Language

The official language is British English. There are, anyway, a lot of people from all over the world who speak with many different accents; therefore, it may be pretty difficult to understand people in the streets for those whose first language is not English. The most famous accent is Cockney, which is spoken by people living in the East End of London. If you find difficulties in understanding a taxi driver, don't worry, it's not necessarily your fault !

Religion

Most British people are Protestants, but in London there are people from everywhere in the world, and they preserve their customs, habits and... religion.

Currency

It is sterling pound. Pounds are divided in 100 pence. The slang word for a pound is quid , for £1,000 it's grand. Pence is the plural of penny , and people say that if you find a penny you will be lucky.

Banks and Post Offices

Opening times :
Banks : mon-fri 9.30-15.30
Post offices : mon-fri 9.00-17.30 sat 9.00-12.30

Driving

In Britain they drive on the left and overtake on the right.
The speed limit for cars is (in Km/h) : 48 in towns, 96/112 outside towns and 112 in motorways.
AA is the Automobile Association. It is based in Basingstoke, Fanum House. tel. 20123

Emergency numbers

Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance 999 (Operator answers)
Emergency in motorway (0800)887766

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This page is mantained by Barbara Monda.