From gaming in the car to reading on the train UK fast food to try on your travels

For many people throughout the nation, visiting the UK is on their bucket list. From history lovers to sports fans, millions of Americans plan to explore England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, perhaps alongside a European adventure. However, the UK doesn’t always have the best reputation when it comes to food, although it isn’t necessarily a fair one. In fact, it’s an outdated view. 

Major cities like London, Edinburgh and Belfast have some of the finest food scenes in the world, boasting Michelin-starred restaurants and classic treats that are steeped in history. Alongside the five-star restaurants you can visit, though, is an abundance of fast food options to try when you’re covering large distances in your rental van. 

Sure, there aren’t as many fast food joints as you’ll find in the United States of America while you watch your favorite YouTubers over a burger or play DraftKings hits like Linko 5 with a pizza slice in hand, but there are some undeniable favorites among the UK’s food-loving population. Below we highlight a few top spots.

Anyone for a cheeky Nando’s? 

Nando’s is viewed as a somewhat healthier fast food option. A South African chain that has taken the UK by storm, Nando’s is famous for its grilled chicken, in particular. Alongside options like peri-peri chicken, you can create your own dishes by adding in some delicious sides alongside your main meaty treat, including spicy rice, garlic bread, creamy mash, and rainbow slaw. A lighter offering that packs one hell of a punch depending on the sauces you opt for, Nando’s does the job. 

Tortilla is the UK’s main Mexican chain 

If you’re craving Mexican grub and would rather try a fast food chain instead of a family-run business, then Tortilla is the place to go. Serving up everything from tacos, bowls, and burritos, it’s a go-to option for food lovers who fancy healthy servings of vegetables for a lunchtime feast. You’ll probably notice the price difference between Mexican food in the UK and the United States of America, though, but it’s still worth sampling.

Trying a Greggs sausage roll is essential 

For many Brits, when they’re embarking on an away day in the Premier League, or they’re venturing up to the big smoke to watch a West End show, Greggs serves up handheld treats that are both cheap and cheerful. A Greggs sausage roll is a beloved food option the whole country is aware of, with this beloved treat containing seasoned sausage meat in golden puff pastry. If you’re on the road and need a quick bite, then a Greggs sausage roll is essential. The bakery also serves up an array of other goods, including cookies, steak bakes, and yum yums. 

Pret A Manger is a grab-and-go option

If Greggs doesn’t tickle your fancy, then Pret A Manger is a solid alternative that offers healthy salads, filling sandwiches, and seeded baguettes. A grab-and-go option that is used by business professionals and coffee lovers, Pret A Manger won’t let you down. 

Apache Pizza is one of Northern Ireland’s favorites 

You should definitely explore more of the UK than just spending time in London. If you’re keen to venture further afield, then Northern Ireland is a country that has so much to offer. Not only can you take in the beauty of Giant’s Causeway and frequent a warm and welcoming pub, but grabbing a box from Apache Pizza is also worthwhile. This well-liked pizza chain has over 200 restaurants across the country, offering a late-night delivery service party-goers rely on.