Dating in the UK

The Dating Culture From Across the Pond

Although the United States and the United Kingdom share not only a common language but also much history, as well as other similarities, many differences can be found between their respective dating cultures. But how exactly does dating in the U.S. differ from the U.K.? Some differences are subtle: for example, women in the U.S. are half an inch taller than their British counterparts. However, you’ll find many are quite noteworthy, such as British men’s preference of adhering to traditional gender roles where the man contacts the woman, pays for the date, requests a second date, and so forth.

After carefully analyzing dating cultures from various countries across the globe, there remains little doubt that what we understand as “dating” is exclusively an American phenomenon. In other societies – such as the U.K. – dating is a much less structured process. There aren’t any unwritten rules to follow, no specific etiquette of what do on the first, second and third dates. Couples don’t sit down and have the dreaded “talk” about becoming exclusive. Relationships proceed naturally and in their own time, or they die off just as naturally.      

Differences Between Dating in the U.S. and the U.K.

As mentioned above, British chaps have a more old-fashioned approach to dating. While it’s generally accepted to split the bill – especially in expensive cities such as London – English men will usually prefer to pick up the tab. However, it should be noted that in a recent survey, 52% of British women reported to have offered to pay the check, placing them high above women from other countries such as France and the United States.  

When it comes to online dating, British users prefer to meet face-to-face much sooner than American users – perhaps a clear indication of British requisite to jump over obstacles and waste as little time with formalities as possible. Ironically, at the same time, British men possess a more laid-back style when it comes to flirting. They don’t hand out compliments as effortlessly as do their American cousins, yet they’re known as some of the best seducers on the planet. Most American women would agree: every word that comes out of a man’s mouth sounds much better with an English accent.  

Drinking is an essential part of British culture. There’s no such thing as going out on a date without indulging in one or several drinks. If you’re a non-drinker, it’s best to make this clear from the beginning and avoid uncomfortable scenes. Additionally, daytime dates are non-existent in the United Kingdom. People go out in the evenings for drinks or dinner. Unlike Americans, the British don’t do dates over cups of coffee. Inviting a woman to coffee in the U.K. might be accidentally interpreted as a social gathering without any romantic involvement whatsoever.

The Peculiarities of British Men and Women

When compared to British women, females in the U.S. are more self-conscious about how to behave on a first date. Choosing the right clothes can be a nerve-wracking decision. What to say, what not to say, what to order from the menu, kiss or no kiss? English ladies will cheerfully eat, drink and say whatever feels right on a date. They’re much less concerned with putting up appearances and maintaining politically correct conversations. Expect a British woman to be 100% her true self from the very first date onward. However, unlike in the United States, don’t expect a British woman to approach you inside a pub no matter how good-looking you are. Women in the U.K. expect a man to initiate contact.      

British men take politeness to a completely new level. This is more than a stereotype; it’s a way of life. Their thank yous and apologies will float through the air like soft music, always at the right time, though not always entirely genuine. If you’re an American woman dating a British man, you may come across your share of verbal miscommunications that’ll only add to the joyful experience of getting to know each other. Tea will become a ritual that occurs not once but several times a day. You’ll gratefully endure endless conversations about the cultural differences between your two countries and discover a parallel society with many peculiarities that make it unique, though not entirely different from your own.  

U.K. Online Dating – Finding a Dating Service that Works for You

With the hurried bustle of modern life, it can seem like only by pure miracle could you meet someone to love. Regardless of where you live in the U.K. – whether it’s London, Manchester, Edinburg or Liverpool – there are plenty of online dating options to help you grow your social circle and perhaps even find your significant other. Building a long-term relationship isn’t easy, but you have to start somewhere. Online dating services such as Match, Elite Singles and Tinder can help narrow down your search and find people with similar interests, backgrounds, values, goals and ambitions.

Before you join a dating service, make sure to read all their available reviews and comments, because they don’t all deliver on their promises. We’ve reviewed dozens of the top dating websites and applications in the industry. Make sure to read each of them thoroughly and only then decide which Dating Service best suits your needs.