British Manners and Etiquette! | British Culture

Ever wanted to learn about weird British manners and etiquette? We explain some things that you must or must NOT do when you visit the London or the UK!
Comment below some manners and unwritten-rules from your country/culture!
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Hello! We are Joel & Lia. We post videos every week, all about British culture, British accents and the English language! We live in London and love sharing our top travel tips in the UK and abroad. As well as being best friends we share a passion for language, different accents and all things British. With past and future trips to the USA, lots of our content is American vs British.
Don't forget to subscribe to see our videos in your subscription box every week and click the notification bell if you want special alerts send straight to your phone!

[@rmuske]

My first trip to London I remember noticing how EVERYONE just understood when on the escalator, stand on the right, walk on the left. I was so impressed. People don’t get that here in the US and now it drives me mad!

[@inezwonderland]

Not only does taking empty plates make people feel that 'I am too slow and others are waiting for me', it also makes me feel like the waitresses are asking you to leave earlier so they can serve other customers... Thank you Joel & Lia, most of the manners are similar in Hong Kong, looking forward to enjoying my university life in UK :)

[@jewelsgrl]

I’m delighted at the fantastically dry tongue-in-cheek, self-deprecating humor here. I truly hope everyone got that part of it.

[@liamgoff1371]

Thats British humour for ya! We love joking about ourselves

[@jamier1459]

I've had Germans and American's tell me that the English habit of saying 'sorry' when we don't really 'mean it' is dishonest or hypocritical. However, they're really missing the point. We say sorry because we feel it is the right thing to do. It maintains a standard in civility, works to difuse potential conflict. Also, words have a magic to them- like a spell we can change our emotions through the language we use e.g. When I smile at and I'm polite to a stranger it actually gives me a positive feeling inside.

[@Sophie.S..]

Totally agree with you Jamie.

[@battleborn9930]

It's hard to be mad or pick a fight when someone has already apologized for their mistake. People forget that saying sorry doesn't mean you did anything intentional. It would be hypocritical if you intentionally did something to harm or offend someone and didn't feel bad about what you did. It's not hypocritical to say sorry when someone bumps into you, or you step on their toe. Most people in the US will say sorry. Big cities may be the exception.

[@TheJohnCooper]

Exactly what I’ve always said. Uk is a threatening place and saying sorry is a way to prevent a fight breaking out

[@greasyfatnewt]

Both Germans and Americans are usually pretty callous in their dealings with other people though. They view sorry and other expressions of humility as an admittance of guilt or a sign of weakness. They don't appreciate the diplomacy involved.

[@itskeke-wk8ng]

I say sorry in my 4 hour work shift at sainsburys Atleast 10 times every shift. I’m an online shopper and work in a huge, busy sainsburys and always feel like I’m in the way. People say it back too, it’s just what you do. Even if I’m not in the way exactly and I don’t say sorry when I move my trolley I’d feel rude…it’s one word. Just shows a bit of thought or so I dunno

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

I love the British culture politeness and mannerisms

[@amymaliga1674]

I’m from the South and we absolutely use please & thank you, heck, you’ll also get a yes ma’am/sir , no ma’am/sir. We take great pride in manners. We will stand in line even if it takes hours to get to the front. (Thank you elementary teachers who drilled “single file” into our minds) and we will call someone out if they try and cut (you just don’t do that) as for the entering a train before everyone gets off, well that’s just stupid, unless you enjoy being trampled on? Anyway, I’m sorry you’ve experienced such bad behavior in the US. Come to Texas next time:-) We’d love to have you!

[@mirjamoosterbaan9032]

Amy Maliga ma’am to me in the Netherlands sounds like “mother” the English way is miss or mrs. and sir 😁😁

[@dwhetsel695]

My area of Tennessee uses please/thank you, yes/no ma’am/sir as well. It’s definitely a “Southern thang”😁

[@dodiecanova854]

Inland Florida as well - please, thank you, yes ma'am, yes sir & y'all are part of every conversation. Coastal Florida is def not Southern polite.

[@davidhuber2076]

@@dodiecanova854 I moved to coastal Florida from the Northeast several years ago. Coastal Florida has not been a Southern State (A culture I have come to respect) since the end of WW2.

[@rosemundyee6863]

Excuse me.. we here in Canada queue/we wait for people to get off train. HELLO CHECK OUT BEFORE U GUYS MAKE BROAD STATE MENTS CHECK WHAT OTHERS PLACES ARE DOING. THANK YOU.

[@DanieVargas]

Just personal observations... living here in the Washington DC metropolitan area, riding the metro (our version of the Tube). We also wait for everyone to exit the car before getting on. As for clearing the table of empty dishes... the wait staff is usually responsible for clearing the table to get it ready for the next patron. In most restaurants, you’re given a 10 minute turn around time to get the table empty, wiped down and ready... so if you get sat with a party of 10, that 10 min turn around is practically IMPOSSIBLE... so we start taking empty dishes as they appear to help ourselves... and we ALWAY ask if you’ve finished eating before we take it away... and just me being me, I will leave 3 empty plates on the table BECAUSE someone will inevitably with be the SLOWEST EATER EVER and it’s embarrassing for that person to be the last one still eating at a table full of people... Just saying...

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

So rude.

[@zupermaus1]

In China there's an unsaid rule of 'queueing', which is up to 3 can approach the counter at a time (and the little old lady at the till will work out all your change simultaneously as she will have 6 arms). Thus if you're waiting patiently behind a lone person being served, you're also preventing two empty positions at the counter from being filled - which will become game for someone behind to push you out the way, exasperated, or literally just push you gently. Both parties will think the other idiots. In Russia you can silently leave your queue then reenter it when time to draw up at the counter comes, which is why you'll suddenly see people barge in front of you at the last minute. Both parties will think each other is pushing in. In Denmark if you ever, ever leave a queue, for example to pick something up you dropped or quickly grab an envelope from the counter etc, without consulting the person behind, your position is as good as gone. Your loss.

[@AeronJames]

Totally agree on all of these, I remember when I went to Disneyland Paris and meeting characters was pretty much a clump of people pushing to be first and you could always tell who were fellow Brits as they'd always try and start a queue. The plates being cleared before everyone is finished is the other one that really gets to me as it just adds so much pressure to finish. Great video x

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Glad we're not the only ones! The plates thing really annoys us! haha! Maybe we just need to make a British Handbook that we give to other people when we go abroad! :'D. Thanks for watching Aeron! x

[@AeronJames]

I totally agree on the Handbook idea, would make things so less stressful haha x

[@chelsydiva6955]

Aeron James Yeah you're not the only one X

[@salfmandtheimitationartists]

you're at disneyland - it full of tourists

[@spiderdude2099]

Why do you care? You're the last one to finish, so what? I certainly hope your other friends aren't absolute pricks and are impatiently waiting for you to finish. There's no pressure involved hopefully and if there is just give a hearty American "fuck you" they will have to wait for you regardless. All this has shown me is that Brits could take a healthy dose of "who the fuck cares? Chill out."

[@Rachel-re9ge]

I can understand why the plates being cleared early is frustrating. However, growing up in the states it's become a very normal thing that I don't even notice anymore. My guess as to why that happens is because I believe most servers see it as being attentive. They want to clear the plates so that you don't have a lot of empty plates in your way. The service industry can be a big deal sometimes and servers who get the most tips are usually those that don't make the customers wait for anything and are constantly attending to them. Clearing their table and bringing them anything else they may need.

[@robertocarlos2934]

You're beautiful 👍🏻

[@MrGmanishere]

I agree. Sometimes the tables can have so many plates on them that's it nice to see the table less crowded with them.

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

Maybe. It’s it’s rude anyway.

[@seeker4569]

@@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643 why exactly is it rude? They do this in America as a courtesy for the customers so that its less cluttered, clean, and more comfortable.

[@LP-zc4gy]

@@seeker4569 I’m American and I also find it rude. It’s one thing to take the appetizer plates away before the next course, but I hate that it makes me feel rushed to eat. However, I know it’s not done to be rude and it’s a way to clear space and get people on their way.

[@chrisotto7556]

These are all common courtesy in America as well.

[@verac6731]

Although I'm British, I've got used to the waiters taking away empty plates in Germany and I even feel upset when then don't come and take the empty dishes away. I never realized that this could disturb someone! This was really informative for me.

[@KM-lc4ke]

In America leaving a tip is our custom. It's rude not to. You have your customs and we have ours. You don't really need to come over if you don't want to. Respect goes both ways.

[@KM-lc4ke]

Why would you care? Manners go both ways period.

[@tashazalinski5250]

she would definitely tip in america. i think she meant that if someone took plates away during the meal in the uk she wouldn’t tip. trust me. us brits would always follow the rules in another country.

[@steventian5473]

Hello Joey and Lia, I'd really like to thank you, the videos are absolutely incredible. I've been enjoying them on daily bases ever since I discovered this amazing channel. Thank you so much.

[@jenifer6001]

OMG, not sure why this came up in my recommended now... but wow! You both look so different and I can totally see your growth! Love you guys.

[@aindreiastube]

Literally, same.

[@adventuresofjumi4409]

I am from the United States, Southern states and I already do all these basically. Never been on the tube/subway but I get what you are saying. Oh a tip for restaurants in the U.S. When they come to get your plate just say you're not done yet and they will usually leave.

[@marshmallow1488]

Adventures of JuMi Yes, simply speak up and let them know your preference.

[@stellaroberts4213]

We definitely que, stand in line and wait our turn in the United States.

[@GraceYocum]

At restaurants here, taking your plate is actually supposed to be a nice things and a curtesy, so that your table is more clean and you have more space

[@johnr7279]

I am an American and we're different in many ways, of course. I am in the military and we love lines (your queue). When we're in situations where everyone is just sort of hovering around and everyone has to remember who's next, no one really likes that. A line is much easier to understand. We also hate what we call "line jumpers" or people who basically don't respect the line. I recently talked to a woman at an airport who did not seem to understand the need to wait her turn. We even have a saying in our Army: "Hurry up and wait." I am sure that one goes back to the Second World War when our military went from being relatively small to gargantuan. I totally agree on clearing plates and on waiting for everyone to be served before anyone eats. Both are very considerate and just plain good manners.

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

*NEW HERE? Get your free Joel & Lia welcome pack: **goo.gl/forms/zTlSE3lEx6M54Txt2*

[@ceilconstante7813]

I'm American but attended school in the UK in 1977. Please and thank you are Music to my ears! Not used quite as much in the USA. Manners are much more important in the UK and I wish more emphasis was put on etiquette here in the USA! Especially what you mentioned about restaurants clearing dishes while others at the table are still eating. It's very award!

[@pigdog126]

In Las Vegas we eat at buffets a lot (all you can eat foe one price) , and we go back and forth several times throughout the course of the meal to try out various dishes (and because we are eating like pigs to get our money's worth). We get a clean plate each trip to get more, because it is not allowed (unsanitary) to bring a dirty plate to serve food. The wait person would be remiss if they allowed dirty plates to pile up on the table, and so it is with all restaurants in the US, not just buffets. They will always ask before taking a plate, even if it is empty, so if you want to leave it there just politely tell them no, you are not finished with it yet. Please tip your waiter/waitress when in America. They are doing their job, not trying to be rude or offensive. Love your channel. Cheers.

[@DanKnopf]

All good advice! I think all of these are true in the US as well. People who live near a subway (NY, DC, Boston and LA) know the thing about waiting for people to get off of the train first, but so many people don't have any experience and are probably terrified that the train will leave them. The plate thing at the end I also think is rude, but I have found there to be a distinct difference between American- and European-style service, in an "Active versus Passive" sense. American servers want to make sure you know they are busy working and acting helpful, and they see the public more as clients, where European-style service does its best to seem invisible and be as quiet and polite as possible to their patrons. American waiters think people tip better if they look active. Again, thank you for making this! You two are my favorite!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Ah, that's an interesting point. Tips probably play a big part in the difference in etiquette, as UK waiters don't rely on tips to make up a big proportion of their wage. I've noticed that difference in behaviour too when I go to the US - with the US waiters being a lot more involved, and I've seen waiters have long discussions with customers, whereas in the UK that doesn't tend to happen as people don't want waiters to talk to them in depth! haha. I'm going to America next week! Really looking forward to it! Thanks for watching Dan! We love reading your comments :) J

[@battleborn9930]

Yes this is true. I waited tables in college and people wouldn't tip well if they didn't see you. The more you interacted with them, talked to them, and the friendlier you were, the bigger the tip. If you came to the table with anything other than a huge grin on your face people would say before you even left that you weren't going to get a big tip. Of course you had to feel out each group. If they weren't receptive to talking, and were more focused on eachother then I'd know to be more invisible.

[@chantellenew2331]

The tube etiquette applies to elevators as well in the US. Please and thank you is used by adults and children, but not so much people in their teens and early twenties. Most areas in the states do have a line etiquette. If someone breaks the line etiquette polite people will guide them non polite people will yell at the. When I mean guide they will say things like the end of the line is right over there dear, or excuse me he's next. We say excuse me or pardon me more than sorry. Sorry, but please allow me to thank you for a great video. God bless.

[@ladey2181]

I was surprised with the last one of taking and empty plate. As someone (in America) who has worked as a waitress and someone who likes going out to eat, this is just a polite way of making room so that you're not surrounded by dirty plates and other things that might be in your way. Joel and Lia, please tip your wait staff even if they do this. Clearing plates as soon as they are empty is what we consider attentive staff and good service! :)

[@monetflores8481]

You have practically described the south in the US. Pleas and thank you, Ma’am and Sir, thank you cards, all of it! One awful thing we do is holding doors for others. It’s often frustrating if a person is holding a door and you feel the need to run so they don’t have to hold it for long, and the reverse is the “should I hold the door for them or are they too far away?”... we always end up holding it anyway.

[@Bob31415]

Recently found this channel and have watched quite a few. This particular one from well over a year ago is so much more pleasant to watch than the more recent ones with all the obnoxiously annoying laughing every 10 seconds. Loved this one.

[@Stephanie-is7bu]

if you’re eating in a semi or fine dining restaurant it’s normal for the servers to clear the table once the guests’ are done eating even though the rest are not done yet. But, of course before doing that, they will ask you first IF it’s ok to clear ur empty plate(s) or not.

[@cwell510]

My favorite Brits! Love these videos! I think the issue especially with us Americans is that basic etiquette has diminished through the decades. Growing up, manners and behavior were much more prominent as well as good order and discipline. I think I would fit in well in the U.K. Thanks for posting guys!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

yay! Hey Collin! Glad you're enjoying them! I wonder why that is? And I wonder if it'll ever go back to the way it was? Yes come to the UK and live here forever!

[@cwell510]

Joel & Lia Thanks for the fast reply! Yes, I may just have to get my visa ready and take a trip over there, especially now with the way things are going over here politically, lol!😉

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

We're not normally this fast! Trying to turn over a new leaf! haha! Yeah, we don't blame ya! I'm going to America next week - first time since President Fart became Prezza.

[@cwell510]

Joel & Lia Ha ha! Yes he's quite the topic of interest. Hope you have a fun and eventful trip! Thanks again.

[@elbekyusupov9684]

Oh I loved it! Your videos may even be eye-opening for some people... And I've always admired for your cultural identity... The simple values are acknowledged in a fair way. Thank you for making such educational videos!!!

[@fiatdragon]

In America I actually like when they take plates away because it feels less dirty and crowded at the table. I never feel rushed when someone else is sitting there and vise versa (not sure if that’s how you spell that lol) I like sitting at a clean table and honestly if I am finished first I always have a bear or another drink to sip on while I talk with the other people or person while the finish it’s never a rush...and in my experience if a restaurant does rush its customers it gets that reputation and people stop going

[@benchbriancagas]

I think I'm falling in love with Joel. 😍 Love you Lia! 😂❤️

[@0ohyaa0]

You guys are hilarious! I always click right away when I see you've posted a new vid

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Thanks Patricia, you're fast becoming our fave viewer.

[@0ohyaa0]

Joel & Lia You're fast becoming my favorite youtubers :)

[@michaelevans6669]

I feel the same way about waitress' rushing you away from the table, that's their Boss trying to get as many customers through the door as possible.

[@arranadams2776]

Growing up in the States, the tips/manners you are highlighted are taught as well. I think people are so focused on their respective lives that they ignore other people and just fail to respect others. The clearing of plates at the table is the norm in the States because no one wants to look at dirty dishes and it’s reduces the clutter at the table which is a distraction when having a meal with someone or if you happen to dinning alone.

[@gabrielprimo3696]

Hahahaha! if one mugs you, say sorry!

[@wandilethenjwayo1162]

You two are hilaaarious. If someone mugs you and beats you up, say sorry and thank you! Hahaha

[@alejandravega7822]

I am from Colombia and I really liked your video. It was actually for a homework but I just subscribed to your channel, so I can keep seeing nice videos like this one. Thanks a lot.

[@harboursghost1026]

Excellent video. Your subtle humor is terrific. I will be in London May 15 to 25 and promise to put my best foot forward.

[@user-ee2we6go9j]

Manners of Britain are similar to Japan’s one! It’s so helpful for me! Thank you for teaching🙇‍♀️

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

Strangers smile back and eager to help me always

[@eamonnsiocain6454]

It's impossible to believe that Joel & Lia would hate anyone! LOL

[@JasonLLedford438]

Standing in line and waiting your turn is just as important in the US, especially in the south eastern part of the US. If you, try and jump in front of someone while in a line in the southern part of the us, you will make everyone mad at you and they will let you know it The reason they take your empty plates is because they are trying to get the plates out of your way. Who know you may want desert and need the space on your table. They are not trying to make you feel like your taking to long to eat. I hope this helps with future videos and please keep up the good work. Thanks.

[@dwhetsel695]

Jason Ledford in some places in the South, if it’s determined you willfully broke line, they will beat your a$$ and then show you where the line ends, lol!😁

[@telladifferentstory6945]

I got shock of the last one, thank you for sharing. :)

[@harmonyln7]

Oh I also like it when wait staff take away empty dishes, because it makes for less clutter and when I'm out, I prefer to focus on the conversation, because food is just a part of the experience. Actually sometimes I ask them to take away the empty plates etc. Another thing that is done in a lot of countries, not just the UK although it's more moticeable, is small talk. Gurrrr!

[@mikeb5925]

Totally agree with everything u said. Lol on the line...the self checkouts are the worst. Everyone just gathers in clumps waiting for the next one to be open 🤣🤣

[@siddharthi1209]

Lia’s pout in the beginning 😂😂😂

[@RaeAnnn]

I've just subscribed to you and you two are so funny! I was watching The Great British Bake Off and noticed the different British accents and came across your British accent video and just loved it. Super excited to be following you guys!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Thank you Rae Ann! What a lovely comment! We post videos every Thursday, so stay tuned for more accent based videos :)

[@paulstrength8574]

Usually, in America, a waiter will ask if you want your empty plates taken. Especially in buffet situation. No one thinks about it. They're just making room for you.

[@christopherulrich3265]

I had never thought about the taking away of empty plates before EVERYONE is finished eating but that makes SO much sense! (I am not a server, btw). I can see how this would make someone who is not finished, very uncomfortable.

[@donna425]

I will be visiting in May and absolutely wait for everyone to get off the tube before I try to get on. Thank you for the heads up!

[@equinetll]

In the Southern US, specifically Texas, we absolutely wait in line, say please, thank you, sorry, yes ma'am, yes sir, etc. Come visit.

[@teknekon]

So true! Thanks for your insight!

[@user-qu9py9gf5w]

my first subscribed :) i love all of your videos

[@marioNottm]

😀 Thank you for sharing. Been in the UK for almost 6 months now. This video made me understand more what to expect and the reason for people's behaviours.

[@mychaunguyen5922]

thank you a lot! they're really useful ! it's also same in my country xx I come from Vietnam . and in the first advice, If anyone pass and don't follow the line, many people will annoy and they will complain directly to them , not just silently and see xx. These next advice are also same. I am impressive with Joel's experience in US, xxx

[@mariapaulagarzonrojas8866]

I can say as a foreigner that sometimes because we are afraid of mispronounce the name of the food or what are we trying to say, I totally forgot to say "please" even if I do that in my language. But after a month in London I started doing it. I love your videos!!!

[@alexandercruz3796]

Great content guys 🙌🏾 You both should be modeling or on telly! You should "thank" your parents for such good genes 😁

[@mopazo7]

When I first visited the U.S.A., I was told to stop saying thank you or please so often, apparently my good manners were annoying. In America, people do wait for their turn , in a bakery, for instance, you get a number and wait until you are called, not everyone cuts the line. In New York City, you must wait for people to get off, but the rule is often dismissed due to urgency to get to a destination, time is gold and manners don't matter, it's the law of the urban jungle. Again, thanks for the tips. Please keep posting.

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Yeah I think we probably say please and thank you too much!

[@MrRibby88]

From the US and that is one tradition I wish would become ubiquitous here: waiting until everyone is finished before removing the plates. In the finer restaurants, they do this. In "regular" restaurants, you will notice that the busier they are, the more likely they are to take your plate away before everyone is finished. This is their passive aggressive way of saying "Hurry up, table, we have other paying customers waiting for yours!"

[@ktbooth5841]

Literally my favourite people!!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Oh stop it you! x

[@amandah.3083]

Usually wait-staff here in the US will ask, "Do you want me to clear these plates out of your way?" You can simply tell them that you would prefer they not.

[@olivejuice1985]

Lovely video, thanks guys

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Thanks Aria! It's ironic, because Lia's room is actually quite cold! haha

[@olivejuice1985]

Lol poor guys! *hands over blankets

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

appreciated :'D

[@CristiSomething]

I work at restaurant and we take plates off the table so they don’t get crowded because our plates are insanely huge. Haha but I always ask before I take them.

[@uechiwilliam]

I was thinking along the same lines. Usually the table is crowded with plates. Most of the time I'm hoping that the waitstaff will come by and take away the empty plates. I'd consider it rude for anyone to insist that their plate stay on the table.

[@iparipaitegianiparipaitegi4643]

Asking is the minimum

[@chrissylong6001]

It’s crazy how you can be rude without realizing it. I am American and I hate when the server doesn’t come gather the plates, because everything gets all crowded on the table.

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Just different personal preferences then!

[@jkirton1964]

JUST started watching your videos today . . . LOVE them! Joel and Lia, I cannot help but ask, “Where in the United States did you visit that exhibited such rudeness toward you?” Most if not all of the things you mentioned in this video are practiced in the Lone Star State of TEXAS! 1. Standing in line (“queuing”) is very common every I’ve seen: airports, restaurants, and retail stores. 2. “Please” and “thank you” are taught here at a very young age. Now, I have heard that the British say “sorry” instead of “excuse me”, but that is totally okay. 3. While we don’t have a subway, we do have public transportation (buses) and you are right, riders should exit first before allowing new riders to board. 4. All of the wait servers here in Texas always ask before they take away plates and flatware, “Are you finished? May I take that away?” which gives we, the consumer/customer, the option. On behalf of the United States, our apologies for our rudeness!

[@spritzersmrits]

will be visiting LDN and parts of Lancashire so these videos are massively helpful for my travel research thankyou Joel and Lia!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Ooo, very nice! You're welcome - let us know if you want to see any particular videos before your trip!

[@Clede22]

Thank you for this, Loved it! I am from Ecuador and visiting the UK for the first time, very excited, turns out we have basically the same manners, but here there's always someone who pushes to get in or on the bus or elevator befor the ones inside exit, so annoying! Anyway. Thank you for the video, great info and very funny 😄

[@benlucas3625]

The tube thing goes for elevators too, wait for people to get off first and on sidewalks stay to the side so people can pass. At bars it sucks when people get service out of line. At grocery stores don't block the aisle with your cart and stay to one side. In th USA we usually stay on the right side in aisles and on sidewalks. On the dance floor there is etiquette too which many people don't follow, no drinks, don't cut across the dance floor, no standing around on the dance floor, don't get in the way, stay to the side if you don't know the dance and you're trying to learn, etc.

[@harmonyln7]

I grew up in England and now live in Scotland and I find the thing of saying sorry for everything irritating. Queues are equally annoying because they take forever, although I agree it's important to wait your turn.

[@kittryncarryon]

It’s my experience that most waiters will ask if you want you’re plate take away. It’s just common culture here and you can always say no, it also helps them prepare the table faster when you’ve gone. Tips are pretty important in the states as well, no tip is sending a message that the waiter has royally fucked up. I know it’s not as much of a thing in the UK, if they did one thing bad you might consider just giving a smaller tip.

[@constant_change72]

I'm from Louisiana, a southern state in the U.S. and I LOVE ALL THINGS BRITISH! I love this channel, you guys are are awesome!

[@marywest2896]

me too Carmen, although Im from Arkansas.

[@candyclews4047]

I'm always saying "are you in the queue?" - ha ha!

[@drsyedakiranumefarwabukhar2942]

Thanks ,sorry, I love you. She told us to always remember to use these magical words in our daily lives

[@IamPdub]

Lol @ saying sorry & thank you while getting mugged.

[@RyanandAiden]

Omg! The sorry thing is sooo true haha ... I've said it many a time to things like lamp post that I've brushed into haha

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

haha, yeah it's not a trait I like! I keep telling myself not to be so apologetic, but then it backfires when I actually DO need to apologise...!

[@jenniedarling3710]

Me too.

[@aryachaudhari7283]

Yeah we call it “waiting in line” and I’d say it’s a big deal here (not as big a deal as in the UK 😂) but we’re taught to wait in line in school/parents from age 3-4

[@debbieboyd7010]

This is actually hilarious! I am teaching British etiquette to my Chinese high school students right now and these are exactly the things I have been telling them about. Love it!! Oh the sorry, sorry, sorry, hahaha!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

Thanks Debbie! haha, why do we say sorry so much??? I still don't understand it! What a cool job - would love to teach British Etiquette! haha

[@houseofbeckschannel3586]

Brits are so polite and full of compliments to others. From Philippines here and I was able to handle issues of Brits in BPO.

[@amandanb12345]

It is interesting to hear your perspective about plate clearing in restaurants! You would rather have a dirty plate in front of you and not have it cleared until the other guest your dining with are done eating to be polite to the others. I can respect that. In the US, servers are taught to clear dirty plates as needed because it's rude to leave a dirty plate in front of them-the idea is to be polite to the guest who finished eating and clear their dirty dish so they are not just sitting their with dirty dishes front of them. It seems both ideas are based on being polite, they are just shown differently! I would hope that if you come to the US you would understand that, and still leave a decent tip. Each country has different forms of etiquette and not tipping because it's not what your used to is what is rude. A server has to tip out a busser, a food runner, and the bar. So when they don't get tipped, they literally have to still give those other people a percentage that is now coming out of their own pockets.

[@ferielbenayed6710]

Hey ! The etiquette you present is very very close to French one ! Except for saying sorry every time !

[@addiedailey7823]

I’m American, and I’ve never really put much thought into the waiters taking the plates before everyone’s done eating, and it’s kind of odd when you think about it. I think they just do that to save time and so the customers have more wiggle room.

[@janejohnstone5795]

Have to admit,..that when we go to the local Buffet I don't mind them clearing away the dishes,..as they would pile up ..they give us the cheque when we are eating our dessert...the Chinese ladies are so sweet ,we don't mind ,..I leave them a couple of dollars for their tip.

[@carolcarpenter4681]

The reason that plates are cleared as each person is finished is that generally Americans don’t like to sit at a table with an empty plate in front of them. I’m always happy to finish a drink while my dinner companion finishes their meal if I’m done eating first.

[@kitskivich]

I waited tables when I was in school and can tell you that US wait staff will actively get in trouble with management if plates are not cleared when people are done eating. This is because diners expect to not have to look at their dirty plates after they’re done eating. I promise you it isn’t meant to be rude; indeed, it’s meant as quite the opposite.

[@alexdalton5508]

Thank you for this lovely video ! Here in Brazil we have the same issues .

[@koenigsolomon]

Hey, guys! First off, I've watched a couple videos from you and I just knew I had to subscribe ASAP. You're just so hilarious and informative at the same time that... how not to like you?! Well, here in Argentina we're SUPPOSED to share pretty much every manner / custom you described - I mean, most of them are just good sense, right? - but I think as time goes by we're starting to lose them, or at least that's what I've been noticing lately. At least I try to be as well-mannered as possible, but that's not very common these days. Like, people don't say "please" and "thank you" as much anymore - of course I'm only speaking as a "porteño" (people who live in Buenos Aires, the capital city), but we lead such hectic lives in this town that no-one really cares that much about manners. This in turn might make us look rude, but we're actually very welcoming people, I promise! :) Cheers!

[@jackpot848]

I think in the Southern U.S. we got a lot of our mannerisms from "The Old Country..e.g., you guys". I grew up under threat of death if I failed to say "Thank you", "Please", "Yes sir" "Yes ma'am".

[@IArkProject]

This was genuinely very educational and surprising for me as an American. For us, clearing the table as we eat is a matter of practicality - I never imagined that there was the eating pressure amongst the British, who seem to be much more communal. For us there's usually no pressure, everyone kind of eats at whatever pace they like, and no one really cares what you're eating or at what pace. Really interesting insights into British norms.

[@IArkProject]

PS Thank you for this video, and please forgive me for not saying please and thank you. ;)

[@lisag4441]

We have the same subway prob in NY. We know a tourist walk on the left side instead of the right. They hold up crowd traffic. We always line up on the right side of the escalator to let other people (who are in a hurry) through. Even if your with someone, you get behind them on the escalator and line up to your right.

[@KasiaZalucka]

I literally cry laughing rn. I'm living in London for over 3 years already, and the first thing my friend said to me right after I moved in was: Don't worry if you don't understand British accent - as long as you smile, and say "thank" you" and "please" everyone will like you. :D BTW, the thing about your queueing is sooo true, I still find it funny!

[@DesignandDysfunction]

I belong in the UK then... I am told so many times to actually STOP saying "sorry" and "please and thank you." And don't get me started on using Mr. or Mrs. My children's teachers have told me that my children are the ONLY students in their classes that say "please and thank you." I love manners!

[@ThoseTwoBrits1]

haha! wow! Well that's great I think! Manners maketh man! As they say! haha

[@HarpsiFizz]

I understand where you're coming from, but if you're in America, you really, really can't not give a tip to a waiter. See, in America, waiters are usually only paid about 2.60 an hour because -we're a shithole country- they're expected to make most of their money in tips. If someone in America is taking your plate away, it's because they're trying to serve as many tables as possible so they can, you know, _live_ . And in America, it's seen as bad service if a waiter doesn't clear your plate the second its done. I will always follow the courtesy rules when I visit your country, but I ask you to please try to understand the courtesy rules in our country when you visit us.

[@gracer7943]

HarpsiFizz , I understand where they are coming from. I do feel ofended when they do that if they don't ask. I try to allert the waiter so it would not happens.I understand they don't read mind and are following orders. But if it does, I would not order anything else and it would be reflected in the bill. People have dinners (business, or other personal matters)of all kind and the waiter simply would not hurry up things by being rude, they still have to wait until all members of the group finish.

[@texanboiii562]

HarpsiFizz we are not a shithole country you dumbass! And besides waiters know what they’re signing up for they’re not enslaved to that job.

[@handicapitation3250]

HarpsiFizz If you don't make good money as a waiter that's on you. I'm grateful for our tipping system and server pay. Shit, back in college I made a pretty good living waiting tables part time. I was averaging over $20/ hour, and was able to pay all my bills and still had time to study.

[@dancoll8166]

I tried to explain that concept to a friend from Australia. Australian servers make a living wage, while our servers make half or less than half of a living wage. I think that's because we, as Americans, expect good/pleasant service. If we don't get it, then that is reflected in their tip, or lack thereof. I asked my friend what he'd do if he received bad service; he said he'd tell management. When I said we hit them where it hurts, i.e., their pocketbook, he came to understand our tipping system a bit better.

[@vivmonkey]

HarpsiFizz wait, what state is this ? In California they average at $11 USD right now for server/waiter jobs.

[@dlaw70]

Thanks for your videos. I just discovered you through watching some youtube videos on Sherlock--on the right side line-up. Manners are no longer taught much in the U.S. When my English cousins visit in Florida, I notice the younger ones are much more polite and mature compared to the ones here. We do queue though. I always have to ask some people if they are in line because they look like they are ready to dash to a shorter line and not quite lined up. They usually say yes so I continue their sideways line to the cashier until I can maneuver around to straighten up--there are always carousels with more junk to buy blocking the way. Waiters and waitresses like to grab plates here in the US. I feel like I should always keep my fork aimed for the plate so I can stab their hand if they try to take my food away. In some nicer restaurants they will have their hand a couple inches from your plate and ask if you are done to which I say, "NO!" Keep up your good work.

[@PapaLynn1]

Well now, weren’t you lot just adorable back in March 2017??!!!??!! I can’t believe this video is less than 2 years old. You are both so different now... not just in appearance, but mannerisms, and how comfortable you are on camera!! Such nuggets you were!!!

[@michaelkelleypoetry]

Okay, one thing that is definitely different is that in the Southern US, if someone hits you, even as a kid, we’re taught to hit back. Bullies are cowards and prey only on those they know won’t fight. If you fight though, even if you lose the fight, that bully won’t mess with you again because it’s more trouble than they want.

[@qed456]

A lot of people think it is too overwhelming to learn the large number of etiquette rules that make up good manners (not British necessarily but just good manners) so get put off. Most people will appreciate a good try though and will forgive honest mistakes . A good way though to progress is to break down etiquette into main rules that sub etiquette flows from - for instance, if you remember that in a social setting a lady always outranks a man then things like waiting for a lady to offer a hand shake first or cheek to lightly kiss , walking a lady home, offering her the best view from seat options , taking off your hat in her presence will all come then naturally.

[@syedrubyadhossen9098]

I love you guys❤ I really enjoy it 💯

[@erindix9088]

Totally agree with these! The plates thing annoyed me too when I went to America! The tube thing isn’t just in London, I’m from the north east and everyone waits to get on the bus or metro until everyone is off

[@nancytesta-meyer5408]

It probably depends on the metro train. Some are every 15 minutes rather than every 3 minutes. If there's a family trying to get on, they have to be quick to avoid getting separated. Sometimes there is the arrow coming away from the passenger car for exiting, and outside arrows pointing to board the passenger car. The way people drive and walk in the States is a whole other issue that either seems rude or efficient. It is considered efficient for waitstaff to pick up plates when you appear to be done, even if others are still eating. We also joke that the waitstaff wait until we have food in our mouth before they ask, "How's the food?" 😆

[@joshsmith7615]

Lia you're lovely. I could listen to your voice everyday. So happy I found this channel. Y'all are amazing. My sister lives in the UK. I'm from the southern USA. I can't understand a single word my nephews say my niece sounds like peppa pig lol. But you have a magical voice with charm and wits to match. Your fan J.