A study of the nation’s best-loved sounds found that Brits love nothing more than the noise of the sea – which topped the list of fifty.
The sound of rain lashing against the windows – if you are on the inside – something Brits have had plenty of chance to enjoy over the recent wash-out summer, came second.
Fireworks, children laughing and bacon sizzling are also sounds brits found pleasing to the ears, according to the study of 2,000 people.
The research, commissioned by Drayton Manor Theme Park, saw Brits vote treading on snow or crunchy leaves high in the list, while the glug of wine being poured is irresistible to many.
The cheerful screams of people on a rollercoaster, popping bubble wrap or piercing the foil on a new jar of coffee are also some of the nation’s best loved sounds.
The research also unveiled the most detested sounds, which showed that the biggest torture for our ears is the sound of nails on a chalkboard, people being sick or the constant shrill of a car alarm.
While the sound of a dentist’s drill alone is enough to inspire fear in most people.
A dripping tap or squeaky shoe is bound to drive people mad, while no mercy is shown to anyone trying to learn the violin.
An overwhelming three quarters of people think sound is crucial in building a sense of atmosphere or excitement.
So much so that one in eight have queued for a rollercoaster and lost their nerve after hearing the screams of fellow riders.
Helen Pawley, General Manager at Drayton Manor, said: “We can often get so buried in our day-to-day lives that we don’t appreciate the little things in life, so it’s good to see that there are certain sounds we all enjoy.
“Many of the most popular noises aren’t just nice sounds in themselves, but evoke memories of good times or the anticipation of something good to come.
“Everyone has a memory of a day out or trip to the seaside which can be conjured up by certain sounds, while laughter, whether in adults or children clearly is infectious and good to see in the top ten.
“The things we hear build atmosphere and emotion as strongly as any other sense, and that shared sense of excitement that comes from a football match, theme park or stadium is a big part of any memorable experience.”
TOP 10 MOST LOVED SOUNDS
1.Waves against rocks
2.Rain against the windows
3.Treading on snow
4.Baby laughing
5.Birds chirping
6.Crackling open fire
7.People laughing
8.Leaves crunching beneath your feet
9.Cat purring
10.Church bells in the distance
TOP 10 MOST HATED SOUNDS
1.Nails on a chalk board
2.Someone being sick
3.Car alarm
4.A dentist’s drill
5.Someone spitting
6.A yapping dog
7.Screaming baby/children
8.Someone talking with their mouth full
9.Someone grinding their teeth
10.Someone’s knife grinding on a plate
