United Kingdom

Emergency phone numbers 

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.   

• United Kingdom: Dial 999 for all emergencies. Learn more about how policing works in the UK.  
• Gibraltar: Dial 112
• England and Wales: Dial +44-20-7499-9000 for the U.S. Embassy London. 
• Northern Ireland: Dial +44-28-9038-6100 for U.S. Consulate General Belfast. 
• Scotland: Dial +44-131-556-8315 for U.S. Consulate Edinburgh.   

Terrorism

Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack American citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets at:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists  
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets  
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights) 

Terrorist groups are still planning possible attacks in Europe

• The UK Security Service updates the public on any changes in the threat level and actions for the public.
• There is a risk of isolated violence in Northern Ireland due to political tensions.  
• The Police Service of Northern Ireland warns of continued threats from protester groups. These groups target police and military with firearms or explosives. 
• Tensions may be higher during the summer marching season (April to August) and on the July 12th holiday.

Crime 

Violent crimes or crimes against property are rare. U.S. citizens should take the same security precautions as in the United States or any big city.  

• Be aware of your surroundings 
• Be aware of pickpocketing, mugging, and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches, and jewelry. 
• Don’t leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, or parked cars. 
• Only use licensed black taxis or pre-ordered car services (minicabs). Unlicensed taxis or private cars can be dangerous and may lead to robbery or sexual assault. 
• Avoid ATMs that look temporary or are in isolated areas. Use ATMs inside a bank branch for safety. 

Domestic violence 

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the UK’s Domestic Abuse Help.  

Scams

• Impostors may pose as undercover police and demand cash fines. (The UK police will never ask you for immediate cash payments). 
• The U.S. Embassy in London provides information on avoiding internet financial scams in the UK. 
• Review the Department of State’s protecting yourself from scams  and the FBI pages for information.

Victims of crime 

Dial 999 or dial 112 in Gibraltar to report crimes to the local police at and contact the U.S. Embassy London or our consulates. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.  

• England and Wales: Dial +44-20-7499-9000 for the U.S. Embassy London. 
• Northern Ireland: Dial +44-28-9038-6100 for U.S. Consulate General Belfast. 
• Scotland: Dial +44-131-556-8315 for U.S. Consulate Edinburgh. 

Victim support resources in the UK are available from: 

• Victim Support  - maintained by an independent UK charity to help victims cope with the effects of crime. 
• Victim Support NI - maintained by a Northern Ireland charity. 
• Victim Support Scotland - maintained by a charity in Scotland. 

The U.S. Department of State provides information on help for U.S. victims of crime abroad.  

We can: 

• Help you find appropriate medical care. 
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police. 
• Contact relatives and friends with your written consent. 
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. 
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S. 
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of destitution. 
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home. 
• Replace a stolen or lost passport.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations occur frequently in cities throughout the UK.  They can:  

• Result in violence or property damage.  
• Be unpredictable. 
• Occur outside the U.S. Embassy in London and at the U.S. Consulates in Belfast and Edinburgh.  
• Occur near tourist areas in London like Hyde Park, Oxford Street, and Trafalgar Square.   

Demonstration organizers must get police approval in advance. UK police are good at managing these events.    

To stay safe:  

• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Use caution near any large gatherings, protests, or rallies.   
• Check local media updates and traffic advisories.   
• Check Transport for London and the Metropolitan Police, including their social media accounts for updates.   

Tourism 

The tourism industry in the UK is well regulated:

• Rules, general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. 
• Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. 
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  

Criminal penalties

You are subject to local laws.   

• If you break laws, even if you don't know them, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison.
• If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.
• Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.  
• For examples, review our website on Laws Abroad and the Department of Justice website

Arrest notification 

If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately.

Weapons

The UK government provides a full list of what is prohibited when traveling to the UK. 

You will be arrested if you bring the following into the UK:

• Pocket knives
• Blades
• Mace
• Tasers
• Pepper spray canisters 
• Gun or gun parts 
• The UK has very strict gun control laws. Importing firearms is very complicated. The London Metropolitan Police Firearms provides information about applying for a firearm or shotgun certificate. 
• Licenses issued in England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland. Police in Scotland provide information on certificates.
• Always start packing with an empty bag. This avoids bringing into the UK any prohibited items in your luggage. The UK and British Overseas Territories has different restrictions for bullets and ammunition. Please check the restrictions for your destination before traveling.

Alcohol

• The legal drinking age in the UK is 18. Parents and school trip organizers should review the students abroad information. 
• Scotland has stricter “drunk driving limit” laws compared to the rest of the UK. In Scotland, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is roughly 0.05, while it is 0.08 in the rest of the UK. This means driving after one drink can result in a DUI. Authorities strictly enforce penalties for being drunk on flights to and from the UK. They can lead to arrest and prison time. 
• Learn more about U.S customs rules before returning to the United States. 

Controlled substances 

UK law bans the possession and sale of controlled substances and drugs, including some that are legal in certain U.S. states.  

People who violate UK drug laws may face penalties including fines or prison sentences.   

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – review country reports 
• Human Rights Report 

Gay and lesbian travelers 

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex relationships or the organization of gay and lesbian events in the UK. 

• Tips for Gay and Lesbian Travelers
• Human Rights report (section 6)   

Traveleres with accessibility needs 

In the UK, all public service providers must make "reasonable adjustments" for people with disabilities. This excludes transportation services. 

• The law allows older buildings to follow different rules. They can have steps from the street (no ramps). 
• Getting around cities can be hard because sidewalks are often narrow and uneven. 
• Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not accessible for people with disabilities. Many stations do not have elevators and have stairways or long hallways to change trains or exit to the street.  
• UK buses have lowering platforms for travelers. This helps travelers with limited mobility and sight, or hearing disabilities. 
• Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or ramps to get in easier. 
• "Blue badges" are parking permits for the disabled issued by local UK councils. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors. 
• Review our Accessibility Needs page.  

Students 

• Travel Tips for Students Abroad
• FBI Travel Tips 

Women travelers 

• Travel Tips for Women Travelers 

Health Resources 

• CDC's United Kingdom Traveler Health Information 
• CDCC's Medical Tourism information 
• Travel Insurance 
• WHO's United Kingdom and Northern Ireland Health Information 
• U.S. Embassy London list of hospitals and doctors in the United Kingdom

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 999 for all emergencies 
• Dial 112 for all emergencies in Gibraltar 

Ambulance services 

• Dial 999 for ambulance services 
• Ambulance services are widely available in the United Kingdom

Healthcare in the United Kingdom 

Medical care in the UK is widely available. In smaller cities, it may take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. 

• Free treatment under the National Health System (NHS) is only available to UK residents, EU nationals, and some visa holders. 
• Some visa applicants must pay an extra NHS fee when applying.  
• Tourists and short-term visitors don’t pay the extra fee but will be charged 150% of the cost for any NHS treatment they receive. 
• Private medical care exists, primarily in larger cities. Often, private medical clinics do not have Emergency Departments (A&E) services. 

Medical payments and insurance

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills. 
• The UK Government encourages tourists to make sure they are covered by personal health or travel insurance.  More information on NHS fees for tourists and short-term visitors is available on the UK Government website.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not work overseas.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad for reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance available.
• We recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical needs and possible evacuation.

Prescription drugs 

• Confirm that your medication is legal according to the UK government.
• Some U.S. approved drugs are considered controlled substances in the UK and require additional license to buy or bring into the country. 
• Bring enough medicine to last your entire trip. Mailed prescriptions may be delayed or blocked by British customs. 
• Take your prescription medication in the original labeled packaging.  
• Bring a copy of your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations 

Stay up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  

Further health information:  

• World Health Organization Travel Advice page
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health page

Helpful resources 

• Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad
• UK government - The Highway Code, Road Safety and Vehicle Rules 
• Transport for London - Driving in London 
• UK government - UK Department of Transport 
• UK government - Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency

Road conditions and safety 

UK traffic drives on the left side of the road, which is different from the United States: 

• Read the Highway Code from the UK government before driving. 
• Visit the UK Government website to find out if your driver’s license is valid in the UK 
• Emergency call boxes are orange and have “SOS” printed on them. They are found every half mile on motorways. 
• Pedestrians in the UK don’t have the right of way. Do not expect vehicles to stop for you. 
• Many U.S. pedestrians get injured or killed in the UK because they forget that traffic comes from the opposite direction on the street. 
• Wait for crossing signs at crosswalks. Look both ways before stepping into the street. 

For more information visit: 

• THINK! road safety campaign  
• Highways England Press Release 
• UK Driving Rules and Penalties 
• Driving in the UK

Traffic laws 

The UK Department of Transport and Driver Vehicle Standards Agency provide information on driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance.  

• The UK has strict penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Penalties often include prison sentences. 
• Seat belts and child car seats are required by law.   
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving. Only hands-free devices are allowed. You could be fined or even arrested if involved in an accident while using a cell phone. 
• The speed limit on highways (motorways) is 70 mph, unless a lower limit is posted. 
• If you commit a driving offense and don’t have a UK address, you may be detained and taken to court before leaving the country.   
• In Central London, there is a congestion charge for driving in certain areas. You will be fined or arrested if you don’t pay it. Learn more from Transport London.

Public transportation 

Public transportation in the UK is widespread and easily accessible. The following resources provide public transportation information and schedules: 

• Transport London - for driving disruptions 
• National Rail Enquiries 
• Translink - for Northern Ireland bus and train information 
• Traveline Scotland - for bus and train information 

Aviation safety oversight 

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program. 

Maritime travel 

Mariners planning travel to United Kingdom should check the following:   

• U.S. Coast Guard Homeport Directory 
• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories 
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts  
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings  

Other maritime resources include: 

• UK Sailing Guidance

Weather

The UK climate is temperate and moderated by southwest winds over the North Atlantic current.

• More than half the days are overcast
• Storm season is September to August

Natural disasters

Flooding is the most common natural disaster.

Living abroad resources 

• If you live abroad for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events. 
• Learn how to prepare for life events like voting, getting married, or the birth of a child. 
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare or insurance abroad. 
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.