The United Kingdom has for a long time now, been associated with manners and etiquette. From curt and refined ballroom dancing, to eating and drinking traditions, there is a long history to the habits and rituals of the UK. From status to family, manners and traditions show the sophistication the UK seeks to show the world that it has retained over a long time. You may not believe it when visiting London, the rush hour commute, especially in hot weather, can make manners fly straight out the window.
Despite the hustle and bustle, London is the home of class. Just look at the Montcalm Royal London House and you’ll see what we mean. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or just a few hours, you can take these tips to help you navigate the sometimes baffling English etiquette.
Escalator rules
Escalators are a tricky part of the London underground, especially during rush hour. You’ll more than likely find that rush hour brings a whole heap of problems to the city, especially with the countless people running late for work. With this in mind, it’s often a good idea to make sure that you’re safe during the hustle and bustle in the underground. Many people will be racing up and down, and knowing which side to stand on and which to walk on is crucial to keeping safe in the underground. The left hand side is reserved for those walking on the escalator, whilst the right is for those who wish to stand. Keeping these rules in mind will help your trip to London be that little bit less stressful.
You don’t have to tip!
America is known to be a country where waiters, baristas and bartenders often make a lot of their money from the tips they receive from customers. In the UK they are paid enough so that any tips are petty change, ensuring that they don’t rely on tips to make ends meet. That being said, the UK restaurants and bars do allow tips. Instead of tipping a bartender or a barista individually, you’ll find a tip jar at the counter, where at the end of the profits are divvied up. If paying by card you can also add gratuity or leave a tip for the waiter. Although this isn’t necessary, if you have the means and you think the waiter or waitress did an extra great job, then every little helps!
The British love a queue
There is always a queue in London, wherever you look. Unlike other countries, the UK is known for its maintaining of order even in the most stressful of situations. Take for example the “keep calm and carry on” posters from the Blitz. Even in the most traumatic of times, the British were experts in keeping the order. You will encounter many queues whilst in the UK, and especially whilst visiting the tourist hot spot of London. Be patient, respect other people and wait your turn!
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