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Travel Information

Need to know

Every traveller should know the facts before they first visit a country: the following details will help you plan your trip to Lancashire and England's North Country so that you can relax and enjoy your holiday once you arrive.

Visas

A visa may be required before entering the UK. For more information contact the Foreign and Commonwealth Office at www.ukvisas.gov.uk or via email: visa.foruk@fco.gov.uk.

Travelling with pets

Dogs and cats from certain countries are able to enter Britain via selected ports of entry under the pilot Pet Travel Scheme, provided certain conditions are met. Animals fro countries other than those identified will have to be quarantined for six months at approved premises. For help call +44 (0) 870 241 1710 (outside the UKL +44 (0) 20 7238 6951), email helpline@defra.gsi.gov.uk or visit www.defra.gov.uk.

Mobile phones

Most dual- and tri-band mobile phones that have GSM 900 or 1800 will work via roaming in Britain. Check before you leave with your mobile phone provider that the 'roaming' function is turned on.

Voltage

The standard electrical voltage in Britain is 240v AC 50hz. An adaptor plug with three square prongs and/or an electric converter for appliances is required.

Communications

Post offices are where you can buy stamps and send and receive mail and are open from 0900-1730, Monday to Friday. Main post offices are also open 0900-1230 on Saturdays.

Banking

Banks are open during working hours on weekdays and some banks open on Saturday mornings or have 24-hour lobby access. You'll find Automated Teller Machines (ATM), or cash machines, at most banks which can also be accessed 24 hours a day.

VAT (Value Added Tax)

VAT is charged at 17.5% on most purchases. Non-EC visitors can reclaim the VAT on many purchases - look out for the 'Tax Free Shopping' signs.

Tipping

Tipping in the UK is appropriate if you feel the service was good and you want to show your appreciation. As a rule you should add 10-15% for taxis or restaurants and 50-70p per suitcase for hotel porters.

Weather and climate

Whatever the season, the British weather is liable to change from day to day, so bring lots of layers.
Spring (March-May)
Early spring is usually cold but can be accompanied by blue skies, while mid-spring can often be wet, with average temperatures between 6-10C. May however, can bring blazing sunshine, up to 18C.
Summer (June-August)
most days in summer are warm, but evenings can be cool. Temperatures average 14-20C, although it can be up to around 32C on some days.
Autumn (September-November)
Early autumn can be very warm but the tail end can be cold and wet. Temperatures fluctuate around the 7-14C mark.
Winter (December-early March)
Winter sees Britain's shortest and coldest days (about 7-8 hours of daylight) but these can be crisp and bright. Temperatures are liable to fluctuate around the 1-5C mark.

Public Holidays 2008

New Year's day: 1 January
Good Friday: 21 March
Easter Monday: 24 March
Early May Bank Holiday: 5 May
Spring Bank Holiday: 26 May
Summer Bank Holiday: 25 August
Christmas Day: 25 December
Boxing Day: 26 December