Purchase British Pounds (GBP) before your trip to the United Kingdom
When preparing for your journey to the UK, it’s important to be familiar with the local currency – the British Pound (GBP), symbolised by £. While many transactions can be made with a debit or credit card, there are occasions where cash is still required. Before converting your ISK into GBP, check the current exchange rate to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Plan your travel budget carefully, taking into account the recommended daily spending and meals. Then, calculate how much GBP you will need based on the current exchange rate.
Practical tips for planning your budget
In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of 10–15% of the total bill. However, some restaurants already include a service charge (typically around 12.5% of the total amount in pounds). If the service charge is included, there’s no need to leave an additional tip.
When planning your daily budget for the UK, it’s wise to consider accommodation and potential museum visits. Transportation and meals should also be included. The average traveller in the UK spends approximately £145 per day.
£100
Average price for one night’s accommodation
£30
Average food budget per person per day
Good to know
Sample prices in the UK
£6
A single tube ticket in London
£4
The price of a cup of coffee
£30
A ticket to the London Eye
£8
A portion of Fish and Chips
£45–£70
Taxi ride from Heathrow Airport to Central London
FREE
Entry to the British Museum
Suggestions for your stay in the UK
- The most popular sights in London include the Gothic-style Westminster Abbey and the British Museum – both must-sees. A visit to Buckingham Palace is essential for any tourist and will be a highlight of your trip.
- The best time to travel to the UK is from May to September.
- Those seeking a seaside holiday should visit Brighton, just an hour by train from London.
- If you’d like to enjoy the winter and snow, head to Cairngorm in Scotland – the largest ski resort in the British Isles.
- There are also plenty of beautiful natural landscapes for nature lovers. The Great Glen Way, for instance, is a 118 km long hiking trail in Scotland. The British Isles are home to many national parks, the most scenic of which include the Lake District National Park and the South Downs National Park.
A few facts about the British Pound
Denominations of the Pound Sterling
- Banknotes: £5, £10, £20, and £50
- Coins: 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2
The pound sterling is the world’s oldest currency still in use and originates from continental Europe.
The English expression “Spend a penny” means to go to the toilet. It dates back to a time when using public toilets cost one penny. The first pound coin appeared in 1489, and the first banknotes were introduced in 1694, coinciding with the founding of the Bank of England.
Why buy GBP from Prosegur Change?
For your trip to the UK, we recommend reserving your GBP online. This way, you’ll benefit from preferential exchange rates that are far better than those offered in physical exchange offices. On top of more attractive rates, we charge 0% commission to help you make the most of your trip to England.
Thanks to our preferential online exchange rates and 0% commission, you can maximise the value of your ISK and optimise your travel budget, for a stress-free stay.
Traveling soon?
Here's how you can reserve your currencies online:
1. Select your currency
Determine the amount you need & enjoy our best price deals online
2. Choose a date & pick-up location
Indicate your order details and reserve it online.
3. Collect & pay
Pay in cash or by card. Get ready to enjoy your trip!