When an American comes to visit, certain things are basically guaranteed to happen—every single time.
The culture shock isn’t huge, by any stretch of the imagination, but it’s enough to leave visitors confused, amused, or reaching for their phones to Google what just happened. Whether it’s the lingo, the queues, or the endless cups of tea, here are a few things that always seem to catch travellers from the US off guard when they land on British soil.
1. They panic at roundabouts, whether they’re driving or not.
Americans aren’t exactly known for their love of roundabouts, so arriving in the UK, where they’re absolutely everywhere, is a bit of a shock. The first time you see a double mini-roundabout, your brain short-circuits slightly. Even if they’re not behind the wheel, Americans will instinctively look the wrong way and nearly walk into traffic. It’s a rite of passage, and after the initial chaos, they secretly start to love how smoothly they actually work.
2. They’re amazed that there’s no tipping culture, and a bit awkward about it.
Handing over 20% at the end of a meal is automatic in the US, so when a server here refuses the tip or says, “iI’s already included,” Americans freeze. Do you still tip? How much? Is this a test? It often ends in a slightly uncomfortable moment where they over-tip out of guilt, or under-tip out of confusion. Either way, it becomes one of the first “wait, what?” moments of the trip.
3. They completely misunderstand how to order at the pub.
Americans will often sit down and wait for table service that never comes. After a solid 10 minutes of confusion, someone eventually explains that you have to order at the bar. Suddenly, things start making sense. Once they’ve cracked the system, they’re into it—fewer interruptions, faster drinks, and a much more casual vibe. But the learning curve is real at first.
4. They find the coins absolutely baffling.
The size-to-value ratio of UK coins makes absolutely no sense to a visitor from the US. A 2p is massive, a 10p is random, and the £2 coin looks like something from a steampunk novel. They’ll stand at the till, holding up the queue while they try to figure out if they’re handing over 20p or £2. Eventually, they just throw coins in a pocket and pay with notes for everything.
5. They say “pants” and regret it immediately.
The moment they ask someone if they’ve seen their pants, they’re met with an awkward stare or a laugh. Obviously, that’s because over here, “pants” means underwear, not trousers. And yes, the mix-up happens all the time. It usually takes one embarrassing slip-up to learn the difference. After that, they still hesitate every time they mention any clothing—just in case.
6. They’re weirdly obsessed with the accents.
Every American visiting the UK becomes temporarily fascinated with British accents. They can’t believe how many different ones there are for such a small island, and they try to guess where people are from, even when they’re way off. Some will even start saying “cheers” or “brilliant” unironically within a few days. It’s all part of the charm, even if it earns them a few side-eyes from locals.
7. They’re stunned by how small everything is (in the best way).
From the cars to the roads to the portion sizes, everything feels just a bit more compact in the UK. It’s not worse, just different. And it quickly becomes part of the story they tell when they get back home. Bathrooms feel like broom cupboards, and the fridges are half the size, but somehow, it works. They may even start to appreciate the efficiency of it all by the end of the trip.
8. They develop a minor addiction to tea.
They arrive as coffee loyalists, but a week of being offered tea everywhere starts to change things. It’s just a cup, but it’s also a comforting ritual. Rainy day? Tea. Rough morning? Tea. Just walked in the door? Tea. By the end of the trip, they’ve tried at least three types of tea and asked someone where to buy the good biscuits. It sneaks up on them, but it sticks.
9. They can’t figure out the taps.
Why is there one for freezing and one for boiling? Why not just mix the water like normal people? American visitors will spend far too long adjusting sink angles and washing one hand at a time to avoid third-degree burns. They’ll mention it in every conversation, baffled by the very concept. And yet, they still find it oddly endearing once the shock wears off.
10. They’re wildly impressed by the public transport.
Americans are used to driving everywhere, so hopping on a train that actually shows up on time—or navigating the Tube—feels like magic. They’re in awe of how easy it is to get around without a car. They might get caught out by the lack of aircon on a hot day, but otherwise? It’s all smiles, maps, and accidentally saying “mind the gap” under their breath like it’s an inside joke.
11. They don’t know how to handle British sarcasm.
The dry humour takes a minute to adjust to. At first, they think people are being rude. Then they realise it’s just how Brits show affection. Sarcasm and irony are everywhere, but not always easy to pick up on at first. Eventually, they start to get it—and when they do, they usually love it. There’s something hilarious about being insulted with a straight face and real affection at the same time.
12. They constantly forget to look the right way crossing the street.
No matter how many times they remind themselves, Americans will instinctively look left when they should be looking right. The painted instructions on the pavement help, but not always in time. It’s not uncommon for them to get halfway into the road before realising they’ve looked the wrong way. Eventually, they just start freezing at crossings and scanning both directions, just to be safe.
13. They’re amazed by how many crisps there are.
British crisp flavours are a whole journey. Prawn cocktail? Roast chicken? Beef and onion? It’s a snack aisle unlike anything they’ve seen before, and it quickly becomes a talking point. They usually find one favourite and then buy five multipacks to bring home, only to realise customs isn’t that keen on mystery-flavoured snacks in bulk.
14. They start calling it “the loo” and never stop.
“Bathroom” just feels weird after a week in the UK. Everyone says “loo” or “toilet” without blinking, and eventually, Americans do too. It sneaks into their vocabulary quietly and never really leaves. Back home, they’ll use it without thinking and get weird looks from friends. But deep down, they’re kind of proud of it. It’s one of those tiny things that sticks long after the trip ends.
