Britain is an ancient land with deep historical roots – because of this there are several traditions that have continued into modern society. Some of these are excellent experiences that you will enjoy like any good Brit. However, there are some traditions that will drive you crazy. No matter how they make you feel these are the British traditions you can’t help but experience on any visit!

Manners

Britain is one of the most polite nations on the planet and you will notice this from the second you arrive. People will apologise if you bump into them, hold doors for you, thank you at every opportunity and show respect in many other ways. Be prepared to echo some of this behaviour back or you will stand out like a sore thumb (but no one will mention it).

Sunday Dinner

The traditional roast on a Sunday is a staple of British cuisine and any visit that doesn’t involve gorging yourself on this weekly treat isn’t a real visit. The sheer comfort provided by roast beef, Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes and veg all coated in fresh gravy cannot be understated. You will find plenty of places that sell a Sunday dinner but for the authentic experience make some British friends and go round to their parents place on a Sunday.

Discussing The Weather

Small talk in the UK means one thing – it’s time to talk about the weather. British people cannot get enough of talking (or rather complaining) about the weather. When it rains they will wish for sunshine, when its sunny they will say it’s too hot. No matter the weather you can be guaranteed to hear a British person grumble about it.

Morris Dancing

The chances are you won’t have ever heard of this, except for maybe a passing reference when David Cameron was in this picture. Morris Dancing is a traditional British past time and is so unbelievably bizarre that you have to find a place to see it for yourself. It has been around for centuries and each region has developed its own style but they still have the same basic premise, which is rhythmic dancing with bells and sticks.

Queuing

Be prepared to stand in queues for hours on end, while this is not a passion project like the weather British people can become very alarmed if you break the rigorous queuing etiquette. British people respect this unwritten code so much that you will even see a queue for a queue. In all seriousness, do not even think about cutting in because a lot of people will want to lynch you.

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