Don’t talk to strangers

It’s absolutely fine to ask for directions, or to apologise, or both, but engaging people in general chitchat – especially on public transport, where escape options are limited – is largely frowned upon. The British are rather a reserved lot, and prefer to be introduced to one another by a third party before they feel able to converse comfortably.

Don’t take the tube everywhere

London has a lot of Underground stations and many of them are very close together, particularly in central areas. It’s always worth checking an actual map before committing to the tube, as often it’s quicker to walk, particularly if a line-change is needed.

Don’t confuse London Bridge with Tower Bridge

Easily done. Tower Bridge is the one you’ve seen in photos (it literally has towers and a drawbridge and looks marvellous) whereas London Bridge is a rather drab affair with no distinguishing features other than a steady stream of slightly dejected tourists (the older, 1830s London Bridge was more attractive but was sold to an American millionaire in the 1960s). If you do find yourself there, all is not lost: Borough Market is mere seconds away and you do get a great view of Tower Bridge, the one you were after all along.

Don’t ignore the queue

Queuing is sacred to British culture and you’ll cause unanimous disgruntlement if you try to jump ahead. In situations where there is more than one end point (for example three ATMs next to each other) it’s normal for a single queue to form, with the next person in line taking the next available slot. On a related note, when boarding a Tube train, wait for people to get off before you get on.

Do bring a waterproof or an umbrella

London’s weather gets worse press than it deserves, but like the rest of the United Kingdom, the skies can be a bit unpredictable. Unlike many other European capitals, there is no guarantee of sunshine in the summer, so it’s best to be prepared. Though if you forget, there are plenty of shops selling umbrellas and ponchos to the needy.

Do stand on the right side of the escalator

There has never been an unwritten rule so universally abided by as the one that states where to stand on escalators in London. Stand on the right, walk on the left. Every time. Everywhere. If you don’t, know that you run a serious risk of being tutted at.

Do realize that to use the washroom in places such as a train station or department store, you will have to pay a nominal fee (ie. 0.35 Euros)

Do not use “Tu” (you) to address another person unless that person is quite familiar to you. Use “Vous”, as it is more formal.

Do not assume all stores will be open between 12-2 pm as this is when most people have lunch.

Do not expect to get ice in your drink. It is just rare to find drinks with ice in France as compared to North America.