Being British isn’t just about a passport or speaking with a certain accent.
There are certain experiences and cultural norms that define us more as a collection of nations (and yes, we’re focused on the good stuff here). Here are some things you need to have done at some point in life if you really want to call yourself British.
1. You’ve never had a heated debate about whether a jam or cream scone is superior.
This is a topic that can divide families and ignite fierce passions. The jam-first versus cream-first debate is a cornerstone of British culinary culture. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about tradition, regional pride, and the sheer joy of arguing over something so deliciously trivial.
2. You’ve never queued for hours at Wimbledon, just for the chance to see a glimpse of Andy Murray.
The queue at Wimbledon is a pilgrimage for any tennis fan, a test of patience and perseverance. Standing for hours in the rain, armed with a picnic blanket and a flask of tea, is a quintessential British experience. It’s not just about the tennis; it’s about the camaraderie, the shared anticipation, and the thrill of potentially witnessing a historic match.
3. You’ve never complained about the weather, even when it’s raining sideways.
Complaining about the weather is a national pastime in Britain. Whether it’s a drizzle, a downpour, or a heatwave, we always find something to moan about. It’s a way of bonding with strangers, a shared experience that unites us as a nation. If you’ve never grumbled about the weather, you’re missing out on a quintessential British ritual.
4. You’ve never experienced the joy of a Sunday roast after a long walk in the countryside.
There’s nothing quite like a Sunday roast to warm your cockles after a brisk walk in the countryside. The smell of roasting meat, the crunch of crispy potatoes, the comforting warmth of gravy – it’s a sensory experience that evokes feelings of home, family, and tradition. If you’ve never indulged in this Sunday ritual, you’re missing out on a true taste of British culture.
5. You’ve never queued up for fish and chips on a Friday night.
Fish and chips is a national treasure, a dish that evokes memories of seaside holidays, family gatherings, and Friday night treats. The smell of vinegar, the sound of sizzling batter, the taste of flaky fish and crispy chips – it’s a symphony of flavours and textures that embodies the essence of British cuisine. If you’ve never experienced the joy of queuing up for this classic dish, you’re missing out on a quintessential British experience.
6. You’ve never watched the Queen’s (and now King’s) Speech on Christmas Day.
The King’s Speech is a Christmas Day tradition for many British families. It’s a time to gather around the telly, reflect on the year gone by, and listen to Her Majesty’s message of hope and unity. Whether you agree with his politics or not, it’s a shared cultural experience that marks the festive season and brings a sense of national identity.
7. You’ve never used an umbrella as a weapon in a crowded street.
Navigating a crowded British street can be a challenge, especially when armed with an umbrella. It’s not uncommon to see umbrellas used as makeshift weapons, wielded with a passive-aggressive jab to fend off encroaching shoppers or overzealous tourists. It’s a subtle art, a dance of politeness and assertiveness that only truly makes sense in the context of British social norms.
8. You’ve never had a heated debate about the correct way to make a cup of tea.
Tea is a national obsession in Britain, and everyone has their own strong opinions on how it should be made. Milk first or tea first? Strong or weak? Sugar or no sugar? The possibilities are endless, and the debates can be fierce. But at the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference and the simple pleasure of enjoying a cuppa.
9. You’ve never experienced the thrill of finding a bargain at a car boot sale.
Car boot sales are a British institution, a treasure trove of hidden gems and unexpected finds. Rummaging through piles of bric-a-brac, haggling with sellers, and unearthing that perfect vintage teacup or retro toy is a thrill like no other. It’s not just about the shopping; it’s about the community spirit, the shared love of a good bargain, and the thrill of the hunt.
10. You’ve never complained about the train being late, even if it’s only a minute behind schedule.
Train delays are a fact of life in Britain, and complaining about them is practically a national sport. Even a minor delay can trigger a chorus of grumbling and eye-rolling. It’s a way of bonding with fellow commuters, a shared experience that transcends social barriers. If you’ve never sighed in exasperation at a delayed train, you’re missing out on a quintessential British ritual.
