PayPoint vs ATM

Paypoint is a service where you can pay utility bills etc. in cash over the counter in shops. They tend to be in convenience stores and post offices so these places will probably have either an ATM or over the counter cash back but it's not guaranteed.

Use the search on www.link.co.uk for ATM locations in the UK. As the network operator it is most likely to be up-to-date, and it has the facility to select particular features, for example ones that are free or dispense £5 notes.

Hi, blattner,

If you're looking for ATMs, the best ones to use are those associated with the major banks (RBS, Bank of Scotland, Santander, Virgin, etc.). Most large towns have at least one of these ATMs; cities have many. If you're travelling outside the central belt and the Northeast, they become fewer. Many of the islands have none. If you're on Skye, the RBS near the TI office in Portree would be your best bet. On Islay, there's one in Bowmore (RBS). There is a Bank of Scotland ATM next to the Marine Hotel in Mallaig, if you're travelling that way.

I've used all three of the above, and have had no problems with any of them. Personally, I would avoid the ATMs outside the Co-op supermarkets.

The ATMs in Scotland do not charge for cash withdrawals, unless you forget to decline the Dynamic Currency Conversion.

Best wishes for your travels!

Mike (Auchterless)

Thanks all. This confirms what I suspected.