London, United Kingdom Guide

Know Before You Go...®

The United Kingdom is a sovereign country located off the northwest coast of continental Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each country has its own unique history, culture, and traditions, but together they form a diverse and dynamic nation. Scotland, situated in the northernmost part of the UK, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant cities. From the bustling streets of London to the rugged highlands of Scotland, the United Kingdom offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

Why London, United Kingdom?

  • London has the world's oldest underground railway system.
  • London is home to the world's tallest observation wheel, the London Eye.
  • The Tower of London is the oldest and most famous fortress in the world.
  • The Shard is the tallest building in London and the United Kingdom.
  • London is the most visited city in the world with over 20 million visitors annually.

London, United Kingdom Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
43° F
37° F
February
45° F
37° F
March
50° F
39° F
April
55° F
43° F
May
63° F
48° F
June
68° F
54° F
July
72° F
57° F
August
70° F
57° F
September
66° F
54° F
October
57° F
48° F
November
50° F
43° F
December
45° F
37° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.0 inches
February
1.5 inches
March
1.4 inches
April
1.7 inches
May
2.0 inches
June
1.7 inches
July
1.6 inches
August
1.9 inches
September
1.9 inches
October
2.8 inches
November
2.5 inches
December
2.1 inches

Overview

London is a vibrant and bustling city, with something for everyone! From the iconic sights of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, to the fabulous shops of Oxford Street, there’s no shortage of attractions and activities to explore.

Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Westminster and explore the many historical landmarks, or take a spin on the London Eye to take in all the sights from high above the skyline. Stop by one of the many museums, galleries and attractions, or take a stroll through the city’s beautiful parks and gardens.

Be sure to sample some of the local cuisine – from traditional fish and chips to modern gastronomy, you’ll find it all in London. Take in a show at one of the many theatres, or head out to a pub to enjoy a pint of ale or cider. For a truly unique experience, take a tour on one of the city’s famous red double-decker buses!

No matter what you’re looking for, London has something for everyone. Whether you’re after sightseeing, shopping, culture or cuisine, you’ll find it all in this exciting city.

History

The United Kingdom, or UK, is a sovereign country located in northwestern Europe. It is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The history of the UK is a long and complex one, shaped by a variety of cultures, conflicts, and events.

The earliest known inhabitants of the British Isles were the indigenous Celtic tribes, who had established their own kingdoms by the 1st century BC. These kingdoms were eventually conquered by the Roman Empire in the 1st century AD, and for the next 400 years, the British Isles were part of the Roman Empire. During this time, the Roman influence on the region’s culture and infrastructure was significant.

In the 5th century, the Roman Empire began to decline, and in 449 AD, the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes invaded and established their own kingdoms in what is now England. This period saw the rise of the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, which were eventually united under the rule of King Alfred the Great in the 9th century.

In 1066, the Norman conquest of England took place, when William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded and became the first Norman king of England. This marked the beginning of the Norman period in British history, which lasted for over 300 years. During this time, the feudal system was established, and many of the iconic castles and cathedrals that still exist today were built.

In the 16th century, the Tudor dynasty came to power, and England experienced a period of great change and growth. This was a time of exploration, with famous figures such as Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh leading expeditions to the New World. It was also during this period that England broke away from the Roman Catholic Church and established the Church of England under the rule of King Henry VIII.

In the 17th century, the UK went through a series of political and social upheavals, including the English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution. This period also saw the rise of the British Empire, which became the largest empire in history, spanning continents and bringing wealth and power to the UK.

The 19th and 20th centuries were marked by industrialization and the growth of the British Empire. It was also a time of great social and political change, including the introduction of universal suffrage and the formation of the Labour Party.

Today, the UK is a leading global power, with a diverse and multicultural society. Its history has shaped its present, and the country continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.

Sky VIP Services - Airport meet and greet

VIP Airport Meet and Greet Service

There are a range of packages available depending on your needs, so do get in touch to discuss what we can arrange for you.

Transportation on London, United Kingdom

Getting to London, United Kingdom and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check UK Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in the UK for American citizens; the UK typically includes departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Adhere to speed limits: 30 mph in urban areas, 60 mph on single carriageways, 70 mph on dual carriageways and motorways.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Use child safety seats for young passengers.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Overtake on the right; keep to the left unless overtaking.
  • Yield to traffic on your right at roundabouts.
  • In case of an emergency, call 999 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.
  • Follow specific rules for congestion charging zones in some cities, like London.
  • Be aware of toll roads, bridges, and tunnels with varying payment methods.
  • Keep left when using slip roads to enter or exit a motorway.

Local Transportation

Local transportation in the United Kingdom is efficient and widely available, with various options for getting around. From public buses and trains to taxis and ridesharing services, visitors can easily navigate their way through the country. Additionally, many cities have well-developed bike-sharing networks and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. With the option of purchasing travel passes and using contactless payment methods, transportation in the UK is convenient and accessible for all.

Know Before You Go...® - London, United Kingdom Travel Tips

Before making their way to London, United Kingdom , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in London, United Kingdom even more relaxing.

Capital: 1There is no single word that is the capital of L
Population: 20199.1 million
Size: 2017Unknown
Electric Current: 220/240
Official Language: London's official language is English, while its secondary language is a diverse mix of over 300 languages, with the most commonly spoken being Bengali, Gujarati, Arabic, and Turkish. This reflects the city's rich cultural diversity and global influence.
Currency: London, the capital city of England, is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population and a thriving economy. As a major global hub for business and tourism, London offers a wide range of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. The official currency of London is the Great British Pound (GBP), also known as the Pound Sterling. It is the fourth most traded currency in the world and can be easily exchanged at banks, foreign exchange bureaus, and ATMs throughout the city. The GBP is available in denominations of £5, £10, £20, and £50, with smaller denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, and 50p commonly used for everyday transactions. In addition to the GBP, major international currencies such as the US Dollar, Euro, and Japanese Yen are also widely accepted in London, especially in popular tourist areas and upscale establishments. However, it is recommended to exchange your currency to GBP for the best exchange rates and to avoid any additi
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes are important aspects of the London dining and shopping experience that visitors should be aware of. Tipping in London is generally not expected, but it is appreciated for exceptional service. The standard tipping rate is 10-15% of the total bill, but some restaurants may include a service charge of 12.5% in the bill. In this case, there is no need to tip further unless you want to show your appreciation for exceptional service. Taxes in London are included in the price of goods and services, unlike in some other countries where taxes are added at the point of sale. The main tax in London is Value Added Tax (VAT), which is currently set at 20%. This tax is added to most goods and services, except for food and children's clothing, which have a reduced rate of 5%. Visitors from outside the EU can claim a VAT refund on goods they have purchased to take home with them, as long as they meet certain criteria and have the appropriate forms. In addition to VAT, there is
Dress Code: Dress code in London is typically formal and conservative with a mix of trendy and eclectic styles.
Topography: London is a diverse city with a mix of historic landmarks, bustling urban areas, and sprawling parks, situated along the River Thames and surrounded by suburban neighborhoods.
Telephone: +44 London

London, United Kingdom Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in London, United Kingdom villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite United Kingdom villas for weddings.