Here in the UK, we have a ton of family values that we should be proud of; Sunday lunch, afternoon tea, or even just complaining about the weather together are some classic examples. Sadly, modern families are letting go of a lot of these classic traditions, although yours might not be one of them. So, to check whether you’re upholding traditional British family values, this list covers some classic signs.
Sunday Lunch Is a Non-Negotiable
If your family considers a classic Sunday roast to be more than just a meal, you’re clearly holding on to your British roots. As Farmison & Co reminds us, it’s a beloved tradition that brings everyone around the table, and even when schedules are packed, you still find the time for this family meal. That’s a truly beautiful thing that you should never let go of!
The Importance of a Good Cup of Tea
Every Brit knows that tea isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life. We put the kettle on to celebrate, commiserate, or simply take a break, and we should never let go of that. So, if your family is still gathering around the teapot in moments of joy, stress, or anything in between, you clearly have never let go of your British roots. Thankfully, it seems to be making a comeback, which we couldn’t be happier about.
Proper Etiquette at the Dinner Table
These days, manners seem to have gone out the window, but if your family still demonstrates proper British manners at mealtimes, you clearly care about your values. Saying “please” and “thank you,” waiting for everyone to be served, keeping your elbows on the table, and engaging in polite conversation around the table are no doubt present at your dinner table, and you should keep it that way.
Respect for Elders Remains Strong
While this is a global value, showing respect for older family members is still a sign of enduring British family values. Listening attentively to their stories, seeking their advice, or simply making time for regular visits honors their experiences and keeps the connection between generations alive.
Celebrating National Events Together
Another subtle sign that your family is upholding traditional British values is if you still celebrate the Queen’s Birthday Parade, a royal wedding, or Remembrance Day. These national events are an immense source of British identity. It’s about being part of something larger and celebrating the shared history, something that the youngsters of today, sadly, tend to forget.
Keeping Up with Weather Conversations
While it may sound insignificant, talking about the weather is almost a national pastime here in the UK. This light-hearted, polite conversation starter is a small but significant part of British culture, ensuring that we always have something to talk about. It also keeps interactions cordial and serves as a gentle way to bond with family members without diving into heavy topics.
Preserving Family Recipes
If your family still hands down family recipes, you’re directly preserving a piece of British family history. Preparing dishes that your grandparents made, following handwritten recipes, and savoring those familiar tastes keep traditions alive in a tangible, delicious way. Trust us–your relatives will no doubt be proud.
The Family Photo Album Tradition
Digital photos may be the norm these days, but keeping a physical family photo album is a tradition many British families still cherish. Flipping through pages of old photographs together keeps memories fresh and provides a moment to reflect on the journey of the family over the years. Furthermore, there’s just something about a physical photo album that digital photos simply cannot recreate.
Punctuality Is Always Valued
Being on time is a sign of respect and is deeply ingrained in British culture. Arriving punctually for family gatherings, meals, or events reflects an appreciation for others’ time and shows that you value the commitments and traditions of the family. So, if your family still shows respect for this, congratulations; you’re upholding your country’s values in an admirable way.
Hosting Afternoon Tea for Special Occasions
Sadly, the tradition of afternoon tea is dying out here in the UK, leaving the scones, finger sandwiches, and a good brew behind. However, that might not be the case for your family; if you’re still hosting your own afternoon tea at home for birthdays or anniversaries, you’re actively playing your part in keeping this beloved British custom alive.
A Fondness for Gardening
We’re unsure why this is, but in the UK, gardening isn’t just a hobby; it’s a shared family activity that has always been passed down through generations. This might involve tending to an inherited vegetable patch or simply keeping your herb garden alive. Regardless, the garden is a place where family members come together, so give yourself a pat on the back if you’re still doing your bit.
Sending Cards for Every Occasion
Back in the old days, Brits used to rely on handwritten cards for celebrating just about every occasion, but it’s a dying tradition. Hopefully, though, you’re still taking the time to handwrite messages and send them off; the thoughtfulness and personal touch this provides is truly invaluable, so if it’s been a while since you’ve done this, consider rekindling the classic British tradition.
Dressing Smartly for Family Gatherings
In the UK, we once cared a lot about dressing smartly for family gatherings. Tragically, this seems to be something that the younger generation is letting go of, which we think is a crying shame. However, if you’re still dressing neatly for family dinners or special occasions, this reflects how well you’re upholding classic British values. Consider reminding the younger members of your family how important this is to you, and perhaps they’ll cooperate.
The Art of the Understated Thank-You Note
Just like with handwritten celebration cards, Brits have always valued the tradition of writing a thank-you note after receiving gifts for their birthdays, Christmas, or weddings. Text messages just don’t feel the same; physical notes take the extra step to show gratitude in a personal way, so you should be proud of yourself if you’ve kept this tradition alive in your family.
Maintaining a Polite Distance in Conversations
While you might not think about it often, keeping a polite distance and knowing when to engage more deeply is a subtle British social skill. Not prying into personal matters unless invited and keeping conversations light and respectful around the family table are ways of showing consideration and respect. So, if this is still a valued mannerism in your family, you can still call yourself true Brit.
Staying Close to Home During Holidays
Here in the UK, sticking to seaside towns and countryside retreats has always taken precedence over far-flung destinations. Sure, we still love a sunny holiday in Spain, but we love to take time to appreciate the local countryside charm of our country. Even if it’s been a while since you’ve done this, it’s never too late to get back to your British holiday roots.
A Love for British Literature and Classics
Brits are famous for being bookworms, but not just for any books. You most likely still have a fondness for classic British literature, such as the wonderful novels of Dickens or the captivating mysteries of Sherlock Holmes. These literary traditions become talking points that span generations, keeping the culture alive, and we should be proud that they’re still present in modern British society.
Supporting Local Traditions and Festivities
Another sign that you’re sticking to your British family roots is if you still celebrate local traditions, such as Bonfire Night and Maypole dancing, together as a family unit. These activities help to reinforce a sense of belonging and continuity with past customs and remind us of our heritage. Never let them go, because, otherwise, who knows when they could die out.
Holding on to the Art of Conversation
Finally, it’s all too common these days for people to get absorbed in digital conversations, but if you’re still sharing plenty of face-to-face conversations with your family, you clearly care about your British values. Stories are shared, laughter is exchanged, and memories provide everyone with nostalgia, all of which help us keep close to our British family heritage.