London, England
The capital of the United Kingdom, London is a city where centuries of history meet world-class culture, dining and style. From royal landmarks to West End theatre, iconic museums to charming neighborhood streets, London offers an unforgettable blend of tradition and modern sophistication. Here's a few things you should know before heading to London!
Currency
The official currency is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Most major credit cards are widely accepted, including at the hotel.
Weather
We'll be traveling in September, which falls in early autumn in London. Expect mild temperatures, generally in the 55–65°F (13–18°C) range, with a mix of sun and clouds. Light layers and a packable rain jacket or umbrella are recommended, as rain showers are common year-round.
See our full Packing Tips page for more.
Good to Know
A few small differences to help you settle in the royal city quickly:
Tipping is much more relaxed than in the US — 10–12.5% is generous, and it's often already included as a service charge.
The Tube (London's subway system) has its own etiquette: stand on the right side of escalators and walk on the left — Londoners take this seriously.
Crossing the street: traffic drives on the left, so look right first (watch for "Look Right" painted on the pavement at busy crossings).
Pubs: order and pay at the bar rather than waiting for table service, and a small tip for the bartender is appreciated.
Portions: restaurant meals tend to run smaller than in the US.
Tap water is safe to drink, though don't expect a glass full of ice — it's served sparingly compared to back home.
AC & outlets: most hotels and buildings have limited air conditioning, since London rarely gets very hot. Don't forget a plug adapter — UK outlets are a different shape and voltage.
Ready to Explore?
Check out our top picks for things to do in London.