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The Culture

• Queuing is a distinctly English habit! When you are waiting to pay in a shop, or waiting for a bus, you will cause offence if you don't queue.

• You are not allowed to use mobile phones in some public buildings such as hospitals, buses or trains, or at petrol stations.

• Smoking is illegal in enclosed public spaces (including pubs), public transport and taxis. You should check if you are unsure, or you might see a "no smoking" sign displayed.

• In the UK, men and women can wear whatever they want most of the time. An exception to this might be:
  • a nightclub banning jeans and trainers
  • you might be expected to wear a suit or smart clothing to a job interview

• In the UK, women have equal rights to men, and are treated equally in all ways. If a woman rejects the advances of a man, any further advances could be seen as sexual harassment. Sex without the consent of the other person is considered as rape - a very serious offence. This includes sex within marriage without the consent of the wife.

• In the UK, most restaurants will stop serving at around 10.30 -11pm - this is a lot earlier than in some other countries. Restaurants can be expensive - a lot more expensive than eating at home. Some restaurants do not welcome young children, so it is best to check before you go.

• The UK habit of drinking alcohol can sometimes surprise newcomers! Many British people, particularly young people, go out with the aim of getting drunk. This is different to many people's view of drinking which is as an accompaniment to an evening out with friends. However in rural areas of Worcestershire, visiting the local pub can be a really good way of meeting people, making friends, and becoming part of the local community.

• Children under 16 are not allowed in the bar area of any pub - they are only allowed into the eating area of pubs which have restaurants in them.

• It is considered polite to say "thank you" to the driver when you get off a bus or out of a taxi!

• When driving, it is considered polite to say "thank you" by smiling or gesturing to another driver who has let you onto the road in front of them.

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This page was last reviewed 12 October 2009 at 12:51 by Tracy Reck.