You are correct in assuming that the requirements are the same for a UK PPL. The old UK night rating no longer exists, but the requirements of a JAR night qualification are almost identical.
The equipment requirements are not onerous as you will be flying on a special VFR if you go into controlled airspace. Mostly down to having nav lights and spare fuses for the electrics - see ANO schedule 4 for the details.
Minimum requirements will be as for your PPL priveleges although for cross country the forecast ceiling will need to be above MSA unless you have an IMC rating.