If you grew up in the UK or have lived here long enough, certain things will make you feel an instant connection, like nostalgic snacks and quirky cultural habits. These are the everyday icons that scream “British,” so if you’re ready for a stroll down memory lane, we’ve listed the best of them.
A Proper Cuppa with a Biscuit Dunk
There’s nothing that says “British” quite like the sight of a steaming cup of tea paired with a trusty biscuit for dunking. Whether you’re a fan of the Digestive, the posh Hobnob, or the controversial Rich Tea (does it even count as a biscuit?), this pairing is sacred.
Queueing Like It’s an Olympic Sport
Ah, queueing—whether it’s for a bus, a sandwich, or the chance to grab tickets for the latest film at the cinema, the UK queue is a marvel. There’s an unspoken code: no cutting, no pushing, just waiting your turn with quiet determination.
Complaining About the Weather
Talking about the weather isn’t just a conversation filler in this part of the world; it’s practically a national pastime. It doesn’t matter if it’s blazing sunshine, torrential rain, or that annoying in-between drizzle—we’ll have something to say about it.
That Iconic Red Postbox
A red postbox is a piece of British history standing proudly on street corners and village greens. There’s something so comforting about seeing one; it’s a constant from the past, and some even have the royal cypher of past monarchs.
The Sound of the Ice Cream Van
That cheerful, slightly off-key jingle of an ice cream van is a key part of our childhoods, not to mention the excitement of rushing out, coins in hand, hoping you’re quick enough to flag it down. Whether you went for a classic 99 Flake, a Screwball with the bubblegum at the bottom, or a garish Rocket lolly, it was a well-earned treat.
Marmite: Love It or Hate It
Marmite isn’t just a spread, it’s a personality test for Brits, as you either love it with a passion—spreading it thickly over buttered toast and savouring its salty, umami goodness—or you can’t stand the mere thought of it touching your plate. There’s no middle ground with Marmite, which is why its slogan, “Love it or hate it,” has endured.
Bargains at the Car Boot Sale
Early mornings, a thermos of tea, and the promise of treasure—car boot sales are a beloved tradition for finding things like tea sets or boxes of DVDs no one asked for. There’s something magical about rummaging through other people’s cast-offs in the hope of finding gold.
The Mystery of the Washing-Up Bowl
To Brits, the washing-up bowl in the sink is completely normal, though it may have people from other countries scratching their heads. Some say it’s about saving water, others claim it protects the sink, but let’s be honest—it’s just the way things have always been.
Crisps Sandwiches Are a Thing
Crisp sandwiches might sound bizarre, but they’re the ultimate comfort food within the United Kingdom, and mostly because it’s a simple formula: bread, butter, and a hefty handful of your favourite crisps. Whether it’s the tang of Salt & Vinegar, the classic Cheese & Onion, or the smoky goodness of Smoky Bacon, the crunch-to-softness ratio is what makes it perfect.
The NHS Clap
During lockdown, every Thursday evening at 8 PM, doorsteps, balconies, and windows across Britain came alive with applause for the NHS. It was a moment of togetherness in a time of isolation, as neighbours clapped, cheered, and even banged pots and pans to show appreciation for healthcare workers.
Pubs That Double as Landmarks
Pubs in the UK aren’t just places to grab a pint—they’re landmarks steeped in history and stories. Many have quirky names like “The Red Lion” or “The Queen’s Head,” and locals will passionately debate which one pours the best pint.
Fish and Chips by the Seaside
There’s nothing quite like tucking into fish and chips by the seaside, even if the wind’s blowing your hair into your face and seagulls are eyeing your food. Sitting on a bench or a sea wall, you’ll inevitably end up with greasy fingers and the odd rogue chip in your lap, but it’s worth it.
A Rainy Summer Festival
If there’s one thing you can expect from Great Britain, it’s rain, and rain and festivals go together like mud and wellies. No matter how optimistic you are about the weather, it’s almost guaranteed that at some point, the heavens will open—but that doesn’t stop anyone.
The National Trust Car Park Sticker
If you see a little green National Trust sticker in a car window, you know that car’s owner is serious about their weekends. It’s a badge of honour that says, “I’ve been to more stately homes, windswept beaches, and heritage sites than I can count.”
“Sorry” for Everything
If there’s one word that defines this country’s culture, it’s “sorry,” and we say it when we bump into someone, when someone bumps into us, or even when we need to squeeze past someone in a crowded space. It’s less an apology and more a social expectation that keeps everything running smoothly.
The Humble Coronation Chicken
Coronation Chicken might seem like a quirky sandwich filling, but it’s a piece of British history on your plate. Created for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953, this creamy, mildly spiced mixture of chicken, curry powder, and mayo has stood the test of time in our country.