12 Tiny Everyday Differences Between Britain and America That Visitors Always Notice

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When you hop across the pond from America to Britain or vice versa, you’ll find that the little things you might not even think about back home can be quite different. Whether it’s how you turn on the lights or how people stand on escalators, these small differences can be a fun surprise and sometimes even a bit confusing! Let’s walk through some of these differences that catch the eyes of visitors.

1. Light switches

In Britain, the light switches are usually simple toggles that you flick up to turn the lights on and down to turn them off. They often come with a satisfying click. This is a bit different in the States where light switches can be a range of styles, but they mostly rock back and forth without the distinct ‘click’. Some newer American homes have switches that you can press or even touch to activate.

2. Electrical sockets

The electrical sockets in the UK can be quite a talking point for visitors. Each socket typically has a switch to turn on or off, making them safer. They also have three rectangular holes. In contrast, American sockets are always ready to go once the plug is in, and they have two flat holes with an optional round pin for grounding. This means you’ll need an adapter if you’re bringing appliances from one country to the other.

3. Window screens

If you’re visiting America, you might notice that almost every window has a screen on it. These screens are great for keeping bugs out when you want to let fresh air in. Over in Britain, window screens aren’t common. This might be because there are generally fewer bugs, but it can be a surprise during the summer months when you want to open a window and realize you’re inviting in all the insects too!

4. Door handles

Door handles in the UK often involve a stiff handle that you need to turn downward to open the door. In America, many door handles are designed as knobs that you turn. You might also encounter more lever-style handles in public buildings in the US, which are easier for people with disabilities to use. This subtle difference can be tricky until you get used to it!

5. Public bins

In the UK, public bins are not as plentiful as you might find in the US. This can be a bit frustrating if you’re trying to dispose of rubbish responsibly while touring. British bins often have separate sections for recycling too. In contrast, in many US cities, bins are more frequently spotted and usually have a simple design for all types of trash.

6. Public toilets

Public toilets in America are often free to use, whereas in the UK, it’s not uncommon to pay a small fee to access a public toilet, especially in train stations or tourist areas. This can catch you off guard if you’re not carrying any change! British toilets usually have a stronger sense of privacy with floor-to-ceiling stall doors and walls, unlike the more open design commonly found in American stalls.

7. Escalator etiquette

In London, especially on the tube, there’s a strict rule to stand on the right side of the escalator, allowing people in a hurry to pass on the left. In the US, escalator etiquette is more relaxed, and people may stand on either side, which can sometimes lead to a slower journey if you get stuck behind someone who is standing still.

8. Ice in drinks

If you order a soda in the US, be prepared for a glass mostly filled with ice. Americans love their drinks ice-cold. In the UK, you might find just a couple of ice cubes in your drink, or sometimes none at all. This can be surprising for visitors from the US who are used to ice-filled beverages.

9. Shop opening hours

Shops in the UK usually have shorter opening hours compared to the US. It’s common for stores in Britain to close by 6 PM, except on one late night shopping day when they might stay open until 8 PM. In contrast, American stores tend to stay open later, often until 9 PM or later, which can be more convenient for late shoppers.

10. Crossing the road

In the UK, remember to look right first, then left, as traffic moves on the left side of the road. This can be particularly disorienting for visitors from the US, where you must look left first. Pedestrian crossings in the UK also often have ‘look left’ or ‘look right’ painted on the road to help you remember.

11. Restaurant refills

One of the perks of dining out in America is the free refills on soft drinks at most restaurants. In Britain, however, you typically pay for each glass of soda. This difference can bump up the cost of a meal unexpectedly if you’re used to the American way of endless sodas.

12. Cash vs contactless payments

While both the UK and the US have embraced contactless payments, the UK has been quicker to adopt this technology widely. It’s more common to see people in the UK tapping their cards or phones to pay even for small amounts. In the US, there’s still a significant use of cash and traditional card swiping.