UK Cover Letter Format 2026: Complete Guide
Learn the exact UK cover letter format for 2026. 1 page, formal tone, British spelling. Match your CV header and customise per job.
UK Cover Letter Rules
- 1 page maximum — keep it concise and focused
- Formal tone — more formal than US cover letters
- British spelling — organisation, colour, centre, optimise
- Match your CV header — same name, contact details, City UK
- Salutation: "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Sir/Madam" (avoid first names unless you know them)
- Customise per job — never send a generic cover letter
- Do not repeat your CV — add context and motivation, not a copy of your experience
Structure of a UK Cover Letter
1. Your details (top right or left)
Full name, phone (UK format), email, City, UK. Match the header of your CV exactly.
2. Date
Use British date format: 22 February 2026 (day month year).
3. Recipient
Hiring Manager / [Company Name] / Address if known. If you do not have a name, use "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear Sir/Madam".
4. Opening paragraph
State the role you are applying for and where you saw it. One or two sentences on why you are interested.
5. Middle paragraph(s)
Link your experience and skills to the job description. Use examples and, where relevant, metrics. Keep tone professional and formal.
6. Closing paragraph
Reiterate your interest and availability. "Yours sincerely" if you used a name; "Yours faithfully" if you used Sir/Madam.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a UK cover letter be?
UK cover letters should be exactly 1 page. Aim for 3–4 paragraphs that are concise and formal.
What tone should I use in a UK cover letter?
Use a formal, professional tone. UK cover letters are typically more formal than US ones. British spelling throughout (e.g. organisation, colour).
Do I need to customise my cover letter for each job?
Yes. Every cover letter should be tailored to the specific role and company. Generic letters are easily spotted by recruiters and reduce your chances of an interview.
Generate a UK Cover Letter
Our UK Professional template is 1 page, formal, and uses British spelling. Match it to your CV and the job description.
Generate UK Cover Letter