Europe · Northern EuropeUsable guideCountry in Northwestern Europe
Photo: Colin, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (the United Kingdom or the UK) is a constitutional monarchy comprising most of the British Isles. It is a union of four constituent countries: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, each of which has something unique and exciting for visitors.
Answers to what travellers most often look up about United Kingdom.
Cards and cash
It's worth shopping around for the best rates in larger towns and cities, although as British ATMs and many stores accept foreign credit and debit cards, there's no real need to bring in large amounts of cash anyway.
Tipping
The UK does not have a strong culture of tipping.
English
Speakers of American English will find some terms which differ in British English:
4G mobile coverage is near universal with around 98% outdoor coverage (by population), and over 80% of the geographic area.
Mobile networks
Inmarsat
O2
EEO2
Manx TelecomTap water is of a high drinkable quality, with non-drinkable water supplies clearly marked in practically all cases.
If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, telephone 999.
Covered in the guide
Greetings are dependent upon the situation." will suffice.
Covered in the guide
Attractions, food, stays and travel essentials, with ratings, reviews, opening hours and directions.
the capital and largest city of the United Kingdom is one of the most influential cities on Earth. Home to most of the UK's principal tourist attractions, London's landmarks are instantly recognisable the world over as symbols for Britain
the capital of Northern Ireland is in the midst of an urban renaissance, and is fast becoming a popular tourist destination due in part to its reputation as being somewhat undiscovered, but also as testament to the unique character of this city and its inhabitants.
an historical city famed for its colourful Georgian architecture, impressive Victorian engineering landmarks and nautical heritage. These days Bristol is equally known for trip-hop music and a significant "foodie" culture
the capital of Wales is equally proud of its coal-shipping past as of its rugby fandom. Come for Cymru's top museums, stay for Cardiff Bay's much-applauded regeneration
capital of Scotland and second most-visited city in the UK. In August it hosts the largest arts festival in the world; all year round, visitors admire Edinburgh's illustrious history, stunning vistas and uniquely Scottish traditions
Scotland's largest city, with great shopping and better architecture. Glasgow's former status as European Capital of Culture hints at the strength of its creative arts scene and the beauty of its parks and gardens
historically an important port city, the Guinness World Records' global capital of pop, the "Pool of Life" is now where science and culture meet bohemian nightlife against a sporting and musical setting that needs no introduction
the archetypal "northern city" which has transformed itself from textile town to modern metropolis. Highlights include a thriving bohemian music scene, the Gay Village and the world's only new work arts festival
Flickr - Petersrockypics (1).jpg|thumb|Snowdonia National Park in Wales]] — 40,000 basalt columns rise spectacularly out of the sea at Northern Ireland's only UNESCO site
located in Swansea, this picturesque peninsular was designated the UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Perfect for bracing cliff-top walks and relaxing on sandy beaches.
Britain's own Great Wall once defended Rome from the Pictish hordes
"Scotland in miniature" packs in mountain, sea, beach and forest and a geologically diverse terrain
the land of Wordsworth brings together England's highest mountains and largest lakes
The world's most famous loch is definitely not home to anything out of the ordinary — or is it?
Britain's first and most-visited national park, loved by millions for its beauty and accessibility
Wales' answer to the Alps is the place in Britain for extreme outdoor pursuits
Places in United Kingdom on the World Heritage List.
Bath
Listed 1987
Tower of London
Listed 1988
Hadrian's Wall
Listed 1987
Giant's Causeway
Listed 1986
List from Wikidata (CC0). Photos from Wikimedia Commons.
The largest component by size and by population. This "Green and pleasant land" has some of the most exciting and inspiring cities in the world, which exist alongside the "Merrie England" of rolling countryside, village greens and traditional pageantry.
The second largest home nation occupies the northern third of Great Britain. Bagpipes, kilts and haggis may spring to mind, but the contrast between the remote beauty of the Islands, cosmopolitan grittiness of the Lowlands and desolate panoramas of the wild Highlands reveals the Scotland beyond the stereotype.
This hilly western peninsula of Great Britain is home to an ancient Celtic language and culture, spectacular sceneries of mountain, valley and coast, a wealth of industrial heritage and some of the most impressive defensive castles in Europe.
The north-eastern part of the island of Ireland is off the traditional tourist trail, but offers a colourful history, exceptional natural beauty, rapidly-developing cities and warmly welcoming inhabitants.
Public transport and paid services in United Kingdom.
By bus and coach
In the UK, coaches are long-distance bus services usually operating intercity or city to airport routes. Local services within and around villages, towns and cities are referred to as buses.
By boat
Ferries link the mainland to the many offshore islands including the Isles of Scilly from Penzance, the Isle of Wight from Southampton and Portsmouth, the Isle of Man from Liverpool and Ireland, the…
By car
Unlike most of Europe, the UK drives on the left.
By motorcycle
, in Central London, where motorcyclists do not have to pay the congestion charge that cars have to pay.
By plane
Given the short distances involved, flying is rarely the cheapest or most convenient option for domestic travel within the UK.
By taxi
There are two types of ordinary taxis in the United Kingdom: metered black cabs that can be hailed in the street and are mostly found in larger towns and cities; and minicabs, or private hire taxis,…
Apps for booking a taxi or a ride in United Kingdom.
Finding apps for United Kingdom…
Other ways to travel:By bicycleBy thumb
Operators checked against their official websites in October 2026; services that have stopped running are not listed. Logos and Wikipedia links: Wikidata (CC0)
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
London · International · LHR
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Calculated from climate averages: mild daytime highs and lower rainfall. It does not account for festivals, crowds or prices.
Average conditions in London
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. high | 7° | 7° | 10° | 14° | 17° | 20° | 23° | 22° | 20° | 15° | 10° | 7° |
| Avg. low | 2° | 1° | 2° | 4° | 7° | 11° | 13° | 12° | 10° | 8° | 4° | 2° |
| Rainfall (mm) | 65 | 54 | 50 | 42 | 55 | 56 | 60 | 66 | 44 | 73 | 74 | 71 |
| Humidity | 93% | 90% | 86% | 81% | 79% | 78% | 76% | 78% | 81% | 87% | 92% | 94% |
Choose your passport and destination to see whether you need a visa.
Budget
$85
Per person, per day
Mid-range
$240
Per person, per day
Luxury
$615
Per person, per day
| Budget | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $40 | $130 | $355 |
| Food and drink | $25 | $55 | $130 |
| Local transport | $10 | $25 | $55 |
| Activities | $10 | $30 | $75 |
Estimate from World Bank price levels (2025). Actual costs vary by city and season. World Bank
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We do not label countries as safe or unsafe. Below is the official advice from two governments, with the date it was last updated. Always read the full advice before you travel.
US Department of State
Level 2 of 4Exercise increased caution
Exercise increased cautionin the United Kingdom due to terrorism. There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the United Kingdom. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. There is also risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland. These groups mainly target police and military. Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse or cellphone snatching and pickpocketing.
UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
No advisory found from this source.
Stories, itineraries and practical advice for travelling in United Kingdom.
Travel tipsCut London travel costs with contactless transit capping, avoid airport rail traps, and explore renowned national museums completely free of charge.
6 min read
Nature & adventureMaster driving single-track roads in the Scottish Highlands and Skye. Navigate passing places, explore Glencoe and the Quiraing, and manage summer midges.
6 min read
ItinerariesLeave London behind on easy direct train day trips. Discover Roman baths in Bath, honey-stone colleges in Oxford, and the royal castle in Windsor.
6 min read
InspirationFive small towns where you can unpack for a few days, walk everywhere, and hear yourself think, all reachable without a car.
7 min read
Culture & historyWhere to stand, what it costs and when to go for five of the most famous filming locations on screen, from King's Landing to Arrakis.
7 min read
ItinerariesDates, host cities, tickets, rooms and transport for 2027's biggest events, from the Women's World Cup in Brazil to the Rugby World Cup in Australia.
6 min read
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