A new survey has unveiled the top 10 rituals and superstitions that Brits adhere to in order to keep misfortune at bay or invite a little extra luck into their lives. From crossing fingers to donning a 'lucky' outfit, these practices are deeply ingrained in British culture.
Most Common Superstitions
The most widely held beliefs include crossing fingers (44%), knocking on wood (42%), and avoiding walking under ladders (39%). For those seeking an extra dose of good fortune, the survey of 2,000 adults found that 42% have a lucky ritual or charm they rely on for a confidence boost or luck. Notably, 21% have a favourite 'lucky' outfit they reach for when they want the odds in their favour, a figure that jumps to 38% among those under 35.
Luckiest Heels Ever Made
Following these findings, Mecca Bingo, which commissioned the study, has unveiled what they call the 'luckiest heels ever made'. The design puts a fresh spin on classic red stilettos, featuring a striking two-pronged horseshoe heel crafted with genuine horseshoe metal fused into the sole. Additional bespoke touches draw inspiration from the charms and rituals Brits swear by, including four-leaf clovers and the 11:11 motif.
Two-thirds of respondents have used a good-luck charm or superstition for a particular occasion. More than one in five (22%) believe it helped them pass an exam, while the same number reckon it played a role in securing a job offer. A further 14% even claim it has helped them land a jackpot on games such as bingo, according to the survey carried out via OnePoll.
Sarah O'Neill, director of innovation at Mecca Bingo, which is inviting fans to visit its Instagram to be in with a chance to win the stilettos, named Lucky Devils: The Heels of Fortune, said: 'Lucky charms and rituals are synonymous with bingo culture - from players sitting in lucky seats and staying loyal to specific dabber colours to carrying lucky figurines, toys and charms. The Heels of Fortune are our stylish celebration of those beliefs and they're destined to belong to one Lucky Devil.'
The Top 10 Rituals Brits Embrace to Tempt Fate or Keep Bad Luck at Bay
- Crossing fingers for good luck
- Knocking on wood / touching wood to avoid bad luck
- Avoiding walking under a ladder
- See a penny, pick it up
- Choosing specific numbers you believe to be lucky (e.g. birthdays, anniversaries)
- Avoiding opening umbrellas indoors
- Avoiding putting new shoes on a table
- Throwing salt over your left shoulder
- Avoiding the number 13
- Avoiding stepping on cracks in the pavement
