Europe · field briefing
United Kingdom uses Type G power outlets at 230V, 50Hz. The general emergency number is 999 / 112. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed . Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
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United Kingdom runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
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Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Tipping is appreciated but less automatic than in the United States. Restaurants may add a service charge; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good table service. Tipping in pubs is not usually expected.
Late spring through early autumn offers the longest daylight and the best chance of mild weather. May, June and September are especially good for city breaks because they avoid the busiest school-holiday weeks.
Visa requirements depend on nationality, length of stay and purpose of travel. Some visitors can enter visa-free for short tourism trips, while others need a Standard Visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation. Confirm through the official UK government visa checker.
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Questions
Yes. Tap water in United Kingdom is considered safe to drink.
United Kingdom uses Type G plugs running at 230V, 50Hz. United Kingdom runs at 230V. Travelers from 100–127V regions (US, Japan) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
Dial 999 / 112 for general emergencies in United Kingdom. Police: 999 / 112. Ambulance: 999 / 112.
Late spring through early autumn offers the longest daylight and the best chance of mild weather. May, June and September are especially good for city breaks because they avoid the busiest school-holiday weeks.
In United Kingdom, traffic drives on the left side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the right. Visitors from right-hand-drive countries should take extra care.
The international dialing code for United Kingdom is +44. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a United Kingdom number from abroad.
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