British Greetings: How to Say Hello Like a Local

If you’ve ever wondered how to greet someone in the UK without sounding stiff, you’re in the right place. Brits have a range of informal and formal ways to say hello, and the right choice often depends on where you are and who you’re talking to. Below you’ll find the most useful phrases, when to drop them, and a few cultural clues that keep you from a cringe moment.

Everyday casual greetings

In most day‑to‑day situations you’ll hear "Hi" or "Hello". They’re safe, neutral, and work everywhere from a coffee shop in Manchester to a train platform in Edinburgh. If you want to sound a bit more relaxed, try "Hey". It’s common among friends and younger crowds, but avoid it in a formal business meeting unless the atmosphere is clearly informal.

Another handy phrase is "Alright?" (often shortened to "Alright"). It doubles as a greeting and a quick check‑in. You don’t need a detailed answer – a simple "Yeah, you?" or "Fine, thanks" is enough. This works best in the north of England, where it’s almost a default hello.

Regional twists and special cases

Scotland adds its own flavor with "Fit like?" (pronounced "fit‑like"). It means "How are you?" and is common in Glasgow and surrounding areas. In Wales you might hear "Shwmae" if you’re speaking Welsh, but most people will respond to English greetings without a problem.

When you meet someone for the first time in a professional setting, stick to "Good morning", "Good afternoon", or "Good evening". Pair it with a firm handshake and a smile – that’s the universal British business greeting. Avoid overly familiar phrases until the conversation moves to a more relaxed tone.

If you’re entering a pub after hours, you’ll often hear the bartender say "Evening" instead of a full "Good evening". Matching that short form shows you’re picking up on the local vibe.

One more tip: don’t over‑use "Cheers" as a greeting. It’s a popular way to say thanks or to close a toast, but using it to say hello can sound odd. Save it for the end of the conversation or when someone hands you a drink.

Now you have a quick cheat‑sheet of British greetings. Use "Hi" or "Hello" for safety, sprinkle in "Alright" for a bit of casual flair, and switch to regional phrases when you feel more comfortable. With these basics you’ll blend in on the streets of London, the pubs of Yorkshire, and the campuses of Bristol without missing a beat.