London is one of the most famous destinations in the world, attracting almost 30 million visitors a year. It has great architecture, rich history, an expansive culture, great tasting food, and is a place where beautiful works of art can be seen everywhere. Tourists come and go. In in order to be an abiding traveller in a foreign country, you need to always respect and follow the country’s practices and etiquette. You have to be one with their customs in order to have a worthwhile and exciting trip. In London, there are several things that you should avoid doing. If this is your first time heading to London, keep on reading to find out more about what not to do in London, UK.
1. Never stand to the left on an escalator
In London, one of the golden rules is to avoid standing on the left side of the escalator as it is meant for walking. If you stand there, you would be obstructing the walkway for anyone who is rushing for their train. This escalator etiquette is heavily practiced in London to speed up the flow of commuters especially on the busy tube.
2. Don't make eye contact on the Tube
Eye contact may indicate interest for some but here in London, making eye contact and smiling at anyone, especially on the Tube, could be misunderstood as this is perceived to be a threat or even get you perceived as a sexual predator. Commonly, people do not engage in any form of friendly eye contact and greetings to strangers due to the common stresses of travelling in London through the public transport. Some people even read the newspaper, train ads, or even feign sleep in order to avoid meeting someone else’s eyes.
3. Never take pictures of people
Street photography in London could be tricky. The law is strict about taking photos in the street especially when someone is caught on camera, as this is an invasion of their privacy. Always be wary of what or who are you taking pictures of, if not you could be hassled by police. Capturing any fine architecture or location is perfectly fine but if you want to take a picture of a person, you have to get their permission first to avoid any form of conflict.
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4. Never strike up an unwanted conversation
Unlike other people, the locals here are less friendly. They are quite reserved and interacting with others is not their favourite thing to do unless they are in a pub or a bar. If you see them minding their own business such as reading or listening to music, avoid approaching them and starting an unwanted conversation. As mentioned, they dislike making eye contact with others and the same goes for talking–everything here in London is fast-paced and these people do not have the luxury to just sit around and chat with anyone.
London Tour Guide
Robert Woolf
I am a London tour guide and my tours include talking about people who have shaped the city plus the many connected places such as Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the commercial centre of the city: the City of London, and London’s world class museums and galleries. I have been guiding for 12 years. I am a licenced London Blue Badge Tour Guide, a City of London Guide, and a Westminster Guide. The reviews I receive from clients speak of their enjoyment from the local knowledge and the humour I bring to my tours. Born within sight of Hampton Court Palace, I am a Londoner and apart from 2 years in the Middle East, I have worked in this capital city all my business and tour guiding careers. I have travelled widely and I appreciate what appeals to visitors coming to London. I can tailor my tours to interest children. I guide couples, families and larger tour groups. I particularly enjoy visits to Westminster Abbey, where I also volunteer guiding students and children through its wonderful interior – on my tours you will hear about monarchs, why scientists and poets are remembered, the architecture and religious history. The Abbey is the story of England. Come on an engaging and fun tour with me. There is so much to show you !
Tours by Robert
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5. Never eat on public transport
Similarly to other countries, eating on public transport is strictly prohibited here in London. People are not allowed to consume any food or drinks on public transport, particularly the pungent ones. Some foods leave an unpleasant odor in an enclosed space and some people leave traces of their food as they go, which is unhygienic. As a tourist, this could be a very disrespectful thing to do and it is best if you just avoid eating and leaving trash anywhere.
6. Don't pay to see art
London is rich in culture, history, and art. Museums and art galleries are a few of the tourist destinations for those who are into arts. If you want to catch some art works, there are several art galleries and museums in London that are open to the public for free. You don’t have to pay for great art because there are exhibits and museums that wont even cost you a pound. Head down to Trafalgar Square for The National Portrait Gallery and The National Gallery. The best way to end the day is to visit Tate Modern where you can witness a beautiful sunset and a modern collection of art.
7. Don’t go to a West End Show
The West End theatre is a symbol of upscale commercial theatre in the English-speaking world. Most of the large and professional theatres are located in the West End of London. Having said that, the tickets could be more expensive. There are other show options that you could visit such as The Royal Court, The Barbican, and The National Theatre. Be considerate when you are attending a show or a musical; there is theatre etiquette you must adhere to such as arriving 30 minutes earlier and of course a smart casual dress code.
8. Don't be unnecessarily loud in public
The most annoying behaviour that anyone can do on public spaces and transport aside from eating is being extremely loud. If anyone speaks loudly or misbehaves in public, everyone’s attention will be directly towards them, and as a tourist, you never want to get the attention of the locals through negative behaviour. It is best to just remain quiet and mind your own business as Londoners are not a fan of excessive noise.
9. Don’t shop at Harrods
Harrods is a department store in Brompton Road in Knightsbridge. It has a wide variety of luxury brands and food halls. It is great to visit Harrods and get a feel of it but shopping for souvenirs here is not recommended as there are other alternatives. You could roam around Selfridges on Oxford street for the best food and flavours from Foodhall. You could also head down to any among the unique thrift and vintage shops along the road of Old Spitafileds, Brick Lane, and Columbia Road flower markets.
10. Don't have a phone conversation on public transport
From the other points mentioned, Londoners dislike noise and they just want their commute to be a peaceful and a quiet journey. Whenever you are in public spaces, refrain from having loud phone conversations to avoid attracting unwanted attention. Be courteous to other commuters or passengers and keep the volume of your voice at a minimum, should you need to take a call.
Remember to follow rules in London
London is a very charming place inspired by rich culture, arts, and other customs. Whenever you are here, try to live like a local and be one with their practices to avoid garnering unwanted attention from the public.
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