What is British hygge?

British Hygge: Top 5 Key Elements

• Comforting Teas: Enjoying a warm cup of tea, often paired with biscuits.
• Cottage Vibes: Cosy, rustic interiors with vintage décor and firesides.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Slow-paced days filled with reading or watching films.
• Embracing Nature: Long walks in the countryside, regardless of weather.
• Homey Gatherings: Casual dinners, board games, and intimate conversations.

While hygge originated in Denmark, its principles resonate deeply with British culture and at Hygge Shores all of our products are made in Britain. From warm cups of tea on a rainy afternoon to curling up by the fire with a good book, the British way of hygge blends Scandinavian cosiness with uniquely British traditions.

Here’s how to hygge the UK way and bring comfort and joy into your everyday life!

1. Start with a Cosy Atmosphere

Creating a hygge home starts with designing spaces that feel warm and inviting. In true British style, focus on classic comforts:

• Lighting: Replace harsh overhead lights with softer alternatives like lamps, candles, or string lights. Opt for warm-toned bulbs to create a golden glow, reminiscent of cosy evenings indoors.
• Fireplaces: If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, make it the focal point of your living room. A crackling fire is quintessentially British and undeniably hygge.
• Textures: Layer your space with soft, tactile fabrics. Think tartan blankets, wool throws, and plush cushions. For an extra British touch, opt for heritage patterns like houndstooth or plaid.

2. Embrace Rainy Day Relaxation

Rainy weather is a frequent feature of British life, but it’s also the perfect opportunity to slow down and indulge in cosy activities:

• Tea Time: A steaming cup of tea is the ultimate British comfort. Pair it with a plate of biscuits or a slice of cake for the perfect hygge ritual. Earl Grey, Yorkshire Tea, or a fragrant herbal blend all work beautifully.
• Reading by the Fire: Dedicate a corner of your home to a reading nook with a comfy armchair, a warm blanket, and a stack of your favourite books. Lose yourself in a classic British novel like Pride and Prejudice or Jane Eyre.

3. Celebrate Simple Pleasures

Hygge is all about appreciating the little things in life, and the British countryside offers plenty of inspiration for this. Take the time to enjoy:

• Seasonal Walks: Wrap up in a wool coat and explore a local park or countryside trail. Notice the changing seasons—whether it’s the golden leaves of autumn or the first bloom of spring.
• Traditional Comfort Food: Nothing says hygge like a home-cooked meal. Think shepherd’s pie, toad-in-the-hole, or a hearty Sunday roast. Don’t forget dessert—sticky toffee pudding or apple crumble with custard are hygge-approved indulgences.
• Afternoon Tea: Make an occasion out of afternoon tea, complete with scones, clotted cream, and jam. Gather loved ones around the table for a truly Brit-hygge moment.

4. Prioritise Togetherness

Hygge isn’t just about cosy surroundings—it’s about creating meaningful connections. The UK tradition of gathering with friends and family offers countless opportunities to embrace this aspect of hygge:

• Pub Nights: While a bustling pub might not sound hygge, a quiet evening at a traditional local pub with friends certainly does. Choose a cosy spot by the fire and enjoy good company over a pint or a mulled cider.
• Family Dinners: Host an intimate dinner party with homemade dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. Light some candles, serve hearty food, and let conversation flow.

5. Bring Nature Indoors

Like the Danes, the British have a deep appreciation for nature, and bringing the outdoors inside is a key part of hygge. Incorporate natural elements into your home to create a sense of calm and grounding:

• Fresh Flowers and Greenery: Decorate with seasonal flowers like daffodils in spring or holly and ivy in winter. Houseplants like ferns or peace lilies also add a touch of nature.
• Wooden Accents: Use natural wood furniture or accessories like wooden bowls, candleholders, or picture frames to add warmth and texture.

6. Savour Seasonal Moments

The British calendar is filled with opportunities to hygge in style:

• Bonfire Night: Wrap up warm, enjoy hot chocolate or mulled wine, and watch fireworks with friends.
• Christmas: A roaring fire, twinkling fairy lights, and festive treats like mince pies and mulled cider make Christmas the ultimate hygge celebration.
• Summer Picnics: Hygge isn’t just for winter. A leisurely summer picnic in a sunny meadow with blankets, fresh strawberries, and a thermos of tea is just as hygge as a winter’s night by the fire.

7. Mindful Moments of Self-Care

Hygge is about finding joy in the present moment, and incorporating self-care into your routine is a great way to achieve this:

• Bathtime Bliss: Run a warm bath, add some lavender-scented bubbles, and unwind with a cup of tea or a glass of wine.
• Crafting and Hobbies: Pick up a relaxing activity like knitting, painting, or baking. Creating something with your hands is both calming and rewarding.

Final Thoughts

Hygge the British way is about blending Scandinavian cosiness with British traditions to create a lifestyle that’s warm, relaxed, and full of charm. By focusing on simple pleasures, meaningful connections, and creating a cosy atmosphere, you can bring hygge into your home and daily life.

Whether you’re sipping tea by the fire, enjoying a countryside walk, or sharing a meal with loved ones, remember that hygge is all about slowing down and experirencing life’s little joys—something the British know how to do perfectly!

Share what British hygge means to you.