If you’re visiting the UK in 2025, it’s essential to be prepared—not just with an itinerary and travel insurance, but also with emergency contacts and healthcare information. Whether you’re exploring London’s historic streets or hiking the Scottish Highlands, knowing who to call and where to go in an emergency could make all the difference. This complete guide will walk you through UK emergency numbers, how to access medical care, and where to find top-rated hospitals for tourists. It’s the kind of information you hope you’ll never need—but will be grateful to have.
Essential UK Emergency Numbers (2025)
Here are the key emergency numbers you should save in your phone before you land in the UK:
| Service | Phone Number | Free to Call? |
|---|---|---|
| General Emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 999 | ✅ Yes |
| Non-Emergency Medical Help (NHS 111) | 111 | ✅ Yes |
| Police Non-Emergency (Advice, Report Theft) | 101 | ✅ Yes |
| European Emergency Number (Works in UK too) | 112 | ✅ Yes |
| National Gas Emergency (e.g., gas leak) | 0800 111 999 | ✅ Yes |
| Coastguard Emergencies | 999 / 112 | ✅ Yes |
Tip for tourists: You can dial 999 or 112 from any phone (mobile or landline), even without credit or an active SIM. Both go to the same emergency call center.
What to Do If You Need Medical Help
The UK has a world-class public healthcare system known as the NHS (National Health Service). Tourists can access emergency services, but how much you pay depends on where you’re from:
NHS Treatment for Tourists – What’s Free?
Free for all visitors:
Emergency treatment at A&E (Accident & Emergency)
First aid by ambulance services
NHS 111 phone consultations
Treatment for infectious diseases (e.g., COVID-19)
Not free:
Hospital admission beyond emergency room
Prescriptions
GP (doctor) visits if not in a public walk-in center
🇪🇺 EU/EEA Tourists: With a valid EHIC or GHIC card, most healthcare is free or heavily discounted.
🌍 Other countries: You’ll need to pay or claim on travel insurance.
Best UK Hospitals for Tourists (Major Cities)
Here are some of the top hospitals across the UK that are well-equipped for emergencies and tourists:
1. St Thomas’ Hospital – London
Why go? Centrally located near Westminster, this NHS hospital is known for its emergency care and international patients.
Emergency Dept: Open 24/7
2. Manchester Royal Infirmary – Manchester
One of the leading hospitals in the north, with a large A&E department.
3. Queen Elizabeth University Hospital – Glasgow
One of the biggest hospitals in Europe, offering top-tier emergency and trauma care.
4. University Hospital of Wales – Cardiff
Wales’ largest hospital with a full emergency department and access to translators.
5. Royal Victoria Hospital – Belfast
Excellent emergency services and traveler support in Northern Ireland.
NHS 111: When It’s Urgent But Not an Emergency
Not sure if your situation needs A&E? Call 111. This free, 24/7 number connects you with trained medical professionals who can:
Give health advice
Tell you where to go
Book you into an urgent care or GP appointment
Send an ambulance if needed
Pharmacies & Walk-In Clinics for Minor Issues
If you have a minor illness (cold, rash, upset stomach), a local pharmacy is often your best bet. Pharmacists in the UK can:
Give medical advice
Offer over-the-counter treatments
Recommend when to seek further help
- Many pharmacies are open late or 24/7 in cities. You can find one near you using the NHS Pharmacy Finder.
- Also, NHS walk-in centres and urgent treatment centres (UTCs) offer care without appointments for:
Minor injuries
Infections
Small burns or cuts
Documents You Might Need
To speed up your treatment or claims, carry:
Passport or ID
Travel insurance details
EHIC/GHIC card (if you’re from the EU)
List of allergies, medications
Emergency contact number back home
Travel Insurance Reminder
UK emergency care isn’t always free. Travel insurance with health coverage is highly recommended for tourists—especially if you’re from outside the EU. Look for plans that include:
Emergency evacuation
COVID-19 treatment
Repatriation
Outpatient and hospital care
- For trusted insurers, check out MoneySavingExpert’s Travel Insurance Guide.
Save These in Google Maps Before You Travel
Save nearby hospitals and pharmacies on your phone before traveling. Google Maps works offline if you pre-download the area.
Quick Checklist for Emergency Preparedness
📱 Save 999, 112, 111, and insurance contact numbers
🆔 Keep ID and health documents with you
🏥 Know where your nearest hospital or walk-in clinic is
💳 Have travel insurance that covers healthcare
📍 Use Google Maps for offline access to hospitals and pharmacies
Final Thoughts
Tourists don’t usually plan for medical emergencies—but being informed is the best kind of travel prep. Knowing how to call for help, where to go, and what services are available through the NHS in 2025 can ease stress if something goes wrong.
Stay safe, travel smart, and don’t forget: In the UK, 999 or 112 will get you help—fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can tourists go to the hospital in the UK?
A: Yes. Emergency care at A&E is available to everyone, but non-emergency treatment may involve charges unless you’re insured or from the EU with an EHIC/GHIC.
Q: Is 999 free from an international SIM?
A: Yes. Even without credit, 999 and 112 work from any phone in the UK.
Q: Will my travel insurance cover NHS treatment?
A: Most good travel insurance policies do, but check the fine print—especially for hospital stays and pre-existing conditions.
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