The Hilarious Breakfast Buffet Habits Brits Can All Relate To

A new study into the unique peculiarities of British hotel breakfast behaviour has uncovered a widespread culture of politeness, hesitation and self-consciousness at breakfast buffets across the nation.   

The poll of 2,000 Brits* found that eight in 10 admit to sitting down when being shown to their table, only to stand straight back up again, while 37% of those dining as a couple say one person remains to ‘man’ the table while the other goes to the buffet.  

The average Brit says ‘sorry’ at least twice when at the buffet, either when they pass someone or to reach past them, while an extra apologetic 13% say it five times or more over the course of their breakfast.   

Commissioned by Travelodge, home of the ‘Unlimited Breakfast’, the survey found that 35% are conscious of being judged over their portion sizes by strangers when walking back from the buffet. 

Yet despite fear of judgement, Brits enjoy two portions on average at a buffet breakfast, with 27% even going up for thirds.   

More than two in five (41%) ranked hash browns as their favourite breakfast buffet treat.  However, the research showed that breakfast preferences are shifting, with many people now favouring a more balanced mix of options over classic hot items.  

Pancakes (39%) now rank as the second most favourite breakfast buffet treat, followed closely by fruit salad (37%), outranking bacon (29%) and scrambled eggs (29%) by some margin. When it comes to the juice counter, Brits are juicing more than ever, typically consuming two glasses of juice on average, while a third (33%) drink three glasses or more at breakfast. 

Brits’ top 10 breakfast buffet treats:  

1. Hashbrowns (41%) 
2. Pancakes (39%) 
3. Fruit salad (37%) 
4. Croissants (36%) 
5. Bacon (29%)  
6. Scrambled eggs (29%) 
7. Baked beans (25%) 
8. Bagels (21%) 
9. Toast and preserves (21%)  
10. White bread (17%) 

A Travelodge spokesperson said: “Our research reveals that the British breakfast buffet is a unique social minefield, where traditional politeness often battles with the temptation of a second helping. Whether it’s the ‘buffet apology’ or the strategy of ‘manning the table,’ we all have our own morning rituals.  

‘Buffet breakfasts are no longer all about the traditional English.  We see many guests swapping the classic fry-up for fruit or toasted bagels with peanut butter and banana and choosing barista-style coffee and dairy alternatives over a standard brew. Whether you’re fuelling up on the nation’s favourite hashbrowns or opting for a lighter start with fresh fruit and yoghurt, we offer total choice with zero judgment.”  

Travelodge offers an Unlimited Breakfast at over 220 hotels with a Bar Café, with prices from £9.99. With every full-paying adult, children under 15 years old get breakfast for £1 each. Guests can choose from cooked breakfast items from the grill, fresh fruit, Yeo Valley organic yoghurts, bagels and butter croissants, Lavazza Coffee and pastries and more. The Bar Café is also open to walk-in customers. 

To find your nearest Bar Café breakfast buffet, visit Travelodge.co.uk 

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