Become a digital nomad in England
It's no secret that England has always been a place of grandeur. This green island can boast unparalleled brisk air and has an appealing and eccentric character that makes it endearing for visitors. While some get discouraged by the infamous rainy weather and fogs in England, the whole place is worth a visit.
Why choose England?
While many have converted to digital nomadism to escape England's grey weather, others are comfortable working from Shakespeare's birthplace. England is, therefore, an excellent place for creativity thanks to its rich history depicted by numerous museums, its literary culture, and galleries and exhibits that can be enjoyed in major cities. The natural beauty of the countryside and the various attractions have inspired many authors and compositors.
Working remotely from England, you can enjoy world-class amenities, especially in cosmopolitan cities. Smaller towns, for their part, offer a more quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
The cities to work from in England
London, the capital city, is Western Europe's largest and most dynamic city. You will become more productive if you can survive the hectic lifestyle.
Still regarded as an up-and-coming city in England, Newcastle is another ideal place to live as a digital nomad. The vibrant nightlife, the business culture, the cultural heritage, and the uniqueness of the art scene make it a perfect destination. Newcastle also offers a younger and hipper vibe complemented by the drop of the well-preserved Geordie culture.
Another city to consider is Brighton, especially if you are not bothered by cold winds. Brighton is even more beautiful thanks to the beach resort just outside London. The experience here will be significantly different, thanks to its hedonistic vibe. It is also the best clubbing experience you will ever get in the UK.
Important:
Remember to budget around £2,000 per month to cover your living costs if you want to be a digital nomad in London.
The Internet and coworking spaces in England
Internet speed is definitely something that will motivate you. Across the UK, you can enjoy a good broadband download with an average speed of 11Mbps. In the bigger cities, you will get to enjoy free Wi-Fi hotspots. You can choose from various free Wi-Fi hotspots at cafes, coffee shops, and pubs. If you are relocating to a big city, expect a rapid internet connection, unlike the countryside, which is much slower.
Most big cities offer several coworking spaces where you can work from. You also get to take part in nomad community meetups and conferences from time to time.
Coworking spaces in London
Huckletree Shoreditch, 18, Finsbury Square
X why, Venues in Whitechapel, Spitalfields, Holborn & Chiswick
Coworking spaces in Newcastle-upon-Tyne
TusPark Newcastle Eagle Labs, 27 Grainger St, Newcastle upon Tyne
Toffee Factory, Lower Steenberg Yards, Quayside, Ouseburn, Walker Rd.
Coworking spaces in Brighton
The Skiff, Ironworks, 30 Cheapside
Plat9rm, Floor 5 & 6, Tower Point, 44 North Rd, Brighton
Good to know:
London has over 1000 co-working spaces to choose from. Co-working spaces cost anywhere between £200 to £400 per month.
Leisure in England
As much as Englishmen believe in hard work, they also appreciate the fun. With the country's vibrant history, there are several attractions to explore for tourists. The iconic Big Ben, the eerie Tower of London, Hyde Park, and the mysterious Stonehenge are some of the must-sees.
The British countryside, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland are the perfect spots to explore if you want to venture outside London.
Things to know before arriving in England
The visa policy operated by the UK differs from that of the Schengen zone. Citizens of some countries, especially EU countries, can travel freely to the UK without a visa. Be sure to check the visa regulations that apply to your home country. The visa application must be at the British embassy or high commission in your home country. Please find out more in our article about visas for the UK.
Important:
The UK does not offer a Digital Nomad visa. You can become a digital nomad by staying in the country via a six-month tourist visa.
Pros and cons of being a digital nomad in England
Like any other country, becoming a digital nomad in England has its share of pros and cons. On the positive side, the country's modern infrastructure and widespread access to high-speed internet make it an attractive choice for remote work. Major cities like London and Manchester offer co-working spaces, making finding a good spot to complete your job easy. England's rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes also provide many opportunities for exploration during your off-hours, guaranteeing a work–life balance. Additionally, English is a global language that eases communication and fosters networking.
However, the other side of the coin should also be considered. Living in England, particularly in major cities, can be expensive. Accommodation, transportation, and dining out can strain your budget. England's unpredictable weather, characterised by gray skies and frequent rain, can be a downer for those accustomed to sunnier climates. Additionally, England's work culture, which often features longer work hours and less emphasis on work–life balance compared to some other countries, might not align with the leisurely lifestyle you seek as part of your digital life.
While England has much to offer, you should carefully weigh these factors before embarking on your adventure.
