Scotland’s a beautiful country with a compelling history and vibrant culture, making it a popular destination for travelers.
So, if you’re planning a trip, you’re probably wondering: what currency do they use in Scotland? This article will give you the essential information you need about money and payments so you can plan your trip confidently.
The official currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
The currency in Scotland is the pound sterling (£ or GBP). One pound sterling equals 100 pence.
Pound sterling is the official currency throughout the United Kingdom, including Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Scottish banknotes
Three Scottish banks are permitted to issue their own banknotes. While these banknotes are legal currency throughout the U.K., some merchants in England may not be familiar with them.
The banknotes come in denominations of £5, £10, £20, £50, and £100. Coins are available in denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1, and £2.
How to pay your way in Scotland
While Scotland’s currency is the pound sterling, here are some things to keep in mind when you’re planning your trip:
Credit and debit cards
Most merchants accept Visa and Mastercard, but you may find that American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.
Using a credit card is often the most economical way to pay for things when you’re traveling because you may save on commissions compared to exchanging currency. Credit cards often have lower exchange rates and fees as low as 1%.
ATMs and cash withdrawals
ATMs or “cashpoints” are easy to find in Scottish towns and cities, although they may be few and far between in more rural areas.
You’ll need a 4-digit PIN to use an ATM.
ATM withdrawals in Scotland may incur commissions, often around 4%, so it’s a good idea to check with your bank ahead of time to see what they charge for foreign ATM withdrawals.
Cash considerations
It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for emergencies or for paying at smaller establishments that may not accept cards.
Currency Exchange
If you’re traveling to Scotland, you may want to exchange some currency for pounds sterling. You can usually exchange currency at banks, post offices, hotels, and bureaux de change.
If you want to exchange currency before you go, you may find better rates with specialized exchange companies; however, banks may charge as much as 10% more for the service.
It’s always wise to compare rates and commissions before you exchange money in Scotland.
Another option to consider is a Travel Money Card, which allows you to pre-pay for currency at a set exchange rate.
Conclusion
When visiting or moving to Scotland, you’ll primarily use the pound sterling (GBP), the same currency used throughout the United Kingdom.
Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find, but it’s still a good idea to have some cash on hand. If you need to exchange currency, compare the rates at different exchange locations to get the best deal.