How to Say Hello in Great Britain

Greetings in the UK vary by region, familiarity, and time of day.

Standard / Universal

• Hello — Neutral, any time.
• Hi / Hiya — Casual, friends/colleagues.
• Good morning / afternoon / evening — Polite, time-specific.

Informal / Regional

• Alright? / Alright mate? — Very common UK-wide; rhetorical, not a real question.
• How's it going? / How are you doing? — Friendly.
• What's up? / Wotcher — London/South East.
• Eh up / Now then — North England / Midlands.
• How are ye? / How's the form? — Scotland / Northern Ireland.
• Shwmae / S'mae — Wales (Welsh).

Personal Touch

Using the person's name ("Hi, Sarah") is standard in both formal and informal settings. Handshakes are typical for first meetings; cheek kisses (one or two) among friends vary by circle.