring, where manatees gather in winter.
- Beaches – Cocoa Beach on the Atlantic is about an hour away; Clearwater on the Gulf around two hours.
- Shopping – the outlet malls are popular with UK visitors.
Where to stay
- Disney resort hotels – perks such as early park entry and transport, from value to deluxe.
- Universal area – on-site hotels with early entry, and some offer Express passes.
- International Drive – a wide range of hotels, restaurants and attractions between the parks.
- Kissimmee – villas with private pools, popular for groups and longer stays.
- Lake Buena Vista – convenient for Disney at lower prices.
Getting there
Virgin Atlantic and British Airways fly direct to Orlando International from Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester, with flights taking around 9 to 10 hours; holiday companies also fly from regional airports, sometimes into Sanford. You need an approved ESTA. Most families hire a car on arrival, as parks, outlets and beaches are spread out; the Brightline train now links the airport with Miami.
Best time to visit
Late winter, spring (outside Easter) and autumn offer the best mix of weather and crowds. School holidays, especially Easter, summer and Christmas, are busiest. June to September is hot and humid with almost daily afternoon thunderstorms, and this is also hurricane season, which runs from June to November.
Take a break at your hotel pool in the hottest part of the afternoon and head back to the parks in the evening, when queues are often shorter.
Top attractions in Orlando
NatureCentral Park
Manhattan's 843-acre green heart, with lakes, meadows, bridges and woodland stretching for 51 blocks between Midtown…
LandmarkStatue of Liberty
The copper colossus in New York Harbor, a gift from France in 1886, visited by ferry with Ellis Island on the same trip.
Orlando on the map
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Orlando?
Ten to fourteen days is typical for UK families, allowing for rest days between parks; a week works if you focus on Disney or Universal.
Do I need a car in Orlando?
It is strongly recommended unless you stay on-site and only visit one resort. Taxis and ride-hailing add up quickly over a long trip.
When is hurricane season in Florida?
June to November, peaking around August to October. Choose flexible bookings and good travel insurance.
Should I buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Buying ahead is usually cheaper, and some parks require reservations or offer better deals to UK visitors through multi-day tickets.
Written by
Emma City breaks & deals editor
Emma plans city breaks the way other people plan the weekly shop: on a budget, with a spreadsheet and a backup plan. She covers city guides and deal-hunting.
More from EmmaWe research every guide carefully, but prices, opening times and timetables change. Check them shortly before you travel. Links to our booking partners are affiliate links.
