Useful Information

Here we've put together a very basic list of day-to-day living expenses.
Of course these will vary depending on individual circumstances and tastes - but they give you a rough idea of what things cost in the UK.

Utilities

Gas, water and electricity are not always included in your rent in the UK. You need to check this with your Landlord and allow £10 a week as a guideline, if it is not included.

Council Tax

Council tax is sometimes included in your rent but again you need to check with your Landlord as this varies in cost according to the size of the flat/house.

Food

There are many supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Asda which can provide cheaper-priced food than the local corner shop. A weekly shop (for a single person) depending on your taste preference, averages between £40 and £60. Check out prices and products yourself at:
www.tesco.com
www.sainsburystoyou.co.uk

Leisure activities

A number of Trusts/hospitals have discounted rates at local gyms and leisure centres.
If you are into more sedentary pursuits however:
A pint of beer costs between £2 and £3.50
A glass of wine costs between £2 and £4

The cost of eating out varies from upmarket restaurants at £40/plus a head to cheaper Italian, Indian and other ethnic restaurants. Fast Food burger bars can be as little as £1.99. Cinema tickets are about £7.

Theatre tickets are more expensive, however some theatres offer half-price tickets to shows early in the week or you can always queue at the ticket booth in Leicester Square for cheaper tickets. Some hospitals also get half-price tickets which would be advertised on their intranet. Many museums and art galleries are free.

More information:
www.visitbritain.com
www.londontouristboard.com
www.lonelyplanet.com

Telephone

Depending on your accommodation, you may have a landline at home. We would advise you to sign up with one of the many companies offering cheap calls abroad, but remember you still have to pay a line rental.

Mobile telephones can be arranged either on a pay-as-you-go tariff, whereby you buy the phone and top up cards as required or on contract which involves paying a monthly bill. You can arrange either of these options: Orange, T-Mobile, Vodafone and O2.