5 Cultural Courtesy Tips to be Aware of When Visiting London, England from a Canadian Tourist

Covenant Garden, London, England. 2019

London. An exciting place full of adventure, culture, art, science, and social activities. But being a guest in a new country means being mindful that courtesies and simple everyday practices in public may be different from what you are used to at home. So here are 5 things in London that are important to look out for when visiting the UK.

1. Escalators

   London has a lot of people. And many of those people have places to be in a rush. That’s why when you are on an escalator, especially on the tube, it is important to keep to the right side while leaving space on the left side for passengers that want to move ahead of you. This way you’re not seen as a jerk who is blocking a pathway for everyone else on the large escalators on the tube.

2. Talking on The Tube

   I love to make friends and talk. Even with strangers. But with the exception of a few busy stations in London, I was surprised by how quiet it was. So make sure you speak in a soft voice and if you’re listening to music put on headphones when riding the tube. (Actually, I think we should do the headphone thing in Canada too because I too find it really annoying when passengers listen to their music out loud on the subway)

3. Look Both Ways Before Crossing the Street

   This might already be common sense but this is especially true when visiting London. Because London drivers drive on the opposite side of the road, make sure you check both ways before crossing the street because they’ll be coming from the opposite side of the street from which you are used to checking.

4. Bags on Seats

   Something that is common in North America that isn’t in the UK and Europe is putting your bag or purse on the seat beside you on public transit. The population is much more dense over there and so there isn’t as much space to put your bags on buses, trains and streetcars as there is in North America. And doing this you are taking away a seat from someone else. So when you are taking public transit in London, be sure to keep your bag or purse on your lap or on the floor between your legs to keep seats available for other people.

5. Wine is Acceptable in Parks

   Now that we’ve covered the stuff that isn’t all that fun, here’s something that is fun. YOU ARE ALLOWED TO DRINK PUBLIC! So get that bottle of wine from the British grocery store and enjoy a glass (or two) in the nearby park.