Gallon (UK) (gal) - Unit Information & Conversion
What is a Gallon (UK)?
Definition, origin, usage, and conversion formulas for the UK gallon.
Definition
The UK gallon (Imperial gallon) is a unit of volume defined as 4.54609 litres.
History
The Imperial gallon was defined based on the volume of 10 pounds of distilled water weighed in air with brass weights with the barometer standing at 30 inches of mercury and at a temperature of 62 °F.
Common Uses
- Fuel Measurement: Used for measuring fuel (petrol, diesel) in the UK and some Commonwealth countries.
- Beverages: Selling milk and other beverages in large containers in the UK.
- Household Liquids: Measuring paint and other household liquids.
- Pools & Water: Pool capacity and water usage measurements in the UK.
- Industry: Some industrial applications in countries using the Imperial system.
Unit FAQs
Is a UK gallon the same as a US gallon?
No, the UK (Imperial) gallon is defined as 4.54609 liters, while the US liquid gallon is defined as 3.785411784 liters. The UK gallon is approximately 20% larger than the US gallon.
How many pints are in a UK gallon?
There are exactly 8 Imperial pints in 1 UK (Imperial) gallon. This is the same number as in the US system, but since the Imperial pint is larger than the US pint, the total volume differs.
When did the UK adopt the Imperial gallon?
The Imperial gallon was established in 1824 as part of the British Weights and Measures Act, which standardized various units throughout the British Empire. Prior to this standardization, several different gallon measures were in use for different purposes.
Gallon (UK) Conversion Formulas
To Liter:
To Milliliter:
To Cubic meter:
To Gallon (US):
To Quart:
To Cup:
To Fluid ounce:
To Cup (US):
To Pint (US):
Convert Gallon (UK)
Need to convert Gallon (UK) to other volume units? Use our conversion tool.