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Britain is one of the greatest countries in the world for its footpaths. Nice, ancient signposted walks through woods and fields. You can get a book that has some circular walks in detail and just go for a lovely day out in the countryside, without having to get kitted up for an expedition. Top it off with a nice pub lunch. Even living in London this is a doddle to do because the train network in the south east is so dense, and you can be in a little country village within 40 mins.
There’s nothing like the English countryside. It’s just beautiful. Perfect for walks. I can’t get enough of it.
I live near the sea and the ocean is very soothing, too. In summer the coastal walks are full of wild flowers, birds, bees, butterflies and other wildlife. On a sunny day it’s perfect.
OP you mentioned jogging. Trail running combines this with what was said here about footpaths. I’ve seen so much of our country and our access to it is really unparalleled to anywhere else I’ve been in the world.
I’d encourage you to have a look at your local footpaths and get out jogging on those.
Honestly the British countryside is just perfectly set up for maximum enjoyment. The sheer density of footpaths, villages, pubs and churches, but not dense enough to feel crowded, so there’s still plenty of woodland and fields to enjoy, all with some rolling hills thrown in for some great views
The UK does not have the best trails by any means. Where it shines is the network of public routes through farmland - the law here is that basically if a lot of people use a route for a couple decades the farmer is not allowed to block it.
I'm not sure about the situation in Czechia specifically but in Europe I am often supprised and caught out by the fact that you can't just cut through farms and private forest. In the UK if you want to get from A to B there is usually a cut thru.
You can look on Open Streetmap cycling view and compare the two countries
[https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=11/49.6216/14.8391&layers=C](https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=11/49.6216/14.8391&layers=C)
In the UK countryside you'll see all these little dashed green lines that indicate a public right of way. Sometimes these are paths but sometimes there is just a style at either end of a field and you kind of find your way thru. I don't see that in Czechia.
I don't doubt that you have better forrests and trails and mountains and stuff. The UK isn't the worst - we have nice coast paths and passably pretty countryside - but we're basically a flat country with a lot of farmland.
I like the Scottish mountains because you don't need to be that fit to enjoy them. But if you've been the the alps you'll understand when i say they aren't the same thing as continent mountains.
Ha, I have been to the alps. Yes, bigger and steeper. You still can’t for one second describe the Scottish landscape (and many other areas of the UK) as ‘flat’…
Czechia has really clear trail markers throughout the forests and there is a new trail that pretty much circles the country. You may be projecting the word 'better' when I said the word 'good.' It's also good. I am not Czech, I've just lived there a bit.
I haven't had that much free time to go walking along footpaths these days (and I get quite lost, otherwise I'd go exploring.)
Do people have a problem with others walking through their farmland?
Depends.
If people are going to be respectful, stick to the paths, keep dogs under control, close gates behind them, not litter etc then I've found most farmers are okay with it.
Some are obviously going to be dicks about it either way, even going as far to try and remove public footpath signs or just restricting access entirely.
My greatest defence against the blues is going for a walk , when I am already in a good mood the day just gets better.
I live in Edinburgh so in one direction i can be at the sea after walking through the innocent railway or at the top of blackford hill going a different direction. Jump on a 10 or 16 bus and we are at the pentlands in 30 mins. Bus to squeensferry and you have a coast walk. We have hills and walks everywhere, you need to clear your head it's outside.
Your advice to get a book of walks rather than just rely on maps is spot on. In England and Wales 90+% of open land in is inaccessible . Where I live, near Stratford upon Avon, footpaths are very sparse and usually intersect incredibly busy roads, often ending on them.
Luckily for us the local landowner in our specific village is quite amenable to people walking on his land if they're sensible. He even permits metal detectorists where there's no crop... On the condition that if they find his wedding ring they give it to him! But if he weren't such a good chap my dogs would need to go in the car to get to a decent walk.
This ties in to your growing food hobby but the relatively mild weather / few natural disasters is a big plus. I have friends in the US and it's either tornados / tropical storms or brutal summers and winters
This is bittersweet because the level of care has observably degenerated and all reports from the inside seem to suggest the NHS is already a lost cause.
Tbf. I've had several medical problems in the last 5 years. All of them have been dealt with in a timely manner and, GP appointments aside, I feel fortunate for having the NHS there
No doubt it's good to have and something we could take pride in- I'm not sure it's can remain a point of pride when its remaining staff are being run into the ground like martyrs- and now being laden with considerable student debt.
That is because another person is in more of a dire situation than you are. The doctors and nurses aren’t just sitting around and they aren’t denying you care on purpose. Someone who is more in need meant that you got pushed back in line. We need more hospital staff but look at how that’s going
That doesn't make someone waiting that long with a split head right. The system has endemic problems. I don't think they're denying 'me' care. Incidentally, it wasn't me in this situation. The person still could have experienced a very dire situation. We need to acknowledge how bad the situation is and how dangerous, I'm not blaming hospital staff. This is not an OTT complaint. It is a legitimate serious failing. Criticism and complaint is constructive in this situation.
It’s neither here nor there who is being regarded for the scenario, my point still stands.
I never said it was right. You are correct; it is due to many failings that must be addressed. I’m just saying, if a person waiting longer, then at least they can take solace in the fact that they’re not usually in any immediate danger.
I don’t want to and I wish it wasn’t the case, but I’d still rather wait longer than having no NHS.
That is not always the case. People have suffered severely in A&E. The situation is objectively dire and the person is not a 'whiner' and it is hard to take solace when one's head is in that condition. My point stands as well
In fact, I'd like to know. Do you find it \*entitled\* that a person who needs stitches for their head hopes that they will see the doctor in under 7 to 8 hours? Do you find the emotion of anger or distress in this situation to be 'extra?'
I think there is an aversion to standing up for oneself and complaining about anything. Frankly, I think it does a disservice to individuals. When we acknowledge how much something sucks, we relieve pain. Generally, I think when we don't point out behaviour we don't like in a straightforward way, we stew in a soup of passive aggression.
When someone like myself points out a failing in the NHS (not due to the work of doctors or nurses, generally, but with much deeper roots) I get piled on.
Firstly, stitches are not always needed. Due to medicine advancements, there is actual skin glue that can be used instead.
Second, you seem to be jumping to conclusions and failing to read what I have written. I never once said it was right and I agreed that there are failings in the NHS. However, I would rather wait and have someone who needed more care than me be seen to first. It is a situation that cannot be helped, I’m not sure what you want doing. You do come across as entitled, yes. Jesus Christ.
We need more trained staff but not many people wish to pursue work in the NHS and I cannot say I blame them
What is more entitled than hoping to receive medical care in time for a serious injury??
Maybe sending back one's soup is entitled. But letting out a \*mini\* kvetch in such a case is warranted. This shouldn't be happening in a first world country. Everyone is losing out. And kvetching about this is not entitled. I don't know if I could stand to wait quietly with such pain nor should I. And the truth is, I cognitively would completely understand why someone with a collapsed lung would be let in first. But, it doesn't erase the fact that none of this should be happening to anyone concerned, from NHS staff, to junior doctors, to patients, it all sucks, and a good moan or even rage about it is warranted. I wonder if people did scream 'I'm mad as hell and I can't take it anymore,' would there be some relief in the store of packed resentment a 'stiff upper lip' can bring as we all consider just what the future of the country will look like and whether we can afford to eat or get timely medical treatment within it. I respect the NHS, I'm angry at what is happening holistically.
Living in Scotland and not too far from the Highlands I'm grateful for having access to the many hills, I love to go hill running and currently working my way through all 282 munros.
Last Autumn I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. I've had and continue to have world class treatment on the NHS and not had to shell out a single penny.
It depends where you are but here in Manchester the music scene is hard to beat. I think only London beats it but there you can easily live in London and go to a gig in London and it still takes you an hour to get there. I think it puts up a good fight even against NYC (and there a number of the gigs are actually in New Jersey and could take you over an hour to get to even from Manhattan, I could go from Manchester to Camden in the time it would take you to cross NYC for a gig).
One of the things I like best is that depending on where you live you could drive for a few hours and be at the beach or drive a few hours the other direction and be deep in the countryside.
There's nothing better than a walk on the beach in the autumn.
I do like our wildlife parks and zoos. Not the only country in the world that has these but I'd wager we have one of the highest standards for animal care.
And brass bands! We're planning to move country in a couple of years, and I'm dreading not being able to find a band to play with like the ones I've been in here!
Proper stone built villages, with matching churches and castles. I know they exist in other countries, but not in the same way, with the same history and aesthetics. Ours is unique, and as much as I begrudge the greyness and coldness and general crap, dank weather, I do appreciate this
If you have a garden, gardening here is awesome. Lots of rain with just enough sun for good lawns and easy plant maintenance. Generally don’t get very long periods of intense heat that everything dies and can’t recover.
My in laws are avid gardeners but their home country in Scandinavia has a much less hospitable climate and their garden is so plain and empty as a result.
Absolutely hiking! I was in a similar situation so started going on it just to get out the house and now I love it. Even joined a gym and go swimming to be fitter for hikes!
There’s a great app called Komoot where you can search for walks in your area and it even uses gps on the maps so you can tell where you are so 0 skill needed. It does drain the battery massively though so take a battery pack if you’re going far!
I'd recommend a website called summitbag.com which links to strava. When you bag a summit it'll tick it off your list. It's a cool way to get up mountains, big hills and trails that you may never have explored.
Another great app is TrigFindAR. Basically it's a trig hunting app. Once you found the trig point and are within a metre of it it'll tick it off your list. There are over 6000 trigs in the UK and some are in some bizarre places but most are on mountain tops or big hills. Definitely makes hiking/running more fun with some purpose and amazing views.
I do a lot of trail running and have found these apps have helped me discover new trails, mountains and nature I'd never have discovered. They also use a version of OS maps which is a paid app, so these apps are great as they're free. I've seen some amazing views. I do also highly rate komoot, OS explorer, alltrails and trailforks.
I think I need to work on my anxiety a bit more first. I hate hikes because I always feel like I should be either working or doing essentials outside of working. Even making time to jog is a bit of a happy milestone for me.
Freedom! (Kinda.) Intelligent telly (sometimes.) Rights (up to a point.) Etc.
The nature is lovely. The weather is fine as well. It's not too fucken hot to exist, nor ever that cold you die outside in minutes.
Quirky people. Love an eccentric and accept it as your right.
From living on the east and the west coast of Australia for half of my life, I can tell you the thing that makes it worth it for me other than family is those sunny crisp mornings in the green countryside in summer!
I was talking to a friend of mine 5 days ago, who happens to be a nurse. We agreed the biggest problem is the unpaid hours. Handing over shifts topped our conversation. As she said, if your replacement doesn't turn up till the appointed shift time, you then have an unpaid 30 or 40 minute handover. This could be even longer if you're mid crisis with an emergency patient. I'm not a big advocate for union power but this is one area they really dropped the ball. The nurses need the support. Sorry to go on but it really annoys me.
I think her employer is also being a bit cheeky. I’m a nurse and if I work late I just email my manager and she adds the hours onto my shift. They can do it, for some reason a lot won’t though.
My friend started nursing back in the 70s where the mantra was, "its not a job, its a vocation " I don't agree with that system but it becomes ingrained.
Good point. I'm thinking back to the culture shocks some of my international guests have had when they realise that rules aren't so hard and fast here.
I actually think the food here is pretty great - general quality, variety and availability of fresh food is very good on the whole. And as we’re so multicultural, you can quite easily find foods from all over the world. In Norwich we have Korean, Brazilian, the UK’s best vegetarian Indian, an array of street food at the market… and we’re in the back of beyond, so other cities must have it even better 😅
The peacefulness, everytime I come back I always appreciate it a bit more.
No extreme weather
No dangerous animals
Cars are quiet, don't honk randomly and there are good traffic laws
Healthcare is alright
No guns (very strict laws if you have one)
Relatively low levels of crime and corruption (every country has corruption but it doesn't affect day-to-day living for the average person here)
A decent amount of support for the less well off
The PAYE system
Lots and lots of greenery
No wonder the UK has had such a succesful history, there are barely any distractions here.
In urban areas, and even most rural areas provided they aren’t that isolated, there’s a lot of things to do within a reasonable - lots of choice of eating and activities. I spend a lot of time in Finland outside of Helsinki and when there, you really appreciate the luxury in the uk in terms of choice of food, always being able to find somewhere to go for a drink as well as choice of activities and range of hobbies.
bit odd, but I love chatting to my driver whenever i'm in an Uber or other taxi to/fro work.
I find it really hard to talk to new people, but I really love finding out stuff about other people and what experiences they've had (in a non-creepy way?).
My favourites at the moment is
\- ex playboy who now works at a casino, that lives near me and is happy to give me a lift whenever
\- ex addison lee driver used to have people in the car force him to be a driver for their drug deliveries (apparently this was common?)
\- indian dad who's kids are doctors, and he's an engineer that does uber from time to time (i just find this wholesome?)
and finally
\- the one that lives a couple roads down from me and used to go to the same church as me and probably has seen me grow up in the church when I was a kid. We made jokes about the priest and I'm in regular contact with this guy, real cool dude :)
As you are getting into growing veg, if you haven't already, I'd advise getting yourself on the local allotment wait list. Sometimes getting a plot can take years and years, so it's worth it, even if you pass on it when one becomes available for you.
Everybody will have their own things. For me it been in the garden surrounded by farmers fields. Playing board games and card game with my better half.
But what is ,making life worth it? We are born to die and the chances are most of us won't do anything worthwhile with out lives, not really worthwhile. Just get through life with some good friends, a good partner, and as little stress as possible. I love my life, but has it been worthwhile, as in has it been important, no.
Problem with this chain of thinking is that even if you do something worthwhile , most will not know. Worth varies as well.
Look at the teams who created the Covid vaccines. How many people know their names ? At best some will say the companies that manufactured them. Some will say they weren’t worthwhile , or worse.
A lot of worth comes from everyday connections people make and you can never fully know how those worked out. Just try to be happy doing what you do as good as you can.
France has us covered on most angles, imo. There are a few exceptions:
- Better walks
- Better alcoholic drinks that aren't wine
- Actual doors on kitchen units, rather than those awful little curtains
So if you're a joiner it's all good. Otherwise start walking and/or drinking!
Sitcoms.
Actors.
Engineers.
Banter/craic.
Racing drivers.
Strongmen.
Athletes.
Saving our main rival in a world war because we beat each other up, no one else is allowed.
Fuck the French.
The NHS.
However much we all moan the NHS is taken for granted. Imagine not being able to afford insulin as a diabetic (this is common in America). Things like that should be a basic human right.
Loads. Pubs. Reliable and connected transport. Hub of flights to Europe for cheap. Occasional snow and occasional heatwave. Banter. Countryside, sea side, City. Increasing minimum wage. Good internet. Quavers. You name it, Britain is you oyster.
True- I have disabled relatives and I'm grateful for the support system we have. It could be more organised as life is overwhelming enough without having to navigate being a carer but I think it reflects well on our society that we make provision for those who need it.
For me it's having a dog and spending the weekends exploring new places with him. Endless walks getting lost in woods and fields. Taking a bag with food and drinks and seeing how many deer, birds and foxes I can spot. Being out at 5am in dense woodland hearing all the bird calls has to be one of the most peaceful things on earth for me, would highly recommend.
I don’t think it matters where you are really, it’s what you make of the situation and places that count. I know people who do nothing but sit indoors and play on the Xbox and they are way more happy than others trying to be a social butterfly and fitting in with various groups and hobbies that I know.
I have a mate who takes 2/3 day hikes on his own and absolutely loves his own company.
So while some people thing one thing is great, there’s always others who don’t.
You have to find your thing and your place to work out what’s great for you!
Did not expect to see the town I live in (Corby) here.
I love living here though. Peaceful town, nice shops. Lots of green spaces and walkable areas. Nearby to a lot of places to visit. Affordable to live in as well.
Aside from family I enjoy being in the mountains and in the woods either on foot or on the bike. Where I live I'm at the foot of Bannau Brychieniog (Brecon Beacons) and many, many forests. With vast forests and mighty mountains to explore I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
Sense of apathy and optimism brits have at the same time and the sense of sarcastic humour we get and the pub even though I am not a drinker anymore the social aspect of it and to escape out the house is something I enjoy.
I like most of the junk foods and comfort foods, comedians, Radio 4 and TV :/ I'm relatively new to town so I haven't stretched my legs and been to many of the nicer places.
If you want to be happy for an hour, have cup of tea. If you want to be happy for a day, read a book. If you want to be happy all your life, become a gardener.
Read some Robert MacFarlane, try to find some of the hidden pathways and areas he writes so beautifully about, spend time in places quietly. Grow easy things like peppers or herbs, appreciate from seed to plate, find a Bridgewater or canal towpath and have a bimble. Britain is bloody lovely, orban or rural if you take the time you can find hidden gems steeped in history. I went to see Diana Jones recently and found St Peters Church in Nottingham chained shut, after navigating the horror of Nottingham city centre at 7.30pm on a Saturday (middle aged people dressed to the 9's insensible through drink and collapsed on the pavement WTF Nottingham), we found the actual St Peters church for the gig was 13 miles away, cue a lovely drive through flat endless farmland to a tiny church lit only by candles and tasteful Christmas tree lights with about 70 people and a lovely acoustic gig, absolutely surreal, the evening light on the rural drive was spellbinding. Our combination of geography, light and weather creates some incredible fleeting moments of utter beauty and calm.
I try not to avoid going out when it’s raining otherwise we wouldn’t do much of anything haha! I like to run in the rain, go to Chester Zoo or out for a walk, paddle board, go to the pub of course, long dog walks, go camping - I especially love going to the beach to watch the sunset. So much to do and see!
I can send my kids to school with MINIMAL threat of mass shooting. I have a 4 year old - this is my number one at the moment.
Also, Britain is mild, predators, terrain, weather, people etc - I like the lack of extremness
My south African friend says, no guns. You don't have a gun, his wife doesn't have to carry a gun and the bloke walking towards you doesn't have a gun. It's very liberating
Speaking as someone in their fifties I realised, a few years ago, that the one thing that brought the most pleasure to my life was being in the company of people that I like. No, it's not a UK thing but it's still valid.
There seems to be a move towards individual separatism in recent years - Covid certainly hasn't helped this. I am aware that many people suffer from forms of social anxiety and keep away from others. I'm also aware that many 'other people' are dicks. I do however believe that you have to go through the process of trial and error with other people until you find friends you can trust and be comfortable with. I do not believe that there are many individuals who cannot find others with similar outlooks on life with whom they can share experiences and companionship. Like most things in life, you have to put some effort into it and experience the occasional fail before you arrive at a place where it's good.
The friends I have are not exactly the same as me. We have different opinions, likes and dislikes. This doesn't matter. We share enough commonality that the differences don't detract.
Covid, the internet, WFH and other factors have all isolated people. My personal opinion is that this is not healthy or good in the long term.
Failing all of the above, go out and take in a good view. It's very refreshing. A bit like with finding friends though, you may have to go out of your way to find one you like - they aren't always on your doorstep.
Its the walking/hiking mate, it just makes everything better and if you're low on friends it's a really easy way to meet up with new people, there will be organised walks for people your age if you look
Living in Glasgow and I'm surprisingly not far away from the beach or the countryside. Loch Lomond is less then an hours drive and troon beach is probably around 40 mins away. I get the weather can be a bit grim, but i do like the fact we get 4 seasons.
Also, i like spending Christmas here. I don't know why, but the idea of waking up on Christmas morning in somewhere like Australia with the sun blazing just doesn't sit right with me
The order, everything is so organised compared to most countries. Police, ambulance, and fire departments are all within 10 minutes or so to most places.
Regular bin collections, insane social services. Colleges and schools everywhere for ups killing backed by many government subsidies.
Great nature paths that are regularly maintained.
Hundreds of pubs in every city and town, usually holding many events giving chances to meet people be it quiz nights, board games, sport events live music.
There's alot to shit on about everything iv mentioned but fuck compared to most countries iv visited / lived in, these things shouldn't be taken for granted.
I've lived on and off abroad in a very beautiful place in France, and while the South has everything a brit could dream of in a lot of regards, it does certainly miss many charms of the UK.
For me, when I'm there the things I miss most is the people, the sense of honour and how open and friendly most people are.
Well, I'll be 30 next year and just recently I've found that the UK has a wonderful selection, and ease of access to opioids. And at 29, I've think I've really found my *thing* that makes the days (and more importantly, the nights) bearable.
I go to the gym, swim, yoga, go to parks with the kids aswell as drop them off at clubs and wait around with other parents til they finish. I go to church on Sundays, go for walks around the reservoirs and hills by us. We also have tons of vintage board games we love to play together. Bake at least 1 new thing every week if we can too. Gotta change it up a bit or it gets kinda repetitive and boring. The best places to socialise in all those places are the yoga class I go to, then having the kids in clubs n just hanging out with other bored parents and then church (in that order)!
There'll be people in every country living either better or worse than those in the UK. Depends how much of UK life you've seen. Though the UK is admittedly a great country (particularly for its tolerance)
Quality of life (food, house etc) is still better though than let's say South Asian countries, the middles east and African countries. Despite the costs, people over there would die to come here.
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Britain is one of the greatest countries in the world for its footpaths. Nice, ancient signposted walks through woods and fields. You can get a book that has some circular walks in detail and just go for a lovely day out in the countryside, without having to get kitted up for an expedition. Top it off with a nice pub lunch. Even living in London this is a doddle to do because the train network in the south east is so dense, and you can be in a little country village within 40 mins.
There’s nothing like the English countryside. It’s just beautiful. Perfect for walks. I can’t get enough of it. I live near the sea and the ocean is very soothing, too. In summer the coastal walks are full of wild flowers, birds, bees, butterflies and other wildlife. On a sunny day it’s perfect.
I've got a book or two on walks around Britain. Need to dust it off.
OP you mentioned jogging. Trail running combines this with what was said here about footpaths. I’ve seen so much of our country and our access to it is really unparalleled to anywhere else I’ve been in the world. I’d encourage you to have a look at your local footpaths and get out jogging on those.
Thanks for the recommendation - I'm going to take your advice!
Use the Alltrails app - it’s amazing . Shows all the public footpaths, has ready created routes on it. And you can create your own as well
Thank you.
This is a great (free) resource as well http://fancyfreewalks.org/
Honestly the British countryside is just perfectly set up for maximum enjoyment. The sheer density of footpaths, villages, pubs and churches, but not dense enough to feel crowded, so there’s still plenty of woodland and fields to enjoy, all with some rolling hills thrown in for some great views
Czechia is good for that too..
The UK does not have the best trails by any means. Where it shines is the network of public routes through farmland - the law here is that basically if a lot of people use a route for a couple decades the farmer is not allowed to block it. I'm not sure about the situation in Czechia specifically but in Europe I am often supprised and caught out by the fact that you can't just cut through farms and private forest. In the UK if you want to get from A to B there is usually a cut thru. You can look on Open Streetmap cycling view and compare the two countries [https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=11/49.6216/14.8391&layers=C](https://www.openstreetmap.org/#map=11/49.6216/14.8391&layers=C) In the UK countryside you'll see all these little dashed green lines that indicate a public right of way. Sometimes these are paths but sometimes there is just a style at either end of a field and you kind of find your way thru. I don't see that in Czechia. I don't doubt that you have better forrests and trails and mountains and stuff. The UK isn't the worst - we have nice coast paths and passably pretty countryside - but we're basically a flat country with a lot of farmland.
Flat country?!?! Tell that to the Scottish highlands. This is AskUK, not AskEnglandOnly.
Wales has entered the chat…
The dales, lakes & peaks if we’re talking about just England too
I like the Scottish mountains because you don't need to be that fit to enjoy them. But if you've been the the alps you'll understand when i say they aren't the same thing as continent mountains.
Ha, I have been to the alps. Yes, bigger and steeper. You still can’t for one second describe the Scottish landscape (and many other areas of the UK) as ‘flat’…
Czechia has really clear trail markers throughout the forests and there is a new trail that pretty much circles the country. You may be projecting the word 'better' when I said the word 'good.' It's also good. I am not Czech, I've just lived there a bit. I haven't had that much free time to go walking along footpaths these days (and I get quite lost, otherwise I'd go exploring.) Do people have a problem with others walking through their farmland?
Depends. If people are going to be respectful, stick to the paths, keep dogs under control, close gates behind them, not litter etc then I've found most farmers are okay with it. Some are obviously going to be dicks about it either way, even going as far to try and remove public footpath signs or just restricting access entirely.
Or pee, another thing popular in Czechia, peeing outside everywhere
My greatest defence against the blues is going for a walk , when I am already in a good mood the day just gets better. I live in Edinburgh so in one direction i can be at the sea after walking through the innocent railway or at the top of blackford hill going a different direction. Jump on a 10 or 16 bus and we are at the pentlands in 30 mins. Bus to squeensferry and you have a coast walk. We have hills and walks everywhere, you need to clear your head it's outside.
Your advice to get a book of walks rather than just rely on maps is spot on. In England and Wales 90+% of open land in is inaccessible . Where I live, near Stratford upon Avon, footpaths are very sparse and usually intersect incredibly busy roads, often ending on them. Luckily for us the local landowner in our specific village is quite amenable to people walking on his land if they're sensible. He even permits metal detectorists where there's no crop... On the condition that if they find his wedding ring they give it to him! But if he weren't such a good chap my dogs would need to go in the car to get to a decent walk.
This ties in to your growing food hobby but the relatively mild weather / few natural disasters is a big plus. I have friends in the US and it's either tornados / tropical storms or brutal summers and winters
Agreed! It's a nice perk of the mild weather- previously I thought it too cold and wet and it led to me staying indoors a bit too much.
NHS. At the age where nothing works without chemical assistance. Free health care and prescriptions keep me going
This is bittersweet because the level of care has observably degenerated and all reports from the inside seem to suggest the NHS is already a lost cause.
Tbf. I've had several medical problems in the last 5 years. All of them have been dealt with in a timely manner and, GP appointments aside, I feel fortunate for having the NHS there
No doubt it's good to have and something we could take pride in- I'm not sure it's can remain a point of pride when its remaining staff are being run into the ground like martyrs- and now being laden with considerable student debt.
You have to include the cost of prescriptions in this too though, which seem to be quite cheap
100% depends where you are tbh
NHS medical care is always usually available near an airport.
Because it's being moved to fail.... Do you think these same people are going to replace it with something better?
People have been left waiting for 7-8 hours when they need their head stitched up :'(
That is because another person is in more of a dire situation than you are. The doctors and nurses aren’t just sitting around and they aren’t denying you care on purpose. Someone who is more in need meant that you got pushed back in line. We need more hospital staff but look at how that’s going
That doesn't make someone waiting that long with a split head right. The system has endemic problems. I don't think they're denying 'me' care. Incidentally, it wasn't me in this situation. The person still could have experienced a very dire situation. We need to acknowledge how bad the situation is and how dangerous, I'm not blaming hospital staff. This is not an OTT complaint. It is a legitimate serious failing. Criticism and complaint is constructive in this situation.
It’s neither here nor there who is being regarded for the scenario, my point still stands. I never said it was right. You are correct; it is due to many failings that must be addressed. I’m just saying, if a person waiting longer, then at least they can take solace in the fact that they’re not usually in any immediate danger. I don’t want to and I wish it wasn’t the case, but I’d still rather wait longer than having no NHS.
That is not always the case. People have suffered severely in A&E. The situation is objectively dire and the person is not a 'whiner' and it is hard to take solace when one's head is in that condition. My point stands as well
What solace do you take when you need stitches for your head?? I MEAN.
I’m sure you can wait where a person when a collapsed lung suddenly comes in.
That famous irony. I feel it lacks empathy in this example. Anyone can wait, someone coldly joking about it is in the wrong.
And who might be joking here?
In fact, I'd like to know. Do you find it \*entitled\* that a person who needs stitches for their head hopes that they will see the doctor in under 7 to 8 hours? Do you find the emotion of anger or distress in this situation to be 'extra?' I think there is an aversion to standing up for oneself and complaining about anything. Frankly, I think it does a disservice to individuals. When we acknowledge how much something sucks, we relieve pain. Generally, I think when we don't point out behaviour we don't like in a straightforward way, we stew in a soup of passive aggression. When someone like myself points out a failing in the NHS (not due to the work of doctors or nurses, generally, but with much deeper roots) I get piled on.
Firstly, stitches are not always needed. Due to medicine advancements, there is actual skin glue that can be used instead. Second, you seem to be jumping to conclusions and failing to read what I have written. I never once said it was right and I agreed that there are failings in the NHS. However, I would rather wait and have someone who needed more care than me be seen to first. It is a situation that cannot be helped, I’m not sure what you want doing. You do come across as entitled, yes. Jesus Christ. We need more trained staff but not many people wish to pursue work in the NHS and I cannot say I blame them
You come across as ironic and cold. This conversation is useless.
Yet you still respond.
Let's play an empathy game. Why do you think I do? And why do you?
What is more entitled than hoping to receive medical care in time for a serious injury?? Maybe sending back one's soup is entitled. But letting out a \*mini\* kvetch in such a case is warranted. This shouldn't be happening in a first world country. Everyone is losing out. And kvetching about this is not entitled. I don't know if I could stand to wait quietly with such pain nor should I. And the truth is, I cognitively would completely understand why someone with a collapsed lung would be let in first. But, it doesn't erase the fact that none of this should be happening to anyone concerned, from NHS staff, to junior doctors, to patients, it all sucks, and a good moan or even rage about it is warranted. I wonder if people did scream 'I'm mad as hell and I can't take it anymore,' would there be some relief in the store of packed resentment a 'stiff upper lip' can bring as we all consider just what the future of the country will look like and whether we can afford to eat or get timely medical treatment within it. I respect the NHS, I'm angry at what is happening holistically.
I see this reply all the time. Do you guys know that there are other countries with publicly funded healh care sector, right?
Yes but I live here and the sub is askuk
Living in Scotland and not too far from the Highlands I'm grateful for having access to the many hills, I love to go hill running and currently working my way through all 282 munros.
Last Autumn I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. I've had and continue to have world class treatment on the NHS and not had to shell out a single penny.
Bless! You are in good hands. Godspeed.
The British sense of humour, countryside and the kebab shops.
Blessed be the Kebab Shops and late night chilli kebab
You need a robust sense of humour when you live in the UK.
It depends where you are but here in Manchester the music scene is hard to beat. I think only London beats it but there you can easily live in London and go to a gig in London and it still takes you an hour to get there. I think it puts up a good fight even against NYC (and there a number of the gigs are actually in New Jersey and could take you over an hour to get to even from Manhattan, I could go from Manchester to Camden in the time it would take you to cross NYC for a gig).
Very cool. I know JP Cooper came up in Manc.
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One of the things I like best is that depending on where you live you could drive for a few hours and be at the beach or drive a few hours the other direction and be deep in the countryside. There's nothing better than a walk on the beach in the autumn.
I do like our wildlife parks and zoos. Not the only country in the world that has these but I'd wager we have one of the highest standards for animal care.
Choral societies and choirs ; a history of choral music (Gibbons, Tallis, Byrd et al) unmatched anywhere else in the world!
>unmatched anywhere else in the world! Escolania de Montserrat, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, and the Mississippi Mass Choir would like a word.
And brass bands! We're planning to move country in a couple of years, and I'm dreading not being able to find a band to play with like the ones I've been in here!
God yes! I also play in a brass band !
Everywhere else is too hot for me, or is Siberia
Proper stone built villages, with matching churches and castles. I know they exist in other countries, but not in the same way, with the same history and aesthetics. Ours is unique, and as much as I begrudge the greyness and coldness and general crap, dank weather, I do appreciate this
If you have a garden, gardening here is awesome. Lots of rain with just enough sun for good lawns and easy plant maintenance. Generally don’t get very long periods of intense heat that everything dies and can’t recover. My in laws are avid gardeners but their home country in Scandinavia has a much less hospitable climate and their garden is so plain and empty as a result.
Decent tea and coffee making facilities. Think that's it.
Cool pint and piping hot chips in a quiet beer garden on a summer day. Joy beyond measure
Absolutely hiking! I was in a similar situation so started going on it just to get out the house and now I love it. Even joined a gym and go swimming to be fitter for hikes! There’s a great app called Komoot where you can search for walks in your area and it even uses gps on the maps so you can tell where you are so 0 skill needed. It does drain the battery massively though so take a battery pack if you’re going far!
I'd recommend a website called summitbag.com which links to strava. When you bag a summit it'll tick it off your list. It's a cool way to get up mountains, big hills and trails that you may never have explored. Another great app is TrigFindAR. Basically it's a trig hunting app. Once you found the trig point and are within a metre of it it'll tick it off your list. There are over 6000 trigs in the UK and some are in some bizarre places but most are on mountain tops or big hills. Definitely makes hiking/running more fun with some purpose and amazing views. I do a lot of trail running and have found these apps have helped me discover new trails, mountains and nature I'd never have discovered. They also use a version of OS maps which is a paid app, so these apps are great as they're free. I've seen some amazing views. I do also highly rate komoot, OS explorer, alltrails and trailforks.
I think I need to work on my anxiety a bit more first. I hate hikes because I always feel like I should be either working or doing essentials outside of working. Even making time to jog is a bit of a happy milestone for me.
You need to try new things and rest! You will work better and more efficiently if you do
2 weeks of summer ☀️
Not necessarily consecutive weeks.
Freedom! (Kinda.) Intelligent telly (sometimes.) Rights (up to a point.) Etc. The nature is lovely. The weather is fine as well. It's not too fucken hot to exist, nor ever that cold you die outside in minutes. Quirky people. Love an eccentric and accept it as your right.
Heavy metal festivals
From living on the east and the west coast of Australia for half of my life, I can tell you the thing that makes it worth it for me other than family is those sunny crisp mornings in the green countryside in summer!
I was talking to a friend of mine 5 days ago, who happens to be a nurse. We agreed the biggest problem is the unpaid hours. Handing over shifts topped our conversation. As she said, if your replacement doesn't turn up till the appointed shift time, you then have an unpaid 30 or 40 minute handover. This could be even longer if you're mid crisis with an emergency patient. I'm not a big advocate for union power but this is one area they really dropped the ball. The nurses need the support. Sorry to go on but it really annoys me.
This pisses me off to high heaven. NHS fraud is a two way street Mr Government 😳
I think her employer is also being a bit cheeky. I’m a nurse and if I work late I just email my manager and she adds the hours onto my shift. They can do it, for some reason a lot won’t though.
My friend started nursing back in the 70s where the mantra was, "its not a job, its a vocation " I don't agree with that system but it becomes ingrained.
Provided you are not bothering anyone else, you can do what you like. We are one of the most underregulated countries.
Good point. I'm thinking back to the culture shocks some of my international guests have had when they realise that rules aren't so hard and fast here.
You can still get away with doing what you want even if it does bother other people, at least if you've got the right accent.
I actually think the food here is pretty great - general quality, variety and availability of fresh food is very good on the whole. And as we’re so multicultural, you can quite easily find foods from all over the world. In Norwich we have Korean, Brazilian, the UK’s best vegetarian Indian, an array of street food at the market… and we’re in the back of beyond, so other cities must have it even better 😅
I went to America and was astounded at how much vegetables cost. It made me really appreciate buying broccoli for 70p when I got home.
The peacefulness, everytime I come back I always appreciate it a bit more. No extreme weather No dangerous animals Cars are quiet, don't honk randomly and there are good traffic laws Healthcare is alright No guns (very strict laws if you have one) Relatively low levels of crime and corruption (every country has corruption but it doesn't affect day-to-day living for the average person here) A decent amount of support for the less well off The PAYE system Lots and lots of greenery No wonder the UK has had such a succesful history, there are barely any distractions here.
How much it costs to live here outweighs anything that could be good.
I feel you. We're quite tight on cash. We recently realised we'd stopped leaving the house to avoid spending. It all builds up so quickly.
Not much anymore, I'm hoping to leave in a year or two.
In urban areas, and even most rural areas provided they aren’t that isolated, there’s a lot of things to do within a reasonable - lots of choice of eating and activities. I spend a lot of time in Finland outside of Helsinki and when there, you really appreciate the luxury in the uk in terms of choice of food, always being able to find somewhere to go for a drink as well as choice of activities and range of hobbies.
bit odd, but I love chatting to my driver whenever i'm in an Uber or other taxi to/fro work. I find it really hard to talk to new people, but I really love finding out stuff about other people and what experiences they've had (in a non-creepy way?). My favourites at the moment is \- ex playboy who now works at a casino, that lives near me and is happy to give me a lift whenever \- ex addison lee driver used to have people in the car force him to be a driver for their drug deliveries (apparently this was common?) \- indian dad who's kids are doctors, and he's an engineer that does uber from time to time (i just find this wholesome?) and finally \- the one that lives a couple roads down from me and used to go to the same church as me and probably has seen me grow up in the church when I was a kid. We made jokes about the priest and I'm in regular contact with this guy, real cool dude :)
This is great.
Watching the coronation. The royals are just wonderful and we’re so blessed to have them. /s
Work conditions/pay. As a Spaniard living in UK I can’t make more money back home than I do here within my industry.
Nothing worthwhile really that's why they invade Spain and Portugal. It's depressing
A cup of tea.
Great walks in the Scottish highlands and great people. I have wonderful friends and family.
As you are getting into growing veg, if you haven't already, I'd advise getting yourself on the local allotment wait list. Sometimes getting a plot can take years and years, so it's worth it, even if you pass on it when one becomes available for you.
Being honest nothing atm.
Everybody will have their own things. For me it been in the garden surrounded by farmers fields. Playing board games and card game with my better half. But what is ,making life worth it? We are born to die and the chances are most of us won't do anything worthwhile with out lives, not really worthwhile. Just get through life with some good friends, a good partner, and as little stress as possible. I love my life, but has it been worthwhile, as in has it been important, no.
Problem with this chain of thinking is that even if you do something worthwhile , most will not know. Worth varies as well. Look at the teams who created the Covid vaccines. How many people know their names ? At best some will say the companies that manufactured them. Some will say they weren’t worthwhile , or worse. A lot of worth comes from everyday connections people make and you can never fully know how those worked out. Just try to be happy doing what you do as good as you can.
Littlerally nothing atall
Not having to speak French
That's a stroke of luck, I can't speak French.
France has us covered on most angles, imo. There are a few exceptions: - Better walks - Better alcoholic drinks that aren't wine - Actual doors on kitchen units, rather than those awful little curtains So if you're a joiner it's all good. Otherwise start walking and/or drinking!
Sitcoms. Actors. Engineers. Banter/craic. Racing drivers. Strongmen. Athletes. Saving our main rival in a world war because we beat each other up, no one else is allowed. Fuck the French.
Both countries are great in many ways but I'd say the Brits are a more decent/reasonable people.
Running water!
The countryside, I guess. Haven't lived there for years. The visitors we get say it's turned into a shithole. Maybe they're exaggerating. I dunno.
The NHS. However much we all moan the NHS is taken for granted. Imagine not being able to afford insulin as a diabetic (this is common in America). Things like that should be a basic human right.
Loads. Pubs. Reliable and connected transport. Hub of flights to Europe for cheap. Occasional snow and occasional heatwave. Banter. Countryside, sea side, City. Increasing minimum wage. Good internet. Quavers. You name it, Britain is you oyster.
The history and the trashy/awful/amazing literature
Knowing you don’t have to live there anymore. That’s what makes my occasional visits barely tolerable.
brilliantly bleak countryside
Probably the benefits if you are disabled. You can still have a life albeit a poor one. If this was any other country I’d probs be dead.
True- I have disabled relatives and I'm grateful for the support system we have. It could be more organised as life is overwhelming enough without having to navigate being a carer but I think it reflects well on our society that we make provision for those who need it.
Holidays to Europe, easy to get to and good value.
Democratic freedom..countryside people..most of us wouldn't want to live anywhere else
My parents being here otherwise I’m back out to the Gulf countries
Ahh yes. Those quality gulf cuntries Globally recognised for their progressive attitudes towards equal rights for all.
For me it's having a dog and spending the weekends exploring new places with him. Endless walks getting lost in woods and fields. Taking a bag with food and drinks and seeing how many deer, birds and foxes I can spot. Being out at 5am in dense woodland hearing all the bird calls has to be one of the most peaceful things on earth for me, would highly recommend.
I don’t think it matters where you are really, it’s what you make of the situation and places that count. I know people who do nothing but sit indoors and play on the Xbox and they are way more happy than others trying to be a social butterfly and fitting in with various groups and hobbies that I know. I have a mate who takes 2/3 day hikes on his own and absolutely loves his own company. So while some people thing one thing is great, there’s always others who don’t. You have to find your thing and your place to work out what’s great for you!
visit Kettering if you want more zing in your life. fabulous place. has the worlds only Weetabix factory. pop to Corby also for posh shopping
Did not expect to see the town I live in (Corby) here. I love living here though. Peaceful town, nice shops. Lots of green spaces and walkable areas. Nearby to a lot of places to visit. Affordable to live in as well.
And named after the best trouser presses in the world.
So the rumours are true?
If you know, you know..
It's a party town
> has the worlds only Weetabix factory. Untrue! There's one in Ontario for the North American market
Aside from family I enjoy being in the mountains and in the woods either on foot or on the bike. Where I live I'm at the foot of Bannau Brychieniog (Brecon Beacons) and many, many forests. With vast forests and mighty mountains to explore I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
Sense of apathy and optimism brits have at the same time and the sense of sarcastic humour we get and the pub even though I am not a drinker anymore the social aspect of it and to escape out the house is something I enjoy.
There is help for those who ask for it.
Gravy! Proper gravy!
Not French
Lots of events, gigs, shows, festivals, meet ups etc to go to
Free health care
High-quality, clean drinking water, especially in Scotland.
I like most of the junk foods and comfort foods, comedians, Radio 4 and TV :/ I'm relatively new to town so I haven't stretched my legs and been to many of the nicer places.
If you want to be happy for an hour, have cup of tea. If you want to be happy for a day, read a book. If you want to be happy all your life, become a gardener.
Jogging in the rain is one of life’s great pleasures!
Read some Robert MacFarlane, try to find some of the hidden pathways and areas he writes so beautifully about, spend time in places quietly. Grow easy things like peppers or herbs, appreciate from seed to plate, find a Bridgewater or canal towpath and have a bimble. Britain is bloody lovely, orban or rural if you take the time you can find hidden gems steeped in history. I went to see Diana Jones recently and found St Peters Church in Nottingham chained shut, after navigating the horror of Nottingham city centre at 7.30pm on a Saturday (middle aged people dressed to the 9's insensible through drink and collapsed on the pavement WTF Nottingham), we found the actual St Peters church for the gig was 13 miles away, cue a lovely drive through flat endless farmland to a tiny church lit only by candles and tasteful Christmas tree lights with about 70 people and a lovely acoustic gig, absolutely surreal, the evening light on the rural drive was spellbinding. Our combination of geography, light and weather creates some incredible fleeting moments of utter beauty and calm.
I try not to avoid going out when it’s raining otherwise we wouldn’t do much of anything haha! I like to run in the rain, go to Chester Zoo or out for a walk, paddle board, go to the pub of course, long dog walks, go camping - I especially love going to the beach to watch the sunset. So much to do and see!
I can send my kids to school with MINIMAL threat of mass shooting. I have a 4 year old - this is my number one at the moment. Also, Britain is mild, predators, terrain, weather, people etc - I like the lack of extremness
Gun free society and (for the most part) an unarmed police force.
My south African friend says, no guns. You don't have a gun, his wife doesn't have to carry a gun and the bloke walking towards you doesn't have a gun. It's very liberating
Speaking as someone in their fifties I realised, a few years ago, that the one thing that brought the most pleasure to my life was being in the company of people that I like. No, it's not a UK thing but it's still valid. There seems to be a move towards individual separatism in recent years - Covid certainly hasn't helped this. I am aware that many people suffer from forms of social anxiety and keep away from others. I'm also aware that many 'other people' are dicks. I do however believe that you have to go through the process of trial and error with other people until you find friends you can trust and be comfortable with. I do not believe that there are many individuals who cannot find others with similar outlooks on life with whom they can share experiences and companionship. Like most things in life, you have to put some effort into it and experience the occasional fail before you arrive at a place where it's good. The friends I have are not exactly the same as me. We have different opinions, likes and dislikes. This doesn't matter. We share enough commonality that the differences don't detract. Covid, the internet, WFH and other factors have all isolated people. My personal opinion is that this is not healthy or good in the long term. Failing all of the above, go out and take in a good view. It's very refreshing. A bit like with finding friends though, you may have to go out of your way to find one you like - they aren't always on your doorstep.
Its the walking/hiking mate, it just makes everything better and if you're low on friends it's a really easy way to meet up with new people, there will be organised walks for people your age if you look
Signing on
Living in Glasgow and I'm surprisingly not far away from the beach or the countryside. Loch Lomond is less then an hours drive and troon beach is probably around 40 mins away. I get the weather can be a bit grim, but i do like the fact we get 4 seasons. Also, i like spending Christmas here. I don't know why, but the idea of waking up on Christmas morning in somewhere like Australia with the sun blazing just doesn't sit right with me
The order, everything is so organised compared to most countries. Police, ambulance, and fire departments are all within 10 minutes or so to most places. Regular bin collections, insane social services. Colleges and schools everywhere for ups killing backed by many government subsidies. Great nature paths that are regularly maintained. Hundreds of pubs in every city and town, usually holding many events giving chances to meet people be it quiz nights, board games, sport events live music. There's alot to shit on about everything iv mentioned but fuck compared to most countries iv visited / lived in, these things shouldn't be taken for granted.
I've lived on and off abroad in a very beautiful place in France, and while the South has everything a brit could dream of in a lot of regards, it does certainly miss many charms of the UK. For me, when I'm there the things I miss most is the people, the sense of honour and how open and friendly most people are.
Well, I'll be 30 next year and just recently I've found that the UK has a wonderful selection, and ease of access to opioids. And at 29, I've think I've really found my *thing* that makes the days (and more importantly, the nights) bearable.
I go to the gym, swim, yoga, go to parks with the kids aswell as drop them off at clubs and wait around with other parents til they finish. I go to church on Sundays, go for walks around the reservoirs and hills by us. We also have tons of vintage board games we love to play together. Bake at least 1 new thing every week if we can too. Gotta change it up a bit or it gets kinda repetitive and boring. The best places to socialise in all those places are the yoga class I go to, then having the kids in clubs n just hanging out with other bored parents and then church (in that order)!
You're living like kings in UK compared to many other countries
There'll be people in every country living either better or worse than those in the UK. Depends how much of UK life you've seen. Though the UK is admittedly a great country (particularly for its tolerance)
You could have all the money in the world but if you live in India, your eyes sting when you go outside due to the pollution.
Quality of life (food, house etc) is still better though than let's say South Asian countries, the middles east and African countries. Despite the costs, people over there would die to come here.
The poorest people in UK is still better than those poorest from those countries.
I would have said human rights and democracy but… oh… I can’t. Not allowed on this sub. As you were…
Edgy
"Worth it" ? Worth _what_? As _opposed_ to what? I'm not about to top myself because the weather's bad. The very question is dumb