We
want to make planning your trip to the UK as easy and stress-free as
possible. That's why we've compiled some useful travel advice worth knowing before you embark on your visit.
Passports
To
enter the UK
you will need to show a valid passport, or national identity card if you are an
EEA citizen. If you are not an EU national, you will need to show further
documentation, and may need a visa. For more information please refer to
the UK Visa and Immigration website.
Currency
Britain’s
unit of currency is the Great
British Pound (sterling)
– GBP. The symbol for the pound sterling is £. There are 100 pence (p) to
the pound (£). Notes come in denominations of £5, £10, £20 and £50. Coins come
in 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2.
Foreign
currency can easily be exchanged at banks, post offices, some hotels and Bureau
de Change kiosks, which are found at international airports, main
stations and city centres. It’s worth shopping around to get the best deal
– compare the exchange rates and remember to check the commission.
Credit Cards
Credit
cards (especially Visa
and Mastercard) are widely accepted in UK
shops, restaurants, bars, and cafés. Diners Club and American Express
cards are less commonly accepted. There are many cash machines (also known as
ATMs), most accept international cards with the Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus
or Maestro symbols. Charges for using them may apply, it's a good idea
to check with your bank before you travel.
Gratuity
The
culture around tipping in the UK
is generally discretional. It's up to you if you feel the service was good
and want to show your appreciation. If you are having lunch or dinner at a
restaurant, sometimes meals will include a service charge of
approximately 10-12%.Tour gratuity is again entirely at
your discretion and can be paid to the driver on the day.
Disabled Access
The
majority of our tours cater for disabled wheelchair access, though we recommend
checking with us before you book to avoid any disappointment. If one of your
party has difficulty walking and/or requires the use of a wheelchair, we
can happily provide this at the hire of £15 per day. Please give us at least a
weeks notice before your tour date if this is required.
Airport Transfer
Whether it's a pick-up
from the airport or transfer to your next holiday destination, we
can arrange for one of our chauffeurs to take you to your chosen
destination. Simply let us know in advance and we can be waiting for you
when you arrive! Our transfer prices are very reasonable from just £150
(depending on pick-up location).
Language
Although
understanding/speaking English would be useful it is not essential for
your tour as many of the attractions are visual, and some also offer
language translations. Our driver tour guide will always do their best to help
and take care of you whilst you are with them.
Mobile (Cell) Phones
If you want to use your mobile phone in
the UK,
please check with your network provider before travelling or your phone
may not work. You may be able to switch to an international tariff that
gives you cheaper calls. Alternatively you may wish to purchase a UK
SIM card or phone whilst you are here. Remember our vehicles are equipped
with 4G Wi-Fi so you can connect to the Internet free-of-charge whilst on your
private tour.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in the UK in all
indoor public places (including platforms at train stations). Airports have
designated smoking areas outside by the entrance/exit. Smoking is also not
allowed in our tour vehicles, however our drivers will happily provide breaks
during your travels for any smoking requirements.
Electricity in the UK
UK power sockets use three-pin plugs with on/off switches. You
will need a simple adaptor for your electrical equipment which can be purchased
from airports and some retail & hardware stores. Our vehicles are also
equipped with power adaptors for most devices so you can recharge your phone,
tablet or camera whilst you are with us for your tour.
Bank Holidays
Public holidays, or 'bank holidays' as
they are known, are spread throughout the year and mark religious, historical
and special events. On bank holidays many business and banks are closed,
however, plenty of shops and attractions stay open. This can affect their
opening hours and we will confirm if this is the case on your booking
itinerary.
Emergencies
In
an emergency that requires ambulance, police or fire services dial 999from any telephone.
