British traditions
In this section:
Our rich history has seen the development of a variety of traditions across the country. People from different regions enjoy a thriving local culture that includes specific foods, sports and leisure activities. Part of your life here should include trying new things around you and getting involved.
Food
Many foods, such as Cornish pasties, Bakewell puddings, haggis, soda bread and Welsh cakes originated in specific parts of the UK but are now available everywhere.
We also have a rich tradition of foods from different cultures, reflecting the numbers of people who have made the UK their home. Most towns and cities have restaurants that offer a diverse range of dishes, including Indian, Caribbean, Thai, Chinese, Polish and Italian.
Traditional events
You’ll find local events which celebrate traditions and where people are proud of their history. For example, Up Helly Aa is a fire festival held in Shetland, Scotland; and well-dressing is particularly common in the Peak District of Derbyshire. You may see traditional festivities linked to May Day; Morris dancers; and local carnivals, with parades before they open.
Pets
Pets are kept by many people. Cats and dogs are popular, as well as small mammals such as hamsters and guinea pigs. There are laws about keeping a range of more exotic animals. It’s against the law to treat a pet cruelly or to neglect it. Pets should be vaccinated to protect them from a range of diseases.
If you take your dog for a walk in a public place, it must wear a collar showing the name and address of the owner. You’re responsible for keeping your dog under control and for cleaning up after it in a public place. You can be fined if you don’t do this.
Cinema
Cinemas use a classification system to help you work out whether a film is suitable for a particular age group. It is also used for DVDs.
Pubs and clubs
Pubs and nightclubs are places where people may go to meet their friends. You must be aged 18 or over to drink alcohol on licensed premises. It’s against the law for younger people to drink alcohol or for adults to buy alcohol for younger people. However, if you’re 16 or 17 and accompanied by an adult, you’re allowed to drink (but not buy) beer, wine or cider with a meal in a restaurant.
Betting and gambling
Betting and gambling often take place at sporting events. You can also go to a betting shop or casino to gamble if you’re 18 or older.
The National Lottery is drawn every Saturday and Wednesday. If you’re older than 18, you can buy a ticket for the draw or a scratch card for an immediate result. The money people spend on tickets goes to help good causes as well as being given away as prizes.