United Kingdom — map and facts

The United Kingdom is an island nation off the north-western coast of mainland Europe, made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Its capital is London, and the country covers about 244,000 square kilometres with a population of roughly 68 million. The United Kingdom uses the pound sterling as its currency.

About the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy with a long and influential history. It is a union of four nations, each with its own distinct identity and, in several cases, devolved government. Once the centre of the largest empire in history, it remains a major global power in finance, culture and diplomacy. The country left the European Union in 2020 following the 2016 referendum.

Geography and landscape

The United Kingdom occupies the island of Great Britain and the north-eastern part of Ireland, along with many smaller islands. Its only land border is between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The terrain includes rolling lowlands in the south and east, and mountainous and upland regions in Scotland, Wales and northern England, where Ben Nevis is the highest peak at 1,345 metres. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild temperatures, frequent rainfall and changeable weather. The country is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea and the English Channel.

History

The islands were shaped by Celtic, Roman, Anglo-Saxon and Norse settlement, followed by the Norman Conquest of 1066. England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland were gradually united over the following centuries, with the Kingdom of Great Britain formed in 1707. Britain led the Industrial Revolution and built a global empire that at its height covered a quarter of the world. It played a central role in both World Wars of the twentieth century. The empire was largely dismantled after 1945 as former colonies gained independence. In 2020 the United Kingdom completed its withdrawal from the European Union.

Economy and currency

The United Kingdom has a large, service-based economy, with London as one of the world's leading financial centres. Key sectors include finance, technology, creative industries, education and manufacturing. The currency is the pound sterling, one of the oldest currencies still in use. It is among the most traded currencies in global markets.

Culture and language

The main language is English, which originated here and is now spoken worldwide, alongside Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and other regional languages. The United Kingdom has a vast cultural legacy in literature, music and theatre, from Shakespeare to the Beatles. Its institutions, legal traditions and parliamentary system have influenced many countries. Football and other sports that originated in Britain are now played around the world.

Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of the United Kingdom? The capital of the United Kingdom is London, located in south-eastern England. It is the largest city and a leading global financial and cultural centre.

What currency is used in the United Kingdom? The United Kingdom uses the pound sterling. It is one of the oldest currencies still in circulation.

Which countries make up the United Kingdom? The United Kingdom is made up of four nations: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Each has its own distinct identity and, in several cases, a devolved government.