British Etiquette and Customs

Meeting and Greeting

← The handshake is the common form of greeting.

← The British might seem a little stiff and formal at first.
← Avoid prolonged eye contact as it makes people feel uncomfortable.
← There is still some protocol to follow when introducing people in a business or more
formal social situation. This is often a class distinction, with the 'upper class' holding on
to the long-standing traditions:
← Introduce a younger person to an older person.
← Introduce a person of lower status to a person of higher status.
← When two people are of similar age and rank, introduce the one you know better to the
other person.

Gift Giving Etiquette

← The British exchange gifts between family members and close friends for birthdays and
Christmas.
← The gift need not be expensive, but it should usually demonstrate an attempt to find
something that related to the recipient’s interests.
← If invited to someone's home, it is normal to take along a box of good chocolates, a good
bottle of wine or flowers.
← Gifts are opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

← Unlike many European cultures, the British enjoy entertaining in people their homes.
← Although the British value punctuality, you may arrive 10-15 minutes later than invited to
dinner. However, if going to a restaurant be on time.
← Table manners are Continental, i.e. the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the
right while eating.
← The fork is held tines down so food is scooped on to the back of the fork. This is a skill
that takes time to master.
← Remain standing until invited to sit down. You may be shown to a particular seat.
← Do not rest your elbows on the table.
← If you have not finished eating, cross your knife and fork on your plate with the fork over
the knife.
← Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel across the right
side of your plate.
← Toasts are given at formal meals.
← When in a pub, it is common practice to pay for a round of drinks for everyone in your
group.
← If invited to a meal at a restaurant, the person extending the invitation usually pays. Do
not argue about the check; simply reciprocate at a later time.