United Kingdom, Island nation in Northwestern Europe
Description
The United Kingdom is an island nation in northwestern Europe that spans the island of Great Britain with England, Scotland, and Wales, plus the northeastern part of the island of Ireland. The coastline stretches for roughly 12,400 kilometers and includes many smaller islands such as the Hebrides, Orkney, and Shetland.
History
The union of England and Scotland formed in 1707 through the Act of Union, with Ireland joining in 1801, though most separated as an independent state in 1922. The 19th century brought industrial expansion and territorial growth, while the 20th century saw decolonization and political realignment.
Culture
The name derives from Britannia, the Roman term for the island, while the monarchy continues to perform ceremonial duties visible in daily traditions like palace guard changes. Visitors notice regional cuisines from fish and chips to haggis, as well as pubs that serve as social gathering points.
Practical
Major airports are located in London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Belfast with international connections, while buses and trains run between all larger cities. The temperate maritime climate means frequent rain, so waterproof clothing is advisable year-round, and many attractions require advance bookings, especially during summer months.
Did you know?
The territory extends across multiple time zones through overseas territories, though the main islands use a single zone. Over 300 languages are spoken by residents, making London one of the most linguistically diverse cities worldwide and reflecting centuries of migration and trade.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (United Kingdom).
English pubs exist not only in city centers but also in remote countryside locations, along coastlines, and in rural communities. Many of these establishments have operated for centuries, combining historic architecture with regional beer culture. The buildings range from medieval stone structures...
Stonehenge
404.1 km
Windsor Castle
400.3 km
Buckingham Palace
413.3 km
Big Ben
413.9 km
Wembley Stadium
403.4 km
Tower of London
414.8 km
Westminster Abbey
413.9 km
Balmoral Castle
260.3 km
Eton College
399.3 km
Hadrian's Wall
72.5 km
Principality of Sealand
444.7 km
Palace of Westminster
414 km
10 Downing Street
413.5 km
London Eye
413.8 km
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
405.9 km
Kensington Palace
411.3 km
The Shard
414.8 km
St Paul's Cathedral
413.5 km
London Bridge
414.5 km
Tower Bridge
415.1 km
Tower Bridge
415.1 km
HMS Victory
458 km
Sandringham House
325 km
British Museum
412 km
Blenheim Palace
343 km
Madame Tussauds London
410.7 km
Old Trafford
152.2 km
56 Dean Street
412.5 km
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