10 Things Brits Would Miss Most After Moving to America

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Moving from the UK to America is a big change: there’s no doubt about it. For Brits who make the leap across the pond, they might start to miss some things from back home pretty quickly. Here’s a list of the top ten things that might tug at their hearts, reminding them of the UK.

1. Easy European Travel

For Brits in the UK, popping over to Paris, Berlin, or Rome for the weekend is as easy as catching a quick flight or hopping on a train. The proximity to a bunch of different countries is something special. After moving to America, the idea of international travel changes a lot. It’s not just a short hop anymore; it’s a longer, more costly ordeal. That easy access to diverse cultures, languages, and histories just isn’t the same when you’re based in the States.

2. Walkable Town Centres

Back in the UK, many enjoy the convenience of living in places where shops, restaurants, and work can all be found within a short walk. American cities and towns, however, are often designed with car travel in mind. This means more driving and less walking, which can be a big adjustment for someone used to the compact, walkable town centres of Britain.

3. NHS Healthcare

The NHS, with healthcare that’s accessible at the point of use, is a fundamental part of life in the UK. In the US, the healthcare system is based on insurance, and navigating it can be complex and expensive. This difference can be quite a shock to the system for anyone used to the UK’s healthcare model.

4. Village Pubs

The local pub is often the heart of a community in many British villages—a place to meet friends, enjoy a meal, or catch up over a pint. While America has its bars and taverns, the atmosphere and role of a village pub as a community hub are often lacking, and that’s something many Brits find themselves missing.

5. Public Footpaths

In the UK, public footpaths crisscross the countryside, offering unrestricted access to beautiful landscapes. These paths provide a public right to roam that isn’t as prevalent in the US. For those who love a leisurely countryside walk, this is something that might be sorely missed.

6. Train Travel

Train travel is a big part of getting around in the UK, whether it’s commuting to work or traveling across the country. The US does have trains, but the network isn’t as extensive or as relied upon as in the UK. This can be a notable change for someone used to British rail services.

7. Historic Towns

The UK is filled with towns that have centuries of history woven into their very fabric. Moving to the US, with its relatively shorter history, means these kinds of historic towns are less common. For history buffs, this can be a real loss.

8. Short Travel Distances

In the UK, everything from the next city to the seaside or the countryside is potentially just a short drive away. The US, with its vast distances, can make similar trips much longer and more tiring. This can change the way weekend trips or day outings are planned.

9. Familiar Food Brands

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of familiar food brands from home. American supermarkets, while stocked full, often don’t carry the brands that Brits grew up with and love. This can lead to a real craving for a taste of home.

10. Less Car Dependency

Being less dependent on a car is typical in many parts of the UK, thanks to public transport and pedestrian-friendly cities. In the US, especially in suburban and rural areas, having a car is often essential, which can be a significant adjustment for newcomers from the UK.