Planning Walt Disney World holidays from the UK is a dream come true for many families — and it’s not just a theme park, but an adventure, a memory-maker, and one of the most magical holiday destinations on Earth. From iconic castles and immersive lands to thrilling rides and world-class dining, it’s a place where fantasy becomes reality.
For UK families planning their first visit, it can feel both exciting and overwhelming. With four incredible theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 uniquely themed resort hotels, and a full suite of transport options and attractions, there’s truly nowhere like it.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Walt Disney World holidays from the UK — what to expect, how it all works, and why so many British families return year after year.
With over 30 personal visits to Walt Disney World, we really do know our Magic, and love to share our tips and advice with customers and our followers.
Why Walt Disney World Is More Than Just a Theme Park
Set in the heart of Orlando, Florida, Walt Disney World covers a jaw-dropping 43 square miles — about the size of Manchester! With world-class entertainment, immersive lands, and a dedication to storytelling, it’s more than a destination — it’s a feeling. From the moment you step into a Disney park, you’re part of something bigger.
✅ Did you know?
Over 58 million people visit Walt Disney World each year, making it the most visited holiday destination in the world.
The Four Main Theme Parks (And What Makes Each One Special)
🏰 Magic Kingdom Park
Magic Kingdom is the beating heart of Walt Disney World — a timeless celebration of fantasy, magic, and childhood wonder. This park captures the stories you grew up with, from Peter Pan and Pirates of the Caribbean to the thrills of Space Mountain. With six uniquely themed lands surrounding the iconic Cinderella Castle, you’ll journey from swashbuckling adventures to haunted mansions, jungle cruises to fairy tale dreams. Don’t miss the enchanting Happily Ever After fireworks display that lights up the sky in true Disney style.
Want to know where to meet Mickey, which rides to prioritise, or how to catch the best view of the fireworks? [Explore our full Magic Kingdom guide.]
🌐 EPCOT
EPCOT is a park of discovery and inspiration, divided into two distinct areas: World Discovery and World Showcase.
In World Discovery, science and imagination take centre stage. Soar over landmarks around the globe on Soarin’ Around the World, talk with a sea turtle at Turtle Talk with Crush, and blast through space (and time) with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
Step into World Showcase, a journey through 11 countries brought to life with food, culture, and architecture — all hosted by Cast Members from each nation. Sample pastries in France, enjoy a margarita in Mexico, or take a boat ride with Anna and Elsa in Frozen Ever After in Norway. It’s a cultural festival all year round, with seasonal events like the International Food & Wine Festival.
Curious about what to eat, drink, and ride at EPCOT? [Check out our full EPCOT guide.]
🎬 Hollywood Studios
Lights, camera, action! Disney’s Hollywood Studios puts you right in the centre of blockbuster movie moments. Here, you can pilot the Millennium Falcon in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, shrink down to toy-size in Toy Story Land, or brave the drop on the eerie Tower of Terror.
The vibe is fast-paced, immersive, and filled with cinematic energy. Whether you’re joining the Resistance, spinning through space on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, or catching a Broadway-style performance of Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, it’s a must-visit for film fans and thrill seekers alike.
Want to plan the perfect day in Hollywood Studios? [Read our Hollywood Studios guide.]
🌳 Animal Kingdom
More than just a theme park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a living, breathing celebration of nature and storytelling. Lush, green, and immersive, it offers a chance to explore lands inspired by real and mythical creatures.
Venture into Pandora – The World of Avatar, where bioluminescent forests and floating mountains feel impossibly real. Fly on the back of a banshee on Flight of Passage, or explore Asia, Africa, and DinoLand U.S.A. through thrilling rides and animal encounters. Don’t miss Kilimanjaro Safaris, where giraffes, elephants, and lions roam in recreated savannah landscapes.
Ready to walk on the wild side? [Discover more in our Animal Kingdom guide.]
Dive In: Disney Water Parks & Outdoor Fun
🌴 Typhoon Lagoon
Picture a tropical paradise swept by a mighty storm. Palm trees lean, surfboards stick out of rooftops, and water slides twist through shipwrecks and lagoons. At its heart is a wave pool capable of generating six-foot swells — ideal for beginner surfers or those who want to float with a thrill. Don’t miss the Crush ’n’ Gusher water coaster or the relaxing Castaway Creek lazy river.
⛄ Blizzard Beach
This winter-wonderland-meets-water-park is themed around a ski resort that melted in the Florida sun. The result? Slushy slopes turned into splashy slides. Home to Summit Plummet — one of the world’s tallest and fastest free-fall slides — it’s perfect for thrill-seekers. Families will love the Ski Patrol Training Camp and Teamboat Springs, one of the longest family raft rides in the world.
Together, these two parks offer the perfect way to cool off and enjoy even more Disney magic in a relaxed, splash-filled setting.
🎣 More Than Just Theme Parks: Recreation at Walt Disney World
While Walt Disney World is best known for its four world-class theme parks, there’s a whole world of relaxation and recreation to enjoy outside the parks too. Guests can enjoy evenings under the stars with outdoor movies and campfire sing-alongs — including the beloved Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long. There are opportunities to rent boats or enjoy fishing excursions across scenic lakes, or even saddle up for horseback trail rides and wagon rides at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
For golf lovers, Walt Disney World boasts multiple championship courses:
- Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course (including FootGolf!)
- Disney’s Palm Golf Course
- Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course
- Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Prefer your golf a little more whimsical? Check out two fantastically themed miniature golf experiences:
- Fantasia Gardens & Fairways: Inspired by Disney’s Fantasia, this whimsical course features dancing hippos, musical fountains, and magical surprises.
- Winter Summerland: A family-favourite mini-golf destination with two festive courses — one where winter meets summer as snowmen enjoy a tropical holiday, and the other where sandcastles get a cheerful Christmas makeover. It’s the North Pole… Florida-style!
You’ll also find bike rentals, kayaking, canoeing, and poolside cabana rentals, not to mention resort-specific fun like arcades, playgrounds, and exercise rooms. It’s the perfect mix of action and downtime for every kind of traveller — whether you’re looking to pack in the fun or slow things down between park days.
🏨 Staying at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World offers a huge variety of places to stay, with over 25 Disney Resort hotels spread across three categories — Value, Moderate, and Deluxe — each offering a unique way to immerse yourself in the magic.
⭐ Deluxe Resorts
Deluxe Resorts offer the highest level of comfort, theming, and service — and many are just a short walk or Monorail ride from the parks. Stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and wake up to views of Cinderella Castle, with the Monorail gliding right through the hotel lobby — the only Disney resort of its kind. Or opt for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where your room overlooks a lush savanna complete with roaming giraffes and zebras.
These resorts often include signature dining, large pools with water features, and premium amenities — plus ideal access to Magic Kingdom or EPCOT.
🌴 Moderate Resorts
Moderate Resorts strike a brilliant balance between comfort and value, offering lovely theming, great facilities, and a more relaxed pace. At Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside, you’ll find charming bayou-inspired buildings and even Princess and the Frog-themed rooms. Meanwhile, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a long-time UK favourite thanks to its island-style villages, beachy vibe, and direct access to the Disney Skyliner.
They’re perfect for guests who want a little extra space and atmosphere without splurging on deluxe-level prices.
🎨 Value Resorts
Value Resorts are a great choice for families and guests who plan to spend most of their time in the parks but still want a fun and themed place to return to. These resorts are bursting with colour, oversized Disney characters, and playful theming — all on a budget.
Popular picks include Disney’s Pop Century Resort, celebrating decades of pop culture, and Art of Animation, which features suites themed around Finding Nemo, Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid.
Despite the lower price point, you still get fantastic amenities and the all-important benefit of staying on Disney property.
🎁 Why Stay Onsite?
Staying at a Disney Resort hotel comes with exclusive perks, including:
- 🕗 Early Park Entry
- 🕗 Stay in the Parks Late on select evenings for Deluxe Resort Guests
- 🚌 Free Disney Transportation across buses, monorail, boats, and Skyliner
- 🍽️ Disney Dining Plan (available only to onsite guests)
- 🎟️ MagicBand+ Integration for park tickets, room entry, and payments
- 🏰 Immersive Theming and storytelling in every corner
[Explore our full Disney Hotels guide.]
🎟️ Why Magic Tickets Are a Must for UK Visitors
The Magic Ticket is an exclusive offering for UK visitors, and it’s hands-down the best value ticket for anyone planning to visit more than one park for over two days.
Rather than piecing together single-day tickets and paying extra for water parks or park hopping, the Magic Ticket bundles it all together into one incredible value package. It’s designed with UK guests in mind, and you won’t find it available for purchase once you arrive in Florida.
🎁 Here’s what’s included in the Disney Magic Ticket:
- 🎢 14-Day Ticket for the Price of 7 – Double the magic at no extra cost
- 🔄 Park Hopper Access – Come and go between all four Disney parks each day
- 📸 Memory Maker – Unlimited ride photos and character meet-and-greets
- 💦 Water Park Entry – Includes both Typhoon Lagoon & Blizzard Beach
- ⛳ Mini-Golf Admission – Play before 4pm at Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland
💷 Incredible Value Per Day
Based on the 14-day Magic Ticket price, it works out to less than £40 per day, including water parks and hopping. Compare that to buying tickets at the gate or online in the US, and you’re saving a significant amount while enjoying far more flexibility.
Whether you’re staying onsite at a Disney Resort or in a nearby hotel, the Magic Ticket gives you maximum freedom and fun. You’ll never feel like you’re paying extra to do the things you want — it’s all included.
[Find out more about Magic Tickets in our dedicated guide.]
🚍 Getting Around – Walt Disney World Transportation
How do you get around a resort the size of a city? 🏙️ Fortunately, Disney’s complimentary transport system makes it easy — and in true Disney fashion, it’s fun too.
Here’s how to explore Walt Disney World without needing a car:
- 🚝 Monorail – Direct access to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT from select Deluxe Resorts
- 🚠 Skyliner – A scenic gondola ride connecting EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and several resorts
- 🚌 Disney Buses – Regular and reliable service to all parks, resorts, and Disney Springs
- ⛴️ Water Taxis & Boats – Relax and cruise across Bay Lake or down the Sassagoula River
- 🚗 Minnie Vans (via Lyft) – Private car service with Disney theming and a touch of magic
💡 Deluxe and some Moderate Resorts offer extra transport perks:
- The Monorail connects Disney’s Contemporary, Grand Floridian, and Polynesian Village Resort directly to Magic Kingdom — and even EPCOT for quick park hopping.
- Meanwhile, water taxis connect Disney’s Saratoga Springs and Port Orleans to Disney Springs for a calm and scenic journey.
It’s safe, efficient, and ideal for UK guests who are used to public transport. Plus, there’s something undeniably magical about sailing across Seven Seas Lagoon or gliding through the sky in a Skyliner gondola before you’ve even entered the park. 🌅
🍽️ Dining at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is a foodie’s paradise — offering everything from character breakfasts to gourmet fine dining, quick snacks to globally inspired dishes. Whether you’re craving something quick between rides or planning a special celebration meal, there’s truly something for everyone.
🍷 World-Class Table Service Dining
From award-winning cuisine to unforgettable views, Disney’s fine dining scene is one of the best in Florida. Experience the elegant Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort — consistently rated among the best restaurants in America — or dine with sweeping views of Magic Kingdom fireworks at California Grill atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
Across the parks and resorts, you’ll find hundreds of table-service restaurants, many themed with immersive storytelling and incredible service. Whether it’s classic American, international, or plant-based cuisine, Disney excels in diversity and detail.
🧁 Character Dining Experiences
Make magical memories over a meal with beloved Disney characters. Some of the most popular include:
- 🍳 Chef Mickey’s (Disney’s Contemporary Resort): Meet Mickey, Minnie, and friends at this vibrant buffet
- 🏰 Cinderella’s Royal Table (Inside Cinderella Castle): Dine with Disney Princesses in one of the most iconic locations in Magic Kingdom
Character meals are perfect for families who want a relaxed way to meet characters without queueing in the parks.
🍔 Quick Service Favourites & Snacks
For families on the go, Walt Disney World offers hundreds of quick-service restaurants and snack stops — perfect for grabbing a bite without slowing down the fun.
Some must-try picks:
- 🔥 Flame Tree Barbecue (Animal Kingdom): Smoky ribs, pulled pork, and scenic views
- 🎬 Woody’s Lunch Box (Hollywood Studios): Loaded tots, grilled sandwiches, and nostalgia
- 🌱 Satu’li Canteen (Pandora – The World of Avatar): Build-your-own bowls with bold, fresh flavours and allergy-friendly choices
🍦 Iconic Disney Snacks
No Disney trip is complete without trying a few legendary snacks:
- 🍗 Giant Turkey Legs
- 🍍 The iconic Dole Whip pineapple soft serve
- 🍏 Fresh candy apples, popcorn, churros, and nostalgic treats from Main Street, U.S.A.
🍦Pre-Budget with the Disney Dining Plan
One of the easiest ways to manage your food budget is by adding a Disney Dining Plan to your holiday (available only for guests staying in Disney Resort hotels).
There are two options:
- Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan: Includes 2 quick-service meals and 1 snack/non-alcoholic drink per day, per person
- Disney Dining Plan: Includes 1 table-service meal, 1 quick-service meal, and 1 snack/non-alcoholic drink per day, per person
All plans also include a resort refillable mug. Dining credits can be used flexibly across your stay, and character dining is included with the Disney Dining Plan (advance reservations recommended).
It’s a convenient way to prepay for meals, simplify planning, and enjoy a wide variety of Disney’s best eats without worrying about the bill.
[Explore the full Disney Dining Plan guide.]
🇬🇧 Walt Disney World Holidays from the UK – Planning Your First Disney Holiday
Planning a holiday to Walt Disney World from the UK can feel like a big adventure — and it is! But with the right tips and a bit of forward planning, it’s easier (and more exciting) than you might think.
🗓️ When Should You Book?
Ideally, book as far in advance as possible — especially if you’re travelling during peak periods such as:
- Easter holidays
- Summer break
- October half term
- American Thanksgiving (late November)
These dates are extremely popular with both UK and US guests, and flights, hotel rooms, and Park Pass availability can fill up fast. Prices also tend to rise the closer you get, especially for flights and Disney’s more popular resorts.
Booking early gives you more choice, more time to budget, and a better chance of grabbing any Disney offers or promotions.
✨ Did you know?
We can often book flight-inclusive Disney packages up to three years in advance, giving you loads of time to plan and pay in manageable instalments.
✈️ Quick Tips for UK Guests
- 🗓️ When to Go:
School holidays are popular but can be busy. If you’re flexible, off-peak months like January, early May, or mid-September offer lower crowds and milder weather. - 📅 How Long to Stay:
We recommend 10–14 days to fully experience the parks, with rest days built in. - 🍽️ Disney Dining Plan:
Pre-pay for meals and snacks as part of your package (available to onsite guests only). A great way to budget meals before you travel. - ⚡ Genie+ & Lightning Lanes:
These paid skip-the-line options help you maximise your time in the parks. We can help you plan your strategy to get the most out of them. - 🎟️ Magic Tickets (UK Exclusive):
Only available to UK guests — these incredible value tickets include Park Hopper, Memory Maker (unlimited ride and character photos), and up to 14 consecutive days of park access. They’re not available at the gate, so be sure to book in advance.
[Read our full Planning Guide to get started.]
✨ Extra Magic: Tips from the Experts
📱 Use the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is your must-have tool during your trip. It’s like having a digital concierge in your pocket — perfect for first-time visitors and Disney veterans alike. You can use it to:
- Check real-time wait times for attractions
- Mobile order meals and snacks
- Reserve Lightning Lanes with Genie+
- View PhotoPass images and Memory Maker content
- Unlock your Disney Resort hotel room
Make sure to download and link your tickets before you arrive to get the most out of your trip.
♿ Accessibility & Guest Services
Walt Disney World is committed to creating a magical and inclusive experience for every guest. Key services include:
- Disability Access Service (DAS) – for guests who can’t wait in traditional queues
- Rider Switch – for families with young children or guests unable to ride
- Allergy-friendly menus and dietary accommodations at restaurants and quick-service locations
📘 Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities (Official Disney PDF)
🌐 Explore Disney’s full accessibility information
Stop by Guest Relations when you arrive — they’ll be happy to tailor recommendations and support to your needs.
🎉 Celebrate the Magic
Celebrating something special? Disney loves to celebrate with you — and they make it easy to add magical touches to your trip.
- 🎈 Pick up a free celebration badge (First Visit, Birthday, Anniversary, etc.) at your resort or park entrance
- 🍰 Order custom celebration cakes at select dining locations
- 🎁 Surprise your travel party with in-room gifts or themed room decorations
Let us know what you’re celebrating, and we’ll help you add those extra-special Disney details.
🎃🎄 Seasonal Events & Special Parties
Depending on when you visit, you might catch one of Disney’s amazing seasonal extras:
- 👻 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (Aug–Oct): Trick-or-treating, spooky parades, and rare character sightings
- 🎅 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (Nov–Dec): Snow on Main Street, festive fireworks, cookies & cocoa
- 🌸 EPCOT Festivals (year-round): Celebrate food, flowers, culture, and the arts with four distinct festivals
These events add unforgettable atmosphere and often become the highlight of your trip — especially during UK school holidays in October and December.
💡 A great way to help decide when to visit is our guide:
👉 When Is the Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World?
🛍️ Other Things to Do Near Walt Disney World
While Walt Disney World is the main draw for many, there’s so much more to explore in the wider Orlando and Central Florida area.
From world-famous attractions to local gems, here are just a few ideas to extend your holiday magic:
- 🎢 Universal Orlando Resort – home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and thrilling rides for all ages
- 🧱 LEGOLAND Florida – perfect for families with younger children
- 🐊 Gatorland – a uniquely Floridian experience with wildlife shows and zip lines
- 🛍️ Outlet Shopping – from Disney Character Warehouse to premium designer outlets
- 🎨 Arts & Culture – museums, gardens, and local food tours across Central Florida
🗺️ Coming soon: Our full “Beyond Disney” Orlando Guide will cover even more ideas to help you plan longer stays, twin-centre holidays, or free days away from the parks.
Check back soon — we’re updating this section to help you get even more out of your Florida adventure.
✨ Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Let us help you craft the perfect Disney holiday — from your first enquiry to that final firework over Cinderella Castle. Whether you’re travelling as a family, couple, or group of friends, we’ll take the stress out of planning and help you create a holiday full of magical moments.
🎯 Want a personalised quote?
Fill out our quick enquiry form, and we’ll put together a tailored proposal just for you.
