Sheffield Narrowboats

You may bring as much Sterling into the UK as you can carry - there are no currency restrictions provided you can prove it is going to be used for your holiday. Bringing large amounts of cash into the UK however, is not a good idea as you may be subject to serious interrogation from border officials (who can take large amounts of cash off you for any or no reason, leaving you to prove it's not for illegal purposes), and also as it's just plain stupid as it leaves you open to theft!

Bring Travelers Cheques in Sterling, which you may redeem for no fee (provided you produce your Passport) at a number of banks and exchange points. Better still, bring your plastic - VISA or Mastercard, Credit or Debit cards - all may be used in numerous 'hole in the wall' ATM Cashpoints in the UK - they are, quite literally everywhere, even in small, remote country shops.  Most do not levy any fee for cash withdrawals however please check first, as others can charge up to £3 even for small withdrawals.

TIP - Check with your bank before to travel to see what fees you will be subject to for using ATMs in the UK.  Credit Card providers can levy huge fees for overseas cash withdrawals.  While you're checking, make sure they understand that you will be using your card whilst away - they may put a stop on your card if they suddenly see a lot of unusual transactions whilst you're here, and away from your normal spending zone!

TIP - if you only pay a fixed fee, make occasional larger withdrawals instead of frequent smaller withdrawals.

Cashpoint withdrawals and 'point of sale' credit/debit card transactions in the UK most commonly use 'chip and pin' technology.  It is wise to cover or otherwise conceal your PIN number when entering it.  Special care should be taken with cashpoints to ensure they have not been tampered with.  Never disclose your PIN number.

TIP - Small denomination notes, although bulkier, are more convenient in the UK. Also keep a good selection of change (small coinage).

TIP - If you do have large amounts of cash, don't keep it all in the same place, either on the boat, or on your person.