While we’re all one tiny country, people in the South of England seem to think the North is a whole different world.
Not only that, but they tend to hold some weird beliefs about life above the midlands that are based on outdated stereotypes and haven’t been true for years. Here are some of the biggest misconceptions Southerners get wrong about this beautiful part of the country (and the people who live there).
1. It’s always raining.
Contrary to popular belief, the North isn’t a perpetual rain cloud. While it does have its fair share of wet days, many areas in the North experience less rainfall than parts of southern England. Cities like Manchester and Newcastle have implemented innovative urban planning strategies to manage rainwater effectively. The climate is diverse, with some regions enjoying surprisingly mild weather and plenty of sunny days throughout the year.
2. Everyone wears flat caps.
The image of Northerners in flat caps is outdated and inaccurate — this isn’t “Peaky Blinders.” Northern fashion is as diverse and trendy as anywhere else in the UK. From bustling city centres to rural towns, you’ll find a wide range of styles. Many Northerners are at the forefront of fashion trends, with cities like Leeds and Manchester boasting thriving fashion scenes. The flat cap might make an appearance, but it’s far from the uniform some might expect.
3. It’s all industrial wastelands.
While the North has a rich industrial heritage, it’s not stuck in the past. Many former industrial areas have been transformed into vibrant cultural hubs. Cities like Liverpool and Sheffield have undergone significant regeneration, blending historical architecture with modern developments. The region boasts stunning national parks, picturesque coastlines, and thriving urban centres that challenge the outdated industrial stereotype.
4. Everyone drinks gravy.
The notion that Northerners drink gravy is a bizarre exaggeration of the region’s love for hearty food. While gravy is a popular accompaniment to many dishes, it’s not consumed as a beverage. Northern cuisine is diverse and evolving, with a growing food scene that includes Michelin-starred restaurants, innovative street food, and a celebration of local produce. The region’s culinary landscape is far more sophisticated than this simplistic stereotype suggests.
5. They’re all coal miners (or descendants of coal miners).
The days of coal mining dominating the Northern economy are long gone. The region has diversified significantly, with thriving sectors in technology, finance, and creative industries. Cities like Newcastle and Manchester have become hubs for digital innovation and startups. While the mining heritage is still honoured, the North’s economy is forward-looking and varied, offering a wide range of career opportunities across multiple industries.
6. Everyone’s crazy about football.
While football is undeniably popular in the North (just as it is in the rest of the country), it’s not the only sport that matters. Rugby, both league and union, has a strong following. Cricket is hugely popular, with Yorkshire’s team being one of the most successful in England. There’s also a growing interest in less traditional sports, from rock climbing in the Peak District to surfing on the Northeast coast. Many Northerners have no interest in sports at all, pursuing diverse hobbies and interests.
7. They all have thick accents.
Northern accents are diverse and nuanced, not the exaggerated caricatures often portrayed in media. Each region has its own distinct dialect, from Geordie to Scouse to Yorkshire. Many Northerners have neutral accents or speak with regional inflections that are far subtler than stereotypes suggest. Moreover, with increased mobility and diverse populations, you’ll hear a wide range of accents throughout the North, including international ones.
8. It’s cheap to live there.
While some areas in the North offer more affordable living compared to London, it’s not universally cheap. Popular cities and towns can be expensive, with housing prices in certain areas rivalling those in the South. The cost of living varies greatly across the region. Some Northern cities have seen significant economic growth, leading to increased prices. The idea that moving North guarantees affordable living is oversimplified and often inaccurate.
9. Everyone’s obsessed with tea.
While tea is popular, it’s not the only beverage of choice. Coffee culture is booming in Northern cities, with independent cafés and roasteries gaining popularity. Craft beer has a strong following, with many local breweries producing innovative ales. The drinks scene is diverse, from gin bars to high-end cocktail lounges. The stereotype of Northerners being solely tea-obsessed ignores the region’s varied and sophisticated drinking culture.
10. They’re all working class.
The North has a diverse social and economic makeup. While it has a proud working-class heritage, it’s home to people from all backgrounds and classes. Many Northern cities have thriving business districts and wealthy suburbs. The region attracts professionals from various fields, including academia, technology, and the arts. Assuming all Northerners are working class overlooks the region’s social diversity and economic complexity.
11. It’s a cultural wasteland.
Far from being a cultural desert, the North boasts a rich and vibrant arts scene. Cities like Liverpool, Manchester, and Leeds are home to world-class museums, galleries, and theatres. The region has produced numerous influential artists, musicians, and writers. Northern cities host international festivals and cultural events throughout the year. The cultural offerings are diverse and dynamic, challenging any notion of a cultural deficit.
12. They’re all friendly.
While Northern hospitality is renowned, it’s an oversimplification to say everyone’s friendly. Like anywhere, the North has its share of warm, welcoming people and those who are less so. Urban areas can be as fast-paced and impersonal as any big city. Rural communities might be close-knit but not always welcoming to outsiders. The stereotype of universal Northern friendliness ignores the complexity of human interactions and community dynamics across the region.
13. It’s always cold.
The North isn’t perpetually frozen. While winters can be chilly, summers often bring warm, pleasant weather. Coastal areas like Scarborough and Blackpool are popular summer destinations. The region experiences a range of temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year. Climate change is also impacting weather patterns, with some Northern areas experiencing hotter summers than parts of the South in recent years.
14. Everyone loves “Coronation Street.”
While “Coronation Street” has its fans, it’s not universally beloved. Many Northerners have no interest in soap operas. The region’s TV viewing habits are as diverse as anywhere else, with preferences ranging from documentaries to international dramas. Northern England has also produced its own acclaimed TV shows and films that go beyond stereotypical portrayals. Assuming all Northerners are glued to “Corrie” ignores the breadth of their cultural interests.
15. They’re all Labour voters.
Political allegiances in the North are more complex than the stereotype suggests. While Labour has traditionally held strong support, recent elections have shown shifts in voting patterns. Conservative gains in some Northern constituencies have challenged the notion of a solid “Red Wall”. There’s also support for other parties, including Liberal Democrats and Greens. Many Northerners are swing voters or politically disengaged. The region’s political landscape is diverse and evolving.
16. Everyone eats fish and chips all the time.
Fish and chips are popular, but they’re not the staple diet. Northern cuisine is diverse, reflecting various cultural influences. Cities like Bradford are famous for curry, while Manchester boasts a thriving food scene with options from around the world. There’s a growing trend towards healthy eating and vegetarian/vegan lifestyles. Many Northerners are food enthusiasts, exploring a wide range of cuisines and cooking styles that go far beyond traditional British fare.
17. They’re all technologically backward.
The North is at the forefront of technological innovation in many areas. Cities like Manchester and Newcastle have thriving tech sectors, with startups and established companies driving digital advancement. Northern universities are leading research in fields like computer science and biotechnology. Many Northern cities have implemented smart city technologies. The stereotype of technological backwardness is completely at odds with the region’s actual technological landscape and achievements.
18. Everyone’s obsessed with whippets.
The image of Northerners all owning whippets is an outdated stereotype. While some enjoy whippet racing as a traditional sport, it’s not a universal passion. Pet ownership in the North is diverse, with people keeping a wide variety of animals. Many Northern cities have seen a rise in urban pet trends, like small dog breeds or exotic pets. The whippet stereotype ignores the varied relationships Northerners have with animals and pets.
19. They’re all loud and brash.
Personality types in the North are as varied as anywhere else. While some Northerners might be outgoing and direct, many are reserved and quiet. The stereotype ignores the diversity of personalities and communication styles across the region. Cultural backgrounds, individual experiences, and personal temperaments all play a role in shaping how people interact. Assuming all Northerners are loud and brash is a gross oversimplification of a diverse population.
20. It’s all grim up north.
The “grim up North” stereotype is outdated and inaccurate. Many Northern cities and towns have undergone significant regeneration, boasting modern amenities and attractive living environments. The region offers a high quality of life, with access to beautiful countryside, vibrant cultural scenes, and strong community spirit. While challenges exist, as they do everywhere, the North has many thriving, attractive areas that defy the “grim” label.
21. They all have a chip on their shoulder.
The idea that all Northerners harbour resentment towards the South or feel inferior is misguided. Many Northerners are proud of their region and its achievements, without feeling the need to compare themselves to others. There’s a strong sense of regional identity, but it’s not defined by antagonism towards other parts of the country. Like people everywhere, Northerners have diverse attitudes and perspectives that can’t be reduced to a single, negative stereotype.
