If you are new to the UK, visiting a pharmacy (also called a “chemist”) is part of everyday life. You might go there to collect a prescription, buy medicine for a cold, or get quick health advice without seeing a doctor.
This guide will help you understand what UK pharmacies offer, how prescriptions work, what you can buy without one, and when you should ask a pharmacist for help.
What Is a Pharmacy in the UK?
A pharmacy is a place where you can:
- Collect prescriptions from your doctor
- Buy medicine and personal care products
- Ask a pharmacist for health advice
Pharmacies are found:
- On the high street (e.g. Boots, Lloyds, Superdrug)
- Inside supermarkets (e.g. Tesco or Asda)
- In or near GP surgeries
- Online
👉 Find a nearby UK pharmacy here
Prescriptions in the UK
If a doctor gives you a prescription, it means you need a specific medicine that cannot be bought freely.
Here is how it works:
- The GP (doctor) sends your prescription electronically to a pharmacy (you choose which one)
- You go to the pharmacy to collect the medicine
- You usually pay a fixed fee — currently £9.90 per item (NHS price)
- Some people get free prescriptions (see below)
If the pharmacy does not have your medicine in stock, they will usually order it within 24 hours.
Who Gets Free Prescriptions?
You may not have to pay if you:
- Are under 16 (or under 19 and in full-time education)
- Are over 60
- Are pregnant or have recently given birth
- Have certain medical conditions
- Receive specific government benefits
👉 Check if you qualify for free NHS prescriptions
You can also buy a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) to save money if you need regular medicine.
Over-the-Counter Medicine
Many common medicines do not need a prescription. These are called over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.
You can buy them directly in the pharmacy for problems like:
- Coughs, colds, and sore throats
- Headaches and mild pain
- Hay fever or allergies
- Stomach upset or constipation
- Skin rashes or bites
Some items (like strong cold medicine or antihistamines) may be kept behind the counter — you must ask the pharmacist.
What Can a Pharmacist Help With?
Pharmacists are trained medical professionals. You can ask them for advice about:
- Symptoms like coughs, rashes, or minor pain
- How to take a new medicine
- Side effects
- Travel medicine (e.g. vaccines or malaria tablets)
- Emergency contraception (also called the morning-after pill)
They can also tell you when to see a doctor or go to A&E.
Pharmacies vs Chemists
You may hear people in the UK say “chemist” — this is just another word for pharmacy. They mean the same thing.
Some chains like Boots and Superdrug also sell makeup, toiletries, and baby items, but their pharmacy counters work like any other.
👉 Shop travel-size toiletries and health packs here
Online Pharmacies
If you prefer delivery, you can register with an online pharmacy. These allow you to:
- Order repeat prescriptions
- Chat with a pharmacist online
- Get reminders for medicine refills
- Arrange home delivery
Popular options include:
- Lloyds Pharmacy Online
- Boots Online
- Pharmacy2U
👉 Compare online pharmacy services here
Useful Items to Buy in a UK Pharmacy
- Painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
- Cold and flu relief
- Vitamins and supplements
- Plasters, bandages, antiseptic cream
- First aid kits
- Allergy tablets (antihistamines)
- Travel sickness tablets
- Reusable medicine organisers
👉 Find weekly pill boxes and travel health kits here
When Are Pharmacies Open?
Most pharmacies are open:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00am to 6:00pm
- Saturday: shorter hours (often until 1:00pm or 5:00pm)
- Sunday: limited hours or closed
Some late-night or 24-hour pharmacies are available in large cities. You can also call NHS 111 to find one near you.
Emergency Medicine
If you urgently need a prescription medicine and cannot see your GP, you can:
- Visit a walk-in centre
- Call NHS 111
- Ask a pharmacist about emergency supply options
They may be able to give a small amount of medicine if you run out — especially if you have proof of a previous prescription.
Final Thoughts
Pharmacies in the UK are helpful, friendly, and easy to use. Whether you need cold medicine, a prescription refill, or health advice, your local pharmacist is a trusted source of help.
There is no need to book an appointment, just walk in, ask questions, and learn how to manage your health with confidence.