London Guide

5 Things You Should Know Before Visiting The UK And London

April 6, 2023

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The UK is a gorgeous and varied country, steeped in history and famed for its stunning countryside, quintessential villages and of course, the fantastic city of London.

Take full advantage of the amazing London hotels special offers currently available at The Queens Park Hotel, London; and explore not only one of the world’s best cities, but a staggeringly beautiful country too.

Let’s take a look at some of the things you should bear in mind when visiting London, and the UK.

The Weather

The weather in England is notoriously unpredictable; although the summers tend to be beautifully sunny, it’s never guaranteed!

While it is generally mild throughout the year, you should be prepared for rain at any time. Be sure to pack waterproof clothing, an umbrella, and comfortable shoes for walking in wet conditions.

It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before you head out for the day, so you can plan accordingly.

Tipping

Tipping is generally not expected in England in most establishments.

In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of 10-15% of the total bill if (and only if) you received good service, but you’d never be expected to leave a tip.

In pubs it’s common to simply round up the bill to the nearest pound, but no one would force you to do so- if you want your change, you’ll always get it.

Tipping for other services such as hairdressers or taxi drivers, is also appreciated but not required.

Transport

England has an excellent and expansive public transport system, including buses, trains, and the London Underground.

It’s generally easy to get around, and public transport is always cheaper than taking a taxi.

If you plan to use public transport frequently consider getting an Oyster card for London; or a rail card for the rest of England.

If you plan to rent a car, be aware that driving in England is on the left side of the road, and roads can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas. Sticking to the speed limit is usually a good idea, and booking hotels in London with parking included is a good idea.

Food and Drink

English cuisine is diverse and offers many delicious options, but it may differ from what you are used to. Traditional English dishes include fish and chips, roast beef, and shepherd’s pie; but there is an awful lot on offer besides this.

London is home to many of the world’s greatest chefs, and 66 Michelin Star restaurants- so the reputation for bad food is definitely unfounded.

The drinking culture in England is also different from some other countries. Pubs are popular places to socialize and have a drink, and it’s not uncommon to see people drinking alcohol in public places.

Etiquette and Customs

English culture is generally polite and formal. It’s important to use “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals and to be aware of personal space.

English people tend to value punctuality, so it’s important to be on time for appointments and meetings. When meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is the most common greeting.