An American needs advice about manners in the UK

Helical* staircases in castles go clockwise on the way up for same reason, right-handed attackers would have their sword hand hampered by the central pillar.

*I know they're called “spiral” but they're not and it annoys my OCD.


But good on the way down, you can defend your castle, the attackers have the disadvantage.
 
We always stay to the left, its historical, walking the dog (keeps them under control & "on hand")
climbing stairs or going down stairs are on the left, why? Most people were right handed, lefties were burned at the stake or drowned. if you stay to the LEFT, it means you can defend your self, picture it in your head, meeting a stranger, sword worn on the left hip, the right hand to wave (Salute) or defend yourself. Old films picture this in jousting. Us mad Brits bring order to everything.
Queensbury for one.
T
Isn't it interesting how sword carrying practices (etiquette?) like this carried on to determine what side of the road we drive on too. Also the distance between the benches in the House of Commons is reportedly two sword lengths. Japan also drive on the left which stems from how samurai would walk due to the swords worn on the left hip.
 
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