Yes, I’ll admit it… I’m an Anglophile. I am borderline obsessed with everything that is “across the pond.”

Perhaps it has something to do with my very European roots, or the fact that I have an uncle who still has his English accent, but I just love England. I love the landscape of the rolling green hills, the dramatic craggy rocks and the blue tinted Atlantic ocean, castle ruins that date back to the Middle Ages and lots and lots of tea. I’ve been fortunate to visit the beautiful country of England and ever since, my interest in all things English has grown immensely. Are you a closet Anglophile?

How can you tell if you’re an Anglophile? Here are some things that I can’t get enough of from British culture:

1. You can’t get enough BBC television shows.

Some of my absolute favorite television shows are BBC or Masterpiece Theatre shows. Lark Rise to Candleford, Pride and Prejudice (the version with Colin Firth, of course), Downton Abbey, Poldark, Upstairs Downstairs, Victoria, Call the Midwife, Sherlock, Wives and Daughters… the list could go on and on. I love seeing the different time periods represented. Their attention to detail is what I love most—the fact that they take so much time to depict accurate costumes, props and sets really makes all the difference. And I appreciate that most of these shows involve plot lines that make you think. (Plus, you can’t beat the amazing settings!)

2. You own at least one article of clothing bearing the UK flag.

I own a sweatshirt, a notebook and a bag. I’ve considered buying some throw pillows.

3. You love tea.

Yes, I am an American and proud of it so I enjoy my daily cup of strong coffee. But I also like to indulge in my British roots and drink a cuppa. Most of the English seem to take tea several times a day. (In reality, “tea” can refer to anything, such as a snack or small meal). While I was in England, I loved visiting the quaint teashops. They were absolutely adorable. My favorite thing to order was the cream tea, which included a personal sized teapot and a scone with clotted cream and jam. A cup of tea is perfect for this typically chilly and wet climate.

4. You love reading English authors.

My favorites are Elizabeth Gaskell, Arthur Conan Doyle, Charles Dickens and the beloved Jane Austen. The Bronte sisters are somewhere in there as well. Jane Austen wrote such timeless tales, so it’s no wonder that there are several different productions of her novels. And who doesn’t love Sherlock Holmes? There are countless remakes and spinoffs of Doyle’s stories. All of these authors have made a major impact in literary history.

5. You find yourself caught up in the royal family.

Princess Diana, Prince Charles, Prince William and his marriage to a commoner… I myself find more interesting previous rulers. I recently took out a book about how Princess Victoria became Queen Victoria. While the royal family is indeed interesting, it is also filled with corruption, lies and affairs. Just look at King Henry VIII! Still, the history of the kings and queens of England is very interesting.

There are so many things to love about England. A true Anglophile appreciates all things British. And what’s not to love? Take a trip across the pond and you can discover England for yourself!