Living in London

Embracing British Culture Shock

By Halls 30 Sep 2023

How to deal with culture shock and adapt to the UK.

Studying abroad in the United Kingdom can be a life-changing experience filled with academic growth and personal development. However, as an international student, it's natural to encounter moments of culture shock when adjusting to the British way of life. In this guide, we'll explore some common cultural differences and offer tips on how to cope with and embrace living in the UK.

Embrace openness and politeness

British people are known for their politeness and reserve. It's customary to say "please," "thank you," and "excuse me" frequently. Engaging in polite conversation is a great way to break the ice and make friends. You'll likely hear people saying "sorry" a lot as well as British people like to overuse the word more than other countries.

Get in on the joke

British humour is often subtle, dry, and filled with wordplay. Don't be discouraged if you don't catch every joke immediately. Over time, you'll start to get the ins and outs and will be able to crack a few jokes yourself! Don't be afraid to ask questions, people will be more than willing to share their humour with you.

The importance of a "cuppa"

a cup of coffee sitting on top of a wooden table

Tea (to some) is an integral part of British culture. Joining in tea breaks or offering to make a cup of tea for your flatmates can be an excellent way to socialise and connect with locals. Everyone has a different opinion on how to make the best cup of tea so ask beforehand to make sure you brew it their preferred way.

Chat about the weather

Talking about the weather is a national pastime in the UK. Engage in weather discussions, even if you think it's a mundane topic. It's an easy way to start conversations and you can make plans with new people based on the weather.

Food, glorious food

"British" cuisine is diverse, mainly because we stole from other cuisines from around the world. Don't hesitate to try traditional dishes like fish and chips, but you should be able to find plenty of restaurants/supermarkets that provide great international food. Be open to trying new dishes – you might discover a new favourite!

Respect the queue (waiting in line)

a group of people walking down the street

The British take queuing very seriously. Always join the back of a line and wait your turn patiently, whether it's at a bus stop, in a shop, or for a meal. You should also familiarise yourself with the etiquette of using public transport, such as standing on the right side of escalators on the London Underground and giving up your seat for those in need.

The power of multiculturalism

The UK is a multicultural society with people from all over the world. Embrace the diversity, make friends from various backgrounds, and learn about different cultures alongside British culture. London is perfect for this!

Get involved with as much as possible

LSE offers a wide range of clubs and societies for you to make the most of. Joining these groups can help you meet like-minded people and make friends who share your interests. If you find yourself struggling with culture shock or feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to your university's international student office or counselling services. They can provide guidance and support you need to adjust.