Cash in England: What You Need to Know

Planning a trip to England and wondering how cash works here? It’s easy once you get the basics. England still uses paper notes and coins, and most places accept them, but there are a few quirks that can save you time and headaches.

Common denominations and where to find them

Banknotes come in £5, £10, £20 and £50. Coins range from 1p up to £2. You’ll see a lot of 20p and 50p coins in shops and pubs – they’re handy for small purchases like a coffee or a bus ticket. If you need change, ask the cashier to break a larger note; they’re used to it.

Getting cash: ATMs and currency exchange

ATMs are everywhere – on high streets, at train stations and in supermarkets. Look for the blue ‘£’ symbol. Using your home bank card usually costs a small foreign‑transaction fee, so check with your bank before you go. If you prefer a straight exchange, currency exchange desks in airports and city centres often have worse rates than ATMs, so pull cash from the machine if you can.

When you withdraw, choose a note denomination you’re comfortable with. Pulling a £50 note can be inconvenient if you’re only buying a sandwich, while a £10 note works for most everyday spends.

When cash still beats cards

Some small towns, market stalls, and older pubs don’t take cards. A few local shops may only accept cash for under‑£10 purchases. Carry a few £5 and £10 notes so you’re ready for these spots.

Public transport in many cities accepts contactless cards, but if you’re traveling on a regional bus or a rural train, a cash ticket is often the only option. Keep a few coins handy for the exact fare.

Staying safe with cash

Never flash a large bundle of notes. Keep your wallet in a zippered bag and divide your money – some in your pocket, some in a secure compartment. If you lose cash, there’s no way to block it, so be extra careful in crowded places.

In case of theft, you can report the incident to the local police, but they can’t recover the money. Having a backup card and a digital payment method gives you a safety net.

Tips for budgeting with cash

Give yourself a daily cash allowance. Withdraw that amount each morning and stick to it – it helps you avoid overspending and makes tracking your budget simple.

Use a small notebook or a phone note to jot down each cash expense. At the end of the day, you’ll see exactly where your money went and can adjust tomorrow’s allowance if needed.

Overall, cash in England works smoothly if you know the denominations, where to get it, and how to keep it safe. With these basics, you’ll feel confident paying for anything from a museum ticket to a seaside ice‑cream without a hitch.