When visiting Britain, there are plenty of places to tick off your bucket list. This could include Big Ben in London and the scenic lakes at the Lake District. While taking in the sights, don’t forget to try out the local cuisine. Britain is a feast for the eyes and for the stomach too. Here are four British things you must try during your visit to the UK.
Indulge in a Full English Breakfast
English writer W. Somerset Maugham said, “to eat well in England, you should have breakfast three times a day.” Clearly, the Brits have got something going for them when it comes to starting the day right—although you can fully indulge in this meal all day long. Colloquially known as a fry up, it generally consists of fried sausages, bacon, eggs, beans, and toasted bread. As tradition goes, this hearty meal should be washed down with a cup of English tea. The full English breakfast is a century-old tradition that began in the 1300s. From posh hotels serving minute portions of beans to local pubs where you can get a hefty meal at a fraction of the price, the full English can be found all over England.
Chilled Out Weekend Brunch
If a full English Breakfast is too much to handle, then opt for brunch instead. Brunch is a portmanteau of breakfast and lunch, and although it is popular in the United States, it actually originated from England in the late 19th century. Today, brunch can consist of anything from pancakes and waffles to poached eggs and avocado on toast. Brunch is simply an in-between meal that you can partake in between breakfast and lunch. If you find yourself in London and looking for brunch and coffee near Liverpool Street, try Cafe Luca. They offer a Saturday brunch with a Mediterranean influence.
Sample an Afternoon Tea
Another British invention is afternoon tea. Introduced by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, afternoon tea was traditionally served late in the afternoon before the evening meal. Today, it typically consists of a selection of savory sandwiches, an array of cakes, and warm scones. A glass of champagne can be added if you want to go the extra mile. However, a pot of tea is a must. England is synonymous with tea. In fact, it is the most popular beverage in Britain, with over 100,000,000 cups of tea being consumed every day in the UK. A cup of tea can be enjoyed throughout the day, and tea is the perfect accompaniment to an indulgent afternoon tea.
Eat Fish and Chips at the Seaside
There is nothing more British than fish and chips. In Britain, this fried meal can be found in chip shops, cafes, and even in some restaurants. The fish is usually cod or haddock, and it is coated in a batter and then fried until golden. Chips are basically the UK equivalent to fries. The main difference is that they are larger in size, and they are usually twice, or thrice, deep-fried. Although it can be found anywhere in Britain, the best place to enjoy a portion of fish and chips is at the seaside. If you are taking a trip to a seaside resort, or a coastal town such as Whitby or Brighton, then try out this hearty meal while taking in the seaside scenery.
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