There are restrictions on what you can take in your hand luggage through security in UK airports. Detailed lists on what can be packed in hand luggage (and checked luggage) can be found by clicking this link.

As you’re taking a long haul flight to get here and back, we recommend a few essentials from our own trips back and forth across the Atlantic! Be sure to bring a comfortable neck pillow for your flight, and we’d also recommend some noise cancelling headphones.

Another great thing to bring with you is a luggage scale. UK airports will measure the weight of your checked luggage in kilograms (kg) with the weight limit for most flights being 23kg, which is roughly equivalent to your 50lbs allowance from the US.

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If you need to reach the emergency services (police, ambulance, fire) for any reason then dial 999.

The nearest hospital is Nuffield Health Cheltenham Hospital which is a 5 minute walk from the venue. Directions can be found here.

In the UK we use a Type G plug which has three pins so you’ll definitely need a travel adaptor for any of your electrical items. Note as well that our voltage is higher so you may need to use a converter.

Examples of items you might need to bring include hairdryers (though some hotels will provide these in your room), hair straighteners, charging plugs for iPads, gaming consoles, kindles, etc.

If your item is a ‘dual voltage rated appliance’ it will display this on the device or the power supply (e.g. INPUT: 110-240V). This means the device will not need a converter but just a travel adapter to fit in UK plug sockets. If it only displays a single number (e.g. INPUT: 110V) then this item will require a converter to function safely. Click this link for more in-depth information.

The currency in the UK is the Pound Sterling (GBP). Most places accept all major credit and debit cards, though some places do not accept American Express. Many places accept cash though please note the wedding venue is card only.

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To avoid any international transaction fees your bank may apply, it could be worth looking into a travel money card such as the Revolut card.

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Most locations in the UK, including some public transport, offer contactless payment (including Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.) as well as chip & pin.

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Tax is not added when you get to the register in stores. The price you see is the price you pay!

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Tipping is not required! You don’t have to tip the bar staff for any drinks, unless you really want to. Some people will tell the bar staff serving them to “get one for yourself as well” (i.e. tip them the value of your drink) if you wish to tip for good service.

Note that some restaurants will add a service charge for large parties. This is discretionary and you can request it be removed from your bill if you wish (poor service, etc.).

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If you want to drive while you’re in the UK then you can do so on a valid US licence. Don’t forget that we drive on the left here! Also there is no turning on red lights here.

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This link contains some helpful hints and tips for driving in the UK, and this link contains the various road signs you may see on your travels. It’s worth taking a look at these if you plan on driving.

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If you wish to rent a car then you’ll find more information on the Getting around page.

Note: If you need to leave your number for any reservations, services, etc. then remember you will need to use the US country code as well (+1). If you need to call a UK number use +44.

Before you travel you should check the terms of international usage on your plan with your network service provider as not all will include inclusive use of your minutes, texts, or data in international locations.

Your provider may offer additional coverage for a fee which you should arrange prior to visiting as using your data for navigating can quickly add up to high costs.

If you need to contact either of us by phone when in the UK it is advised to use WhatsApp. Please contact us if you require a phone number for emergency use.

Here is a selection of nearby stores for various needs. Click the link on the store name for directions from the venue.

Groceries

ASDA

Aldi

Coffee

Costa Coffee

Greenslades Cafe

Pharmacy

Hawkes Pharmacy

Temperatures in the UK in early October are between 17-18C (62-64F) though on some days this can go up to 22-23C (71-73F). The warmest day in October on record was 1st October 2011 when it reached 29.9C (85F)!

We would request semi-formal attire for all attendees during the day.

AKA Sarah’s Snack Corner!

Here are some of my favorite UK snacks to try on your visit, or take home with you!

• Jaffa cakes

• Chocolate Hobnobs

• Cheddars

• Maltesers

• Sausage roll (ideally from Greggs, a high street bakery)

• Anything ‘banoffee’ flavored!

• Tunnock’s Teacakes

• Anything blackcurrant flavored!

• Flapjacks (no, they’re not pancakes)

• Branston pickle (either on a cheese & onion sandwich or with cheese & crackers)

There are many, many more but I’ll let you find your own favorites!

Absolutely, though you may end up going home with a funny accent. No promises though!