British Etiquette For Tourists

By: Robert Thomson


To enjoy your travelling experience in Britain it is wise to brush up on your knowledge of the cultural norms and attitudes prevalent in England. Though you will meet all types, you will find it helpful to be familiar with certain local norms regarding polite socialization. Thus armed, you will avoid awkward cultural trip-ups and attract the true charm of England's inhabitants.

First, the British prefer to minimize contact and so are uncomfortable with backslapping, hugging or greetings by way of kissing. They prefer for a wide comfort zone to be adhered to during conversation. Conversation should be kept polite and light. You may, however, find yourself being called affectionate names and you should not feel offended when you do (such as being called “dearie, love, chick, guv, me duckie, chuck and many similar names.) Madam, sir, miss and ma'am are safe starting points for your own greetings.

There are some topics you should avoid when starting or having a conversation, considered impolite :

1)Avoid the topic of religion altogether, and the science vs religion debate.
2)Avoid speaking about politics and racial issues – this should go without saying. Avoid talking about immigration and immigration laws. The British are very passionate about their political views, and are easily offended by this.
3)Avoid talking about economics – economics can often be closely linked in with politics, so it's a good idea to avoid this topic.
4)Don't speak about the class system – this can offend Britons, especially in certain areas.
5)Don't criticise Britain or the British
6)Avoid issues of sexual orientation, or asking someone their age

There are certain topics that will always get a conversation going and will be quite welcomed by many of the British :

1) Sport. Especially football (soccer,) rugby or cricket. These are the favourite sports of the country. Careful, though, you don't want to bring up the topic if a match has just been lost!
2)The weather
3)Entertainment – the latest music, trends or celebrities.
4)Travel – you can speak of your own travels or speak about travelling in general, many British do travel, but it depends where you are
5)Current affairs – keep away from politics or racial issues, but you can speak about current affairs in a light and polite way. Perhaps more local affairs would stir up more interest.
6)History – most especially British history. If you are in a specific town or place, ask questions about it, the British are proud of their heritage.

In Britain, it's good to remain polite and patient at all times. If there is a Queue , go to the back of the Queue and wait your turn. Greet people with a short “good morning,” “hi,” or “how do you do.” The latter is a greeting, not a question in Britain. If you are a man, it is important to take off your hat whenever you go indoors, every time. A brief firm handshake when being introduced or introducing yourself is ok with most people, but for a second meeting don't shake a woman's hand unless she initiates. Never kiss or hug as a greeting. Always say 'excuse me' if you bump into someone or need to move past, and don't speak to people with your hands in your pockets. Lastly, it is important to remember that at most restaurants and hotels a service fee of 10-15% is charged, and a tip is typically appreciated.


Chris Morley is a major contributor at Rate Free Stuff. She is also the editor of the UK freebies category at UK Free Stuff.