The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom Guide du pays
The United Kingdom, comprised of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, is a destination that is not to be missed. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural scene, the UK has so many opportunities to be experienced. The country's historic cities, such as Edinburgh, York, and Bath, are famous for their stunning buildings, wide streets, and parks, which create a fairytale-like environment.
Besides, the UK’s cuisine is totally a different topic when it comes to tastiness. Diversity, richness, and aromatic that will cherish your palate with each bite. But maybe not the English breakfast, it’s not made for everyone. Jokes aside, the UK welcomes anyone with pleasure to show its wonders. For example, from the stunning Gothic architecture of Durham Cathedral to the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District, the UK's UNESCO World Heritage Sites are on another level when it comes to heritage.
Capital of the United Kingdom
United Kingdom’s capital is London, which is located in the southeastern United Kingdom at the head of the River Thames estuary and has been a major settlement for two millennia. London’s history goes back to its founding by the Romans, who named it Londinium. London is the most populous city in the United Kingdom, with a metropolitan area of over 13 million inhabitants. It is also a leading global city, with strengths in the arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, healthcare, media, professional services, research and development, tourism, and transport.
United Kingdom Flag
The flag of the United Kingdom, commonly known as the Union Jack, is a red, white, and blue flag that combines the crosses of St. George (England), St. Andrew (Scotland), and St. Patrick (Ireland). The flag of England is the St. George's Cross, which features a red cross on a white background
United Kingdom Location
The United Kingdom is located in northwestern Europe and comprises England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the English Channel, the Celtic Sea, and the Irish Sea. The country covers roughly 62% of the island of Great Britain, which is in the North Atlantic, and includes over 100 smaller islands such as the Isles of Scilly and the Isle of Wight.
Time in the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom’s time zone is UTC+0.
What Language is Spoken in the UK?
The official United Kingdom language is English, which is spoken by over 98% of the population of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, there are also some regional and migrant languages spoken in the UK, including Scots, Ulster Scots, Irish, Scottish Gaelic, Welsh, and Cornish. On the other hand, other commonly spoken foreign languages are Polish, Romanian, Punjabi, Urdu, Portuguese, Spanish, Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Italian, French, Chinese, and German in the UK.
What Currency Does the United Kingdom Use?
The official currency of the United Kingdom is the British pound sterling, denoted by the symbol £ and the code of GBP.
Is UK Expensive?
The United Kingdom is relatively expensive. According to the cost of living data, the UK is the 2nd most expensive country in Western Europe and more expensive than 93% of countries in the world. For example, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four are around £4,626, and for a single person, around £2,799. In terms of specific items, the cost of living in London is 39% more expensive than in Toronto and 48% more expensive than in Hong Kong. The average prices of various products and services, such as meals, housing, and utilities, are also relatively high compared to other countries. Therefore, the cost of living in the UK is generally considered to be high
United Kingdom Population
According to the latest estimates, the population of the United Kingdom was approximately 67.7 million in 2023 mid-year. Most of the population is within the England borders, then Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Is the United Kingdom Safe?
The UK can be considered safe as it’s ranked 37th, being in the top 25% of the world’s safest countries in 2023. Crime rates such as homicide are low as it has good foreign relations and not so intense internal or external conflict. However, you should still be aware of your surroundings and don’t be alone in late hours. Also, be cautious of your items when in popular tourist areas just in case.
United Kingdom Religion
Religion percentages of the people of the United Kingdom are:
- Christianity: 46.2%
- No religion: 37.2%
- Islam: 6.5%
- Hindu: 1.7%
- Sikh: 0.9%
- Other religion: 0.6%
- Buddhist: 0.5%
These percentages are accurate as of 2021. According to given info of the past years concerning about increase of more people choosing not to have any religion, it can be said that “no religion” should have increased and Christianity must have dropped.
United Kingdom Attractions
Here are some of the top UK attractions you must see during your trip:
- Stonehenge: An iconic prehistoric monument built approximately 5,000 years ago, surrounded by mythology about its creation.
- Abbey Road: Famed for being the location of the Beatles' album cover photo and home to EMI's Abbey Road Studios.
- Big Ben: A prominent Elizabethan-era clock tower near the Houses of Parliament, recognized as a national symbol and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Buckingham Palace: The residence of the UK's monarch and a significant venue for royal ceremonies and events.
- The Tower of London: A historic fortress housing the Crown Jewels and offering tours led by Yeoman Warders.
- Loch Ness: A legendary freshwater lake in Scotland, famously associated with the Loch Ness monster.
- Cliffs of Moher: Sea cliffs spanning 14 kilometers along the Atlantic coastline in Ireland, featuring dramatic views and appearances in popular movies.
- St Paul's Cathedral: One of London's most recognizable landmarks, boasting impressive Neoclassical architecture and standing as one of the tallest buildings in the city until 1963.
- Roman Baths: Well-preserved Roman bath complex in Bath, Somerset, providing insight into life in ancient Britain.
- Angel of the North: A modern sculpture representing a giant angel, serving as a symbol for Gateshead and the surrounding regions
Best Cities in the United Kingdom
Nothing better than discovering new streets somewhere else in the world. And when it comes to the UK, you are one of the luckiest people who has such a chance. Here are some of the best cities in the United Kingdom:
- Cardiff: The historic city in Wales, known for its stunning castle, art scene, and delicious food.
- London: The capital city in England, known for its attractions, telephone booths, and world-class museums.
- Edinburgh:A charming city in Scotland, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
- Manchester:A lively and energetic city in England, known for its rich industrial heritage, world-class football clubs, and diverse cultural scene.
- Cambridge:A historic city in England, known for its prestigious university with lots of greenery scene.
- Liverpool:A cultural city in England, known for its rich maritime heritage, world-famous music, and food diversity.
- Glasgow:A major city in the west of Scotland that will leave you breathless with its scenery.
- Belfast: Known for its historical and political importance, Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland.
- Dundee: Another city in the east of Scotland, known for its universities and cultural heritage.
- Brighton: Amazing seaside city in the south of England, arts, music, and so much more.
Best Hotels in the United Kingdom
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