Money & Currency
The Pound Sterling (£, GBP) is used throughout Great Britain. As of 2026: £1 ≈ €1.15–1.20.
Payment
- Contactless: Great Britain is one of the most cashless societies in the world. Almost everywhere — even in small pubs, buses, and markets — you can pay contactless (up to £100 without PIN). Apple Pay and Google Pay work everywhere
- Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere. American Express less so
- Cash: Becoming less necessary, but still needed for some small shops, market stalls, and tips. ATMs (Cash Machines) are everywhere — look for "free cash withdrawals" (no fee)
- Note: Scottish banknotes (Royal Bank of Scotland, Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale Bank) look different from those of the Bank of England and are sometimes viewed suspiciously in England — but they are valid currency everywhere!
Tipping
- Restaurant: 10–12.5%. Many restaurants automatically add a "Discretionary Service Charge" (12.5%) — check the bill to avoid double tipping
- Pub (Bar): No tip! For table service: 10%
- Taxi: Round up to the nearest pound
- Hotel: £1–2 for porters
