- avoiding having valuables on show
- taking safe and reliable transport
- travelling with colleagues or other delegates, especially at night
- being alert in crowded and tourist areas, airports, restaurants, pubs and bars and on public transport
- keeping your card in sight and concealing your PIN when using ATMs and paying by card
Location and travel advice
EWF is committed to ensuring that all delegates experience a safe, inclusive and enjoyable visit. To help prepare for your visit to London for the Education World Forum, we encourage you to review the travel advice and information below.
Prior to travel, we recommend that delegates refer to the travel advice and instructions provided by their home country's embassy.
Venue
Queen Elizabeth II Centre
Broad Sanctuary
London
SW1P 3EE
United Kingdom
Visas
Delegates requiring visas to enter the UK are advised to apply as soon as possible. Check here if you need a visa.
We can provide visa invitation letters when requested. Please email a photo/scan of your passport to organisers@theewf.org or submit the request as part of the booking form.
Please note that, as event organisers, we cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. We recommend having travel insurance for the duration of your trip. Please contact your travel agent for further details.
Accommodation
Delegates are responsible for reserving and covering the cost of accommodation for the duration of their stay.
Below you will find information about the official event hotels as well as a map you can use to browse other options. Hover over an accommodation to view travel times and distances to the venue.
Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge
200 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7UT
Situated just opposite the Houses of Parliament, this hotel's central location makes it ideal for easy access to the city. It features a contemporary design, stylish rooms and a selection of restaurants and bars. The hotel also takes responsibility for its environmental impact by using 100% renewable energy and supporting biodiversity projects in local communities.
We have secured a dynamic discount of 15-20%. To book, click on the relevant black pin on the map below and apply the promotional code EWF026.
London Marriott Hotel County Hall
County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE1 7PB
With fantastic views of Big Ben and the River Thames, this historic 5-star hotel is just a 5-min walk from Westminster Station and a 10-min walk to Waterloo Station. Westminster Abbey and St James Park are a 15-min walk away and Buckingham Palace is a 25-min walk away.
We have secured a discounted rate of £449/night. To book, click on the relevant black pin on the map below.
Copyright © 2026 Times Higher Education (THE). All rights reserved.
Safety advice and emergency contacts
To protect your personal safety we recommend:
The UK's main emergency service number is 999. Call this number if you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.
FAQs
What is the main language?
English is the most widely spoken and the language of official business and commerce.
Which currency can I use?
The UK’s currency is the pound sterling (£, GBP) with notes in denominations of £5, £10, £20 and £50, and coins in denominations of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, it is still a good idea to have some cash on you (especially small change). ATMs are easily accessible in most shopping malls, high streets and banks.
Which plug socket is used?
The UK uses type G plug sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz. We would recommend bringing a universal adapter.
Will wi-fi be available?
Free wi-fi is available throughout the QEII. Connection details will be displayed at the check-in desk and around the venue.
Are there data roaming charges?
You will need to check the exact charges with your network provider but most international delegates will incur high data roaming charges. We recommend buying an eSIM via Airalo which gives you 1GB of data for 7 days for US$4.50. Use our referral code TIMESH7718 for US$3 off. We recommend checking that your phone supports eSIMs before making your purchase.
Is tap water safe to drink?
Tap water in the UK is subject to very strict regulations and is considered one of the best water supplies in the world. All tap water is safe to drink and cook with.
Do you have any guidance for LGBTQ+ delegates?
Homosexuality is legal and it is illegal to discriminate based on sexual orientation. For more information and advice for LGBTQ+ travellers, visit the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association's website.

