England is a country filled with rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities. However, like any place, it has its quirks and issues that can drive people up the wall. Whether it’s the unpredictable weather or the crowded public transport, these are the top 18 things Brits dislike about their home country.
Cost of Living
Living in England, especially in cities like London, can be incredibly expensive. According to the House of Commons, “The cost of living increased sharply across the UK” in recent years. Rent prices are through the roof, and even basic necessities like groceries and utilities can take a significant chunk out of one’s salary. The cost of housing is particularly a sore point.
Traffic and Roadworks
Driving in this country can be a nightmare due to the constant traffic jams and roadworks. Major motorways and city centres often come to a standstill during peak times, leading to long and frustrating commutes. Roadworks seem to pop up everywhere, causing detours and delays.
Potholes
Potholes are the bane of every driver’s existence in Britain. These pesky craters litter the roads, causing damage to vehicles and posing a safety hazard. Despite frequent complaints and reports, potholes can take a long time to be repaired. This ongoing issue not only affects drivers but also cyclists and pedestrians.
The Weather
Ah, the English weather. It’s probably the number one complaint you’ll hear from Brits. The constant drizzle, grey skies, and unpredictable changes can be a real downer. One moment, you’re basking in a rare ray of sunshine and the next, you’re drenched in a sudden downpour.
Public Transport
While the UK boasts a comprehensive public transport system, it’s far from perfect. Trains are often delayed or cancelled without much explanation, and the London Underground, though iconic, can be stiflingly hot and overcrowded, particularly during rush hours. Buses can be slow, and strikes are a frequent occurrence, adding to the frustration.
The NHS Waiting Times
Despite the fact the National Health Service (NHS) is a cherished institution, the waiting times for appointments and treatments can be exasperating, and getting a GP appointment can sometimes take weeks. Waiting lists for specialist treatments can be months long, and emergency services are often overstretched, leading to long waits in A&E.
Litter and Fly-tipping
Littering and fly-tipping are persistent problems in many parts of England – streets, parks, and countryside areas can often be marred by discarded rubbish. Fly-tipping, the illegal dumping of large items, is particularly troublesome and can make otherwise beautiful areas look neglected and dirty.
Housing Crisis
The English housing crisis is a pressing issue that affects millions due to the shortage of affordable housing, leading to overcrowded living conditions and a rise in homelessness. Many young people find it impossible to move out of their parent’s homes due to high rent prices and the difficulty of securing a mortgage.
Customer Service
Customer service in the UK can sometimes leave much to be desired, thanks to long wait times on the phone, unhelpful staff, and a lack of follow-through on complaints. This can make dealing with companies a real headache. Whether it’s trying to resolve an issue with your internet provider or getting help in a store, poor customer service experiences can be infuriating.
Seagulls
Seagulls are a common sight in many coastal towns and cities, but they’re not always welcome. These bold birds are notorious for swooping down and snatching food right out of people’s hands. Their loud squawking and aggressive behaviour can be a real nuisance, especially during the summer months when they’re most active.
Queuing
Brits are known for queuing, but that doesn’t mean they enjoy it; long queues can be found everywhere, from the post office to the supermarket. The frustration of waiting in line, especially when it moves slowly or seems poorly managed, is a common gripe. Queuing is a necessary evil in many daily activities, but it’s one that many would rather do without.
Public Toilets
Finding a clean, accessible public toilet in England can be a challenge, as many public toilets are poorly maintained, lacking essential supplies like toilet paper and soap. You also have to pay to use them in some places, which can be frustrating.
Weather-Dependent Plans
Making plans if you’re British can feel like a game of chance due to the unpredictable weather. An unexpected downpour can ruin outdoor events, barbecues, and even simple day trips. The necessity of having a backup plan or carrying an umbrella everywhere can be a bit of a drag.
High Cost of Public Transport
While public transport is essential, the cost can be prohibitively high. Train fares, in particular, are often criticised for being too expensive, especially for peak-time travel. Commuters can spend a significant portion of their income on travel costs. The high prices can deter people from using public transport, leading to more traffic and pollution as they opt to drive instead.
Rubbish Collection
Rubbish collection schedules and services can be another source of frustration, thanks to inconsistent collection times, missed pickups, and confusing recycling rules, leaving households with overflowing bins. The sight of rubbish bags left out on the street for days is not uncommon and can be unsightly.
The Tabloids
England’s tabloid newspapers are known for their sensationalist headlines and invasive journalism. Many people are fed up with the way tabloids invade privacy, spread gossip, and sometimes distort the truth. The relentless focus on celebrity scandals and negative news can be wearying.
High Street Decline
The decline of the high street is a sad reality in many UK towns and cities. Once vibrant shopping areas are now dotted with empty shops and boarded-up windows. The rise of online shopping and out-of-town retail parks has led to a decline in foot traffic, affecting local businesses.
Political Instability
One final complaint in England is the political instability, and constant changes in leadership can be a major concern. The past few years have seen a lot of upheaval, from Brexit to frequent changes in prime ministers and government policies. This unpredictability can be unsettling, making it hard for people to feel confident about the future.
