Like any place, the United Kingdom has its unique customs and social norms that are important to respect, which means there are things you should and shouldn’t do. To help you enjoy your visit without any faux pas, here’s a list of 18 things you should never do in the UK.
Discuss Money Openly
“It can be incredibly awkward when two people with different rules of money etiquette meet,” says Forbes. Talking about money, such as how much you earn or how much things cost, is generally frowned upon because it’s considered a private matter. It’s best to avoid this topic unless you’re in a setting where it’s absolutely necessary.
Jump the Queue
Queueing is a sacred tradition in the UK, and jumping the queue is considered incredibly rude, whether you’re waiting for a bus, at a supermarket, or in line for a concert. You should always join the back of the queue and wait your turn, as it’s a sign of respect and patience.
Ignore ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’
Politeness and manners are highly valued in the UK, and they go a long way. Always remember to say ‘please’ when asking for something and ‘thank you’ when you receive it. This simple courtesy is expected in every interaction, whether you’re in a shop, a restaurant, or even just asking for directions.
Misuse the Word ‘Sorry’
Brits are known for their frequent use of the word ‘sorry,’ but it’s not always used to express an apology. Often, it’s a way to be polite or to acknowledge someone else’s discomfort, so misusing it or not using it when expected can come off as rude.
Forget to Tip in Restaurants
Tipping is not as obligatory as in some other countries, but it’s still appreciated, especially in restaurants. A standard tip is about 10-15% of the bill, but some places might include a service charge, so always check your bill first. Not leaving a tip when service has been good is seen as a bit stingy.
Be Overly Familiar
While friendliness is appreciated, being overly familiar with strangers can be off-putting, as people in Britain value their personal space. They can be reserved with people they don’t know well, so it’s best to be polite and friendly without being too forward.
Stand on the Left Side of an Escalator
In the UK, especially in London, it’s a well-known rule to stand on the right side of the escalator and leave the left side clear for people who want to walk. Blocking the left side can frustrate commuters in a hurry, so always remember to stick to the right.
Make Loud Public Phone Calls
Loudly talking on your phone in public places, such as on public transport or in cafes, is generally frowned upon, as locals in the UK tend to prefer a quieter environment. They’ll consider loud phone conversations to be disruptive; therefore, keep your voice down and be mindful of those around you.
Ignore the Weather Talk
Talking about the weather is a common conversation starter in the UK. It might seem mundane, but it’s a way to break the ice and engage in small talk. This means ignoring or dismissing weather talk can make you seem uninterested or rude.
Skip the Round at the Pub
If you’re out with friends at a pub, buying rounds of drinks is customary, as each person takes a turn to buy drinks for the group. Skipping your turn or not participating can be seen as tight-fisted, as it’s a social ritual that results in camaraderie and ensures everyone has a good time.
Disrespect Historical Sites
The UK is rich in history, and its historical sites are deeply cherished, so always show respect when visiting these places. Avoid touching artefacts, keep noise levels down, and follow any guidelines provided—disrespecting these sites is not only rude but can also get you into trouble.
Use Offensive Language
While swearing is not uncommon, using offensive language, especially in public, is generally frowned upon during a visit to this country. Remember to be mindful of your language and avoid using words that could offend others, as politeness is key in the UK.
Refuse a Cup of Tea
Tea is more than just a drink in the UK; it’s a cultural staple. If someone offers you a cup of tea, it’s considered polite to accept, even if you don’t particularly want it, as refusing a cup of tea can be seen as dismissive. If you really don’t want it, a polite excuse will suffice.
Overstay Your Welcome
When visiting someone’s home, be mindful of the time and don’t overstay your welcome because Brits value their personal time and space. If your host starts to hint that it’s time to leave, take the cue gracefully, and always thank them for their hospitality before you go.
Be Late
Punctuality is important to the people of Britain. Therefore, being late, whether for a meeting, a social event, or an appointment, is considered disrespectful. Always aim to arrive on time or even a bit early, and if you’re running late, let the other party know as soon as possible.
Criticise the Royal Family
The British Royal Family is a significant part of the country’s heritage and culture, which means that criticising them, especially in front of locals, can be offensive to many. While opinions vary, it’s best to avoid this topic unless you’re sure the people you’re with share your views.
Compare Everything to Your Home Country
It’s natural to notice differences when you’re in a new country, but constantly comparing everything to your home country can come off as condescending. Embrace the uniqueness of the UK and appreciate it for what it is—but you can also share your experiences without making it a contest.
Be Pushy About Politics
Lastly, politics can be a touchy subject anywhere, and the UK is no exception. While political discussions do happen, being overly pushy or insistent on your views can lead to uncomfortable situations, so you’ll want to approach political conversations with sensitivity.
