Hi, I’m Ken Roe
Editor and Founder
I was born and raised in England
Over the last 40 years or so travelling around the UK, for work and leisure, I have grown increasingly aware of how diverse these shores truly are. From the dramatic cliffs of the South West coast, the rolling farmlands in the Midlands, the rugged moors and mountains of the North; large busy cities, to the timeless charm of the countless small towns and villages, I have always felt a genuine pride in calling this country my home. Yet, despite my enthusiasm for UK travel, I often noticed that reliable, well-rounded resources were surprisingly hard to come by. That eventually prompted me to create UK Explorer, a site designed to serve both overseas visitors and those of us already living here who want to discover our own backyard in greater depth.
A celebration of variety across the UK
UK Explorer provides articles and guides on an array of destinations, reflecting the sheer variety to be found across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. I wanted to ensure that major landmarks were included, but my larger goal was to highlight those lesser-known gems that can make a visit feel particularly personal. For overseas guests who may be embarking on a trip for the first time, finding one’s way around can be a bit confusing, especially when public transport and local customs vary from region to region. UK Explorer aims to simplify this process. At the same time, I am equally keen to encourage fellow residents to appreciate how much awaits them just a short train ride away, places they may have overlooked for years.
Memories made in unexpected moments
I remember my first solo adventure aged 17. I boarded my aged Suzuki and travelled to the Lake District. The forecast had promised sunshine, yet clouds loomed on arrival. Instead of a bright day setting up my tent by Windemere, I found myself battling gusty winds and intermittent rain. Surprisingly, that experience remains vivid in my memory, largely because it taught me that an extraordinary visit does not always hinge on ideal conditions. Sometimes, the best stories emerge from unexpected twists, a friendly chat with a local shop owner, a hidden footpath that leads to a breathtaking view, or an unexpected festival happening in a nearby village hall.
From cathedrals to country lanes
Those moments motivated me to craft a platform that celebrates both widely advertised locations and the smaller, often overlooked spots that shape the character of the UK. Within UK Explorer, you will find articles that discuss the historical significance of towering cathedrals alongside guidance on cosy inns that serve great beer and hearty meals. A segment on bustling city centres stands beside tips for navigating rural lanes where your best company might be a flock of sheep. Above all, the site is meant to reflect the spirit of each region without overwhelming readers with endless detail.
For visitors and locals alike
Overseas travellers will benefit from basic information on how to reach each place, the best times to visit, and a sprinkling of cultural insights that will help them feel comfortable venturing off the typical tourist track. For those of us already at home in these isles, the site offers fresh ideas for weekend outings, short breaks, or even single-day escapes. I believe everyone deserves the chance to experience the UK’s variety, whether that means tasting haggis in a snug Highland pub, meandering through a peaceful Welsh valley, strolling along a lively city street, or climbing the rugged hills of Northern Ireland.
A companion for curious travellers
My hope is that UK Explorer becomes a trusted companion, one that inspires readers to set off in search of a new corner of the country or return to a familiar place with fresh eyes. I am under no illusion that every trip will be flawless, local transport can be delayed, restaurants might vary in quality, and the weather remains as unpredictable as ever, but I believe these small challenges are part of the UK’s charm. With UK Explorer by your side, perhaps you will feel more prepared to embrace those little surprises. After all, half the fun of exploring is in the stories we bring back, especially when they capture the true spirit of this place we call home.