How should you start a formal letter in the UK?

If you know the recipient's name, open with 'Dear Mr Smith' or 'Dear Ms Jones'. If you do not know their name, use 'Dear Sir or Madam'. Never use first names in a formal letter unless you have a close professional relationship with the recipient.

How do you end a formal letter in the UK?

If you started with a named salutation ('Dear Mr Smith'), close with 'Yours sincerely'. If you used 'Dear Sir or Madam', close with 'Yours faithfully'. Leave four lines for your signature, then type your full name. This rule is taught in UK schools and widely expected in professional correspondence.

Should formal letters be typed or handwritten in the UK?

For professional and official correspondence, typed letters are standard and expected. Handwritten letters are acceptable for personal formal letters, such as letters of condolence, or when making a personal impression matters. Use black or dark blue ink if writing by hand.

What font and size should a formal letter use?

Use a professional serif or sans-serif font such as Times New Roman, Arial or Calibri at 11pt or 12pt. Avoid decorative fonts. Use single or 1.15 line spacing within paragraphs and a blank line between paragraphs. A4 size paper with margins of at least 25mm on all sides is standard.

How to Write a Formal Letter in the UK | Format, Template & Tips (2026)

How to Write a Formal Letter in the UK (With Template)

The rules of formal letter writing have barely changed in 50 years, but most people get at least one thing wrong. Here is the correct UK format and a template you can use today.

Where does your address go on a formal letter in the UK? Your address (the sender's address) goes in the top-right corner of the letter, without your name. Below your address, add the date. The recipient's name and address go on the left side, below the date.

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