London: an etiquette guide

Welcome to Britain!

Londoners are generally polite, respectful of others and reserved in manners. 

So, it is very important to know and understand the English culture before coming to London. 

Here is a guide on how one is to behave in the capital:

London Etiquette

Do stand in line:

For many visitors, their first experience of British tradition of lining up will be at the Airport. British lines are usually orderly: be patient and don't try to barge ahead.

Do say "Excuse Me":

If someone is blocking your way and you would like them to move, say excuse me and they will move out of your way. 

On the London Underground

• If you choose to stand on Underground escalators, make sure that you always stand to the right-hand side, and try to take up as little space as possible. Do not in any circumstances obstruct the left-hand side with bags, suitcases, children or animals.

• If you have some wrappers or other similar unwanted products or items, keep them with you until you get to a bin outside. Do not ask if there are any bins on the Tube - there aren't any!

• Let people off the train first and move right down inside the carriage and, as they say, use all available doors.

Giving tips in London

Tipping is not as common in London as it is in some other areas of the world, particularly the United States. It is not generally necessary to tip in bars or pubs in London, although if you have particularly great service and want to thank the bartender, this is of course up to you. The same happens with the black cab: it is common for people to say to London cabbies to “keep the change!”.

Now you can leave your favorite London Etiquette tips in the comments below!

And have a nice trip! 

by Sara Laccone