United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Date of establishment: May 1, 1707

Brief history:

43-410: Roman occupation of Britain.

410: End of Roman rule in Britain, followed by Anglo-Saxon and Viking invasions.

1066: The Battle of Hastings and Norman conquest of England by William the Conqueror.

1215: Signing of the Magna Carta, limiting royal power.

1534: Henry VIII establishes the Anglican Church after conflict with the Roman Catholic Church.

1603: Unification of England and Scotland under James VI and I, following the death of Elizabeth I.

1642-1651: The English Civil War and subsequent interregnum (period without a monarch).

1660: Restoration of the monarchy under Charles II after the interregnum.

1688: Glorious Revolution – William III and Mary II come to power, strengthening parliamentary monarchy.

1707: Union of England and Scotland into the Kingdom of Great Britain.

1801: Union of Great Britain and Ireland into the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.

1837-1901: Reign of Queen Victoria, the era of the British Empire.

1914-1918: World War I.

1922: Formation of the Irish Free State; remainder of the island remains in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

1939-1945: World War II.

1947: Decolonization of India and Pakistan.

1949: Joining NATO.

1973: United Kingdom’s entry into the European Community (later the European Union).

1997: Establishment of the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly.

2016: Referendum on the United Kingdom’s exit from the EU (Brexit).

2020: Formal departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union.

 

 

International abbreviation: UK

 

Currency: Pound sterling (GBP)

The pound, officially known as the pound sterling, is divided into 100 smaller units called pence. Coins are available in various denominations, ranging from 1 penny to 2 pounds. Banknotes are issued in values of 5, 10, 20, and 50 pounds..

The pound sterling became the official currency of England in the late 12th century. The currency system evolved over time, and the pound in its current form has been in use since decimalization in 1971.

 

Internet domain: .uk

 

Dialing code: +44

 

Time zone: GMT

 

Geography:

The United Kingdom is composed of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The largest part of the state is formed by the island of Great Britain, which includes England, Scotland, and Wales. Northern Ireland is located on the northern part of the island of Ireland and shares a border with the Republic of Ireland to the south and west.

The west coast of Great Britain features numerous bays, estuaries, and rugged cliffs, particularly notable in regions like Wales, the Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands..

The UK has several significant rivers, with the Thames in southern England flowing through London, the Severn in western England and Wales, which is the longest river in the UK, and the Tay in Scotland. Scotland is also known for its numerous lochs (lakes), with Loch Ness being the most famous due to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.

The UK has an extensive and varied coastline, characterized by diverse features ranging from dramatic cliffs and rocky shores to sandy beaches and estuaries. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover are located on the southeastern coast of England and are a prominent symbol of the country’s natural heritage.

In addition to these features, the UK includes a variety of landscapes such as rolling hills, mountain ranges like the Pennines and the Grampian Mountains, and expansive plains and farmland. The UK’s highest peak is Ben Nevis in Scotland.

Northern Ireland has its unique geographical features, including the Mourne Mountains and the famous Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinctive basalt column formations.

 

Highest peak: Ben Nevis at 1 345 meters (4 413 feet)

Located in the Highlands of Scotland. It has a popular hiking trail known as the “Ben Nevis Path” leading to the summit.

The mountain has a rich history associated with mountaineering and tourism, with the first documented summit ascent taking place in 1771.

 

Climate:

The climate of the UK is classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild temperatures and relatively high humidity. The weather is known for its variability, often changing several times in a single day. Western winds from the Atlantic Ocean bring moisture, resulting in frequent damp and cloudy conditions.

Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, though the western parts of the UK tend to be wetter than the east due to their proximity to the Atlantic. The fall and winter months generally see more prolonged periods of rain.

Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 2 to 7°C (36 to 45°F). Coastal areas and southern England tend to be milder, while inland and northern regions, including Scotland, can be colder. Scotland and mountainous regions can experience significant snowfall.

Spring sees gradually warming temperatures, ranging from 8 to 15°C (46 to 59°F). This season can be quite variable, with both mild sunny days and cooler, wetter periods.

Summers are relatively cool, with average temperatures typically ranging from 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). The warmest areas are usually in southern England, while northern and coastal regions are cooler. Heatwaves are infrequent but can occur.

Autumn (fall)  brings cooling temperatures, ranging from 7 to 14°C (45 to 57°F). This season can be wet and windy, particularly in October and November.

Regional variations are significant. For example, the western highlands of Scotland are among the wettest places in Europe, whereas the southeastern parts of England, such as London, are drier and warmer. Overall, the UK’s climate is moderated by the surrounding seas, preventing extremes of temperature and making the weather generally mild and changeable.

 

Fauna and flora:

The UK is home to a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, oak woodlands, and mixed forests. These forests are common in regions such as southern England, parts of Wales, and Scotland.

Flowery meadows are another characteristic of the British landscape. Various flowering plants such as dandelions, poppies, bluebells, primroses, and buttercups contribute to the aesthetic richness and biodiversity of these meadows.

Shrubs and herbs, including native species like heather and gorse, as well as cultivated species like azaleas and rhododendrons, grow in different parts of the country. These plants are often found in gardens, woodlands, and heathlands.

The fauna of the UK includes a wide range of animals adapted to the local environment.

Birds are a significant part of this fauna. Species like the skylark, barn owl, robin, blackbird, and carrion crow are common. Coastal and wetland areas are home to seabirds and waders, such as puffins, gannets, and oystercatchers.

Countryside areas and the Scottish Highlands host various species of deer, including red deer and roe deer. Other mammals such as foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, and otters are widespread throughout the UK.

Due to its numerous rivers, lakes, and streams, fish are a significant part of the fauna. Species such as Atlantic salmon, brown trout, and rainbow trout are well-known in British waters. Additionally, rivers and lakes support a variety of freshwater species including pike, perch, and roach.

Marine life is essential in coastal areas. Grey seals and common seals are characteristic species, often seen along the coasts of Scotland, England, and Wales. Marine biodiversity also includes species like dolphins, porpoises, and various fish.

In addition, insects and invertebrates like butterflies, bees, and spiders play crucial roles in ecosystems. The UK is home to a diverse range of insect species, which are vital for pollination and as part of the food web.

 

Agriculture:

British agriculture includes the cultivation of crops such as wheat, barley, oats, and various vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions. Fruit cultivation is also significant, with apples and pears being the primary orchard fruits. Additionally, crops like oilseed rape and sugar beet are important.

Livestock farming, including cattle, sheep, pigs, and poultry, plays a vital role in British agriculture. The UK is known for its production of beef, lamb, pork, and poultry, as well as dairy products like milk, cheese, and butter. Wool production from sheep, particularly in regions like Wales and the Scottish Highlands, remains significant.

The British countryside’s diversity is reflected in its agriculture, encompassing a range of landscapes from fertile lowland plains and rolling hills to mountainous regions and coastal areas. These varied environments provide different opportunities for farming, including arable farming in the eastern and southern regions, and livestock farming in the upland and western areas.

Modern technologies, such as precision farming and automation, are becoming increasingly important for more efficient farm operations.

Additionally, organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices are gaining popularity in the UK, with a growing emphasis on reducing environmental impact and enhancing biodiversity.

 

Natural resource extraction:

During the 18th and 19th centuries, coal mining played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. Britain was one of the world’s largest coal producers, with coal being used as fuel for steam engines, machinery, and industrial processes. Major coal mining regions included South Wales, Central Scotland, and Northern England, particularly in areas like Yorkshire, Northumberland, and Durham.

The country was also known for mining various metal ores. Copper mining was significant in regions such as Cornwall and Wales, while lead mining occurred in areas like the Peak District, the Pennines, and Wales. Tin mining was particularly notable in Cornwall and Devon, making the region one of the most important tin producers in Europe. Iron ore was extensively mined in the West Midlands, Cumbria, and South Wales, supporting the UK’s steel industry.

In addition to metals, the UK has a history of extracting other minerals. Quarrying for construction materials such as limestone, sandstone, and granite has been vital for building and infrastructure development. Sand and gravel extraction also plays a significant role in the construction industry.

Oil and natural gas extraction became crucial in the 20th century, especially with the discovery of significant reserves in the North Sea in the 1960s. The North Sea oil and gas fields have since been a major source of energy for the UK, contributing to both domestic supply and exports.

Furthermore, the UK extracts other minerals like gypsum, used in plaster and cement production, and kaolin (china clay), primarily found in Cornwall and used in ceramics and paper industries.

 

Industry:

The UK played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century. Innovations in textiles, steam engines, iron production, and metallurgy transformed the way goods were produced and led to rapid economic growth. This period marked the transition from agrarian economies to industrialized urban centers, with significant developments in cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow.

The country has a long tradition in the automotive industry. Iconic brands like Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Mini, Bentley, and Aston Martin are known worldwide. The UK also hosts major automotive plants for international companies such as Nissan, Honda, and BMW, and plays a significant role in automotive design, engineering, and motorsport.

The British aerospace industry is one of the largest in the world, encompassing aircraft and aircraft engine manufacturing, as well as space technologies. Major companies include BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce (for aerospace engines), and Airbus UK, with significant contributions to both commercial and military aviation. The UK Space Agency also supports various space exploration and satellite initiatives.

London is one of the world’s leading financial centers, known for its robust banking sector, stock exchanges, and financial institutions. The city hosts the headquarters of numerous multinational banks, investment firms, and insurance companies. The London Stock Exchange and Lloyd’s of London are key institutions in global finance.

The British engineering industry spans a wide range of sectors, from machinery and equipment production to advanced engineering and research. The UK is known for its expertise in precision engineering, electronics, telecommunications, and renewable energy technologies. Research and development in engineering are supported by world-class universities and research institutions.

Additionally, the UK has a significant pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, with companies such as GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca leading in drug development and medical research. The creative industries, including film, television, music, and digital media, also play a vital role in the economy, with the UK being a major global exporter of cultural products.

 

Services and other economic areas: Information technology, banking, insurance, science, research, education, healthcare, transportation.

 

 

Form of government: unitary constitutional parliamentary monarchy

The monarch, who can be a king or queen, is the head of state. However, his or her powers are severely limited by the constitution and parliament. The monarch primarily fulfills a ceremonial and symbolic role, with practical decision-making and the exercise of power falling to the democratic institutions.

The UK is a parliamentary democracy. The British Parliament consists of two chambers: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The lower house, the House of Commons, is elected by citizens through general elections. Members of Parliament (MPs) represent individual constituencies and have key legislative powers, including the right to pass laws, approve the budget, and hold the government to account.

The upper house, the House of Lords, has a more advisory and revisory function. It is made up of life peers, bishops of the Church of England, and hereditary peers. While the House of Lords cannot veto legislation outright, it can propose amendments and review laws, providing a check on the House of Commons.

The prime minister, who is the head of government, is usually the leader of the party that has the most seats in the House of Commons. The prime minister appoints the Cabinet and is responsible for the administration of government and the implementation of laws. The government exercises executive power and manages the day-to-day affairs of the state.

The UK’s constitution is based on fundamental legal norms, traditions, and precedents, rather than a single written constitutional document. It includes various sources such as statutes (laws passed by Parliament), common law (laws developed through court decisions), conventions (established practices), and works of authority (legal texts).

The judicial system in the UK is independent of the executive and legislative branches. It is responsible for interpreting and applying the law. The Supreme Court of the United Kingdom is the highest court, handling cases of the greatest public or constitutional importance.

Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England and Wales each have their own legal systems and courts, reflecting the UK’s legal diversity. Scottish law, in particular, is based on principles distinct from those in England and Wales, including its own court structure and legal traditions.

 

Capital city: London

It is home to buildings such as the British Parliament (Palace of Westminster), the Royal Palace (Buckingham Palace) and Westminster Abbey.

The South Bank is located along the south bank of the Thames and is famous for its cultural institutions such as Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tate Modern and the Design Museum.

Kensington and Chelsea is home to many beautiful residences, museums and gardens. Here, for example, the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum and Kensington Palace are located.

Greenwich is the place known as the home of the prime meridian, from which the world’s time zones are derived.

The East End is a part of the city that has transformed into a trendy district full of art, creativity, markets and cafes. Brick Lane is famous for its markets, and Columbia Road has a famous flower market.

It should be noted that London is not only the capital of Great Britain, but also of England itself.

The other capital cities are Edinburgh (Scotland), Cardiff (Wales), and Belfast (Northern Ireland).

The city has a population of about 8 870 000.

 

Area: 243 610 km² (94 058 square miles)

 

Population: 67 600 000 (2022 estimate)

The United Kingdom is a multicultural society with a diverse population composed of various ethnic groups and nationalities. The largest ethnic group is White British, but there are also significant communities of Afro-Caribbean, South Asian (including Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi), Chinese, Arab, and other ethnic minorities.

The country has a long history of migration and immigration, contributing to its diverse demographic makeup. Many people come to the UK to work, study, or seek asylum for political and humanitarian reasons. Historical migration waves include those from former British colonies, particularly in the mid-20th century, which have had a lasting impact on the cultural and demographic landscape.

The UK has a diverse religious base. Christianity, particularly the Church of England (Anglicanism), has a significant influence and is the largest religion. There are also substantial numbers of people following Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Judaism, and other religions. Additionally, a considerable portion of the population identifies as having no religion.

The official language is English, which is spoken by the majority of the population. There are also recognized minority languages, including Welsh, Scots Gaelic, and Irish, as well as regional dialects and languages spoken by immigrant communities.

 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 33

 

1. Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd (1986) – The castles and fortifications of King Edward I of the 13th century are excellent examples of medieval military architecture.
2. Durham Castle and Cathedral (1986) – The 11th and 12th-century castle and cathedral are prime examples of Norman architecture.
3. Ironbridge Gorge (1986) – The site includes the world’s first cast-iron bridge, located in the Severn River valley, marking the birth of the Industrial Revolution.
4. Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites (1986) – Monumental stone circles and henges representing megalithic culture.
5. Studley Royal Park including the Ruins of Fountains Abbey (1986) – An extensive 18th-century park that includes the remains of Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.
6. Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast (Northern Ireland) (1986) – Renowned for its polygonal basalt formations and natural beauty.
7. St Kilda (Scotland) (1986, extended 2004, 2005) – An archipelago of volcanic origin with cliffs and important seabird nesting sites.
8. City of Bath (1987) – A city founded by the Romans with a renowned spa complex and elegant Georgian architecture.
9. Blenheim Palace (1987) – An 18th-century palace exemplifying a grand princely residence.
10. Frontiers of the Roman Empire (1987, extended 2005, 2008) – Including Hadrian’s Wall and the Antonine Wall, these sites represent the Roman frontier.
11. Westminster Palace, Westminster Abbey and Saint Margaret’s Church (1987) – The historic seat of the British Parliament, a Gothic abbey, and a medieval church.
12. Canterbury Cathedral, St Augustine’s Abbey, and St Martin’s Church (1988) – Key sites in the history of Christianity in England.
13. Tower of London (1988) – A historic castle with a complex history, serving as a fortress, royal palace, and prison.
14. Henderson Island (1988) – A remote island in the South Pacific with an undisturbed ecosystem.
15. Old and New Towns of Edinburgh (1995) – The historic core of the city, including the medieval Old Town and the Georgian New Town.
16. Gough and Inaccessible Islands (1995, extended 2004) – Remote South Atlantic islands with unique bird species and ecosystems.
17. Maritime Greenwich (1997) – Notable for its architectural ensemble and its associations with scientific and maritime history.
18. Heart of Neolithic Orkney (1999) – Neolithic monuments on the Orkney Islands providing exceptional evidence of prehistoric life.
19. Blaenavon Industrial Landscape (2000) – An area representing the early iron and coal industries of the 19th century.
20. Historic Town of St George and Related Fortifications, Bermuda (2000) – An example of early English colonial urban development in the New World.
21. Derwent Valley Mills (2001) – The birthplace of the factory system, where water-powered cotton spinning mills were first developed.
22. New Lanark (2001) – A Scottish industrial village where Robert Owen created his model for an industrial community.
23. Saltaire (2001) – A well-preserved 19th-century industrial village in West Yorkshire.
24. Dorset and East Devon Coast (2001) – Also known as the Jurassic Coast, it showcases 185 million years of geological history.
25. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (2003) – A historic landscape garden that illustrates significant periods of garden design.
26. Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape (2006) – Sites representing the historic tin and copper mining industry.
27. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal (2009) – An outstanding example of industrial revolution engineering.
28. The Forth Bridge (2015) – An iconic railway bridge across the Firth of Forth, representing innovative engineering.
29. Gorham’s Cave Complex (Gibraltar) (2016) – Caves with evidence of Neanderthal occupation.
30. The English Lake District (2017) – A national park noted for its natural beauty and cultural significance.
31. Jodrell Bank Observatory (2019) – A pioneering site in the field of radio astronomy.
32. The Great Spa Towns of Europe (2021) – Including Bath, representing the international spa culture from the 18th to the 20th centuries.
33. The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales (2021) – A landscape transformed by the slate industry, including quarries, mines, settlements, and railways.

 

National parks: 15

 

1. The Broads National Park (not officially called a national park but has equivalent status)
2. Dartmoor National Park
3. Exmoor National Park
4. Lake District National Park
5. New Forest National Park
6. North York Moors National Park
7. Northumberland National Park
8. Peak District National Park
9. South Downs National Park
10. Yorkshire Dales National Park
11. Bannau Brycheiniog National Park
12. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
13. Eryri National Park)
14. Cairngorms National Park
15. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park