UK city named unfriendliest place as only 48% of people say 'thank you'

London might have its iconic landmarks and bustling streets, but when it comes to friendliness, it seems the capital is lagging behind. Brits have dubbed London as the UK's unfriendliest city, citing a scarcity of small talk and the rare occurrence of thanking bus drivers as key reasons.

Meanwhile, up north, residents are basking in the glow of warm Northern hospitality. According to a survey by mineral water brand Aqua Pura, which polled 2,000 people, 54% affirm that the North boasts the friendliest folks, whereas a mere 12% believe Southerners exude warmth.

The survey highlighted specific London habits deemed discourteous note that just 48% of Londoners bother to thank their cabbie, unlike a gracious 79% of Northern Irish patrons and 76% from the North West.

And it doesn't stop there; even the battle of the sexes plays out differently on London buses. While a commendable 71% of women consistently express gratitude to bus drivers, only 53% of men can say the same.

Terri Cooper of Aqua Pura remarks on the findings: "It's not surprising that Northerners have been voted as the friendliest, we enjoy a good natter on the bus and always thank the bus driver.", reports the Mirror.

But there's more to London than meets the eye; despite its frosty rep, a notable 23% of Londoners say they're typically game for a chat on public transit, with the Elizabeth line crowned the most convivial. However, the Northern line?

Only 4% give it thumbs up for friendliness.

However, if you're not a fan of small talk with strangers on public transport, then East England might be the place for you. In this region, 14 per cent of people admitted they would never strike up a conversation with someone they didn't know.