England, or ‘Blighty,’ is the charming land across the pond that has captured the hearts of many Americans. From its rich history to its vibrant culture, there are countless reasons why the U.S. embraces England. Here are the top 21 reasons why Americans can't get enough of this delightful country.
The Royal Family
Americans are fascinated by the British monarchy. The pomp and pageantry, royal weddings, and adorable royal children keep them hooked. It’s a real-life fairy tale that Americans love to follow. They adored Princess Diana and are embracing Princess Catherine in the same way.
Rich History
The history of England has something to spark the interest of every traveler. From Tudor tales of Henry VIII to the magical Stonehenge, there's a rich story around every corner. Americans love exploring these historical sites and learning about the past.
Harry Potter
The magical world of Harry Potter has enchanted fans worldwide, and America is no exception. J.K. Rowling brought us the books, then came the movies, and now Americans are captivated by tours of filming locations and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Americans can’t visit England quickly enough to experience real-life wizardry.
The Accent
The British accent is adored by Americans, and they love listening to it. Whether it’s in movies, on TV, or from a friendly local, it adds a certain sophistication to conversations. It’s often the Queen’s clipped English that they’re fond of, and many assume that all English people speak the same way.
Iconic Landmarks
England is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks. Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace are must-see attractions that draw Americans in droves. It’s common to see a bunch of Americans in the center of London, capturing images on large format cameras. Some sites are too special for smartphones.
British Pubs
There's nothing quite like a traditional British pub. They’re cozy, welcoming, and considered to be at the heart of British culture. Americans love the relaxing atmosphere, hearty food, and the chance to enjoy a pint of beer or a glass of cider in an authentic setting. The locals are always pleased to meet Americans, so they’ll be made to feel welcome over their pie and chips.
Literature
England has produced some of the greatest writers in history. From Shakespeare to Jane Austen to J.K. Rowling, American literature lovers appreciate the country's rich literary heritage. Americans have been visiting Stratford-Upon-Avon, home of Shakespeare, for eons due to its rich literary history.
The Beatles
Liverpool's most famous export, The Beatles, has a massive following in the U.S. Fans love visiting The Beatles Story Museum and taking a Magical Mystery Tour to see where it all began. You’ll often spot Americans replicating the Beatle’s album cover on the famous Abbey Road crossing.
Afternoon Tea
The ceremonial tradition of afternoon tea is a quintessentially English experience, and every American tourist needs to experience it. They enjoy the elegance of sipping tea and nibbling on scones and finger sandwiches, feeling a bit posh in the process. It's all about the pinky finger.
Fashion
England has always been a step ahead of fashion, and London is a global fashion hub. Americans admire British fashion for its blend of classic and cutting-edge styles. Shopping in London offers a unique and stylish experience with a variety of past and present subculture fashion items.
The Countryside
England's countryside is breathtaking and can easily take your breath away. Rolling hills, quaint villages, and stunning coastlines offer a peaceful escape that many Americans find irresistible. Whether it’s the Welsh valleys or Cumbrian lakes, there are endless photo opportunities for American tourists.
Football (Soccer)
Americans are increasingly getting into soccer, and what better place to experience it than England? Watching a Premier League match is a thrilling experience for sports fans. Plus, they get to take part in the famous anthems or cheeky chants that are traditional for English football fans. It can be emotional, so be prepared.
The Weather
While English people are never satisfied with the weather, Americans love England’s cooler, rainier weather. It’s a nice change from the often extreme climates in parts of the U.S. and perfect for cozying up with a good book. They won’t find many agreeable English people on that score.
Quirky Traditions
From cheese rolling to Morris dancing and wife-carrying races (yes, really), England has some wonderfully quirky traditions. Americans love the charm of such unique cultural practices. They’ll often take a few photos just to prove that they’re not making it up to their American counterparts.
Museums and Galleries
England’s museums and galleries are world-class. The British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern offer incredible collections that captivate American visitors. Regardless of your age, you can indulge in art and feel suitably sophisticated.
The NHS
The National Health Service is admired by many Americans who wish for a similar public healthcare system. The idea of accessible, free healthcare is a big draw for those curious about how it works. Once they meet the wonderful NHS workers, it’s easy to see why the English embrace their healthcare system.
The Language
Sharing a common language makes travel easier. Americans appreciate that they can communicate effortlessly while still enjoying the charm of a different dialect and slang. That's not to say that all British dialects are always easy to decipher, but there's still a commonality between cultures that Americans can relate to.
Music Festivals
England hosts some of the best music festivals in the world. Glastonbury and Reading Festival attract music lovers from all over, including plenty of enthusiastic Americans. For Americans wanting to experience a taste of Woodstock, Glastonbury is where it’s at.
Diverse Cities
Cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham offer a rich mix of cultures, cuisines, and experiences. Americans love exploring these vibrant urban centers. The second capital, Birmingham is renowned for its Indian cuisine, with several well-known celebrities visiting some of their eateries.
Friendly Locals
Despite the uptight and stand-offish stereotypes, many Americans find Brits to be warm and welcoming. The friendliness of the locals makes their stay even more enjoyable. Once they venture into the North of England, they’re captivated by the kindness they experience.
The Mix of Old and New
England effortlessly blends the old with the new. Historic buildings stand alongside modern architecture, creating a unique and dynamic landscape that Americans find fascinating. The quirky Camden Market is a must-see and a popular location for Americans. It's easy to see why travelers are drawn to such a diverse part of England.
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