United Kingdom
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 69.5 million people live in the United Kingdom, on 242,495 km². The capital is London.
- Capital
- London
- Population
- 69,487,000
- Area
- 242,495 km²
- Official languages
- English
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in the United Kingdom?
Sockets take plug type G, at 230 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in the United Kingdom?
Call 999 for police, ambulance and fire.
Do you tip in the United Kingdom?
10–15 %.
Which side of the road do they drive on in the United Kingdom?
Traffic drives on the left, so look right first when you cross the street.
What currency is used in the United Kingdom?
Prices are in British Pound (GBP).
What language do they speak in the United Kingdom?
Official languages: English.
How do I call a number in the United Kingdom from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +44.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
