Moving abroad and navigating a new culture is always challenging so before you relocate we’ve created a snapshot of what to expect.
The weather in the UK can be unpredictable. Even in the Summer, don’t forget your umbrella when you leave the house (also known as your “brolly”!). It’s not unusual to experience sun, rain and wind in a single day. Depending on where you are living in the country you might also get to experience snow in Winter.
The currency used in the UK is Pounds Sterling, symbolised as a £ and abbreviated as GBP. Coins in circulation are:
Pence (p) 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p and 50p
Pounds (£) £1, £2
Bank notes in circulation: £5, £10, £20, £50
Issued by: Bank of England (used throughout the UK)
Scottish and Northern Irish banks also issue their own designs of legal banknotes, which can differ in appearance but are still valid currency across the UK.
ATMs and currency exchange services are widely available.
In a restaurant it’s common to tip 10-15% but it might already be added to your bill so keep an eye out to see if service is already included!
The UK has a rich, diverse culture that is rooted in centuries of history. England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales all have their own unique identities, traditions and own languages – though English is the primary language. The monarchy is a central cultural symbol – King Charles III is the current monarch.
Iconic landmarks include Stonehenge, Edinburgh Castle, the Angel of the North, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London.
The UK hosts major festivals like Glastonbury, the Edinburgh Festival and Notting Hill Carnival. There are concerts to suit all music tastes. Theatre productions take place across the UK with plays and musicals accessible to all.
Traditional food and drink include fish and chips, Sunday roast, English Breakfast and Afternoon Tea. Going to a pub for a pint or “putting the kettle on” for a cup of tea are national rituals.
Brits are known for queuing politely (lining up) to wait their turn and having a dry sense of humour.
There are many ways to travel around the UK and its cities including trains, planes, trams, coaches, buses as well as local transport networks such as the iconic London Underground.
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