About London

This great world city is far more than just the capital of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. London is bustling, vibrant, multicultural and cosmopolitan. London is both old and new. London is a diverse and exciting city with some of the world’s best sights, attractions and activities.

COVID-19 Information

Please note that currently the UK has no restrictions due to COVID-19. Masks are not compulsory anywhere and testing is no longer advised.

COVID-19 self-tests are available in pharmacies. There are two Boots pharmacies close to Imperial College:

• 128 Gloucester Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 4SF
• 147-149 Brompton Rd, London SW3 1QP

If you need a COVID-19 test for travel purposes, you should check what requirements you need and what test centers can provide an acceptable proof. Examples of test centers who can generally produce tests for travel purposes are Boots (this type of test requires an online booking here, here or here) and ExpressTest which has locations in major train stations and airports.

Tourist Information

The official Tourist information website can be found here.

Discover wider London and elsewhere in England

• Visit London (external link)
• Visit England (external link)

Language

English is the official language. Over 250 languages are spoken in London, making the capital the most linguistically diverse city in the world.

Climate

Despite the bad reputation, British summer can be quite enjoyable, but highly unpredictable.

Metoffice Weather Forecasts

Currency, Banking Hours, Credit Cards

All you need to know about money and related services including currency exchange, banks, tipping guide and UK currency: Money in London

Public Transportations

IMPORTANT: cash is not accepted on London services. You can either use your contactless card (credit or debit) or you can purchasse a rechargeable “Oyster card” at your arrival station.

Moving around London using public transportation is extremely easy.

Visit the Transport for London website for the latest information on travelling safely and changes to services.

For more detailed traveller information on which stations to use and suggestions for the best route to reach your destination, use Transport for London’s Journey Planner.

Plan ahead and get around London safely with the TfL Go app, which helps you plan the best routes and travel outside of peak times to aid social distancing.

Buy your Visitor Oyster Card(external link) online for the easiest and cheapest way to travel around London

Taxi

Information about official Taxis and Minicabs.

Insurance

It is recommended that participants arrange insurance for medical expenses, loss and accidents occurring during the conference.

Electric Current/Voltage

In the UK mains electricity is supplied at about 230 volts with a frequency of 50Hz.

Please note that most European electricity plugs are not compatible with the UK system. Many hotels in London have adapter plugs that can be loaned to guests; you could also purchase adapters at the airport or main railway stations or shops for tourists.

Emergency Numbers

Call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

Call 111 if you need urgent medical help (not life-threatening).

Call 101 for police non-emergency enquiries.