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What are you looking for, see things differently, welcome to britain.

Discover inventive new experiences and captivating stories in 2024, brought together with a dose of British flair. From exploring film settings and pioneering cultural spaces to countryside trails and relaxing wellness retreats, it’s all happening on our shores and you’re invited!

Join immersive exhibitions as the National Gallery celebrates a landmark anniversary or get a taste for chocolate as Birmingham’s Cadbury World also marks its 200th birthday. Venture off the beaten track for new coastal adventures, exploring new trails and walking routes, or take in sporting action as the world’s best compete in everything from athletics to the Premier League.

Whether it’s getting a feel for our vibrant cultural cities, embarking on a coastal adventure, or discovering locations made famous by film and TV, it’s time to experience Britain differently.

VisitBritain/Helena Bradbury

Explore different

VisitBritain/Kieran Duncan

Glen Coe, Scotland

Spilling the tea on GB

We’re spilling the tea on the hottest experiences – and it’s not just a good old brew that we’re mad about.

Cardiff, Wales

Key sporting moments in 2024

Grab your tickets, or a spot by a screen, and join the atmosphere of brilliant British sport.

VisitBritain/Simon Anderson/Royal Pavilion//Nutkhut and Dr Blighty

Day trips from London

Britain packs a punch when it comes to the eclectic range of destinations within close proximity to London.

VisitBritain/Daniel Struthers

Parc national de Sowdonia (Eryri), Pays de Galles

How to see Britain differently

From gastronomic adventures to eco-friendly stays, there’s always more to explore on Britain’s shores.

VisitBritain - The official tourism website of Great Britain

Providing you with inspirational activities and experiences, from those in the know.

Your guidance and information about travelling to Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Helping the travel industry showcase the best of Britain.

Cultural hotspots

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

From palaces to cobbled alleys, and a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

VisitBritain/Manchester Craft Beer Festival

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

VisitBritain/i360

From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

Oh Me Oh My

Cool creative Bristol is a must-see for art, culture and action-packed adventure.

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

Step into a land of castles, world-renowned rugby and a whole host of myths and legends.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Pushing the boundaries of art and culture and a heart that beats through its people.

VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

An industrial hub with a vibrant, creative heart and a whole host of quirky adventures.

West Midlands Growth Company

Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

A hotbed for shopping and the arts, you’ll find lots to explore in Leeds.

VisitBritain/Thomas Heaton

Packed with lively pubs, an eclectic food scene and a myriad of immersive experiences.

Tourism Northern Ireland

Discover annual events

James Bridle

Celebrate in Britain

Find out what’s happening across the nations with our round-up of annual events.

Planning a trip? We're here to help

Your trip to england is just around the corner.

Discover the land of Big Ben, Banksy and bangers and mash. From its bustling cities to its blooming beautiful gardens, it doesn’t disappoint.

Discover Great Britain’s northern reaches

Imagine a country where ancient castles guard mysterious lochs and emerald glens, and where the local spirit is as warm as the welcome.

Discover a land of adventure and mythical creatures

Delve into a world of dragons, renowned choirs, championship rugby, and some of the most spellbinding scenery Britain has to offer.

Your trip to Northern Ireland has never looked more magical

Get swept up in a world of ancient myths and modern-day legends, from the Giant’s Causeway and Game of Thrones to the vibrant buzz of Belfast.

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Your guide to spring bank holiday events

Pretty gardens to visit in spring

Romantic breaks for spring

Our top picks, influencer guides, book, tv and film locations.

Family-friendly festivals

Where to boogie with the family this summer

Unlock the best of Britain

With the brand-new VisitBritain Gift Card

6 scenic driving trips

Hit the road for these scenic spots

Explore Buckinghamshire

With Sophie Morgan's accessible guide

Live it up in London

With Rosie Jones and Big Zuu

Discover Nottingham

Get expert tips

From Hand Luggage Only

Eat up Manchester

With Eulanda & Omo's foodie guide

Get cultured in Cambridge

With Rosie Jones and Ashley Storrie

Wheelchair-accessible adventures

In the North York Moors

Escape to Birmingham

With Sophie Bradbury-Cox

Go wild in Kent

With the Scummy Mummies

Visit the Peak District

Go skiing in Manchester

With Rosie Jones and Mike Wozniak

Where was Bridgerton filmed?

Take a tour of the ton

Where was The Crown filmed?

Walk in the footsteps of TV royalty

Where was Downton Abbey filmed?

Find the world's most beloved country home

Where was The Great filmed?

Step inside this hilarious period drama

10 Oscar winners filmed in England

Scene-stealing locations that deserve your attention

8 Sherlock Holmes attractions

See where BBC's Sherlock was filmed

Step into a storybook

Discover our interactive literary map

A muggle's guide to Harry Potter filming locations

Wander like a wizard

9 Game of Thrones®-style experiences

Become the King of the North

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Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

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United Kingdom

Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

United kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom   (If you have onward travel to countries outside the United Kingdom, you should check the passport validity requirements for each additional country on their respective information pages.)

Must have at least one page

Not required for stays less than six months.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy london.

33 Nine Elms Lane London, SW11 7US United Kingdom Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: +(44) (20) 7891-3845 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh, Scotland 3 Regent Terrace, Edinburgh EH7 5BW Scotland Telephone: 013-1556-8315 / from the United States: 011 (44)(13) 1556-8315 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  020-7499-9000 / from the United States: 011 (44)(20) 7499-9000 Fax: 0131-557-6023 /from the United States: 011 (44) 131-557-6023 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Belfast, Northern Ireland Danesfort House, 223 Stranmillis Road, Belfast BT9 5GR Northern Ireland, United Kingdom Telephone: 028-9038-6100 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9038-6100 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 01253-501106 / from the United States: 011 (44) 1253-501106 Fax: 028-9068-1301 / from the United States: 011 (44)(28) 9068-1301 Email: [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

• To enter the United Kingdom, your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your planned stay.
• Starting June 2019, U.S. passport holders will be able to use the ePassport Gates upon arrival in the United Kingdom. U.S. citizens who had previously registered for the UK’s Registered Traveller Service (RTS) should now also use the ePassport Gates on arrival in the UK.
• If you are planning onward travel after departing the UK, note that many other countries require at least six months’ remaining validity on your passport to enter. If you are bound for Continental Europe, please see our  U.S. travelers in Europe page for additional details.
• Visas for specific categories of visitors must be obtained prior to travel. Visit the  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website to determine if you need a visa to enter the United Kingdom. We cannot intervene on your behalf when you apply for a UK visa, nor can we advocate for your admission into the UK if you are denied entry.
• Students and prospective students should visit the  UKVI website  to determine if they need a visa.
• For some U.S. travelers, especially students, an entry stamp is required.  Please consult this website  for more information.
• Unpaid and paid workers, interns, volunteers, charity workers, and temporary workers can find information about obtaining a visa on the  UKVI website .
• Visitors traveling to the United Kingdom to get married, even if they do not plan to reside there, must obtain a visa in advance. See the  UKVI website  for visa information.
• Surcharges apply to certain categories of visas, generally those involving work, study, or residency for more than six months. More information is available on the  UKVI website  and in our Health section below.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of the United Kingdom.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. The UK Security Service publishes specific reasons for any changes in the threat level and recommended actions for the public via its  UK threat levels website .

There is the potential for  isolated violence  related to the political situation in Northern Ireland. The Police Service of Northern Ireland assesses there is a continued threat of violence from dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets, and may involve the use of  firearms  and  explosives . Tensions may be heightened during the summer marching season (April to August), particularly on and around the July 12 public holiday.

Avoid areas of demonstrations  if possible, and be careful within the vicinity of demonstrations. Demonstrations occur frequently in and around city centers and areas where tourists frequent. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate to violence.

The phone number for  police/fire/ambulance emergency services  is  999  in the United Kingdom and  112  in Gibraltar. You should also use these numbers to report security threats or suspicious packages. Also see information for  contacting police from abroad .

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Be vigilant, as  pickpocketing ,  mugging,  and “snatch and grab” theft of mobile phones, watches and jewelry can occur.
• Do not leave bags unattended in restaurants, pubs, hotel lobbies, and parked cars.
• Be alert to other criminal schemes, such as  impostors  posing as undercover police officers and “fining” tourists for bogus minor offenses. A legitimate Metropolitan Police Services officer will never demand an immediate cash payment.
• Use only licensed Black Cabs or pre-ordered car services (minicabs) . Unlicensed taxis or private cars posing as taxis may offer low fares, but in some instances, travelers have been  robbed  or  sexually assaulted  while using these cars. See Transport for London for additional information on cabs and car services .
• Avoid using ATMs that look temporary in structure or location  or are located in isolated areas – they may not be legitimate. Use ATMs located inside a bank branch.

Scams : Before sending any money to individuals you have never met in person, visit the  Embassy London website  for more information about  internet financial scams  and how to protect yourself.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Report crimes to the local police at 999 (United Kingdom) or 112 (Gibraltar) and contact the U.S. Embassy at +(44) (20) 7499-9000.

• Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim compensation programs in the United States
• The Victim Support website  is maintained by an independent UK charity to help people cope with the effects of crime
• A Northern Ireland-based independent charity maintains a similar  victim support website
• In Scotland, victims of crime should contact  Victim Support Scotland
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support if you are destitute
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

• You will be arrested if you bring pocket knives, blades, mace or pepper spray canisters, or any part of a gun into the United Kingdom . Please refer to the UK government publication  Travelling to the UK , which details the items visitors are prohibited from bringing into the United Kingdom.
• Penalties against  alcohol-related  and other  in-flight  crimes committed aboard aircraft to and from the United Kingdom are stiff and are enforced with  prison sentences . Please also see  our information on U.S. customs regulations  covering your return to the United States.
• Controlled Substances: UK law prohibits possession and trafficking of controlled substances and narcotics, including some substances that may be legal to possess under the law of certain U.S. states. More information on controlled substances is available here . Individuals who violate UK drug laws may face penalties including fines or prison sentences.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained in the United Kingdom, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Special Circumstances:

• The legal drinking age in the United Kingdom is 18. Parents and organizers of school trips should read our  Students Abroad website  to help plan a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Scotland’s “drink drive limit” law was amended to a lower level (roughly .05 BAC) and is stricter than the rest of the United Kingdom (roughly .08 BAC). This means that  driving after even one drink  can result in a charge of driving under the influence.
• The United Kingdom has very strict gun control laws, and importing firearms is extremely complicated.  Information on applying for a firearm and/or shotgun certificate can be found on the  London Metropolitan Police Firearms licensing webpage .  Licenses from England or Wales may not be valid in Scotland; please check with the appropriate authorities.  For firearms certificates for Scotland, please check with  Police Scotland .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTI Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in the United Kingdom.

See our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:

• UK law requires that all public service providers (except in the transportation sector) make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure their services are available to persons with disabilities.  Nevertheless, code exemptions permit many older buildings to have steps up from the street.
• Getting around in cities may be difficult at times because sidewalks can be narrow and uneven.
• Most London Underground and UK National Rail System stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities.  Many stations do not have elevators, and have stairways and long corridors for changing trains or exiting to the street. Many UK buses are equipped with lowering platforms for limited-mobility or sight- or hearing-disabled travelers.
• Many taxis have swivel-entry seats or retractable ramps to ease entry.
• Disabled parking permits (known as “blue badges”) are issued by local government councils throughout the country. Visit the  UK government website  for contact information. Some councils may not offer permits to temporary visitors.

The  Transport for London  and  National Rail  websites provide information for passengers with disabilities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  women travelers .

While medical services are widely available,  free medical care  under the National Health System (NHS) is allowed only for UK residents, certain EU nationals, and some visa holders.

An NHS surcharge is assessed on certain visa applicants at the time of application.  Tourists and short-term visitors will not be assessed the surcharge, but will be charged 150 percent of the cost of any medical treatment they receive from the NHS. Unpaid balances of £1,000 or more can result in being barred from return to the United Kingdom.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills, and U.S. Medicare is not valid overseas.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides  coverage overseas . Most care providers overseas only accept  cash payments . See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Carry  prescription medication  in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Traveling with sufficient supplies to last the duration of your trip is recommended. Mailing prescriptions is prohibitive and may be delayed or rejected by British customs.

Certain prescriptions available in the United States are classified as a "controlled drug"  in the United Kingdom and cannot be brought into the country without applying for and obtaining a prior license. This includes prescriptions for medical marijuana or products containing CBD and THC.  Please visit the https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs for additional information. 

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended for international travel by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions in the United Kingdom can differ significantly from those in the United States.

• In contrast to the United States, UK traffic drives on the left.  Read the  Highway Code  before driving.
• Emergency call boxes  (orange telephone booths with “SOS” printed on them) are found at half-mile intervals along motorways. White and blue poles point in the direction of the nearest call box. Call boxes dial directly to a motorway center. Use these phones rather than a personal cell phone, because motorway center personnel will immediately know your exact location.
• Generally,  pedestrians do not have the right of way  and should not expect vehicles to stop for them.

Many U.S. citizen pedestrians are injured, some fatally, every year in the United Kingdom, because they forget that oncoming  traffic approaches from the opposite direction  than in the United States.  Exercise extra care when crossing streets; remain alert and look both ways before stepping into the street.

Traffic Laws: 

• UK penalties for driving under the influence of  alcohol  or  drugs  are strict and often  result in prison sentences .
• Using a  hand-held cell phone  or similar device while driving is  illegal  in the United Kingdom. Only hands-free phones may be used. You will be  fined , or in the case of an accident,  arrested  and serve time in  prison .
• The speed limit on highways/motorways in the United Kingdom is 70 mph, or lower when posted.
• You will be  detained  and  arrested  if you cannot provide a UK address to receive a subpoena or are about to depart the United Kingdom and have to be brought to court quickly for a motoring offense.
• In Central London, a congestion charge is levied on all drivers who pass through the congestion zone. You will be  fined  or  arrested  if you do not pay the charge. See  Transport for London  for more information about driving in London.

Public Transportation:  Public transport in the United Kingdom is extensive.

• Information on disruptions to London transportation services can be found on the  Transport for London  website.
• Information about the status of National Rail Services can be found on the  National Rail Enquiries  website.
• Bus and train service information in Northern Ireland can be found on the  Translink  website.
• Bus and train service information in Scotland can be found on the  Traveline Scotland  website.

See our  Road Safety page  for more information. For specific information concerning UK driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, refer to the  UK Department for Transport  website or the  Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency  website.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of United Kingdom’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the United Kingdom should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at  www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings website (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in the United Kingdom . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

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Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

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Czech Republic

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Dominican Republic

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Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

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Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

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Executive agrees 2024-25 Budget

Date published: 25 April 2024

Finance Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA announced the 2024-25 Budget today which was agreed by the Executive.

Speaking following the meeting, Minister Archibald said: “Since devolution was restored, we have been really clear this was always going to be a difficult budget. The stark reality is the demands on our finances far outstrip the funding available many times over. No department has received the level of funding it has bid for. As an Executive, we have had to make tough choices and prioritise the funding envelope we have.

“With increased demands on services and rising costs, I recognise these allocations won’t provide sufficient funding for departments to do everything they want - that is regrettable for all Executive Ministers.

“The Budget underlines our commitment to health with it receiving over half (51.2%) of the total amount allocated to departments for day-to-day costs, including £34m to tackle waiting lists. While Education has received almost a fifth of the funding.

“Recognising the importance of a Childcare Strategy £25m is being set aside for this.”

Departmental Resource DEL budgets include:

• Department of Health – £7.76bn
• Department of Education – £2.87bn
• Department of Justice – £1.26bn
• Department for Communities – £856.0m
• Department for the Economy – £766.6m
• Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs – £577.3m
• Department for Infrastructure – £559.5m
• Department of Finance – £208.1m
• The Executive Office - £183.2m

Outlining capital funding allocations, Minister Archibald said:  “The Draft Budget allocates £2.1bn of capital funding. While this isn’t sufficient to meet all the demands, it will provide investment in our hospitals, school estate, roads and transport network, as well social housing.

“This includes £181m for Executive flagship projects including the A6, the Mother and Children’s Hospital, the Belfast Transport Hub, the Sub-Regional Stadia programme and Casement Park, as well as a new Learning Development Centre for the Fire and Rescue Service. £88.5m will support the much-needed delivery of the A5 road scheme, while £20m will support the Strule Campus.

“These projects will support the construction industry, unlock economic benefits and make a hugely positive impact on people’s lives here.”

Departmental Capital DEL allocations include:

• Department for Infrastructure – £820.1m
• Department of Health – £416.8m
• Department of Education – £254.3m
• Department for the Economy – £221.9m
• Department for Communities – £133.4m
• Department of Justice – £91.9m
• Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs – £95m
• Department of Finance – £38.9m
• The Executive Office - £10.5m

Outlining her determination to continue making the case for more investment in public services, the Finance Minister concluded: “The Executive recognises the need for transformation and the reform of our public services. To do that, we need upfront investment.

“I will continue to make the case to the British Government that the Executive must be properly funded to put the Executive’s finances on a sustainable footing, that we need to be provided with a multi-year budget which enables long-term planning for service delivery and have the appropriate powers to be able to deliver high quality public services and support workers and families. ”

Notes to editors: 

1. View the Public Expenditure – Budget 2024-24 Written Ministerial Statement 

2. Media enquiries should be addressed to the Department of Finance Press Office on Tel: 028 9081 6724 or email [email protected].

3. To keep up to date with news from the Department you can follow us on the following social media channels:

• X - @dptfinance
• Facebook - @dptfinance
• Instagram - @department_of_finance
• LinkedIn - Department of Finance

4. The Executive Information Service operates an out of hours service For Media Enquiries Only between 1800hrs and 0800hrs Monday to Friday and at weekends and public holidays. The duty press officer can be contacted on 028 9037 8110.

Latest news

• Executive agrees 2024-25 Budget 25 April 2024
• Archibald welcomes agreement on 2023 Civil Service pay offer 22 April 2024
• Civil Service launches new “Neurodiversity Line Manager's Toolkit” as part of Autism Awareness Month 17 April 2024
• Archibald and Swann commit to progressing Baby Loss Certificate Scheme 16 April 2024

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Business events, marketing and communication executive / bta/1429, regional marketing manager, americas and australia / bta/1415, director of finance.

Employment type Permanent/Full Time

Salary level £115,000- £120,000

Deadline 19th May 2024, 23:55  

Recruitment enquiries Please contact Karl Robson at [email protected]

What does VisitBritain/VisitEngland do?

Our purpose is to drive a thriving tourism industry, creating economic prosperity across Britain. VisitBritain is active in 22 global markets, a network that enables us to build strong relationships, understand our customers and promote Britain effectively. Alongside this, VisitEngland continues to strengthen English tourism by leading and enabling a sustainable and resilient visitor economy.

Learn more about what we do .

What kind of workplace is VisitBritain/VisitEngland?

By working with us, you’ll help to inspire visitors to explore and experience Britain, and support our tourism industry to do the same. You’ll be part of a vibrant global network of colleagues, a friendly and fulfilling environment which promotes equity and encourages diversity and inclusion, career development, learning and well-being.

Read more Frequently Asked Questions about working for us below.

As one global team, we work together with passion, in partnership and at pace.  Our passion means we’re fuelled by enthusiasm and positivity to deliver excellent results. Our partnerships mean we’re empowered to collaborate with each other and our partners to achieve more impactful results.  Our pace means delivering innovation through agility, boldness and bravery. 

We’re keen to hear from people who share our values.

Internships

Looking for real-life business experience, or a placement to help you gain a qualification? We offer paid internships in the UK and USA including marketing, PR, communications and e-commerce.

Internship opportunities in the UK : all of our interns are recruited in partnership with  Student Employment Services . If you are interested in internship opportunities, please contact them directly.

Internship opportunities in the USA : when we have vacancies available, they will be advertised on our recruitment platform .  

Calling all content creators

VisitBritain/Sam Barker

Find freelance opportunities on our Freelance Content Producer Network. We’re looking for talented people to create content for VisitBritain and VisitEngland’s social channels, which have a combined following of more than 5 million. Showcase what Britain has to offer and get paid for doing what you love: we pay a pre-agreed fee for content, and send out opportunity alerts via our mailing list.

Meet our colleagues

Suzy faulkner, deputy commercial director – london.

“I wanted to work for a global company to give me the opportunity of being exposed to multiple areas of the business as well as people and cultures. Working at VisitBritain has broadened my perspectives, and in turn enhanced my professional capabilities which has added value to the organisation. 

“There is flexibility, as my agenda could cover calls with Asia in the morning and webinars in the USA in the evening, which has led to a happier, healthier work-life balance. I have also expanded my knowledge of global markets and learnt best practices relating to policies and strategies.”  

Robin Kagenaar, Digital Marketing Manager Netherlands – Amsterdam 

“Working in the Europe team is truly international. I enjoy catching up on travel trends, and sharing ideas and video calls with colleagues all over the continent. You learn something new every day, from tiny but important cultural differences to massive overlaps in traveller behaviour that you never knew were there. 

“Working at VisitBritain is inspiring, energising and educational and you get to meet some of the nicest, most professional people around.”

Misha Kim, Marketing Manager – Seoul, China and North East Asia

“Britain is perceived very well in South Korea, and I am happy to represent it. The UK was actually the first country I visited overseas and it’s where I met my husband, so it’s a very special place to me. 

“My colleagues in London and in my region have always made me feel part of the team. We are so diverse, dynamic and delightful, and I am so proud to work alongside people who share my love for Britain.”

Celia Diaz, PR & Content Manager – Spain

“As a PR professional I worked in different areas of the tourism industry before I joined VisitBritain. One of the best things about working for an international company is the number of colleagues you meet from all around the globe. From Australia to Canada, to India and Brazil, we all work together to spread awareness of Britain.”

Frequently asked questions

What we offer: visitbritain/visitengland’s employee benefits.

Our employees are entitled to multiple benefits, subject to local legislation and regional reviews (please check the vacancy notice for details). The following benefits are applicable to our UK employees:

• Flexible working: we work to make flexibility a reality, and welcome conversations about flexible working from day one.
• Annual leave: you will have 25 days of annual leave when you join, rising to 30 days after five years’ service, plus an additional 2.5 ‘privilege days’ each year.
• Generous pension: we have a defined contribution pension scheme, with a maximum employer contribution of 11% of your annual salary.
• Enhanced parental and family leave policies: we provide enhanced family leave, offering up to 23 weeks of paid leave for maternity and adoption for eligible employees.
• Commitment to learning: we encourage and support development and learning, and offer on-the-job learning opportunities, mentoring schemes and formal training. We dedicate and provide a minimum of five days per year for employees to focus on their learning. 
• Season ticket and bicycle scheme loans.
• Eye-care voucher.
• Staff discounts on the VisitBritain Shop .  

How does VisitBritain/VisitEngland hire?

We assess each applicant impartially. We recruit candidates on merit through fair and open competition. Our recruitment is:

• Fair : we use reasonable endeavours to ensure there is no known or intentional bias in the recruitment process.
• Open : our roles are advertised both internally and externally.
• Based on merit : we select candidates based on their suitability against the essential criteria of the role.

We are an equal opportunities employer, fully committed to diversity, equality and inclusion. We celebrate all identities, giving everyone the opportunity to thrive in a culture where they are heard, respected and valued.

How can I apply for a role?

To apply for a role, you will need to register on our recruitment system . After registration, you’ll be asked to complete an online application. 

Your application form can be saved, reviewed and edited before submission. There are eight sections in each application form:

• Personal details
• Diversity monitoring
• Educational qualifications
• Employment history
• Personal statement
• References (covering last three years’ employment)
• Declaration
• Confirmation

You may also be asked to answer job-specific questions as part of your application.

Always review the job description before applying, and use the personal statement section to highlight how your qualifications, skills and experience match the requirements.  

What should I expect after applying?

Your application will be evaluated against the job description and person specification. 

Successful candidates will be invited to an interview. For some roles, two rounds of interviews will be required. Our interviews are competency-based, designed to eliminate unconscious bias and involve two or more team members on the panel.

Successful candidates will receive a verbal offer, followed by a confirmation email and an official offer and contract of employment.

Once the employment contract is signed, we will contact your referees and undertake relevant safety and security checks.

Due to the volume of applications, we are only able to provide feedback to those who progress to the interview stage. You can request this by writing to [email protected] .

For information on how we are GDPR-compliant and manage your data, please see our Privacy Policy .

How can I make a complaint about the recruitment process?

We are sorry to hear that you have decided to make a complaint about our Recruitment and Selection process.

If you feel that your application has not been treated fairly you must submit a complaint in writing to  [email protected]  within three months from the date you receive the outcome of your application.

When sending your complaint, you must state the vacancy name and ID and explain the reasons for the complaint, providing evidence where possible.

Upon receiving your complaint, our Recruitment Business Partner will conduct an independent investigation and provide a written response to the complaint within 28 working days. If the deadline of 28 days cannot be met, you will be contacted and provided with a reason for the delay.

Potential outcomes from the investigation can be one or more of the following but not limited to:

• Complainant would be provided with detailed feedback answering their concerns;
• If training issues are identified within the recruitment and selection process, they will be actioned.

If you are dissatisfied with the response you receive from our Recruitment Business Partner, you can take it further by emailing [email protected] within four weeks of receiving the response. Our Legal Team will confirm receipt of your complaint within five working days and investigate further.

Useful contacts

Recruitment team, discover more.

Learn more about our structure, our priorities, our senior team and our global network.

Getty Images/E+/SolStock

Our purpose is to drive a thriving tourism industry, creating economic prosperity across Britain.

Getty Images

Our history

Since 1969 we have supported and promoted Britain – read all about our partners, collaborations, promotions and campaigns over the years.

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Explore our curated information for...

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