Guide to British Life and Manners: the List of DOS

Do stand in line: In England we like to form orderly queues (standing in line) and wait patiently for our turn e.g. boarding a bus. It is usual to queue when required, and expected that you will take your correct turn and not push in front. ”Queue jumping” is frowned upon.

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.

Do say ”Please” and “Thank you”: It is very good manners to say “please ”and “thank you”. It is considered rude if you don’t. You will notice in England that we say “thank you” a lot.

Do cover your mouth: When yawning or coughing always cover mouth with your hand.

Do shake hands: When you are first introduced to someone, shake their right hand with your own right hand.

Do say sorry: If you accidentally bump into someone, say “sorry”. They probably will too, even if it was your fault! This is a habit and can be seen as very amusing by an “outsider”.

Do smile: A smiling face is a welcoming face.

Do open doors for other people. Men and women both hold open the door for each other. It depends on who goes through the door first.