Culture, what is it? English culture can be described by many things such as their history and literature, art galleries and museums, food or music and education. It’s the learned way of life and can include habits, attitudes, beliefs, customs, art, food, what they wear, and their rituals. Each region or area is prone to having their own distinct set of learned activities that will set them apart from other cultures. When you think of England what is the first thing that pops into your head that distinguishes it in your mind from anywhere else? Is it the Tower of London or perhaps Windsor Castle?

Many visitors to England are surprised at the amount of attractions that seem to be on every corner. There are Historic homes and Churches to see, museums and galleries to explore and many a monument to view. These are the things that influence the culture in those areas. Most people may have the view of British people having the “stiff-upper lip,” the idea that they are emotionless compared to other more boisterous nationalities. Perhaps they are quieter and calmer then other nationalities, but that is the culture they have established.

Higher education is prevalent throughout England with some of the world’s most prestigious universities, such as Oxford and Cambridge. Furthering your education is highly rated in English culture, being a hub for so much diversification in business it is important that younger generations are able to continue with the precedence that has been set by older generations. Along with Oxford and Cambridge, England also has the Imperial College, the University College of the University of London and the London School of Economics.

Music can be very influential on people and the amazing talent that has come out of England to bless the rest of us with its gifts include such artists as: The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Cream, The Kinks, The Who, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and Pink Floyd. Some of the world’s leading contemporary artists have come from England including: Eric Clapton, Elton John, David Bowie, George Michael, The Spice Girls, Oasis, Muse, Coldplay Radio Head and Robbie Williams. We should also not forget the movies that have originated out of England of have been influenced by it, such as the James Bond series, Star Wars, and of course the huge success of the Harry Potter phenomena.

We should also not forget the amazing literature that has come out of England including Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, Thomas Hardy and the Lake Poets. Also not to be forgotten Agatha Christie’s mystery novels that are only outsold by Shakespeare and The Bible.

The cultural aspects of England not only affect England but have far reaching effects throughout the world and thank goodness for them. We can only imagine what it would have been like if Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and others had not been “found” and spread throughout the world.