This is your one-stop shop for information about planning your trip to the UK. We want to make sure your trip is as seamless as possible. Let’s dive into some important tips and advice.
Entering the UK
To enter the UK, you will need a valid passport or a national identity card if you are an EEA citizen. If you are not from the EU, you will need to show additional documentation and may require a visa. For more information, visit the UK Visa and Immigration website.
Money Matters
In the UK, we use the Great British Pound (GBP), often shortened to sterling. The symbol for the pound is £. There are 100 pence (p) to the pound (£). Banknotes are available in denominations of £5, £10, £20, and £50. Coins are available in denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2.
You can easily exchange foreign currency at banks, post offices, some hotels, and Bureau de Change kiosks located at international airports, major stations, and city centers. Shop around to find the best exchange rates and always check the commission fees.
Credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in the UK. Diners Club and American Express cards are less common. There are numerous ATMs that accept international cards with the Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus, or Maestro symbols. However, charges may apply for using ATMs, so check with your bank before you travel.
Tipping and Accessibility
Tipping in the UK is discretionary. If you are happy with the service, you can choose to leave a tip as a gesture of appreciation. Restaurants may include a service charge of approximately 10-12% on your bill. Tour gratuity is also optional and can be paid directly to your driver.
Most of our tours are accessible for wheelchair users. However, we recommend confirming with us before booking to avoid any disappointment. If you or someone in your group needs a wheelchair, we can provide one for £15 per day. Please give us at least a week’s notice if you require this service.
Transportation and Communication
We offer airport pick-up and transfers to your chosen destinations. Simply let us know in advance, and one of our chauffeurs will be there to greet you. Our transfer prices are reasonable, starting from £150 (depending on the pick-up location).
While English is helpful, it is not essential for our tours. Many attractions are visual, and some offer language translations. Our driver-guides will always do their best to assist and take care of you.
To use your mobile phone in the UK, check with your network provider before traveling. You may need to switch to an international tariff for cheaper calls. Alternatively, you can purchase a UK SIM card or phone while you are here. Remember that our vehicles are equipped with 4G Wi-Fi for free internet access during your private tour.
Additional Tips
Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places, including train station platforms. Designated smoking areas are available outside airport entrances and exits. Smoking is also not allowed in our tour vehicles, but our drivers are happy to take breaks for your smoking needs.
The UK uses three-pin plugs with on/off switches. You will need an adapter for your electrical equipment, which can be purchased at airports and some retail and hardware stores. Our vehicles are equipped with power adapters for most devices so you can charge your phone, tablet, or camera while on tour.
Public holidays, also known as bank holidays, are spread throughout the year and commemorate religious, historical, and special events. While many businesses and banks are closed on bank holidays, plenty of shops and attractions remain open. This may affect their opening hours, which we will confirm in your booking itinerary.
In an emergency, dial 999 from any phone to reach ambulance, police, or fire services.
Enjoy Your Trip
We hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your trip to the UK. We look forward to welcoming you and showing you the best of what our country has to offer. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.
