United Kingdom Guide

Know Before You Go...®

The United Kingdom is a sovereign country located off the northwest coast of continental Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each country has its own unique history, culture, and traditions, but together they form a diverse and dynamic nation. Scotland, situated in the northernmost part of the UK, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of London to the rugged highlands of Scotland, the United Kingdom offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

Why United Kingdom?

  • The Isle of Wight, part of the UK is home to the world's oldest amusement park, Blackgang Chine.
  • The UK is home to the world's smallest police station, located in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland.
  • The United Kingdom was the first country to issue postage stamps, in 1840.
  • The island is home to the world's longest zip line, located in Wales.
  • The United Kingdom has over 3000 castles, more than any other country in the world.

History

The United Kingdom, or UK, is a sovereign country located in northwestern Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The history of the UK is a long and complex one, shaped by a variety of cultures, conflicts, and events.

The earliest known inhabitants of the British Isles were the indigenous Celtic tribes, who had established their own kingdoms by the 1st century BC. These kingdoms were eventually conquered by the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD, and for the next 400 years, the British Isles were part of the Roman Empire. During this time, the Roman influence on the region’s culture and infrastructure was significant.

In the 5th century, the Roman Empire began to decline, and in 449 AD, the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes invaded and established their own kingdoms in what is now England. This period saw the rise of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, which were eventually united under the rule of King Alfred the Great in the 9th century.

In 1066, the Norman conquest of England took place, when William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded and became the first Norman king of England. This marked the beginning of the Norman period in British history, which lasted for over 300 years. During this time, the feudal system was established, and many of the iconic castles and cathedrals that still exist today were built.

In the 16th century, the Tudor dynasty came to power, and England experienced a period of great change and growth. This was a time of exploration, with famous figures such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh leading expeditions to the New World. It was also during this period that England broke away from the Roman Catholic Church and established the Church of England under the rule of King Henry VIII.

In the 17th century, the UK went through a series of political and social upheavals, including the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution. This period also saw the rise of the British Empire, which became the largest empire in history, spanning continents and bringing wealth and power to the UK.

The 19th and 20th centuries were marked by industrialization and the growth of the British Empire. It was also a time of great social and political change, including the introduction of universal suffrage and the formation of the Labour Party.

Today, the UK is a leading global power, with a diverse and multicultural society. Its history has shaped its present, and the country continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

Transportation on United Kingdom

Getting to United Kingdom and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check UK Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in the UK for American citizens; the UK typically includes departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Adhere to speed limits: 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Use child safety seats for young passengers.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Overtake on the right; keep to the left unless overtaking.
  • Yield to traffic on your right at roundabouts.
  • In case of an emergency, call 999 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.
  • Follow specific rules for congestion charging zones in some cities, like London.
  • Be aware of toll roads, bridges, and tunnels with varying payment methods.
  • Keep left when using slip roads to enter or exit a motorway.

Local Transportation

Local transportation in the United Kingdom is efficient and widely available, with various options for getting around. From public buses and trains to taxis and ridesharing services, visitors can easily navigate their way through the country. Additionally, many cities have well-developed bike-sharing networks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. With the option of purchasing travel passes and using contactless payment methods, transportation in the UK is convenient and accessible for all.

Know Before You Go...® - United Kingdom Travel Tips

Before making their way to United Kingdom , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in United Kingdom even more relaxing.

Capital: London
Population: 67 million (estimated)
Size: 94,354 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in the United Kingdom is English, with several regional dialects. However, there are also several minority languages spoken, such as Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and Irish.
Currency:
  • The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). It is often referred to as "pounds" or "sterling" and is represented by the symbol £.
  • When making purchases in the United Kingdom, it is important to note that most businesses will only accept cash in the form of the local currency. However, major credit and debit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in most places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels.
  • In addition, many establishments also accept contactless payments, where customers can simply tap their card or mobile device to make a payment without entering a PIN.
  • Another common payment method in the United Kingdom is the use of mobile payment apps such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  • It is important to note that not all businesses in the United Kingdom accept foreign currency. It is recommended to exchange currency at a bank or use an ATM to withdraw cash.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory in the UK, but it is customary to tip for good service.
  • The standard tip is around 10-15% of the total bill.
  • Tipping is more common in restaurants, bars, and hotels, but not expected in other service industries such as taxis, hairdressers, or delivery services.
  • Some restaurants may include a service charge on the bill, in which case, it is not necessary to tip.
  • It is common to leave the tip in cash rather than adding it to the card payment. Tipping is also seen as a way to show appreciation for exceptional service.
  • The main tax in the UK is the Value Added Tax (VAT), which is a consumption tax added to the price of goods and services.
  • The standard rate of VAT is 20%, but there are reduced rates for certain goods and services. VAT is included in the price of goods and services, so there is no need to calculate or add it on separately.
Dress Code: Smart-casual attire is generally expected in the United Kingdom, with a preference for neat and modest clothing in most settings.
Topography: The United Kingdom has a varied topography, ranging from low-lying coastal plains and rolling hills to rugged mountains and deep valleys.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +44 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the country, including rural and remote areas. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

United Kingdom Weddings and Honeymoons

In the United Kingdom, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Give notice of marriage at a local Register Office in the area where you reside. Both parties must have lived in the UK for at least 7 days before giving notice.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Proof of residence (e.g., utility bills or rental agreements).
  • Birth certificates (optional, depending on the local authority’s requirements).
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Register Office.

There is a mandatory waiting period of 28 days after giving notice before the marriage can take place.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in English by a registrar.

Costs: Marriage fees vary but typically range from £35 to £50 per person for giving notice, plus additional fees for the ceremony and venue.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: The UK offers a variety of iconic venues for weddings, including historic churches, stately homes, and scenic countryside locations. Religious or symbolic ceremonies are not legally binding without fulfilling civil requirements.

See our favorite United Kingdom villas for weddings.