Casinos all over the world generally offer the same games, the same type of atmosphere, and many of the same amenities. Aside from the décor, walking into a popular London casino is similar to hitting a casino in Vegas or Macau. However, there are a few differences between UK casinos and casinos in other countries. One of those differences is etiquette.
Many visitors to the UK find themselves afoul of UK casino etiquette. You see, there are certain things that you simply can’t get away with at UK venues even if you can do these things in casinos back home. Let’s examine a few of the most common ones that trip up a lot of tourists who visit casinos in the UK.
Dress Codes
Almost all casinos have dress codes. It’s just that UK casinos tend to enforce dress codes with more zeal. Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to dress up in a tuxedo or fancy ball gown, but you won’t be well-received if you show up in your cutoffs, an old T-shirt, and flip flops. That type of attire might work if you stay in your hotel room and play online, as there are some new casinos in the UK for 2024 to check out. But it doesn’t go over well at all at UK retail casinos. If you show up looking like a slob, then you likely won’t get past the front door.
Mobile Phones
Mobile phones are like extra appendages to some people. Yes, some casinos in other countries allow players to use their phones for texting, taking selfies, and recording social media videos of themselves playing slots or cards. However, if you find yourself at a UK casino, you’re going to have to do without your phone while you are in the gaming area because they are prohibited there. Before you enter, turn it off and put it in your pocket.
The restriction on mobile devices in UK casino establishments extends beyond just preventing disturbances to other casino guests. There are also worries about the possible use of mobile phones for card-counting techniques.
Drinking at the Table
If you have ever been to a Las Vegas casino, you may have noticed that people are allowed to bring their beverages to the slot stations and the gaming tables. Well, this is another thing that UK casinos seriously frown upon. It makes sense. After all, a spilled drink on a gaming table can potentially shut the table down. You can still enjoy your favorite beverage while you play. However, you can’t place the drink on the gaming table. You must place them on those little side tables beside and behind your seat.
Similarly, you should never eat food at a gaming table at UK casinos. Not only can it be annoying for your table mates, but a drop of mustard here or a glob of mayonnaise there will cause a mess and even damage the felt forcing the operator to repair or replace it. You’re not in a sawdust joint.
Know the Rules
You need to know the fundamentals of the casino games you play at UK casinos. Each casino game in UK casinos is required to display the rules and the house edge. If you are continuously asking the dealer about the rules, it severely disrupts the flow of the game and becomes an annoyance to others at the table. Furthermore, it’s a distraction for the dealer who needs to focus on other things.
If you aren’t sure how to play a certain casino game, it’s a good idea to exit the gaming floor, pull out your smartphone, and learn how to play the game using a free demo version at an online casino. It will probably only take a few minutes to get the hang of it.
Conclusion
While these rules and expectations differ from the ones in other regions, they absolutely make sense. Common courtesy may not exist in some places, but it is integral to the UK casino experience. Being aware of and respecting UK casino etiquette will ensure that you don’t get the evil eye or worse from other patrons and casino staff. Dress for the occasion, put the phone away, and never put food or drinks on the gaming tables. Is that asking too much?
