Travel essentials for United Kingdom

Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics.

Power & adapters

Type G adapter required

You need a Type G adapter — the big three-pin British plug. Voltage matches Australia so no converter is needed.

230V, 50Hz

Safe to drink

Tap water is safe everywhere. London water is hard but fine to drink.

Excellent nationwide, including the Underground on most lines.

Many UK and European eSIMs cover the whole of Europe for barely more than a UK-only plan — worth it if you're hopping to the continent.

All emergencies	999 or 112
Police	999
Ambulance	999
Fire	999
Australian consulate	Australian High Commission London — +44 20 7379 4334

10 – 12.5% in sit-down restaurants, and many add an optional service charge you can ask to remove. No tipping in pubs when you order at the bar.

What power adapter do I need for the UK?

A Type G adapter — the large three rectangular pin plug. The UK runs 230V like Australia, so no voltage converter is needed.