Exploring the UK Pavilion at EPCOT: A Taste of Britain in the Heart of Disney

Tucked away in the World Showcase at EPCOT, the United Kingdom pavilion is a charming slice of Britain that transports guests across the pond without ever leaving Florida. With its “cobblestone” streets, classic red phone booths (a tradition photo-op for us), and cozy pub, this pavilion is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the charm and culture of the UK in a fun, Disney-style setting.

We always have to snap a pic in the iconic red photo booths. Back in the day they had working phones in them, but they have been removed!

The architecture of the UK Pavilion is a delightful mix of different historical periods, showcasing everything from Elizabethan timber-framed houses to Victorian-style buildings. Strolling through the pavilion feels like stepping into a quaint English village, complete with beautiful gardens, wrought-iron fences, and even an iconic thatched-roof cottage. A lot of details have been hidden in the design of these buildings that may go unnoticed as you rush to your next Lightning Lane. We can’t urge you enough to slow down and take all of this in!

One of the highlights is the Hampton Court-inspired façade, which pays tribute to the grandeur of English royalty. The level of detail in the pavilion’s design reflects Disney’s dedication to authenticity, making it a fantastic spot for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. We especially enjoyed getting the chance to stroll the pavilion with friends from the actual UK who pointed out many of the intricate details hidden throughout the pavilion which were designed to give visitors an opportunity to experience many different aspects in such a small area. 

You almost forget you're in Disney strolling the streets of the UK Pavilion! DYK those aren't real cobblestones? It's actually just stamped concrete!

While we thoroughly enjoy many of the nooks and crannies within the pavilion, no visit to the UK pavilion would be complete without a stop at The Rose & Crown Pub!. Known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and waterside seating, this eatery serves up classic British fare, including: fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd's pie, and more! 

The pub also boasts an impressive selection of British beers, ciders, and cocktails, including the famous Snakebite (a mix of lager and cider) and the Black & Tan (a layered Guinness and pale ale). You can even snag a shandy (half Harp and half Sprite), but be wary as a real Brit may tease you for the order (ahem, Claire).  For those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a classic cup of Twinings Tea is the perfect way to unwind.

The Rose and Crown's motto, Otium Cum Dignitate translates to "Leisure with Dignity."

The UK Pavilion isn’t just about food and architecture—it also offers fantastic entertainment and unique shopping opportunities. Guests can enjoy live performances from British-inspired musical acts (at the time of this writing it is “Command Performance”) or encounter beloved Disney characters like Alice and Mary Poppins, who occasionally make appearances in the picturesque gardens. There is also a fun Winnie the Pooh meet and great tucked away in the back corner of the pavilion as well!

For shoppers, the pavilion’s boutiques provide a wonderful selection of British-themed merchandise. Some highlights include:

• The Tea Caddy – A haven for tea lovers, featuring a wide variety of Twinings teas, fine china, and teapots.

• The Crown & Crest – Offering heraldry-inspired gifts, including custom coat-of-arms souvenirs. (we have our coat of arms hanging in our living room!) 

• The Sportsman’s Shoppe – Showcasing soccer jerseys, Guinness-branded items, and other UK sports memorabilia.

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  Krystle met Stephen Twining (yes of Twining Tea) at the UK Pavilion a few years ago!

  
  
  
  

However, like the other World Showcase pavilions, the UK pavilion isn’t just about buying a couple souvenirs or eating fish and chips (although you should do both of those things). The most satisfying part of visiting pavilion is getting a real feel for British culture and the one way we always encourage people to do this (at any world showcase pavilion) is to stop and chat with the International CM’s who are working there. We’ve had so many wonderful interactions with these CM who actually come from these countries and learned so much more about the culture that make us enjoy the pavilion so much more. 

There are so many small details that make this pavilion truly amazing as well. The chandeliers inside some of the stores, the display inside the main entrance to the Sportsman’s Shoppe, and even the different styles of windows around the pavilion all tell a story. 

Much like the rest of World Showcase, the lighting makes visiting the pavilion at night an entirely different experience.

Whether you’re indulging in classic British cuisine, shopping for tea, or simply enjoying the charming atmosphere, the UK Pavilion at EPCOT is a delightful stop for Disney guests. Its blend of history, entertainment, and immersive storytelling makes it one of the most beloved pavilions in the World Showcase and one of our personal favorites to explore each time we visit!

If you’re interested in hearing even more about the UK pavilion, be sure to check out episodes 68 and 69 of our podcast where we recorded a LIVE walkthrough with friends from The Great British Mickey Waffle podcast, John and Claire! For even more UK fun, be sure to follow their show! 

We enjoy a drink outside the Rose and Crown Pub with our friends Claire and John from The Great British Mickey Waffle podcast

Thanks again for tuning in and as always…See Ya Real Soon!