Ey Up! 10 Things Tha Only Hears in Yorkshire Households
1. “Put kettle on” – the answer to life’s problems
Bad day? Put kettle on. Good news? Kettle. Unexpected guests? Kettle again. In Yorkshire, tea is the answer to just about everything. No fancy flat whites or macchiatos here — just a strong brew in a chunky mug, with the strength measured in how much the spoon stands up in it. Weak tea? You’ll be politely (or not so politely) asked to leave.
2. “Tek thi shoes off” – sacred words at the door
Every true Yorkshire home has a silent, powerful rule: shoes off at the door. Step onto that carpet in muddy boots and prepare for a look that could curdle milk. It’s such a big deal, we even made a print about it!
3. That one cupboard with posh mugs “just for best”
There’s always one. Usually hidden behind the regular mugs you got free with petrol, there’s a selection of pristine cups that are “just for best” — also known as: will never, ever be used. Unless the Queen pops round (which she won’t, obviously).
4. The Great Yorkshire Pudding Standoff
Everyone claims they make the best Yorkshire puddings. Auntie Jean swears by lard, while your mate Dave reckons it’s all about how hot the tray is. Either way, expect a family feud if you suggest buying frozen ones.
5. “We don’t need heating on, put a jumper on!”
Ah, the eternal battle between comfort and pride. The thermostat is more heavily guarded than the Crown Jewels. Yorkshire folk are built to endure, and if you’re cold, the answer is not to touch the heating, but to “go put another layer on.”
6. Henderson’s Relish is life
If you’re from Sheffield or nearby, you’ll already know. For those not in the know — Henderson’s Relish looks a bit like Worcestershire sauce, but do not make that comparison. It’s tangy, it’s spicy, it’s totally vegan, and it goes on everything from pies to cheese on toast. Some even claim it cures colds (we’re not saying it does, but... we're not saying it doesn’t).
7. Empty biscuit tins are never what they seem
Fancy a biscuit? Think again. That lovely old tin of shortbread in the cupboard is full of sewing kits, buttons, or random batteries from the 90s. It's practically Yorkshire law.
8. “I’m not paying that!” – at every shop, ever
Yorkshire folk take great pride in a good bargain. You’ll hear "I'm not paying that" in shops, online, and even when something’s already on offer. We just can’t help ourselves — thriftiness is part of the DNA.
9. Sunday dinner is sacred
Roast beef, Yorkshire puds, gravy thicker than glue, and about six types of veg no one really likes — it’s all part of the tradition. And heaven help anyone who suggests pizza or takeaway on a Sunday. That’s sacrilege.
10. A random dog in a jumper (and probably called Alfie)
Whether it’s a sausage dog or a spaniel, there’s always a four-legged family member strutting about in a tiny fleece jumper. Half the time they’ve got a better coat than Grandad.
Final Thoughts
Yorkshire homes are full of love, warmth, and a healthy dose of sarcasm. We wear our humour like a badge of honour, keep our tea strong, and our thermostats off. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you're proud of your Yorkshire roots (or just appreciate a good cup of tea and a proper laugh), check out our collection of Yorkshire-themed prints — perfect for bringing a bit of Northern charm into your home, wherever you live.
#EyUp #ProperYorkshire #YorkshireLife #HomeIsWhereTheKettleIs