Cost of your Travel to London-Money matters in London

The standard currency used in Britain is the pound sterling (GBP/£). Though the United Kingdom is a member of the European Union, it has retained its own currency and not adopted the Euro. 1 pound (1£) equals 100 pence (100p). Banknotes are in denominations of £5, £10, £20 and £50, the latter being the highest banknote denomination. Coins are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. The British pound sterling is a relatively stable currency.

There are numerous bureau de change in London, where you can sell your foreign currency in British pounds, purchase foreign currency or cash your travellers’ checks. Such exchange facilities are readily available throughout the city, including in banks, travel agents, post office, London’s airports, train stations, bus stations. You can shop around to compare exchange rates and then choose the very best deal. The British Post Office’s Bureaux de change network is the highest provider of foreign currency in the United Kingdom.

Credit Cards and Cash Machines in London

Credit cards – especially Visa and Mastercard – are widely accepted in London's hotels, cafés and shops. American Express and Diners Club cards are less commonly accepted.

There are numerous cash machines (also known as cash points or ATMs) spread around London. Most accept international cards with the Visa, Plus, Mastercard, Cirrus or Maestro symbols. Some other systems are also recognised, but it's a good idea to check with your bank or card company before you travel. If you have a non-UK account, you will almost certainly have to pay a charge when you withdraw cash. Again, contact your bank before travelling to find out details.

You might see cash machines in some corner shops and small supermarkets. Check before using them, as they are likely to charge a fee for every transaction. Many cash machines also provide the facility to top up your mobile credit.

The Post Office is a trusted British institution with more than 11,500 branches nationwide.

The Post Office's network of Bureaux de Change makes them the largest provider of foreign currency in the UK. They are consistently voted "Best Foreign Exchange Provider". 

During your visit to London, drop into any Post Office for your currency exchange needs. They offer convenient over-the-counter sterling transactions at competitive rates, as well as helpful advice about mailing postcards and souvenirs back home.

With 360 Bureaux de Change in London, you're never far from their products and services.

The Post Office is the UK's leading Foreign Exchange provider, offering more than 70 currencies and convenient over-the-counter sterling transactions for visitors.

Are you considering visiting London and the U.K.? Then contact the London official visitor agency-Visit London and Partners at: 08701 566 366  visitorinfo@londonandpartners.com     

You can also contact the City of London Information Centre: Opposite St Paul's Cathedral:

City of London, Guildhall, PO Box 270, London, EC2P 2EJ     pro@cityoflondon.gov.uk

Telephone: 020 7606 3030

They can offer you credible, pursuable and realistic information and advice on the following fronts: Cheap flights to London, hotels in London, cheap hotels in London, boutique hotels in London, bed and breakfast in London, guest houses in London, holiday apartments in London, timeshare accommodation in London, youth hostels in London, transportation in London, bus tours in London, river tours in London, coach tours of the U.K., entertainment in London, tourist attractions in London etc.