10 Things Brits Think Are Normal Until An American Points Them Out

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When you live in a place for a while, what’s everyday stuff to you might seem a bit odd to someone from another country. This is definitely true when Americans visit Britain, or when Brits head to the States! Let’s take a closer look at some things that Brits don’t bat an eye at but can be pretty surprising to Americans.

1. Separate hot and cold taps in older buildings

In many British homes, especially the older ones, it’s common to see separate taps for hot and cold water in sinks. This is something you don’t see often in American homes, where mixer taps that combine hot and cold water are the norm. The reason behind this British quirk goes back to historical plumbing practices where it was important to keep the drinking water (cold) separate from potentially non-potable hot water. Today, it can be a bit of a hassle having to mix the water in the basin or getting your hands too cold or too hot, but it’s just part of the charm of classic British architecture!

2. Tiny washing machines compared to American homes

Ever noticed the size of washing machines in British homes? They’re quite small compared to the large models typically found in American homes. This is because most British homes and flats are more compact overall, and kitchen space is often limited. Having a smaller washing machine means that there’s more room for other essentials, or simply to enjoy a bit more open space in the house. While this might mean doing the laundry more frequently, it fits the lifestyle and space-saving needs of many British households.

3. Carpets in unexpected places

Brits love their carpets! It’s pretty normal to find carpets not just in living rooms and bedrooms but also in bathrooms and kitchens – places where Americans would usually expect hard flooring. Carpets add a cosy, warm touch to any room, helping to keep the place warm during the colder months, which Britain has plenty of. While it might seem unusual from an American perspective, carpeted bathrooms and kitchens are just another example of typical British home comfort.

4. Electric kettles being used daily

Electric kettles are a staple in nearly every British home, and they’re used all the time. Tea is a big deal in Britain, and having a kettle ready to go at any time is crucial for that quick tea fix throughout the day. Unlike in the States, where electric kettles might not be as common and people may use a microwave or stovetop kettle, in Britain, an electric kettle is a must-have for its speed and convenience. It’s definitely one of those things that Brits find essential, while Americans might not even own one.

5. Homes built centuries ago still being occupied

In Britain, it’s not unusual to live in a house that was built several hundred years ago. These homes are full of history and character, something that is quite rare in the relatively young buildings found across the United States. Living in such old structures might mean dealing with some quirks like uneven floors or thinner walls, but it also connects the residents with the country’s rich historical tapestry in a very personal way. For Americans, the idea of living in a home from the 1600s can be fascinating and is something quite out of the ordinary.

6. Smaller refrigerators and freezers

In British kitchens, refrigerators and freezers tend to be smaller than what most Americans are used to. This reflects a difference in shopping habits, as Brits tend to shop more frequently for smaller amounts of fresh food, rather than doing big, weekly shops as many Americans do. The smaller appliance size matches the smaller kitchen sizes typically found in British homes, and while it might seem limiting at first, it encourages fresher eating habits and less food waste.

7. Walking almost everywhere in towns and cities

One thing Americans might notice when visiting British towns and cities is how much walking is involved. Brits often walk to local shops, to work, or to catch public transport. This is made easier by the more compact city layouts and the availability of pedestrian-friendly paths and zones. Walking is not only a practical choice but also a healthier one, and it’s ingrained in the lifestyle, unlike in many parts of the US where driving is often essential even for short distances.

8. Narrow roads barely wide enough for two cars

Driving through British countryside or even in many older towns, you’ll come across roads that seem incredibly narrow, especially to someone from the US, where roads tend to be wide. These narrow roads can be a challenge for drivers not used to them, but they reflect the older, more compact style of planning from times when large vehicles were not a consideration. It requires some skill and patience, especially when meeting an oncoming car, but it’s all part of the driving experience in Britain!

9. Frequent use of public transport

Public transport is a big part of daily life in the UK. Whether it’s buses, trains, or the Tube in London, there’s a well-established network to get you from A to B relatively easily without a car. This might come as a surprise to many Americans who might be used to less accessible or less convenient public transport systems back home. In Britain, it’s not uncommon to commute daily on public transport, making it a practical and environmentally friendly option for many.

10. Apologising constantly

If there’s one thing that might catch Americans off guard, it’s how frequently Brits apologise. It’s not just for when something goes wrong; apologies are often given as a polite reflex in all sorts of situations, even when no real inconvenience has occurred. Saying ‘sorry’ can be a way of being polite, acknowledging someone else’s presence, or just a habit. It’s a small but noticeable part of British etiquette that might seem excessive to Americans but feels perfectly normal in the UK.