10 things you shouldn't say to southerners living in the north

It's not all London you know!

Land's End / Tower of London
Author: Anna Sky MagliolaPublished 4th Mar 2024

England is quite a small country in comparison to others, but despite its size, there are a lot of regional differences with traditions and accents.

If you're originally from the South of England and now live in the North, or vice versa, then you might have been asked some of these slightly awkward questions, there are some great responses if you get caught off guard.

It doesn't matter if you have lived in the North for five days, or five years, or even 50 years, your accent might reveal your 'true' identity.

Here are 10 things you shouldn't say to southerners living in the north:

You sound posh

"It's actually just my accent!"

Are you from London?

"Er, no! There's a lot more to the South than just London you know!"

Did you live in a mansion?

"No, my house was an average size!"

You're too polite

"Thanks for the compliment!"

People aren't friendly down south are they?

"There are friendly people all over the country..."

You sound like a Londoner

"Ummm..."

It's not gl-ar-ss its glass it's, not b-ar-th it's bath

"To-may-to, to-mar-to!"

Did you go to a posh school?

"No, I just went to an average school."

It's not that far from Cornwall to London is it?

"Just a FEW hours drive!"

You soft southerner!

"Yup! I get cold!"

Are you guilty of asking these questions, or making these statements? Or... are you on the receiving end of them?

Now read:

You know you're in Lancashire when...

10 facts you might not know about Lancashire

29 phrases you'll only understand if you're from Lancashire

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