UK to Europe plug adapter guide

Round-pin sockets, same 230V — usually an adapter only, not a converter. Updated May 2026
Quick answer Plug: Continental Europe uses Type C, E, or F round pins — not UK Type G. Pack a UK-to-Europe adapter. Voltage: Both the UK and most of Europe run about 230V. You usually need only a plug adapter. Frequency: Both use 50Hz — frequency is not a concern for this trip.

Good news on voltage

Because voltage and frequency match, British phone chargers, laptops, and most modern electronics only need the correct plug shape. You should not need a voltage converter for typical dual-voltage gear.

Choose the right adapter

A UK-to-Europe adapter converts Type G to a round-pin plug that fits French, German, or Spanish sockets. Schuko (Type F) adapters with side earth clips work in many countries.

Do not bring only a US adapter — that solves the wrong problem.

Multi-country trips

If you continue to Switzerland, Italy, or Denmark, plug types can change. Use our checker for each destination — one round-pin adapter still covers most of western Europe.

Check your route in seconds

Open the PlugsRus.net checker with your countries pre-selected. Our database lists plug types, voltage, and frequency for 200+ destinations.

Check United Kingdom → France in the tool.

Open the plug checker

Disclaimer

This article is general travel information, not electrical advice. Always read device labels and consult the manufacturer for medical or high-wattage equipment. Data is aligned with the IEC World Plugs reference.