UK Currency Basic Information

The UK unit of currency is the pound sterling (£). In London we often call one pound (£1) a "quid" and sometimes a "nicker".

Coins

One pound is made up of 100 pence (p). Coin denominations are:

• 1p and 2p ('copper')
• 5p, 10p, 20p and 50p ('silver')
• £1 ('gold')
• £2 ('silver middle-gold edge')

Notes

The notes available are:

• £5 (blue)
• £10 (brown)
• £20 (purple)
• £50 (red)

I would not recommend using £50 notes as there was a time when many were forged and therefore retailers do not like accepting them. When you get your currency ask for £20 notes and smaller.

Have at look at the Photographs of UK Money to familiarize yourself before your vacation.

What about Euros?

A lot of European countries have changed their currency to the Euro, but the UK has not yet joined. There is a lot of speculation about if and when we ever will join, but that's another story. Many of London's larger retailers will accept the Euro as an alternative currency and their goods are priced in both pounds and Euros.

Scottish Pounds

Scottish notes and coins ARE legal tender in England, but some shopkeepers may not be keen to accept them as they don't recognize them. You won't have problems at the tourist attractions in central London, but if you go further afield you may not be able to spend them.

Northern Irish Pounds

Northern Ireland still uses pounds sterling, while southern Ireland has moved to Euros. Northern Irish pounds ARE legal tender in England but you will rarely see them. Find out more about Irish currency issues.

Photographs of UK Money

Try to familiarize yourself with UK money before you arrive in London. Check out these pictures of the notes and coins.