If there’s one thing that Great Britain isn’t short of, it’s traditions. We have countless examples of it found in all corners of the country, and best of all, people still participate in them to this day. To remind you of what makes this country so wonderful, here are 18 British traditions that have stood the test of time.
Afternoon Tea
We think it’s wonderful that the quintessential British custom of afternoon tea still hasn’t died out despite dating back to the 19th century. Originally a light snack between lunch and dinner, it evolved into a social event. As BBC Good Food explains, it could occur in a fancy cafe or just at home; either way, it will typically include finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, jam, and a selection of teas, enjoyed in the late afternoon.
Morris Dancing
Everyone loves to watch Morris dancing, a lively folk dance that has been performed for centuries. Featuring rhythmic stepping and choreographed figures, dancers often wear bell pads on their shins and wield sticks, swords, or handkerchiefs. This tradition is particularly popular during village festivals and seasonal celebrations, but either way, it’s alive and kicking.
Guy Fawkes Night
Celebrated on November 5th, Guy Fawkes Night commemorates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605. Bonfires, fireworks, and effigies of Guy Fawkes are all common sights, not to mention plenty of burgers, beers, and banter. This annual event brings communities together to enjoy the spectacle and remember a pivotal moment in British history.
Cheese Rolling
An unusual but enduring tradition, cheese rolling takes place in Gloucestershire and is growing more popular every year. Participants chase a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep hill, with the first to cross the finish line winning the cheese. The event attracts competitors and spectators from all over the world and almost always leads to plenty of hilarity (and injuries).
The Changing of the Guard
The ceremonial event of the “Changing of the Guard” at Buckingham Palace is a must-see for visitors and locals alike. It’s a formal handover of duties between the old and new guard, and the precision, pageantry, and impressive uniforms involved make it an impressive symbol of British tradition and military discipline.
Henley Royal Regatta
A lot of Brits forget all about the Henley Royal Regatta, a prestigious rowing event established in 1839 and held on the River Thames. The regatta features over 200 races, attracting top rowers from around the globe. It’s a highlight of the British social calendar, so if you haven’t heard about it before, it’s time to pay a visit.
Highland Games
Though Scottish in origin, the Highland Games are celebrated all across the UK, although, as the name suggests, the Highlands is the best spot to witness them. These events showcase traditional Scottish sports like caber tossing, tug-of-war, and hammer throwing, as well as plenty of dancing, music, and parades.
Wimbledon
Believe it or not, Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world, dating back to 1877. Held annually in London, it is renowned for its grass courts, strict dress code, and traditions like strawberries and cream. It’s a true symbol of British sport, even if you’re not that into tennis.
Maypole Dancing
On May Day, Brits love to take part in Maypole dancing, a traditional dance around a tall, decorated pole. Dancers weave ribbons around the pole in intricate patterns as part of an ancient custom, celebrating the arrival of spring through a beautiful festive occasion.
The Proms
Every summer, The Proms, a series of classical music concerts, takes place at the Royal Albert Hall in London, and it’s truly a spectacle that has never worn off. Founded in 1895, the Proms aim to make classical music accessible to all. The season culminates in the famous Last Night of the Proms, featuring patriotic music and a lively atmosphere.
Swan Upping
The British love for swans runs so deep that we even host Swan Upping, the annual census of the swan population on the River Thames, which dates back to the 12th century. The Queen’s Swan Marker and a team of rowers count, weigh, and measure the swans, helping them monitor the health of the swans and maintain a historic tradition.
Beating the Bounds
There’s no denying that Beating the Bounds, an ancient custom where community members walk the boundaries of their parish, isn’t as common these days as it once was. However, it still occurs, especially in smaller villages. Participants mark boundary points with sticks, ensuring the knowledge of the parish limits is passed down through generations.
The Lord Mayor’s Show
Another British tradition that has long since stood the test of time is the Lord Mayor’s Show, a parade dating back to 1215, marking the appointment of the new Lord Mayor of London. Featuring floats, performers, and military displays, the procession travels from the City of London to Westminster, and it’s truly a sight to behold.
Trooping the Colour
For years, Trooping the Colour has been a grand military parade to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s birthday. Units of the British Army perform drills and marches in full ceremonial dress, and the Queen always loved it so much. Sadly, she passed away back in 2022, but Trooping the Colour lives on, now celebrating King Charles’ birthday.
Harvest Festival
Any British adult will remember Harvest Festival, something that was celebrated in churches and schools across the UK every Autumn. It gave thanks for the crops and food produced each year; we would decorate our schools with fruits, vegetables, tinned goods, and flowers before donating it all to those in need. It’s a very wholesome festival, one that we hope never stops.
Pancake Day
Unlike most countries, the Brits have a unique Pancake Day occasion during Shrove Tuesday, marking the day before Lent begins. Traditionally, it was a time to use up rich foods like eggs and butter before fasting. However, these days, we simply enjoy pancakes and even pancake races, where participants flip pancakes while running.
Boxing Day
Another tradition the Brits do differently from other countries is Boxing Day, which is celebrated the day after Christmas. While there’s no official agenda for Boxing Day, the public holiday is typically marked by various activities, including shopping sales, sports events, family gatherings, or simply recovering from the previous night’s overindulgence.
August Bank Holiday Weekend
Speaking of public holidays, they don’t get much better than the UK’s August bank holiday weekend. We love any bank holiday, but this one is particularly great because it’s usually a scorcher. You’ll catch Brits around the country relaxing in the park, having barbeques, enjoying festivals, and sharing a few drinks, even if it starts raining.