Here in the UK, we have a ton of fantastic traditions to be proud of–so much so that tourists flock from all around the world to experience them. Some of them you will no doubt have experienced, such as enjoying a nice afternoon tea or pint in the pub, although others you may not have had the opportunity to try. Either way, this list will take a look at some of our favorite British traditions you should experience at least once.
Afternoon Tea
Perhaps the most quintessential British tradition is Afternoon Tea, where tea is served with scones, finger sandwiches, and pastries. As Patisserie Valerie points out, it’s typically taken between 3:30 and 5:00 PM, unlike High Tea, which is in the early evening. Enjoying tea in a classic tea room or a luxurious hotel adds to its charm. You’ve no doubt enjoyed a nice cup of tea, but if you haven’t experienced the real deal, it’s time to change that.
The Changing of the Guard
If you’ve visited London, you’ve no doubt experienced The Changing Of The Guard at Buckingham Palace, a ceremonial display of British pageantry. Soldiers in iconic red tunics and bearskin hats march in precise formations, accompanied by a military band. This ceremonial handover of duties between guards is a spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world, so if you’ve not seen it yet, treat yourself to a trip to London.
Sunday Roast
Are you even British if you’ve not enjoyed a Sunday Roast? It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cherished British tradition. Usually consisting of roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and plenty of gravy, this hearty dish is served on Sundays in homes and pubs. Gathering with family or friends over this meal is a beloved way to end the weekend, and we all know that our parents cook them best.
Bonfire Night
Guy Fawkes Night, otherwise known as Bonfire Night, commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Celebrated on November 5th, it involves fireworks, bonfires, and the burning of effigies. Communities gather in parks and open spaces to enjoy the spectacle, often with food stalls and funfair rides adding to the atmosphere. It’s a real treat that every Brit (and tourist) has to experience at least once.
Morris Dancing
Despite being a traditional English folk dance, many Brits have never witnessed Morris Dancing. This uniquely British dance is characterized by rhythmic stepping and the use of sticks, swords, and handkerchiefs. Dancers, dressed in distinctive costumes with bells on their legs, perform lively folk music. It’s pretty old-fashioned, but you’ll still see it at fairs and festivals across the UK.
Pancake Day Races
On Shrove Tuesday, many towns and villages across the UK hold Pancake Day Races. Participants, often in fancy dress, race through the streets, flipping pancakes in frying pans. This quirky tradition marks the beginning of Lent and is a fun, light-hearted event that brings communities together in friendly competition. If you’ve not witnessed it yet make sure you write the date on the calendar for next year.
Pub Culture
British pubs are more than just places to drink; they are social hubs. Pubs often serve as the heart of a community, where people gather for a chat, a meal, or to watch sports. Enjoying a pint of ale or cider in a traditional pub is an essential British experience, one that we have no doubt you’ve enjoyed many times.
Wimbledon
While tennis isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, you should still try to attend Wimbledon at least once. It’s the oldest tennis tournament in the world and a true highlight of the British summer. Held in London, it attracts the best players globally and is steeped in tradition. Spectators enjoy strawberries and cream while watching the matches, contributing to the event’s distinctively British character.
Remembrance Day
Shortly after Bonfire Night, you’ll get to experience Remembrance Day, observed on November 11th. This patriotic tradition honors those who have died in military service and is marked by ceremonies across the UK, including a two-minute silence at 11 AM. Wearing a red poppy and attending a local service or the national ceremony at the Cenotaph in London are ways to participate, so make sure you take the time next year to pay your respects.
Maypole Dancing
Another British tradition you may not have experienced, even as a Brit, is Maypole Dancing. This vibrant celebration of May Day sees dancers weave ribbons around a tall pole in an ancient tradition, symbolizing the arrival of spring. Typically, it takes place in smaller English villages due to its roots in English folklore, but you’ll no doubt find it in big cities such as London, too.
Christmas Pantomimes
British traditions don’t get much more fun than pantomimes. These beloved Christmas performances are usually humorous retellings of fairy tales or popular stories filled with slapstick comedy, songs, cross-dressing, and audience participation. Attending a pantomime during the holiday season is a festive experience full of laughter and fun, one that every Brit should experience at least once.
The Highland Games
Unless you’ve visited Scotland, you may never have witnessed The Highland Games. This celebration of Scottish and Celtic culture features traditional sports like caber tossing and tug-of-war, as well as dancing and music. Many of the games are a lively display of physical prowess and heritage, and we’d highly recommend visiting a smaller Scottish village to get the best experience.
Trooping the Colour
Another British tradition you should experience at least once is Trooping the Colour, an annual military parade in London to celebrate the British monarch’s official birthday. Thousands of soldiers, horses, and musicians participate in this grand event, which culminates in a fly-past by the Royal Air Force. It’s a dazzling display of military precision and royal tradition, one that shouldn’t be missed.
The Proms
If you’re into the fancier side of life, The Proms, a series of classical music concerts held every summer in London, are a highlight of the British cultural calendar that you’ll surely love. The final concert, known as the Last Night of the Proms, is particularly famous. Audiences wave flags, sing along to patriotic songs and enjoy a night of music in a lively, celebratory atmosphere.
The Boat Race
The Boat Race between the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge is one of the oldest sporting events in the UK. Held annually on the River Thames in London, this rowing race attracts thousands of spectators who line the banks to cheer on the teams. The rivalry and tradition make it an iconic British event, so even if rowing isn’t your kind of thing, it’s a rite of passage for any Brit to check it out once or twice.
Cheese Rolling
By far, the UK’s quirkiest tradition is Cheese Rolling, which is held annually at Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire. Participants chase a round of cheese down a steep hill, with the first to reach the bottom winning the cheese. Spectators and participants alike enjoy the thrill and absurdity of this unique event, although there’s no denying that it’s pretty dangerous.