PRACTICAL INFORMATION
EMERGENCY NUMBERS Ambulance
999 / 112
Fire
999 / 112
Police
999 / 112 / 101
Gas emergency
0800 111 999
National Health Service
0845 4647
WEATHER The weather starts to cool down in September, when the autumn season is setting in. At this time of the year, London experiences an average temperature of around 15°C towards the end of the month. The probability of London receiving some type of precipitation across September decreases as the month goes on.
SAFETY London is a very safe place but like any big city, it's worth taking sensible precautions: never leave your bag unattended, and report any unattended bags or items in public places; keep your purse or wallet close to your body and don't carry too much cash; information about major incidents in the capital can be found on the Met Police website.
HEALTH Overseas nationals are not eligible for free NHS treatment except if they need emergency treatment while in the UK. You are strongly advised to take out travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.
CURRENCY & EXCHANGE The pound sterling, or just pound, is the basic unit of currency in England. There are numerous exchange offices in London – often located inside banks, travel agents or Post Offices, as well as at London's airports and major train stations. Credit and debit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in London's restaurants, bars, cafes and shops. American Express and Diners Club cards are becoming more commonly accepted, although it is still advised to carry an alternative payment method with you.
OPENING HOURS Shops and Department Stores are generally open between 9.00 - 17.30 (18.00) Monday to Saturday. Some general grocery stores have late opening up to 22.00 Monday to Saturday, and 10.00 16.00 on Sunday. In London the banks are typically open between 9.30 - 14.30 (15.00) Monday to Friday and up until 12.00 or closed on Saturday. Public Houses (Bars) have more generous business hours: 11.00 - 23.00 Monday to Saturday; 12.00 - 15.00 & 19.00 22.30 on Sundays.
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London 2018
