Just Good Manners

Just Good Manners

William Hanson’s Guide to British Etiquette

Summary

"An etiquette genius with a stunning eye for detail - he's the only person who knows more about buffet suppers than I do" Camilla Long

What is the correct way to queue at the bar? And why exactly do the English say sorry so much?


No one makes such a fuss about manners quite as much as the UK, yet in a fast-changing world, no one can seem to agree on precisely what the ‘done thing’ is, either. William Hanson, world-leading etiquette expert is on a mission to reclaim the British crown of good manners. In Just Good Manners, he shares his definitive guidance on how to behave in every situation - as well as celebrating our country’s distinctively British way of doing things!

With the perfect dose of William’s inimitable dry humour, Just Good Manners is the indispensable modern guide to British etiquette and customs – from table manners to top hats.


Praise for William Hanson

'William Hanson is Emily Post for the TikTok generation.' Vanity Fair

'The Bluffer's Guide to Entertaining underscores William Hanson's steady and stylish advice on hosting. His dry and incisive humour turns this reference into a joy. If nothing else, guests should enjoy themselves: this book ensures the party giver has fun too.' Alastair Bruce, Downton Abbey's Historical Advisor

'William Hanson is special forces in the world of politeness and has a staggering ability to make one feel the centre of attention and utterly inadequate at the same time.' Financial Times

'With his tongue firmly in his teacup, William Hanson, the doyen of etiquette, guides us through life's social minefield.' Steven Moore, Antiques Roadshow

Reviews

  • "William is an etiquette genius with a stunning eye for detail - he's the only person who knows more about buffet suppers than I do."
    Camilla Long

About the author

William Hanson

Widely regarded as one of Britain’s freshest and most trusted authorities on etiquette, William’s ‘day job’ is as director of The English Manner, a leading UK etiquette training institute, where he advises individuals, organisations, and films on correct form and good manners.

He is also known for appearances on television, radio and most notably his podcast Help I Sexted My Boss, which regularly leads the Apple Podcasts and Spotify charts. In 2021, he also launched Keeping Up Appearances: The Luxury Podcast, which begins its fifth series later in April 2024.

William is the author of four books, including the Sunday Times bestseller Help I S*xted My Boss (2023).

William was the on-set etiquette advisor for the Amazon Prime Video film Red, White and Royal Blue and, for some reason, holds two Guinness World Records for etiquette, set in 2012 and 2019.
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