Currency Across All 4 Nations: Pound Sterling (£ GBP)
England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland all use the British Pound Sterling (£ GBP). Note that Scottish and Northern Irish banks issue their own polymer £5, £10, £20, and £50 banknotes — they are 100% legal currency of equal value, though if you have leftover Scottish/NI notes, spend them or swap them at a bank or self-checkout before leaving.
The 12.5% Discretionary Service Charge & British Pub Tipping Rules
- Sit-Down Restaurants: Most London and UK city restaurants automatically add a 12.5% (or 10–15%) discretionary service charge to the bill. If it is already on the bill, do not tip extra. If no service charge is added, 10% is standard.
- British Pubs: You do not tip bartenders when ordering pints or pub food at the bar.
- Black Cabs & Taxis: Round up to the nearest £1–£2 or add 5–10%.