Is United Kingdom cashless?
Go cashless#6 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #6 of 45 in Europe
Short answer: Leave the cash at home. If you do need some, bank and Post Office ATMs are free.
Contactless is the default everywhere, from London buses to market stalls. Many places are card only.
Will my card work?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in United Kingdom, and contactless is common.
Do I need cash?
Rarely. You can get by in United Kingdom with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Local currency: Pound sterling (GBP)
How does tipping work?
10-12.5% in restaurants, often added as a service charge. Not expected in pubs.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Fee-free ATMs are easy to find
High street bank and Post Office ATMs charge foreign cards nothing. Machines in shops, stations and tourist spots can charge about £2-4.
Fee-free options
- Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest, Halifax and Post Office ATMs
- Any machine marked "free cash withdrawals" (LINK cash locator)
Avoid
- Pay-to-use machines in convenience stores and at stations
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Tap your card or phone on London transport instead of buying a ticket.
Frequently asked questions
Is United Kingdom cashless?
United Kingdom scores 92/100 on Cashlessy (go cashless), ranking #6 of 197 countries. Contactless is the default everywhere, from London buses to market stalls. Many places are card only.
Do I need cash in United Kingdom?
Rarely. You can get by in United Kingdom with a card or phone almost everywhere.
Are credit cards accepted in United Kingdom?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere in United Kingdom, and contactless is common.
Do you tip in United Kingdom?
10-12.5% in restaurants, often added as a service charge. Not expected in pubs.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in United Kingdom?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in United Kingdom.
Which ATMs are free in United Kingdom?
High street bank and Post Office ATMs charge foreign cards nothing. Machines in shops, stations and tourist spots can charge about £2-4. Best options: Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest, Halifax and Post Office ATMs; Any machine marked "free cash withdrawals" (LINK cash locator). Avoid: Pay-to-use machines in convenience stores and at stations.
Compare with Europe
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.