Practical information for travelling in the United Kingdom and Ireland

Preparing for a stay travel to the United Kingdom It requires some essential information. Entry requirements, currency, transportation, tipping, climate, and local customs: knowing these things will allow you to travel with peace of mind. This guide gathers all the practical information you need to organize your trip to the United Kingdom and Ireland in the best possible conditions.

In short: The United Kingdom has over 68 million inhabitants, the Republic of Ireland over 5.3 million. Approximate budget: a coffee between £3 and £4, a pub meal between £15 and £25, a restaurant meal between £25 and £50. Tip: £10 to £12 in restaurants when service is not included. Currency: the pound sterling in the United Kingdom, the euro in the Republic of Ireland.

At Brightside Travel LTD, we support each traveler in preparing their itinerary thanks to our perfect knowledge of the United Kingdom and Ireland.

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Traveling to the United Kingdom: General Information

The United Kingdom is located in northwestern Europe and actually comprises four nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

For its part, the island of Ireland brings together the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Together, these destinations offer a wide variety of landscapes, from mountains, lochs, lakes, and cliffs to verdant valleys and spectacular coastlines. See our selection of places to visit in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Some figures:

• Population of the United Kingdom: over 68 million inhabitants.
• Population of the Republic of Ireland: over 5.3 million inhabitants.
• Capital of the United Kingdom: London.
• Capital of Ireland: Dublin.

Traveling to the United Kingdom: the flags

Each nation also has its own flag.

• England: St. George's Red Cross.
• Scotland: White Cross of St. Andrew.
• Wales: red dragon.
• Ireland: green, white and orange flag.

Furthermore, the famous Union Jack brings together several of these symbols.

Traveling in the United Kingdom: local customs

The British and the Irish, in particular, cultivate a high level of politeness.

Saying "please", "thank you" or "sorry" is therefore naturally part of everyday life.

Furthermore, queuing is a widely respected rule of etiquette.

Traveling to the United Kingdom: what to wear?

Most of the time, we dress casually.

However, some restaurants, hotels or events require a more elegant dress code.

Furthermore, as the weather is often changeable, it is advisable to pack waterproof clothing and several layers. To choose the best season, see when to go in Scotland, in England or in Ireland.

Traveling in the United Kingdom: Tipping

Tipping is never actually mandatory.

However, it remains popular.

In restaurants, it is common to leave between 10 and 12 % when service is not included.

Furthermore, in taxis, it is customary to round up the fare.

Finally, guides and drivers usually receive a tip based on the quality of service.

Traveling in the United Kingdom: transport and infrastructure

The United Kingdom and Ireland also have excellent infrastructure.

The road network is notably modern and well-maintained.

In addition, trains make it easy to reach the main cities.

Finally, public transport is particularly efficient in large urban areas. See also our tips for rent a car.

Traveling in the United Kingdom: Public Holidays

The main public holidays are:

• New Year
• Saint Patrick
• Easter
• Early May Bank Holiday
• Summer Bank Holiday
• Christmas
• Boxing Day

However, some dates vary depending on the different nations of the United Kingdom.

Traveling in the United Kingdom: currency

In the United Kingdom, the official currency is the pound sterling (£).

In the Republic of Ireland, the currency is the euro (€).

Today, merchants accept bank cards almost everywhere.

Traveling to the United Kingdom: exchange rates

However, the exchange rate between the euro and the pound sterling fluctuates regularly.

It is therefore recommended to consult the course before your departure.

Furthermore, it is best to avoid currency exchange offices located in highly touristic areas.

Traveling to the United Kingdom: budget to plan

For your information:

• Coffee: between £3 and £4.
• Meal in a pub: between £15 and £25.
• Restaurant: between £25 and £50.
• Entrance to a castle or museum: between £10 and £25.

These prices can naturally vary depending on the region. Our advice’accommodation in the United Kingdom and Ireland complement these benchmarks.

Traveling in the United Kingdom: Languages spoken

English obviously remains the main language.

However, several regional languages remain alive:

• Scottish Gaelic.
• Welsh.
• Irish Gaelic.

Thus, each region retains a very strong cultural identity. Discover, for example, our Scottish traditions or our guide for organizing a trip to Wales.

Traveling to the United Kingdom: Useful Numbers

In case of emergency, dial 999 or the 112.

Both of these numbers work throughout the UK and Ireland.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are needed to travel to the United Kingdom?

For French citizens, a valid passport and an ETA (the British electronic travel authorization) are required for each traveler. Full details are in our guide. formalities for the United Kingdom.

Is an identity card sufficient for Ireland?

Yes, for the Republic of Ireland, a valid identity card or passport is sufficient. See our guide to formalities for Ireland.

What currency should be used in the United Kingdom and Ireland?

The pound sterling is used in the United Kingdom, including Northern Ireland, and the euro in the Republic of Ireland. Credit and debit cards are also accepted almost everywhere.

Should you leave a tip?

It's never mandatory. However, in restaurants, it's common to leave 10 to 12 cents when service is not included.

What number should I call in case of an emergency?

999 or 112, which work in the UK as well as in Ireland.

What budget should I plan for on site?

As a guide, expect to pay £3-4 for a coffee, £15-25 for a meal in a pub and £10-25 for entry to a castle or museum.

Plan your trip with Brightside Travel

For travel to the United Kingdom Even in the best conditions, good preparation remains essential. Our local experts will assist you before your departure to create an itinerary tailored to your desires, budget, and pace. See also our... FAQs to help you prepare for your stay.

Discover our tailor-made trips as well:

See our tailor-made trips to Scotland

For official travel advice, please also visit the UK government website:

gov.uk

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