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Last updated: January 02, 2025
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  • A closeup of basalt columns that make up the Giant's Causeway in Northern Irelenad. The Causeway is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

    A closeup of basalt columns that make up the Giant's Causeway in Northern Irelenad. The Causeway is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

  • During medieval times, the Merchant Adventurers' Hall was one of the most important buildings in York, UK. Built in 1357 as a gathering place for merchants to conduct business and socialize, the Hall is the largest timber-framed building in the UK still standing and used for its original purpose. In that time period a Merchant Adventurer was someone who risked or “adventured” his or her own money in overseas trade bringing back goods and wealth to York. In 1371 the members established an almshouse and chapel in the undercroft of the building for the sick and poor which operated until 1900. Today the Hall belongs to and is still used by The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York who, though no longer are involved in mercantile business, still carry on the charitable work of the original group.

    During medieval times, the Merchant Adventurers' Hall was one of the most important buildings in York, UK. Built in 1357 as a gathering place for merchants to conduct business and socialize, the Hall is the largest timber-framed building in the UK still standing and used for its original purpose. In that time period a Merchant Adventurer was someone who risked or “adventured” his or her own money in overseas trade bringing back goods and wealth to York. In 1371 the members established an almshouse and chapel in the undercroft of the building for the sick and poor which operated until 1900. Today the Hall belongs to and is still used by The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York who, though no longer are involved in mercantile business, still carry on the charitable work of the original group.

  • The ruined keep of the medieval Norman castle in York is referred to as Clifford's Tower.

    The ruined keep of the medieval Norman castle in York is referred to as Clifford's Tower.

  • Much of York's ancient walls still survive; they are punctuated by four main gatehouses (referred to as "bars"). Bootham Bar has some of the oldest surviving stonework - dating to the 11th century A.D. It was built almost exactly on the site of the northwestern gate of Eboracum, the Roman settlement that evolved into York. This view, taken from Exhibition Square, shows York Minster, the city's famous cathedral, in the background.

    Much of York's ancient walls still survive; they are punctuated by four main gatehouses (referred to as "bars"). Bootham Bar has some of the oldest surviving stonework - dating to the 11th century A.D. It was built almost exactly on the site of the northwestern gate of Eboracum, the Roman settlement that evolved into York. This view, taken from Exhibition Square, shows York Minster, the city's famous cathedral, in the background.

  • Substantial portions of York's city walls have been preserved. Although the Romans first constructed walls around the city (which they called Eboracum), most of the current walls date to medieval (12th-14th century) times.

    Substantial portions of York's city walls have been preserved. Although the Romans first constructed walls around the city (which they called Eboracum), most of the current walls date to medieval (12th-14th century) times.

  • Layers showing the build up of York's defenses through the ages.

    Layers showing the build up of York's defenses through the ages.

  • A view of the towers on the western front of York Minster. Construction on this Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in northern Europe, began in 1220; it was not completed until 1472.

    A view of the towers on the western front of York Minster. Construction on this Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in northern Europe, began in 1220; it was not completed until 1472.

  • A closer view of the front facade of York Minster, whose formal title is "The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St. Peter in York."

    A closer view of the front facade of York Minster, whose formal title is "The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St. Peter in York."

  • Statue of Roman Emperor Constantine at the south transept of York Minster (York Cathedral) in North Yorkshire, England. This is near the spot where Constantine was proclaimed Augustus (i.e., co-emperor) in A.D. 306 by his troops. Following a number of civil wars, Constantine became sole emperor by 324. His Edict of Milan in 313 declared tolerance for Christianity in the Roman Empire and proved a turning point for the spread of the Christian Church.

    Statue of Roman Emperor Constantine at the south transept of York Minster (York Cathedral) in North Yorkshire, England. This is near the spot where Constantine was proclaimed Augustus (i.e., co-emperor) in A.D. 306 by his troops. Following a number of civil wars, Constantine became sole emperor by 324. His Edict of Milan in 313 declared tolerance for Christianity in the Roman Empire and proved a turning point for the spread of the Christian Church.

  • St. William's College, adjacent to York Minster, serves as a convention and meeting center for the cathedral.

    St. William's College, adjacent to York Minster, serves as a convention and meeting center for the cathedral.

  • The Theatre Royal in York dates dates back to 1744; it sits on the site of the medieval St. Leonard's Hospital. Parts of the old hospital can still be seen in the archways and walls. Under the stage is a well that is believed to date back to the Roman era in York's history.

    The Theatre Royal in York dates dates back to 1744; it sits on the site of the medieval St. Leonard's Hospital. Parts of the old hospital can still be seen in the archways and walls. Under the stage is a well that is believed to date back to the Roman era in York's history.

  • The Shambles, formerly an open-air meat market in York, is now a popular tourist destination lined with picturesque shops.

    The Shambles, formerly an open-air meat market in York, is now a popular tourist destination lined with picturesque shops.

  • HMS Warrior, a museum ship docked in Portsmouth Harbor, England. Completed in 1861, she was the first armor-plated, iron-hulled warship built for the British Royal Navy. In its day, Warrior was the largest, fastest, most heavily armed and armored warship in the world. She was powered by sail or steam-driven propeller, or both.

    HMS Warrior, a museum ship docked in Portsmouth Harbor, England. Completed in 1861, she was the first armor-plated, iron-hulled warship built for the British Royal Navy. In its day, Warrior was the largest, fastest, most heavily armed and armored warship in the world. She was powered by sail or steam-driven propeller, or both.

  • A view of the starboard side of HMS Victory, Lord Nelson's flagship from the Battle of Trafalgar, in drydock at the historic dockyards area of Portsmouth Harbor, England. She is the world's oldest naval ship still in commission and carries 104 guns.

    A view of the starboard side of HMS Victory, Lord Nelson's flagship from the Battle of Trafalgar, in drydock at the historic dockyards area of Portsmouth Harbor, England. She is the world's oldest naval ship still in commission and carries 104 guns.

  • The simple curving lines of the Mary Rose Museum contrast with the ornate carvings on the stern of HMS Victory in the historic dockyard area in Portsmouth, England. The Mary Rose was a 16th-century warship that sank abruptly in 1545 during an engagement with the French. She was salvaged in 1982 along with thousands of artifacts and today serves as the centerpiece of the eponymous nautical museum and maritime archeological center.

    The simple curving lines of the Mary Rose Museum contrast with the ornate carvings on the stern of HMS Victory in the historic dockyard area in Portsmouth, England. The Mary Rose was a 16th-century warship that sank abruptly in 1545 during an engagement with the French. She was salvaged in 1982 along with thousands of artifacts and today serves as the centerpiece of the eponymous nautical museum and maritime archeological center.

  • Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, UK, was built between 1705 and 1724. Designed in the fleeting English Baroque style, it is one of the largest houses in England and the only non-royal country house in England that is officially called a palace. The English Parliament built it as a national gift to John Churchill, 1st duke of Marlborough, for leading the English to victory over the French and Bavarians at the Battle of Blenheim in Germany during the War of the Spanish Succession. The palace is the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

    Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, UK, was built between 1705 and 1724. Designed in the fleeting English Baroque style, it is one of the largest houses in England and the only non-royal country house in England that is officially called a palace. The English Parliament built it as a national gift to John Churchill, 1st duke of Marlborough, for leading the English to victory over the French and Bavarians at the Battle of Blenheim in Germany during the War of the Spanish Succession. The palace is the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.

  • The Palm House at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England is the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world. Constructed in 1844, the glasshouse resembles the upturned hull of a ship because architects borrowed techniques from the ship-building industry in constructing it. The Palm House focuses on the earth’s tropical regions with a hot and humid environment allowing tropical plants to thrive and grow. Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    The Palm House at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England is the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world. Constructed in 1844, the glasshouse resembles the upturned hull of a ship because architects borrowed techniques from the ship-building industry in constructing it. The Palm House focuses on the earth’s tropical regions with a hot and humid environment allowing tropical plants to thrive and grow. Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Tower Bridge over the River Thames in London gets its name from the nearby Tower of London. Officially opened in 1894, it has become an iconic symbol of the city.

    Tower Bridge over the River Thames in London gets its name from the nearby Tower of London. Officially opened in 1894, it has become an iconic symbol of the city.

  • Tower Bridge in London received its name from the nearby Tower of London.

    Tower Bridge in London received its name from the nearby Tower of London.

  • The Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London, UK, is home to the famous clock tower that houses “Big Ben.” The nickname Big Ben is today often applied to the tower, the clock, and the bell, but originally it applied solely to the largest bell inside the tower. The bell was named for Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the latter stages of the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the 1834 fire. The chimes of four other bells in the tower combine to play the Westminster Quarters tune. On New Year’s Eve 1923, BBC Radio first broadcast Big Ben's chimes to the UK, and in 1932 the chimes were broadcast internationally as part of King George V’s Christmas address. The structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the late Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The clock itself is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.

    The Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London, UK, is home to the famous clock tower that houses “Big Ben.” The nickname Big Ben is today often applied to the tower, the clock, and the bell, but originally it applied solely to the largest bell inside the tower. The bell was named for Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the latter stages of the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the 1834 fire. The chimes of four other bells in the tower combine to play the Westminster Quarters tune. On New Year’s Eve 1923, BBC Radio first broadcast Big Ben's chimes to the UK, and in 1932 the chimes were broadcast internationally as part of King George V’s Christmas address. The structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the late Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The clock itself is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.

  • The Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London, UK, is home to the famous clock tower that houses “Big Ben.” The nickname Big Ben is today often applied to the tower, the clock, and the bell, but originally it applied solely to the largest bell inside the tower. The bell was named for Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the latter stages of the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the 1834 fire. The chimes of four other bells in the tower combine to play the Westminster Quarters tune. On New Year’s Eve 1923, BBC Radio first broadcast Big Ben's chimes to the UK, and in 1932 the chimes were broadcast internationally as part of King George V’s Christmas address. The structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the late Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The clock itself is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.

    The Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London, UK, is home to the famous clock tower that houses “Big Ben.” The nickname Big Ben is today often applied to the tower, the clock, and the bell, but originally it applied solely to the largest bell inside the tower. The bell was named for Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the latter stages of the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the 1834 fire. The chimes of four other bells in the tower combine to play the Westminster Quarters tune. On New Year’s Eve 1923, BBC Radio first broadcast Big Ben's chimes to the UK, and in 1932 the chimes were broadcast internationally as part of King George V’s Christmas address. The structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the late Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The clock itself is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.

  • The statue of Winston Churchill on the grounds of the Houses of Parliament building (Westminster Palace) in London.

    The statue of Winston Churchill on the grounds of the Houses of Parliament building (Westminster Palace) in London.

  • The first Westminster Abbey in London was built in the 1040s by King Edward (later St. Edward the Confessor) who enlarged an existing small Benedictine monastery established at the site in A.D. 960 in honor of St. Peter the Apostle. In order to distinguish it from St. Paul’s Cathedral (the east minster) also in London, it became known as “west minster.” In the mid-13th century, King Henry III built much of the present-day building. The first coronation ceremony was for William the Conqueror in 1066 and Westminster Abbey has been the setting for every British coronation since then as well as other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. The Abbey also contains the tombs of kings and queens and St. Edward the Confessor. Statesmen, warriors, scientists, poets and musicians are also buried or memorialized within the church. Westminster Abbey (the Collegiate Church of St Peter, Westminster) is not a cathedral or a parish church, but a "Royal Peculiar" under the jurisdiction of a Dean and Chapter, subject only to the Sovereign and not to any archbishop or bishop.

    The first Westminster Abbey in London was built in the 1040s by King Edward (later St. Edward the Confessor) who enlarged an existing small Benedictine monastery established at the site in A.D. 960 in honor of St. Peter the Apostle. In order to distinguish it from St. Paul’s Cathedral (the east minster) also in London, it became known as “west minster.” In the mid-13th century, King Henry III built much of the present-day building. The first coronation ceremony was for William the Conqueror in 1066 and Westminster Abbey has been the setting for every British coronation since then as well as other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. The Abbey also contains the tombs of kings and queens and St. Edward the Confessor. Statesmen, warriors, scientists, poets and musicians are also buried or memorialized within the church. Westminster Abbey (the Collegiate Church of St Peter, Westminster) is not a cathedral or a parish church, but a "Royal Peculiar" under the jurisdiction of a Dean and Chapter, subject only to the Sovereign and not to any archbishop or bishop.

  • Westminster Cathedral in London is the mother church for Roman Catholic community in England and Wales. Opened in 1903, it is renowned for its highly distinctive Byzantine architecture.

    Westminster Cathedral in London is the mother church for Roman Catholic community in England and Wales. Opened in 1903, it is renowned for its highly distinctive Byzantine architecture.

  • The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe (135 m). The Eye carries 32 sealed and air-conditioned egg-shaped passenger capsules, each of which can hold 25 persons.

    The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe (135 m). The Eye carries 32 sealed and air-conditioned egg-shaped passenger capsules, each of which can hold 25 persons.

  • Looking up at the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. This Anglican place of worship rests on Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the city. The present building - designed by Sir Christopher Wren - dates to the 17th century and is generally considered to be the fifth St. Paul's erected on the site.

    Looking up at the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. This Anglican place of worship rests on Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the city. The present building - designed by Sir Christopher Wren - dates to the 17th century and is generally considered to be the fifth St. Paul's erected on the site.

  • A vista of London from the Golden Gallery, the highest point of the outer dome of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Some 85 m (280 ft) above the city, this view requires a climb of 530 steps. The large structure on the right is the cathedral's west end clock tower.

    A vista of London from the Golden Gallery, the highest point of the outer dome of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Some 85 m (280 ft) above the city, this view requires a climb of 530 steps. The large structure on the right is the cathedral's west end clock tower.

  • The Royal Albert Hall in London, England as seen from the Albert Memorial looking across Kensington Gore.

    The Royal Albert Hall in London, England as seen from the Albert Memorial looking across Kensington Gore.

  • The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens, London is situated directly to the north of the Royal Albert Hall. It was commissioned by Queen Victoria in memory of her beloved husband, Prince Albert. Built over a period of 10 years, it opened in 1872.

    The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens, London is situated directly to the north of the Royal Albert Hall. It was commissioned by Queen Victoria in memory of her beloved husband, Prince Albert. Built over a period of 10 years, it opened in 1872.

  • The Charing Cross Railroad Station in London. The Hungerford Bridge that leads to the station is flanked by two cable-stayed pedestrian bridges that share the railroad bridge's foundation piers and which are officially named the Golden Jubilee Bridges.

    The Charing Cross Railroad Station in London. The Hungerford Bridge that leads to the station is flanked by two cable-stayed pedestrian bridges that share the railroad bridge's foundation piers and which are officially named the Golden Jubilee Bridges.

  • Whitehall Court as seen from the River Thames, London. Although one contiguous building, it consists of two separate constructions. The left portion of the building is The Royal Horseguards hotel, while the remainder is residential.

    Whitehall Court as seen from the River Thames, London. Although one contiguous building, it consists of two separate constructions. The left portion of the building is The Royal Horseguards hotel, while the remainder is residential.

  • A cast of Trajan's Column (cut in half, upper part seen in foreground) as displayed at the Cast Court in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The acquisition by museums of plaster casts of important monuments and works of art was especially popular in the mid-to-late 19th century, since few people could afford to travel to the Continent to view the originals. The V&A's collection is regarded as one of the finest remaining in the world.

    A cast of Trajan's Column (cut in half, upper part seen in foreground) as displayed at the Cast Court in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The acquisition by museums of plaster casts of important monuments and works of art was especially popular in the mid-to-late 19th century, since few people could afford to travel to the Continent to view the originals. The V&A's collection is regarded as one of the finest remaining in the world.

  • Close up of the base of the cast of Trajan's Column as displayed at the Cast Court in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

    Close up of the base of the cast of Trajan's Column as displayed at the Cast Court in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

  • The tip of the distinctive 30 St Mary Axe Building (40 stories; commonly referred to as The Gherkin) as seen from the courtyard of The Tower of London fortress.

    The tip of the distinctive 30 St Mary Axe Building (40 stories; commonly referred to as The Gherkin) as seen from the courtyard of The Tower of London fortress.

  • The uniquely shaped London City Hall (on the left) is home to the Greater London Authority, which consists of the Mayor of London and a 25-member London Assembly.

    The uniquely shaped London City Hall (on the left) is home to the Greater London Authority, which consists of the Mayor of London and a 25-member London Assembly.

  • The Royal Exchange in London. This - the third exchange building on the site - dates to 1844. The Royal Exchange no longer acts as a center of commerce, but is now a luxurious shopping center.

    The Royal Exchange in London. This - the third exchange building on the site - dates to 1844. The Royal Exchange no longer acts as a center of commerce, but is now a luxurious shopping center.

  • An element from The Blues and Royals, in their distinctive blue rain capes, passing along a damp London street. The Blues and Royals are part of the Household Cavalry Regiment performing ceremonial duties on state and royal occasions as well as an armored reconnaissance unit taking part in active military operations around the world. As one of the senior regiments of the British Army, the lineage of The Blues and Royals includes The Royal Horse Guards (Blues) and The Royal Dragoons (1st Dragoons) dating back to the Restoration Period of 1660-1661.

    An element from The Blues and Royals, in their distinctive blue rain capes, passing along a damp London street. The Blues and Royals are part of the Household Cavalry Regiment performing ceremonial duties on state and royal occasions as well as an armored reconnaissance unit taking part in active military operations around the world. As one of the senior regiments of the British Army, the lineage of The Blues and Royals includes The Royal Horse Guards (Blues) and The Royal Dragoons (1st Dragoons) dating back to the Restoration Period of 1660-1661.

  • Buckingham Palace is the official residence and administrative headquarters for the monarch of the United Kingdom. The original building, the center of the palace, was a large townhouse known as Buckingham House built for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It passed to royal possession when King George III purchased the house in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, the structure was enlarged to become a palace. Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to make the palace her residence in July 1837 and in June 1838 she was the first British sovereign to leave from Buckingham Palace for a coronation. Over the years, Buckingham Palace expanded further to its current 775 rooms that include 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace measures 108 m long (354 ft) across the front, 120 m deep (393 ft) (including the central quadrangle), and 24 m (78ft) high and is a focal point for the British people during national rejoicing and mourning.

    Buckingham Palace is the official residence and administrative headquarters for the monarch of the United Kingdom. The original building, the center of the palace, was a large townhouse known as Buckingham House built for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It passed to royal possession when King George III purchased the house in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, the structure was enlarged to become a palace. Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to make the palace her residence in July 1837 and in June 1838 she was the first British sovereign to leave from Buckingham Palace for a coronation. Over the years, Buckingham Palace expanded further to its current 775 rooms that include 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace measures 108 m long (354 ft) across the front, 120 m deep (393 ft) (including the central quadrangle), and 24 m (78ft) high and is a focal point for the British people during national rejoicing and mourning.

  • Buckingham Palace is the official residence and administrative headquarters for the monarch of the United Kingdom. The original building, the center of the palace, was a large townhouse known as Buckingham House built for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It passed to royal possession when King George III purchased the house in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, the structure was enlarged to become a palace. Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to make the palace her residence in July 1837 and in June 1838 she was the first British sovereign to leave from Buckingham Palace for a coronation. Over the years, Buckingham Palace expanded further to its current 775 rooms that include 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace measures 108 m long (354 ft) across the front, 120 m deep (393 ft) (including the central quadrangle), and 24 m (78ft) high and is a focal point for the British people during national rejoicing and mourning.

    Buckingham Palace is the official residence and administrative headquarters for the monarch of the United Kingdom. The original building, the center of the palace, was a large townhouse known as Buckingham House built for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It passed to royal possession when King George III purchased the house in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, the structure was enlarged to become a palace. Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to make the palace her residence in July 1837 and in June 1838 she was the first British sovereign to leave from Buckingham Palace for a coronation. Over the years, Buckingham Palace expanded further to its current 775 rooms that include 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace measures 108 m long (354 ft) across the front, 120 m deep (393 ft) (including the central quadrangle), and 24 m (78ft) high and is a focal point for the British people during national rejoicing and mourning.

  • The new glass Pavilion exhibition space of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) opened in 2004 behind Lowther Lodge, the society's main building. Beneath the Pavilion and to the foreground is the Foyle Reading Room and the RGS library, which are covered by a sunken lawn, but which receive illumination through the bush-shaded skylights.

    The new glass Pavilion exhibition space of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) opened in 2004 behind Lowther Lodge, the society's main building. Beneath the Pavilion and to the foreground is the Foyle Reading Room and the RGS library, which are covered by a sunken lawn, but which receive illumination through the bush-shaded skylights.

  • The Queen's House, Greenwich viewed from Observatory Hill. Shown are the original house (1635) and the wings linked by colonnades (1807). Beyond the House is the Old Royal Naval College, completed in 1712.

    The Queen's House, Greenwich viewed from Observatory Hill. Shown are the original house (1635) and the wings linked by colonnades (1807). Beyond the House is the Old Royal Naval College, completed in 1712.

  • The balcony in the Chapel at the Queen Mary Court of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.

    The balcony in the Chapel at the Queen Mary Court of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.

  • A section of the Painted Hall and its famous trompe l'oeil decorations at the King William Court of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.

    A section of the Painted Hall and its famous trompe l'oeil decorations at the King William Court of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.

  • One of the buildings making up the Royal Observatory at Greenwich.

    One of the buildings making up the Royal Observatory at Greenwich.

  • On 22 October 1884, the International Meridian Conference meeting in Washington, DC adopted Greenwich, England as the initial longitudinal meridian for longitude (0 degree longitude), and defined a universal day as beginning for the world at the moment of mean midnight at the initial meridian and counting from zero up to twenty-four hours. In the 19th century, 72% of the world’s commerce depended on sea charts, which already used Greenwich as the prime meridian. This conference standardized these charts along with railway schedules, and the clocks of the world. Today people visiting Greenwich, England can actually walk on a physical representation of the line dividing the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth at the Royal Observatory that defines the Prime Meridian.

    On 22 October 1884, the International Meridian Conference meeting in Washington, DC adopted Greenwich, England as the initial longitudinal meridian for longitude (0 degree longitude), and defined a universal day as beginning for the world at the moment of mean midnight at the initial meridian and counting from zero up to twenty-four hours. In the 19th century, 72% of the world’s commerce depended on sea charts, which already used Greenwich as the prime meridian. This conference standardized these charts along with railway schedules, and the clocks of the world. Today people visiting Greenwich, England can actually walk on a physical representation of the line dividing the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth at the Royal Observatory that defines the Prime Meridian.

  • The Anglican Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire is one of the largest cathedrals in the UK with the longest nave (pictured) of any Gothic cathedral in Europe. The cathedral, founded in 1079, is also famous for its seven chantry chapels, more than any other English cathedral. It is also the burial site for celebrated English writer Jane Austen.

    The Anglican Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire is one of the largest cathedrals in the UK with the longest nave (pictured) of any Gothic cathedral in Europe. The cathedral, founded in 1079, is also famous for its seven chantry chapels, more than any other English cathedral. It is also the burial site for celebrated English writer Jane Austen.

  • Although no longer in general use, the red phone booth was once a staple of the British communications system. This one was found on a back street in Harrogate, England.

    Although no longer in general use, the red phone booth was once a staple of the British communications system. This one was found on a back street in Harrogate, England.

  • Much of the exterior of Eastwell Manor in Ashford, Kent, is draped with ivy.

    Much of the exterior of Eastwell Manor in Ashford, Kent, is draped with ivy.

  • Old Bridge at Warwick Castle, Warwick, England, dates to the 11th century.

    Old Bridge at Warwick Castle, Warwick, England, dates to the 11th century.

  • On April 23, 1564, William Shakespeare was born in this house on Stratford-on-Avon, England, UK. Considered one of the world’s greatest dramatists, he wrote 37 plays and over 150 sonnets. In 1582, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway and the young couple lived in this house with their children and his parents. In 1601, Shakespeare’s father died and being the eldest surviving son, he inherited the house. By this time, Shakespeare and his family were living in New Place, which he purchased in 1597, and lived there until his death in the house in 1616.

    On April 23, 1564, William Shakespeare was born in this house on Stratford-on-Avon, England, UK. Considered one of the world’s greatest dramatists, he wrote 37 plays and over 150 sonnets. In 1582, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway and the young couple lived in this house with their children and his parents. In 1601, Shakespeare’s father died and being the eldest surviving son, he inherited the house. By this time, Shakespeare and his family were living in New Place, which he purchased in 1597, and lived there until his death in the house in 1616.

  • Anne Hathaway's Cottage, near Stratford-on-Avon, England, is a spacious 12-room house where Anne - Shakespeare's wife - was brought up.

    Anne Hathaway's Cottage, near Stratford-on-Avon, England, is a spacious 12-room house where Anne - Shakespeare's wife - was brought up.

  • Windsor Castle in Berkshire County is the largest inhabited castle in the world; dating to the 11th century, it is one of the principal official residences of the British monarch. In 1992, a fire destroyed part of the castle; restoration required five years. The castle is one of Britain's most popular attractions, but not all areas are open to the public.

    Windsor Castle in Berkshire County is the largest inhabited castle in the world; dating to the 11th century, it is one of the principal official residences of the British monarch. In 1992, a fire destroyed part of the castle; restoration required five years. The castle is one of Britain's most popular attractions, but not all areas are open to the public.

  • The Round Tower at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England.

    The Round Tower at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England.

  • Part of the Quadrangle of the Upper Ward at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England.

    Part of the Quadrangle of the Upper Ward at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England.

  • The Cathedral of Saint Mary in Salisbury, consecrated in 1258, is an Anglican cathedral built in the Early English Gothic style. It has the tallest church spire in the UK, which required serious buttressing and contains no bell. The cathedral holds the oldest working clock in the world (built 1386) and one of the original surviving copies of the Magna Carta.

    The Cathedral of Saint Mary in Salisbury, consecrated in 1258, is an Anglican cathedral built in the Early English Gothic style. It has the tallest church spire in the UK, which required serious buttressing and contains no bell. The cathedral holds the oldest working clock in the world (built 1386) and one of the original surviving copies of the Magna Carta.

  • The White Cliffs of Dover is a region of English coastline facing the Straight of Dover and France. The cliffs, comprised of chalk and stretching for 13 km (8 mi), were immortalized in a World War II song “The White Cliffs of Dover.”

    The White Cliffs of Dover is a region of English coastline facing the Straight of Dover and France. The cliffs, comprised of chalk and stretching for 13 km (8 mi), were immortalized in a World War II song “The White Cliffs of Dover.”

  • The Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall is part of the Battle of Britain Memorial in Folkstone. The memorial is dedicated to the men who won the Battle of Britain, 10 July to 31 October 1940. The wall contains the names of all those aircrew known to have flown at least one sortie with an accredited squadron or unit of the Royal Air Force during the Battle.

    The Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall is part of the Battle of Britain Memorial in Folkstone. The memorial is dedicated to the men who won the Battle of Britain, 10 July to 31 October 1940. The wall contains the names of all those aircrew known to have flown at least one sortie with an accredited squadron or unit of the Royal Air Force during the Battle.

  • Tower, spire, and part of the outer wall of the old St. Michael's Coventry Cathedral, England. Built in the late 14th and early 15th centuries, the church was bombed and almost obliterated during the Blitz in 1940. Today it stands next to the new cathedral and serves as a place of reflection and reconciliation.

    Tower, spire, and part of the outer wall of the old St. Michael's Coventry Cathedral, England. Built in the late 14th and early 15th centuries, the church was bombed and almost obliterated during the Blitz in 1940. Today it stands next to the new cathedral and serves as a place of reflection and reconciliation.

  • Dry stone walls line a road in the Lake District in northwest England. The lakes and mountains of this picturesque area were attracting tourists by the end of the 18th century and by 1951 the government formed the Lake District National Park to protect the area from becoming over developed. Its most famous inhabitant was the poet William Wordsworth.

    Dry stone walls line a road in the Lake District in northwest England. The lakes and mountains of this picturesque area were attracting tourists by the end of the 18th century and by 1951 the government formed the Lake District National Park to protect the area from becoming over developed. Its most famous inhabitant was the poet William Wordsworth.

  • The Choir of Bristol Cathedral (the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity). The church was founded in 1140 as Saint Augustine's Abbey, and rebuilt in 1542 in the Romanesque style; it was added on to again in the 19th century.

    The Choir of Bristol Cathedral (the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity). The church was founded in 1140 as Saint Augustine's Abbey, and rebuilt in 1542 in the Romanesque style; it was added on to again in the 19th century.

  • Bath Abbey (the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul) is built in a cruciform pattern. Founded in the 7th century, it was rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries.

    Bath Abbey (the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul) is built in a cruciform pattern. Founded in the 7th century, it was rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries.

  • Bath Abbey stands nearby the Roman Baths in Bath, England.

    Bath Abbey stands nearby the Roman Baths in Bath, England.

  • Plaque affixed to Bath Abbey commemorating the site of the coronation of Edgar, the first king of all England, in A.D. 973.

    Plaque affixed to Bath Abbey commemorating the site of the coronation of Edgar, the first king of all England, in A.D. 973.

  • Close up of the Gothic exterior of Bath Abbey, Bath, England.

    Close up of the Gothic exterior of Bath Abbey, Bath, England.

  • View across the Pulteney Bridge, which spans the River Avon in Bath, county Sommerset, England. The bridge is lined by shops on both sides.

    View across the Pulteney Bridge, which spans the River Avon in Bath, county Sommerset, England. The bridge is lined by shops on both sides.

  • Looking down onto the River Avon from the Pulteney Bridge in Bath, county Sommerset, England.

    Looking down onto the River Avon from the Pulteney Bridge in Bath, county Sommerset, England.

  • A view of Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, England. The bridge was modeled after the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy.

    A view of Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, England. The bridge was modeled after the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy.

  • St. Michael's Church in Bath, England.

    St. Michael's Church in Bath, England.

  • A view of the reconstructed Great Bath of Aquae Sulis in Bath, with Bath Abbey in the background.

    A view of the reconstructed Great Bath of Aquae Sulis in Bath, with Bath Abbey in the background.

  • The Great Bath at Aquae Sulis (today Bath) England. Although the water from the hot spring is colorless, it acquires its distinctive green hue from algal growth caused by the heat of the water and from sunlight.

    The Great Bath at Aquae Sulis (today Bath) England. Although the water from the hot spring is colorless, it acquires its distinctive green hue from algal growth caused by the heat of the water and from sunlight.

  • The superstructure of the Roman baths at Aquae Sulis - everything from the base of the columns upward - was reconstructed during Victorian times.

    The superstructure of the Roman baths at Aquae Sulis - everything from the base of the columns upward - was reconstructed during Victorian times.

  • The King's Bath at Bath, England.

    The King's Bath at Bath, England.

  • Hot water (46 degrees C or 115 degrees F) continues to flow into the Great Bath at Aquae Sulis through the original Roman channels.

    Hot water (46 degrees C or 115 degrees F) continues to flow into the Great Bath at Aquae Sulis through the original Roman channels.

  • This arched overflow was part of the impressive Roman engineering arrangements at Aquae Sulis that continue to keep hot water flowing through the bath complex today.

    This arched overflow was part of the impressive Roman engineering arrangements at Aquae Sulis that continue to keep hot water flowing through the bath complex today.

  • Carved blocks from the pediment of the Temple of Sulis Minerva (the patron deity of the baths at Aquae Sulis).

    Carved blocks from the pediment of the Temple of Sulis Minerva (the patron deity of the baths at Aquae Sulis).

  • A photo of the English countryside near Avebury, in the English county of Wiltshire. The small town is the site of a Neolithic henge that is larger and older than Stonehenge, 32 km (20 mi) to the south.

    A photo of the English countryside near Avebury, in the English county of Wiltshire. The small town is the site of a Neolithic henge that is larger and older than Stonehenge, 32 km (20 mi) to the south.

  • Vaults of clouds climb above the fields by Overton Hill in Wiltshire, England. Numerous tumuli (burial mounds) dot the hill, which has been the focus of human activities for over 5,000 years.

    Vaults of clouds climb above the fields by Overton Hill in Wiltshire, England. Numerous tumuli (burial mounds) dot the hill, which has been the focus of human activities for over 5,000 years.

  • Stonehenge as seen from the north barrow, Wiltshire County, England. The stone circle was built about 2500 B.C. by a non-writing culture and is composed of earthworks surrounding a circular setting of large standing stones with several hundred burial mounds. Among its many suggested functions are that it may have served as: an astronomical observatory, a religious site, a domain of the dead, or a place of healing. The site has also been connected to Arthurian legend.

    Stonehenge as seen from the north barrow, Wiltshire County, England. The stone circle was built about 2500 B.C. by a non-writing culture and is composed of earthworks surrounding a circular setting of large standing stones with several hundred burial mounds. Among its many suggested functions are that it may have served as: an astronomical observatory, a religious site, a domain of the dead, or a place of healing. The site has also been connected to Arthurian legend.

  • Stonehenge is a prehistoric stone circle monument, cemetery, and archaeological site located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. In 1986, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Stonehenge is a prehistoric stone circle monument, cemetery, and archaeological site located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. In 1986, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Another view of the megaliths that compose Stonehenge.

    Another view of the megaliths that compose Stonehenge.

  • Built in the English Palladian style between 1737 and 1749, the Radcliffe Camera in Oxford, England houses the Radcliffe Science Library.

    Built in the English Palladian style between 1737 and 1749, the Radcliffe Camera in Oxford, England houses the Radcliffe Science Library.

  • Chancel vault of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, England. Uniquely, the church also serves as the chapel for Christ Church, the largest college at the University of Oxford. The church held the distinction of being the smallest cathedral in England for hundreds of years, but in the 20th century a few smaller churches were raised to cathedral status. The house of worship exhibits both Norman and Perpendicular styles.

    Chancel vault of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, England. Uniquely, the church also serves as the chapel for Christ Church, the largest college at the University of Oxford. The church held the distinction of being the smallest cathedral in England for hundreds of years, but in the 20th century a few smaller churches were raised to cathedral status. The house of worship exhibits both Norman and Perpendicular styles.

  • The Iron Bridge that spans the Severn River near the town of Ironbridge, England is the world’s first iron bridge. Constructed in 1779 at the dawn of the industrial age in Britain, the bridge opened in 1781 and remained in use for over 150 years until it closed to vehicular traffic in 1934 and was designated an Ancient Monument. Designed by Thomas Farnolls Pritchard, the cast iron single-span bridge, measuring 30 m (98 ft), with five main semicircular ribs proved invaluable to the development of industry and commerce in the area. In 1986, the Iron Bridge became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    The Iron Bridge that spans the Severn River near the town of Ironbridge, England is the world’s first iron bridge. Constructed in 1779 at the dawn of the industrial age in Britain, the bridge opened in 1781 and remained in use for over 150 years until it closed to vehicular traffic in 1934 and was designated an Ancient Monument. Designed by Thomas Farnolls Pritchard, the cast iron single-span bridge, measuring 30 m (98 ft), with five main semicircular ribs proved invaluable to the development of industry and commerce in the area. In 1986, the Iron Bridge became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • A remaining section of Hadrian's Wall, England. The wall was a fortification built by the Romans to mark their northern frontier, to prevent raids by Pictish tribes, and to collect customs. Begun in A.D. 122 and largely completed in six years, it was constructed of turf and stone with 80 small fortlets, one for each Roman mile. Eventually 14 to 17 full size forts were added.

    A remaining section of Hadrian's Wall, England. The wall was a fortification built by the Romans to mark their northern frontier, to prevent raids by Pictish tribes, and to collect customs. Begun in A.D. 122 and largely completed in six years, it was constructed of turf and stone with 80 small fortlets, one for each Roman mile. Eventually 14 to 17 full size forts were added.

  • A view from the top of a section of Hadrian's Wall. Named for the Roman emperor who ordered its construction, the wall extends across northern Britain from Wallsend in the east to Solway Firth in the west and took over six years to build, beginning in A.D. 122. Built to keep hostile local inhabitants away from the Romans, Hadrian’s Wall runs 118 km (73 mi) and originally stood 3.6 m (12 ft) tall. Protective forts were built every seven miles. Hadrian’s successor, Emperor Antoninus, later expanded the wall, but over time, it sustained damage due to road construction and stones stolen to build homes and other structures. What remains of the wall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

    A view from the top of a section of Hadrian's Wall. Named for the Roman emperor who ordered its construction, the wall extends across northern Britain from Wallsend in the east to Solway Firth in the west and took over six years to build, beginning in A.D. 122. Built to keep hostile local inhabitants away from the Romans, Hadrian’s Wall runs 118 km (73 mi) and originally stood 3.6 m (12 ft) tall. Protective forts were built every seven miles. Hadrian’s successor, Emperor Antoninus, later expanded the wall, but over time, it sustained damage due to road construction and stones stolen to build homes and other structures. What remains of the wall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

  • A view from the top of a section of Hadrian's Wall. The defensive fortification was built by the Romans over six years beginning in A.D. 122 and then strengthened in subsequent decades. Named after the emperor who ordered its construction, the barrier secured the northwest section of the empire from barbarians. The 117.5-km (73-mi) wall stretches across England from Wallsend in the east to Solway Firth in the west and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

    A view from the top of a section of Hadrian's Wall. The defensive fortification was built by the Romans over six years beginning in A.D. 122 and then strengthened in subsequent decades. Named after the emperor who ordered its construction, the barrier secured the northwest section of the empire from barbarians. The 117.5-km (73-mi) wall stretches across England from Wallsend in the east to Solway Firth in the west and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

  • Eilean Donan Castle, near Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland was built in 1220 on a small island in Loch Duich as a defense against Danish invaders.

    Eilean Donan Castle, near Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland was built in 1220 on a small island in Loch Duich as a defense against Danish invaders.

  • Celtic cross outside of St. Moluag's Church - Teampull Mholuaidh in Scots Gaelic - in the town of Eoropie on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of northern Scotland.

    Celtic cross outside of St. Moluag's Church - Teampull Mholuaidh in Scots Gaelic - in the town of Eoropie on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of northern Scotland.

  • The Standing Stones of Callanish, on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, date to between 2900 and 2600 B.C. Standing stone circles are found throughout the British Isles.

    The Standing Stones of Callanish, on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, date to between 2900 and 2600 B.C. Standing stone circles are found throughout the British Isles.

  • Saint Giles Cathedral, The High Kirk of Edinburgh, Scotland. This view of the west front shows the Tower and the Crown. The latter is believed to date from the 15th century.

    Saint Giles Cathedral, The High Kirk of Edinburgh, Scotland. This view of the west front shows the Tower and the Crown. The latter is believed to date from the 15th century.

  • The elaborately carved marble pulpit inside Saint Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh.

    The elaborately carved marble pulpit inside Saint Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh.

  • A view of the entranceway to Edinburgh Castle. The doorway is flanked by bronze statues of two of Scotland's greatest heroes, Robert the Bruce on the left and William Wallace (a.k.a. Braveheart) on the right. They were added in 1929 on the 600th anniversary of Bruce's death.

    A view of the entranceway to Edinburgh Castle. The doorway is flanked by bronze statues of two of Scotland's greatest heroes, Robert the Bruce on the left and William Wallace (a.k.a. Braveheart) on the right. They were added in 1929 on the 600th anniversary of Bruce's death.

  • A section of the Scottish National War Memorial building located in Edinburgh Castle.

    A section of the Scottish National War Memorial building located in Edinburgh Castle.

  • Saint Margaret's Chapel - built circa 1130 - is the oldest building in Edinburgh Castle and in all of Scotland's capital city. It was built by King David I as a private chapel for the royal family and dedicated to his mother, Margaret.

    Saint Margaret's Chapel - built circa 1130 - is the oldest building in Edinburgh Castle and in all of Scotland's capital city. It was built by King David I as a private chapel for the royal family and dedicated to his mother, Margaret.

  • Looking out onto the city of Edinburgh from the walls of its castle. The oldest parts of the castle date to the 12th century.

    Looking out onto the city of Edinburgh from the walls of its castle. The oldest parts of the castle date to the 12th century.

  • A view of Edinburgh from its castle. The Firth of Forth, the estuary of Scotland's Forth River, may be seen in the background.

    A view of Edinburgh from its castle. The Firth of Forth, the estuary of Scotland's Forth River, may be seen in the background.

  • The entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, Scotland. The castle derives its name from the Celtic words "haly" and "ruid" (Holy Cross), it is the official residence of the monarch of the UK in Scotland.

    The entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, Scotland. The castle derives its name from the Celtic words "haly" and "ruid" (Holy Cross), it is the official residence of the monarch of the UK in Scotland.

  • Castle Stalker is a much-photographed, four-story tower house or keep set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.

    Castle Stalker is a much-photographed, four-story tower house or keep set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.

  • A closer view of Castle Stalker, the four-story tower house or keep set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.

    A closer view of Castle Stalker, the four-story tower house or keep set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.

  • A view from the battlements of Castle Stalker onto Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.

    A view from the battlements of Castle Stalker onto Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.

  • Llangollen, Wales, in the Dee Valley, is the site of the annual International Eisteddfod, a music festival in which singers and dancers from around the world participate.

    Llangollen, Wales, in the Dee Valley, is the site of the annual International Eisteddfod, a music festival in which singers and dancers from around the world participate.

  • Built on the site of a 6th century monastery, St. Davids Church served as a religious and intellectual center on the western Welsh coast. Visited by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the church remains a pilgrimage site. The adjacent, ornate bishop’s residence served as a center of the church's authority for the region.

    Built on the site of a 6th century monastery, St. Davids Church served as a religious and intellectual center on the western Welsh coast. Visited by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the church remains a pilgrimage site. The adjacent, ornate bishop’s residence served as a center of the church's authority for the region.

  • Heraldic banners decorate the walls of Caernarfon Castle, Wales, constructed by King Edward I following the conquest of Gwynedd. Begun in 1283, it reached it current state in 1323, but was never entirely completed.

    Heraldic banners decorate the walls of Caernarfon Castle, Wales, constructed by King Edward I following the conquest of Gwynedd. Begun in 1283, it reached it current state in 1323, but was never entirely completed.

  • Inside Caernarfon Castle, Wales. The tradition of investing the heir to the throne of Britain with the title Prince of Wales was begun in 1301 when King Edward I invested Prince Edward with the title. Prince Charles was the last heir to be invested there in 1969.

    Inside Caernarfon Castle, Wales. The tradition of investing the heir to the throne of Britain with the title Prince of Wales was begun in 1301 when King Edward I invested Prince Edward with the title. Prince Charles was the last heir to be invested there in 1969.

  • Located on the border between Wales and England along the Wye River, this abbey served as a monastery from the 12th century until the dissolution decree in the 16th century.

    Located on the border between Wales and England along the Wye River, this abbey served as a monastery from the 12th century until the dissolution decree in the 16th century.

  • A view of City Square in Leeds. The statue is of The Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock. On the left is the Old Post Office; the round building in the background is called No 1 City Square.

    A view of City Square in Leeds. The statue is of The Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock. On the left is the Old Post Office; the round building in the background is called No 1 City Square.

  • At the front entrance to Leeds Town Hall; in the background is Oxford Place Centre.

    At the front entrance to Leeds Town Hall; in the background is Oxford Place Centre.

  • Oxford Place Centre is situated next to Leeds Town Hall. The Centre comprises Oxford Place Methodist Church and Oxford Place Community Care.

    Oxford Place Centre is situated next to Leeds Town Hall. The Centre comprises Oxford Place Methodist Church and Oxford Place Community Care.

  • The Leeds Art Gallery, located next to Leeds Town Hall, houses primarily modern art, but also contains artwork of the 19th century and earlier.

    The Leeds Art Gallery, located next to Leeds Town Hall, houses primarily modern art, but also contains artwork of the 19th century and earlier.

  • Leeds Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of St Anne, is the Roman Catholic cathedral for the Diocese of Leeds.

    Leeds Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of St Anne, is the Roman Catholic cathedral for the Diocese of Leeds.

  • The Bargate is a medieval gatehouse in the city center of Southampton, England. Constructed in Norman times as part of the Southampton town walls, it was the main gateway to the city. Southampton is the largest city in southeast England with a population of 275,000 and also a major port.

    The Bargate is a medieval gatehouse in the city center of Southampton, England. Constructed in Norman times as part of the Southampton town walls, it was the main gateway to the city. Southampton is the largest city in southeast England with a population of 275,000 and also a major port.

  • The nave of Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire, England. Construction began in 1079 and the church was consecrated in 1093; additions to the structure took place in subsequent centuries. Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest in Europe and has the greatest overall length (169 m) of any Gothic cathedral.

    The nave of Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire, England. Construction began in 1079 and the church was consecrated in 1093; additions to the structure took place in subsequent centuries. Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest in Europe and has the greatest overall length (169 m) of any Gothic cathedral.

  • The High Altar of Winchester Cathedral features an ornate 15th-century stone screen.

    The High Altar of Winchester Cathedral features an ornate 15th-century stone screen.

  • A view of the massive ceiling vault of the 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral, mother church of the worldwide Anglican community, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    A view of the massive ceiling vault of the 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral, mother church of the worldwide Anglican community, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • One of the many impressive stained glass windows in the 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral.

    One of the many impressive stained glass windows in the 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral.

  • Stone marking the spot where Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by knights of King Henry II for opposing the king. Becket was Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162-1170. He was canonized as a saint after his death.

    Stone marking the spot where Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by knights of King Henry II for opposing the king. Becket was Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162-1170. He was canonized as a saint after his death.

  • Plaque in Canterbury Cathedral memorializing the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in the Cathedral on 29 December 1170.

    Plaque in Canterbury Cathedral memorializing the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in the Cathedral on 29 December 1170.

  • This medieval farm house at Jarlshof, Shetland dates to about A.D. 1300 and is based on the earlier Norse longhouse.

    This medieval farm house at Jarlshof, Shetland dates to about A.D. 1300 and is based on the earlier Norse longhouse.

  • The highland cow (Scots: heilan coo) is a Scottish breed of rustic cattle that originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides islands of Scotland. The cows, bred mainly for their meat, have long horns and a two-layer-thick coat (the longest among cattle species) consisting of an undercoat and an oily outer coat that protects against the harsh highland weather.

    The highland cow (Scots: heilan coo) is a Scottish breed of rustic cattle that originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides islands of Scotland. The cows, bred mainly for their meat, have long horns and a two-layer-thick coat (the longest among cattle species) consisting of an undercoat and an oily outer coat that protects against the harsh highland weather.

  • This statue in Edinburgh is a tribute to Greyfriar’s Bobby, a Skye terrier who was a constant companion to his owner John Gray. When Gray passed away 1858 and was buried in Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, Bobby never left his master’s grave until his death 14 years later. This statue honoring his loyalty is near the Kirkyard where Bobby’s grave is also, not far from his master even in death. This story of canine loyalty lives on in books and movies.

    This statue in Edinburgh is a tribute to Greyfriar’s Bobby, a Skye terrier who was a constant companion to his owner John Gray. When Gray passed away 1858 and was buried in Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, Bobby never left his master’s grave until his death 14 years later. This statue honoring his loyalty is near the Kirkyard where Bobby’s grave is also, not far from his master even in death. This story of canine loyalty lives on in books and movies.

  • The plaque on the base of the Greyfriar’s Bobby statue in Edinburgh.

    The plaque on the base of the Greyfriar’s Bobby statue in Edinburgh.

  • The Giant's Causeway (Irish: Clochán an Aifir) is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

    The Giant's Causeway (Irish: Clochán an Aifir) is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

  • A closeup of basalt columns that make up the Giant's Causeway in Northern Irelenad. The Causeway is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

    A closeup of basalt columns that make up the Giant's Causeway in Northern Irelenad. The Causeway is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

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  • Ruins of St. Mary's Abbey in the garden adjoining the Yorkshire Museum in York. The former Benedictine abbey was the richest in northern England; it was destroyed on orders of Henry VIII during the "Dissolution of the Monasteries" in the 16th century.
  • During medieval times, the Merchant Adventurers' Hall was one of the most important buildings in York, UK. Built in 1357 as a gathering place for merchants to conduct business and socialize, the Hall is the largest timber-framed building in the UK still standing and used for its original purpose. In that time period a Merchant Adventurer was someone who risked or “adventured” his or her own money in overseas trade bringing back goods and wealth to York. In 1371 the members established an almshouse and chapel in the undercroft of the building for the sick and poor which operated until 1900. Today the Hall belongs to and is still used by The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York who, though no longer are involved in mercantile business, still carry on the charitable work of the original group.
  • The ruined keep of the medieval Norman castle in York is referred to as Clifford's Tower.
  • Much of York's ancient walls still survive; they are punctuated by four main gatehouses (referred to as "bars"). Bootham Bar has some of the oldest surviving stonework - dating to the 11th century A.D. It was built almost exactly on the site of the northwestern gate of Eboracum, the Roman settlement that evolved into York. This view, taken from Exhibition Square, shows York Minster, the city's famous cathedral, in the background.
  • Substantial portions of York's city walls have been preserved. Although the Romans first constructed walls around the city (which they called Eboracum), most of the current walls date to medieval (12th-14th century) times.
  • Layers showing the build up of York's defenses through the ages.
  • A view of the towers on the western front of York Minster. Construction on this Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in northern Europe, began in 1220; it was not completed until 1472.
  • A closer view of the front facade of York Minster, whose formal title is "The Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St. Peter in York."
  • Statue of Roman Emperor Constantine at the south transept of York Minster (York Cathedral) in North Yorkshire, England. This is near the spot where Constantine was proclaimed Augustus (i.e., co-emperor) in A.D. 306 by his troops. Following a number of civil wars, Constantine became sole emperor by 324. His Edict of Milan in 313 declared tolerance for Christianity in the Roman Empire and proved a turning point for the spread of the Christian Church.
  • St. William's College, adjacent to York Minster, serves as a convention and meeting center for the cathedral.
  • The Theatre Royal in York dates dates back to 1744; it sits on the site of the medieval St. Leonard's Hospital. Parts of the old hospital can still be seen in the archways and walls. Under the stage is a well that is believed to date back to the Roman era in York's history.
  • The Shambles, formerly an open-air meat market in York, is now a popular tourist destination lined with picturesque shops.
  • HMS Warrior, a museum ship docked in Portsmouth Harbor, England. Completed in 1861, she was the first armor-plated, iron-hulled warship built for the British Royal Navy. In its day, Warrior was the largest, fastest, most heavily armed and armored warship in the world. She was powered by sail or steam-driven propeller, or both.
  • A view of the starboard side of HMS Victory, Lord Nelson's flagship from the Battle of Trafalgar, in drydock at the historic dockyards area of Portsmouth Harbor, England. She is the world's oldest naval ship still in commission and carries 104 guns.
  • The simple curving lines of the Mary Rose Museum contrast with the ornate carvings on the stern of HMS Victory in the historic dockyard area in Portsmouth, England. The Mary Rose was a 16th-century warship that sank abruptly in 1545 during an engagement with the French. She was salvaged in 1982 along with thousands of artifacts and today serves as the centerpiece of the eponymous nautical museum and maritime archeological center.
  • Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, UK, was built between 1705 and 1724. Designed in the fleeting English Baroque style, it is one of the largest houses in England and the only non-royal country house in England that is officially called a palace. The English Parliament built it as a national gift to John Churchill, 1st duke of Marlborough, for leading the English to victory over the French and Bavarians at the Battle of Blenheim in Germany during the War of the Spanish Succession. The palace is the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
  • The Palm House at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England is the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world. Constructed in 1844, the glasshouse resembles the upturned hull of a ship because architects borrowed techniques from the ship-building industry in constructing it. The Palm House focuses on the earth’s tropical regions with a hot and humid environment allowing tropical plants to thrive and grow. Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Tower Bridge over the River Thames in London gets its name from the nearby Tower of London. Officially opened in 1894, it has become an iconic symbol of the city.
  • Tower Bridge in London received its name from the nearby Tower of London.
  • The Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London, UK, is home to the famous clock tower that houses “Big Ben.” The nickname Big Ben is today often applied to the tower, the clock, and the bell, but originally it applied solely to the largest bell inside the tower. The bell was named for Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the latter stages of the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the 1834 fire. The chimes of four other bells in the tower combine to play the Westminster Quarters tune. On New Year’s Eve 1923, BBC Radio first broadcast Big Ben's chimes to the UK, and in 1932 the chimes were broadcast internationally as part of King George V’s Christmas address. The structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the late Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The clock itself is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.
  • The Houses of Parliament building in Westminster, London, UK, is home to the famous clock tower that houses “Big Ben.” The nickname Big Ben is today often applied to the tower, the clock, and the bell, but originally it applied solely to the largest bell inside the tower. The bell was named for Sir Benjamin Hall, who oversaw the latter stages of the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament after the 1834 fire. The chimes of four other bells in the tower combine to play the Westminster Quarters tune. On New Year’s Eve 1923, BBC Radio first broadcast Big Ben's chimes to the UK, and in 1932 the chimes were broadcast internationally as part of King George V’s Christmas address. The structure was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to honor the late Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The clock itself is the world's largest four-faced chiming clock.
  • The statue of Winston Churchill on the grounds of the Houses of Parliament building (Westminster Palace) in London.
  • The first Westminster Abbey in London was built in the 1040s by King Edward (later St. Edward the Confessor) who enlarged an existing small Benedictine monastery established at the site in A.D. 960 in honor of St. Peter the Apostle. In order to distinguish it from St. Paul’s Cathedral (the east minster) also in London, it became known as “west minster.” In the mid-13th century, King Henry III built much of the present-day building. The first coronation ceremony was for William the Conqueror in 1066 and Westminster Abbey has been the setting for every British coronation since then as well as other royal occasions, including 16 weddings. The Abbey also contains the tombs of kings and queens and St. Edward the Confessor. Statesmen, warriors, scientists, poets and musicians are also buried or memorialized within the church. Westminster Abbey (the Collegiate Church of St Peter, Westminster) is not a cathedral or a parish church, but a "Royal Peculiar" under the jurisdiction of a Dean and Chapter, subject only to the Sovereign and not to any archbishop or bishop.
  • Westminster Cathedral in London is the mother church for Roman Catholic community in England and Wales. Opened in 1903, it is renowned for its highly distinctive Byzantine architecture.
  • The London Eye, also known as the Millennium Wheel, is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe (135 m). The Eye carries 32 sealed and air-conditioned egg-shaped passenger capsules, each of which can hold 25 persons.
  • Looking up at the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. This Anglican place of worship rests on Ludgate Hill, the highest point in the city. The present building - designed by Sir Christopher Wren - dates to the 17th century and is generally considered to be the fifth St. Paul's erected on the site.
  • A vista of London from the Golden Gallery, the highest point of the outer dome of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Some 85 m (280 ft) above the city, this view requires a climb of 530 steps. The large structure on the right is the cathedral's west end clock tower.
  • The Royal Albert Hall in London, England as seen from the Albert Memorial looking across Kensington Gore.
  • The Albert Memorial in Kensington Gardens, London is situated directly to the north of the Royal Albert Hall. It was commissioned by Queen Victoria in memory of her beloved husband, Prince Albert. Built over a period of 10 years, it opened in 1872.
  • The Charing Cross Railroad Station in London. The Hungerford Bridge that leads to the station is flanked by two cable-stayed pedestrian bridges that share the railroad bridge's foundation piers and which are officially named the Golden Jubilee Bridges.
  • Whitehall Court as seen from the River Thames, London. Although one contiguous building, it consists of two separate constructions. The left portion of the building is The Royal Horseguards hotel, while the remainder is residential.
  • A cast of Trajan's Column (cut in half, upper part seen in foreground) as displayed at the Cast Court in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The acquisition by museums of plaster casts of important monuments and works of art was especially popular in the mid-to-late 19th century, since few people could afford to travel to the Continent to view the originals. The V&A's collection is regarded as one of the finest remaining in the world.
  • Close up of the base of the cast of Trajan's Column as displayed at the Cast Court in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
  • The tip of the distinctive 30 St Mary Axe Building (40 stories; commonly referred to as The Gherkin) as seen from the courtyard of The Tower of London fortress.
  • The uniquely shaped London City Hall (on the left) is home to the Greater London Authority, which consists of the Mayor of London and a 25-member London Assembly.
  • The Royal Exchange in London. This - the third exchange building on the site - dates to 1844. The Royal Exchange no longer acts as a center of commerce, but is now a luxurious shopping center.
  • An element from The Blues and Royals, in their distinctive blue rain capes, passing along a damp London street. The Blues and Royals are part of the Household Cavalry Regiment performing ceremonial duties on state and royal occasions as well as an armored reconnaissance unit taking part in active military operations around the world. As one of the senior regiments of the British Army, the lineage of The Blues and Royals includes The Royal Horse Guards (Blues) and The Royal Dragoons (1st Dragoons) dating back to the Restoration Period of 1660-1661.
  • Buckingham Palace is the official residence and administrative headquarters for the monarch of the United Kingdom. The original building, the center of the palace, was a large townhouse known as Buckingham House built for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It passed to royal possession when King George III purchased the house in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, the structure was enlarged to become a palace. Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to make the palace her residence in July 1837 and in June 1838 she was the first British sovereign to leave from Buckingham Palace for a coronation. Over the years, Buckingham Palace expanded further to its current 775 rooms that include 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace measures 108 m long (354 ft) across the front, 120 m deep (393 ft) (including the central quadrangle), and 24 m (78ft) high and is a focal point for the British people during national rejoicing and mourning.
  • Buckingham Palace is the official residence and administrative headquarters for the monarch of the United Kingdom. The original building, the center of the palace, was a large townhouse known as Buckingham House built for the first Duke of Buckingham in 1703. It passed to royal possession when King George III purchased the house in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte. In the 19th century, the structure was enlarged to become a palace. Queen Victoria was the first sovereign to make the palace her residence in July 1837 and in June 1838 she was the first British sovereign to leave from Buckingham Palace for a coronation. Over the years, Buckingham Palace expanded further to its current 775 rooms that include 19 state rooms, 52 royal and guest bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, and 78 bathrooms. Buckingham Palace measures 108 m long (354 ft) across the front, 120 m deep (393 ft) (including the central quadrangle), and 24 m (78ft) high and is a focal point for the British people during national rejoicing and mourning.
  • The new glass Pavilion exhibition space of the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) opened in 2004 behind Lowther Lodge, the society's main building. Beneath the Pavilion and to the foreground is the Foyle Reading Room and the RGS library, which are covered by a sunken lawn, but which receive illumination through the bush-shaded skylights.
  • The Queen's House, Greenwich viewed from Observatory Hill. Shown are the original house (1635) and the wings linked by colonnades (1807). Beyond the House is the Old Royal Naval College, completed in 1712.
  • The balcony in the Chapel at the Queen Mary Court of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
  • A section of the Painted Hall and its famous trompe l'oeil decorations at the King William Court of the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich.
  • One of the buildings making up the Royal Observatory at Greenwich.
  • On 22 October 1884, the International Meridian Conference meeting in Washington, DC adopted Greenwich, England as the initial longitudinal meridian for longitude (0 degree longitude), and defined a universal day as beginning for the world at the moment of mean midnight at the initial meridian and counting from zero up to twenty-four hours. In the 19th century, 72% of the world’s commerce depended on sea charts, which already used Greenwich as the prime meridian. This conference standardized these charts along with railway schedules, and the clocks of the world. Today people visiting Greenwich, England can actually walk on a physical representation of the line dividing the eastern and western hemispheres of the Earth at the Royal Observatory that defines the Prime Meridian.
  • The Anglican Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire is one of the largest cathedrals in the UK with the longest nave (pictured) of any Gothic cathedral in Europe. The cathedral, founded in 1079, is also famous for its seven chantry chapels, more than any other English cathedral. It is also the burial site for celebrated English writer Jane Austen.
  • Although no longer in general use, the red phone booth was once a staple of the British communications system. This one was found on a back street in Harrogate, England.
  • Much of the exterior of Eastwell Manor in Ashford, Kent, is draped with ivy.
  • Old Bridge at Warwick Castle, Warwick, England, dates to the 11th century.
  • On April 23, 1564, William Shakespeare was born in this house on Stratford-on-Avon, England, UK. Considered one of the world’s greatest dramatists, he wrote 37 plays and over 150 sonnets. In 1582, Shakespeare married Anne Hathaway and the young couple lived in this house with their children and his parents. In 1601, Shakespeare’s father died and being the eldest surviving son, he inherited the house. By this time, Shakespeare and his family were living in New Place, which he purchased in 1597, and lived there until his death in the house in 1616.
  • Anne Hathaway's Cottage, near Stratford-on-Avon, England, is a spacious 12-room house where Anne - Shakespeare's wife - was brought up.
  • Windsor Castle in Berkshire County is the largest inhabited castle in the world; dating to the 11th century, it is one of the principal official residences of the British monarch. In 1992, a fire destroyed part of the castle; restoration required five years. The castle is one of Britain's most popular attractions, but not all areas are open to the public.
  • The Round Tower at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England.
  • Part of the Quadrangle of the Upper Ward at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England.
  • The Cathedral of Saint Mary in Salisbury, consecrated in 1258, is an Anglican cathedral built in the Early English Gothic style. It has the tallest church spire in the UK, which required serious buttressing and contains no bell. The cathedral holds the oldest working clock in the world (built 1386) and one of the original surviving copies of the Magna Carta.
  • The White Cliffs of Dover is a region of English coastline facing the Straight of Dover and France. The cliffs, comprised of chalk and stretching for 13 km (8 mi), were immortalized in a World War II song “The White Cliffs of Dover.”
  • The Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall is part of the Battle of Britain Memorial in Folkstone. The memorial is dedicated to the men who won the Battle of Britain, 10 July to 31 October 1940. The wall contains the names of all those aircrew known to have flown at least one sortie with an accredited squadron or unit of the Royal Air Force during the Battle.
  • Tower, spire, and part of the outer wall of the old St. Michael's Coventry Cathedral, England. Built in the late 14th and early 15th centuries, the church was bombed and almost obliterated during the Blitz in 1940. Today it stands next to the new cathedral and serves as a place of reflection and reconciliation.
  • Dry stone walls line a road in the Lake District in northwest England. The lakes and mountains of this picturesque area were attracting tourists by the end of the 18th century and by 1951 the government formed the Lake District National Park to protect the area from becoming over developed. Its most famous inhabitant was the poet William Wordsworth.
  • The Choir of Bristol Cathedral (the Cathedral Church of the Holy and Undivided Trinity). The church was founded in 1140 as Saint Augustine's Abbey, and rebuilt in 1542 in the Romanesque style; it was added on to again in the 19th century.
  • Bath Abbey (the Abbey Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul) is built in a cruciform pattern. Founded in the 7th century, it was rebuilt in the 12th and 16th centuries.
  • Bath Abbey stands nearby the Roman Baths in Bath, England.
  • Plaque affixed to Bath Abbey commemorating the site of the coronation of Edgar, the first king of all England, in A.D. 973.
  • Close up of the Gothic exterior of Bath Abbey, Bath, England.
  • View across the Pulteney Bridge, which spans the River Avon in Bath, county Sommerset, England. The bridge is lined by shops on both sides.
  • Looking down onto the River Avon from the Pulteney Bridge in Bath, county Sommerset, England.
  • A view of Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon in Bath, England. The bridge was modeled after the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy.
  • St. Michael's Church in Bath, England.
  • A view of the reconstructed Great Bath of Aquae Sulis in Bath, with Bath Abbey in the background.
  • The Great Bath at Aquae Sulis (today Bath) England. Although the water from the hot spring is colorless, it acquires its distinctive green hue from algal growth caused by the heat of the water and from sunlight.
  • The superstructure of the Roman baths at Aquae Sulis - everything from the base of the columns upward - was reconstructed during Victorian times.
  • The King's Bath at Bath, England.
  • Hot water (46 degrees C or 115 degrees F) continues to flow into the Great Bath at Aquae Sulis through the original Roman channels.
  • This arched overflow was part of the impressive Roman engineering arrangements at Aquae Sulis that continue to keep hot water flowing through the bath complex today.
  • Carved blocks from the pediment of the Temple of Sulis Minerva (the patron deity of the baths at Aquae Sulis).
  • A photo of the English countryside near Avebury, in the English county of Wiltshire. The small town is the site of a Neolithic henge that is larger and older than Stonehenge, 32 km (20 mi) to the south.
  • Vaults of clouds climb above the fields by Overton Hill in Wiltshire, England. Numerous tumuli (burial mounds) dot the hill, which has been the focus of human activities for over 5,000 years.
  • Stonehenge as seen from the north barrow, Wiltshire County, England. The stone circle was built about 2500 B.C. by a non-writing culture and is composed of earthworks surrounding a circular setting of large standing stones with several hundred burial mounds. Among its many suggested functions are that it may have served as: an astronomical observatory, a religious site, a domain of the dead, or a place of healing. The site has also been connected to Arthurian legend.
  • Stonehenge is a prehistoric stone circle monument, cemetery, and archaeological site located on Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. In 1986, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Another view of the megaliths that compose Stonehenge.
  • Built in the English Palladian style between 1737 and 1749, the Radcliffe Camera in Oxford, England houses the Radcliffe Science Library.
  • Chancel vault of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, England. Uniquely, the church also serves as the chapel for Christ Church, the largest college at the University of Oxford. The church held the distinction of being the smallest cathedral in England for hundreds of years, but in the 20th century a few smaller churches were raised to cathedral status. The house of worship exhibits both Norman and Perpendicular styles.
  • The Iron Bridge that spans the Severn River near the town of Ironbridge, England is the world’s first iron bridge. Constructed in 1779 at the dawn of the industrial age in Britain, the bridge opened in 1781 and remained in use for over 150 years until it closed to vehicular traffic in 1934 and was designated an Ancient Monument. Designed by Thomas Farnolls Pritchard, the cast iron single-span bridge, measuring 30 m (98 ft), with five main semicircular ribs proved invaluable to the development of industry and commerce in the area. In 1986, the Iron Bridge became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • A remaining section of Hadrian's Wall, England. The wall was a fortification built by the Romans to mark their northern frontier, to prevent raids by Pictish tribes, and to collect customs. Begun in A.D. 122 and largely completed in six years, it was constructed of turf and stone with 80 small fortlets, one for each Roman mile. Eventually 14 to 17 full size forts were added.
  • A view from the top of a section of Hadrian's Wall. Named for the Roman emperor who ordered its construction, the wall extends across northern Britain from Wallsend in the east to Solway Firth in the west and took over six years to build, beginning in A.D. 122. Built to keep hostile local inhabitants away from the Romans, Hadrian’s Wall runs 118 km (73 mi) and originally stood 3.6 m (12 ft) tall. Protective forts were built every seven miles. Hadrian’s successor, Emperor Antoninus, later expanded the wall, but over time, it sustained damage due to road construction and stones stolen to build homes and other structures. What remains of the wall was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
  • A view from the top of a section of Hadrian's Wall. The defensive fortification was built by the Romans over six years beginning in A.D. 122 and then strengthened in subsequent decades. Named after the emperor who ordered its construction, the barrier secured the northwest section of the empire from barbarians. The 117.5-km (73-mi) wall stretches across England from Wallsend in the east to Solway Firth in the west and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
  • Eilean Donan Castle, near Kyle of Lochalsh, Scotland was built in 1220 on a small island in Loch Duich as a defense against Danish invaders.
  • Celtic cross outside of St. Moluag's Church - Teampull Mholuaidh in Scots Gaelic - in the town of Eoropie on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides of northern Scotland.
  • The Standing Stones of Callanish, on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland, date to between 2900 and 2600 B.C. Standing stone circles are found throughout the British Isles.
  • Saint Giles Cathedral, The High Kirk of Edinburgh, Scotland. This view of the west front shows the Tower and the Crown. The latter is believed to date from the 15th century.
  • The elaborately carved marble pulpit inside Saint Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh.
  • A view of the entranceway to Edinburgh Castle. The doorway is flanked by bronze statues of two of Scotland's greatest heroes, Robert the Bruce on the left and William Wallace (a.k.a. Braveheart) on the right. They were added in 1929 on the 600th anniversary of Bruce's death.
  • A section of the Scottish National War Memorial building located in Edinburgh Castle.
  • Saint Margaret's Chapel - built circa 1130 - is the oldest building in Edinburgh Castle and in all of Scotland's capital city. It was built by King David I as a private chapel for the royal family and dedicated to his mother, Margaret.
  • Looking out onto the city of Edinburgh from the walls of its castle. The oldest parts of the castle date to the 12th century.
  • A view of Edinburgh from its castle. The Firth of Forth, the estuary of Scotland's Forth River, may be seen in the background.
  • The entrance to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, Scotland. The castle derives its name from the Celtic words "haly" and "ruid" (Holy Cross), it is the official residence of the monarch of the UK in Scotland.
  • Castle Stalker is a much-photographed, four-story tower house or keep set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.
  • A closer view of Castle Stalker, the four-story tower house or keep set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.
  • A view from the battlements of Castle Stalker onto Loch Laich in Scotland. The island castle is one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses to survive in western Scotland.
  • Llangollen, Wales, in the Dee Valley, is the site of the annual International Eisteddfod, a music festival in which singers and dancers from around the world participate.
  • Built on the site of a 6th century monastery, St. Davids Church served as a religious and intellectual center on the western Welsh coast. Visited by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the church remains a pilgrimage site. The adjacent, ornate bishop’s residence served as a center of the church's authority for the region.
  • Heraldic banners decorate the walls of Caernarfon Castle, Wales, constructed by King Edward I following the conquest of Gwynedd. Begun in 1283, it reached it current state in 1323, but was never entirely completed.
  • Inside Caernarfon Castle, Wales. The tradition of investing the heir to the throne of Britain with the title Prince of Wales was begun in 1301 when King Edward I invested Prince Edward with the title. Prince Charles was the last heir to be invested there in 1969.
  • Located on the border between Wales and England along the Wye River, this abbey served as a monastery from the 12th century until the dissolution decree in the 16th century.
  • A view of City Square in Leeds. The statue is of The Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock. On the left is the Old Post Office; the round building in the background is called No 1 City Square.
  • At the front entrance to Leeds Town Hall; in the background is Oxford Place Centre.
  • Oxford Place Centre is situated next to Leeds Town Hall. The Centre comprises Oxford Place Methodist Church and Oxford Place Community Care.
  • The Leeds Art Gallery, located next to Leeds Town Hall, houses primarily modern art, but also contains artwork of the 19th century and earlier.
  • Leeds Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of St Anne, is the Roman Catholic cathedral for the Diocese of Leeds.
  • The Bargate is a medieval gatehouse in the city center of Southampton, England. Constructed in Norman times as part of the Southampton town walls, it was the main gateway to the city. Southampton is the largest city in southeast England with a population of 275,000 and also a major port.
  • The nave of Winchester Cathedral in Hampshire, England. Construction began in 1079 and the church was consecrated in 1093; additions to the structure took place in subsequent centuries. Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest in Europe and has the greatest overall length (169 m) of any Gothic cathedral.
  • The High Altar of Winchester Cathedral features an ornate 15th-century stone screen.
  • A view of the massive ceiling vault of the 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral, mother church of the worldwide Anglican community, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • One of the many impressive stained glass windows in the 1,400-year-old Canterbury Cathedral.
  • Stone marking the spot where Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by knights of King Henry II for opposing the king. Becket was Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162-1170. He was canonized as a saint after his death.
  • Plaque in Canterbury Cathedral memorializing the martyrdom of Thomas Becket in the Cathedral on 29 December 1170.
  • This medieval farm house at Jarlshof, Shetland dates to about A.D. 1300 and is based on the earlier Norse longhouse.
  • The highland cow (Scots: heilan coo) is a Scottish breed of rustic cattle that originated in the Scottish Highlands and the Outer Hebrides islands of Scotland. The cows, bred mainly for their meat, have long horns and a two-layer-thick coat (the longest among cattle species) consisting of an undercoat and an oily outer coat that protects against the harsh highland weather.
  • This statue in Edinburgh is a tribute to Greyfriar’s Bobby, a Skye terrier who was a constant companion to his owner John Gray. When Gray passed away 1858 and was buried in Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, Bobby never left his master’s grave until his death 14 years later. This statue honoring his loyalty is near the Kirkyard where Bobby’s grave is also, not far from his master even in death. This story of canine loyalty lives on in books and movies.
  • The plaque on the base of the Greyfriar’s Bobby statue in Edinburgh.
  • The Giant's Causeway (Irish: Clochán an Aifir) is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.
  • A closeup of basalt columns that make up the Giant's Causeway in Northern Irelenad. The Causeway is a site of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. As the lava cooled, contraction occurred in a pattern similar to that of drying mud, with the cracks propagating in a generally hexagonal pattern and downward, leaving pillarlike structures. The unique geological formation is located in County Antrim on the north coast of Northern Ireland, about 5 km (3 mi) northeast of the town of Bushmills.

United Kingdom Factbook Data

Diplomatic representation from the US

chief of mission: Ambassador Jane HARTLEY (since 19 July 2022)

embassy: 33 Nine Elms Lane, London, SW11 7US

mailing address: 8400 London Place, Washington DC  20521-8400

telephone: [44] (0) 20-7499-9000

FAX: [44] (0) 20-7891-3845

email address and website:
SCSLondon@state.gov

https://uk.usembassy.gov/

consulate(s) general: Belfast, Edinburgh

Age structure

0-14 years: 16.7% (male 5,872,937/female 5,592,665)

15-64 years: 63.9% (male 22,062,643/female 21,702,401)

65 years and over: 19.3% (2024 est.) (male 6,069,865/female 7,158,544)
2023 population pyramid
This is the population pyramid for United Kingdom. A population pyramid illustrates the age and sex structure of a country's population and may provide insights about political and social stability, as well as economic development. The population is distributed along the horizontal axis, with males shown on the left and females on the right. The male and female populations are broken down into 5-year age groups represented as horizontal bars along the vertical axis, with the youngest age groups at the bottom and the oldest at the top. The shape of the population pyramid gradually evolves over time based on fertility, mortality, and international migration trends.

For additional information, please see the entry for Population pyramid on the Definitions and Notes page.

Geographic coordinates

54 00 N, 2 00 W

Sex ratio

at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female

0-14 years: 1.05 male(s)/female

15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female

65 years and over: 0.85 male(s)/female

total population: 0.99 male(s)/female (2024 est.)

Heliports

92 (2024)

Natural hazards

winter windstorms; floods

Area - comparative

twice the size of Pennsylvania; slightly smaller than Oregon
Area comparison map

twice the size of Pennsylvania; slightly smaller than Oregon

Military service age and obligation

some variations by service, but generally 16-36 years of age for enlisted (with parental consent under 18) and 18-29 for officers; minimum length of service 4 years; women serve in all military services including combat roles; conscription abolished in 1963 (2024)

note 1: women made up 11.7% of the military's full-time personnel in 2024

note 2: the British military allows Commonwealth nationals who are current UK residents and have been in the country for at least 5 years to apply; it also accepts Irish citizens

note 3: the British Army has continued the historic practice of recruiting Gurkhas from Nepal to serve in the Brigade of Gurkhas; the British began to recruit Nepalese citizens (Gurkhas) into the East India Company Army during the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816); the Gurkhas subsequently were brought into the British Indian Army and by 1914, there were 10 Gurkha regiments, collectively known as the Gurkha Brigade; following the partition of India in 1947, an agreement between Nepal, India, and Great Britain allowed for the transfer of the 10 regiments from the British Indian Army to the separate British and Indian armies; four of the regiments were transferred to the British Army, where they have since served continuously as the Brigade of Gurkhas

Background

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland was created when the Kingdoms of England and Scotland -- which previously had been distinct states under a single monarchy -- were joined under the 1707 Acts of Union. The island of Ireland was incorporated under the 1800 Acts of Union, while Wales had been part of the Kingdom of England since the 16th century. The United Kingdom has historically played a leading role in developing parliamentary democracy and in advancing literature and science. The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rapid expansion of the British Empire despite the loss of the Thirteen Colonies, and at its zenith in the early 20th century, the British Empire stretched over one fourth of the earth's surface. The first half of the 20th century saw two World Wars seriously deplete the UK's strength and the Irish Republic withdraw from the union. The second half witnessed the dismantling of the Empire and the UK rebuilding itself into a modern and prosperous European nation. As one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council and a founding member of NATO and the Commonwealth of Nations, the UK pursues a global approach to foreign policy. The devolved Scottish Parliament, the National Assembly for Wales, and the Northern Ireland Assembly were established in 1998.

The UK was an active member of the EU after its accession in 1973, although it chose to remain outside the Economic and Monetary Union. However, motivated in part by frustration at a remote bureaucracy in Brussels and massive migration into the country, UK citizens in 2016 voted by 52 to 48 percent to leave the EU. On 31 January 2020, the UK became the only country to depart the EU -- a move known as "Brexit" -- after prolonged negotiations on EU-UK economic and security relationships.

Environment - current issues

air pollution improved but remains a concern, particularly in the London region; soil pollution from pesticides and heavy metals; decline in marine and coastal habitats brought on by pressures from housing, tourism, and industry

Environment - international agreements

party to: Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Air Pollution-Multi-effect Protocol, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Persistent Organic Pollutants, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protection, Antarctic-Marine Living Resources, Antarctic Seals, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 2006, Wetlands, Whaling

signed, but not ratified: none of the selected agreements

Population below poverty line

18.6% (2017 est.)

note: % of population with income below national poverty line

Household income or consumption by percentage share

lowest 10%: 3% (2021 est.)

highest 10%: 25% (2021 est.)

note: % share of income accruing to lowest and highest 10% of population

Exports - commodities

gold, cars, gas turbines, crude petroleum, packaged medicine (2022)

note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars

Exports - partners

US 13%, Netherlands 9%, Germany 9%, China 8%, Ireland 7% (2022)

note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports

Administrative divisions

England: 24 two-tier counties, 32 London boroughs and 1 City of London or Greater London, 36 metropolitan districts, 59 unitary authorities (including 4 single-tier counties*);

two-tier counties: Cambridgeshire, Cumbria, Derbyshire, Devon, East Sussex, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, Lancashire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, North Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset, Staffordshire, Suffolk, Surrey, Warwickshire, West Sussex, Worcestershire

London boroughs and City of London or Greater London: Barking and Dagenham, Barnet, Bexley, Brent, Bromley, Camden, Croydon, Ealing, Enfield, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith and Fulham, Haringey, Harrow, Havering, Hillingdon, Hounslow, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Kingston upon Thames, Lambeth, Lewisham, City of London, Merton, Newham, Redbridge, Richmond upon Thames, Southwark, Sutton, Tower Hamlets, Waltham Forest, Wandsworth, Westminster

metropolitan districts: Barnsley, Birmingham, Bolton, Bradford, Bury, Calderdale, Coventry, Doncaster, Dudley, Gateshead, Kirklees, Knowlsey, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, North Tyneside, Oldham, Rochdale, Rotherham, Salford, Sandwell, Sefton, Sheffield, Solihull, South Tyneside, St. Helens, Stockport, Sunderland, Tameside, Trafford, Wakefield, Walsall, Wigan, Wirral, Wolverhampton

unitary authorities: Bath and North East Somerset; Bedford; Blackburn with Darwen; Blackpool; Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole; Bracknell Forest; Brighton and Hove; City of Bristol; Buckinghamshire; Central Bedfordshire; Cheshire East; Cheshire West and Chester; Cornwall; Darlington; Derby; Dorset; Durham County*; East Riding of Yorkshire; Halton; Hartlepool; Herefordshire*; Isle of Wight*; Isles of Scilly; City of Kingston upon Hull; Leicester; Luton; Medway; Middlesbrough; Milton Keynes; North East Lincolnshire; North Lincolnshire; North Northamptonshire; North Somerset; Northumberland*; Nottingham; Peterborough; Plymouth; Portsmouth; Reading; Redcar and Cleveland; Rutland; Shropshire; Slough; South Gloucestershire; Southampton; Southend-on-Sea; Stockton-on-Tees; Stoke-on-Trent; Swindon; Telford and Wrekin; Thurrock; Torbay; Warrington; West Berkshire; West Northamptonshire; Wiltshire; Windsor and Maidenhead; Wokingham; York

Northern Ireland: 5 borough councils, 4 district councils, 2 city councils;

borough councils: Antrim and Newtownabbey; Ards and North Down; Armagh City, Banbridge, and Craigavon; Causeway Coast and Glens; Mid and East Antrim

district councils: Derry City and Strabane; Fermanagh and Omagh; Mid Ulster; Newry, Murne, and Down

city councils: Belfast; Lisburn and Castlereagh

Scotland: 32 council areas;

council areas: Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Argyll and Bute, Clackmannanshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Dundee City, East Ayrshire, East Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, East Renfrewshire, City of Edinburgh, Eilean Siar (Western Isles), Falkirk, Fife, Glasgow City, Highland, Inverclyde, Midlothian, Moray, North Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, Orkney Islands, Perth and Kinross, Renfrewshire, Shetland Islands, South Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, Stirling, The Scottish Borders, West Dunbartonshire, West Lothian

Wales: 22 unitary authorities;

unitary authorities: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Swansea, The Vale of Glamorgan, Torfaen, Wrexham

Agricultural products

milk, wheat, barley, sugar beets, potatoes, chicken, rapeseed, oats, pork, beef (2022)

note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage

Military and security forces

United Kingdom Armed Forces (aka British Armed Forces, aka His Majesty's Armed Forces): British Army, Royal Navy (includes Royal Marines), Royal Air Force (2024)

Budget

revenues: $1.136 trillion (2022 est.)

expenditures: $1.291 trillion (2022 est.)

note: central government revenues (excluding grants) and expenses converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated

Capital

name: London

geographic coordinates: 51 30 N, 0 05 W

time difference: UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October

time zone note: the time statements apply to the United Kingdom proper, not to its crown dependencies or overseas territories

etymology: the name derives from the Roman settlement of Londinium, established on the current site of London around A.D. 43; the original meaning of the name is uncertain

Imports - commodities

natural gas, cars, crude petroleum, gold, garments (2022)

note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars

Climate

temperate; moderated by prevailing southwest winds over the North Atlantic Current; more than one-half of the days are overcast

Coastline

12,429 km

Constitution

history: uncoded; partly statutes, partly common law and practice

amendments: proposed as a bill for an Act of Parliament by the government, by the House of Commons, or by the House of Lords; passage requires agreement by both houses and by the monarch (Royal Assent); many previous, last in 2020 -  The European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020, European Union (Future Relationship) Act 2020

Dependent areas

Anguilla; Bermuda; British Indian Ocean Territory; British Virgin Islands; Cayman Islands; Falkland Islands; Gibraltar; Montserrat; Pitcairn Islands; Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha; South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands; Turks and Caicos Islands (12)

Exchange rates

British pounds (GBP) per US dollar -

Exchange rates:
0.805 (2023 est.)
0.811 (2022 est.)
0.727 (2021 est.)
0.78 (2020 est.)
0.783 (2019 est.)

Executive branch

chief of state: King CHARLES III (since 8 September 2022)

head of government: Prime Minister Keir STARMER (Labor) (since 5 July 2024)

cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the prime minister

elections/appointments: the monarchy is hereditary; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or majority coalition usually becomes the prime minister; election last held on 12 December 2019 (next to be held no later than 28 January 2025)

note 1: in addition to serving as the UK head of state, the British sovereign is the constitutional monarch for 14 additional Commonwealth countries (these 15 states are each referred to as a Commonwealth realm)

note 2: King CHARLES succeeded his mother, Queen ELIZABETH II, after serving as Prince of Wales (heir apparent) for over 64 years - the longest such tenure in British history

Flag description

blue field with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) edged in white superimposed on the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland), which is superimposed on the diagonal white cross of Saint Andrew (patron saint of Scotland); properly known as the Union Flag, but commonly called the Union Jack; the design and colors (especially the Blue Ensign) have been the basis for a number of other flags including other Commonwealth countries and their constituent states or provinces, and British overseas territories

Illicit drugs

a major consumer and transshipment point, though not a source, for illicit drugs; among the highest consumer of heroin and cocaine in Europe; one of the largest markets for cannabis; a major source of precursor or essential chemicals used in the production of illicit narcotics

Independence

no official date of independence: 927 (minor English kingdoms unite); 3 March 1284 (enactment of the Statute of Rhuddlan uniting England and Wales); 1536 (Act of Union formally incorporates England and Wales); 1 May 1707 (Acts of Union formally unite England, Scotland, and Wales as Great Britain); 1 January 1801 (Acts of Union formally unite Great Britain and Ireland as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland); 6 December 1921 (Anglo-Irish Treaty formalizes partition of Ireland; six counties remain part of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland); 12 April 1927 (Royal and Parliamentary Titles Act establishes current name of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland)

Industries

machine tools, electric power equipment, automation equipment, railroad equipment, shipbuilding, aircraft, motor vehicles and parts, electronics and communications equipment, metals, chemicals, coal, petroleum, paper and paper products, food processing, textiles, clothing, other consumer goods

Judicial branch

highest court(s): Supreme Court (consists of 12 justices, including the court president and deputy president); note - the Supreme Court was established by the Constitutional Reform Act 2005 and implemented in 2009, replacing the Appellate Committee of the House of Lords as the highest court in the United Kingdom

judge selection and term of office: judge candidates selected by an independent committee of several judicial commissions, followed by their recommendations to the prime minister, and appointed by the monarch; justices serve for life

subordinate courts: England and Wales: Court of Appeal (civil and criminal divisions); High Court; Crown Court; County Courts; Magistrates' Courts; Scotland: Court of Sessions; Sheriff Courts; High Court of Justiciary; tribunals; Northern Ireland: Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland; High Court; county courts; magistrates' courts; specialized tribunals

Land boundaries

total: 499 km

border countries (1): Ireland 499 km

Land use

agricultural land: 71% (2018 est.)

arable land: 25.1% (2018 est.)

permanent crops: 0.2% (2018 est.)

permanent pasture: 45.7% (2018 est.)

forest: 11.9% (2018 est.)

other: 17.1% (2018 est.)

Legal system

common law system; has nonbinding judicial review of Acts of Parliament under the Human Rights Act of 1998

Legislative branch

description: bicameral Parliament consists of:
House of Lords (membership not fixed; as of December 2023, 784 lords were eligible to participate in the work of the House of Lords - 667 life peers, 91 hereditary peers, and 26 clergy; members are appointed by the monarch on the advice of the prime minister and non-party political members recommended by the House of Lords Appointments Commission); note - House of Lords total does not include ineligible members or members on leave of absence
House of Commons (650 seats; members directly elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority popular vote to serve 5-year terms unless the House is dissolved earlier)

elections: House of Lords - no elections; note - in 1999, as provided by the House of Lords Act, elections were held in the House of Lords to determine the 92 hereditary peers who would remain; elections held only as vacancies in the hereditary peerage arise)
House of Commons - last held on 4 July 2024 (next to be held 4 July 2029)

election results: House of Lords - composition - men 556, women 228, percentage women 29%

House of Commons - percent of vote by party - Labor 33.7%, Conservative 23.7%, Lib Dems 12.2%, Green 6.7%, SNP 2.5%, independents 2.0%, Sinn Fein .7%, Plaid Cymru .7%, Workers Party .7%, DUP .6%, other 2.9%; seats by party -  Labor 411, Conservative 121, Lib Dems 72, SNP 9, Sinn Fein 7, independents 6, DUP 5, Reform UK 5, Green 4, Plaid Cymru 4, SDLP 2, other 4; composition - men 387, women 263, percentage women 40.3%

Maritime claims

territorial sea: 12 nm

continental shelf: as defined in continental shelf orders or in accordance with agreed upon boundaries

exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm

International organization participation

ADB (nonregional member), AfDB (nonregional member), Arctic Council (observer), Australia Group, BIS, C, CBSS (observer), CD, CDB, CE, CERN, EAPC, EBRD, ECB, EIB, EITI (implementing country), ESA, EU, FAO, FATF, G-5, G-7, G-8, G-10, G-20, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICCt, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGAD (partners), IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), MIGA, MONUSCO, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OPCW, OSCE, Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club, PCA, PIF (partner), SELEC (observer), SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNMISS, UNOOSA, UNRWA, UN Security Council (permanent), UNSOM, UPU, Wassenaar Arrangement, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC

National holiday

the UK does not celebrate one particular national holiday

Nationality

noun: Briton(s), British (collective plural)

adjective: British

Natural resources

coal, petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, lead, zinc, gold, tin, limestone, salt, clay, chalk, gypsum, potash, silica sand, slate, arable land

Geography - note

lies near vital North Atlantic sea lanes; only 35 km from France and linked by tunnel under the English Channel (the Channel Tunnel or Chunnel); because of heavily indented coastline, no location is more than 125 km from tidal waters

Economic overview

high-income, diversified, non-EU European economy; global financial center and dominant service sector; sluggish growth from stringent monetary policy, reduced business investment, low productivity and participation rates, and post-Brexit trade frictions; fiscal austerity in face of high public debt 

Pipelines

502 km condensate, 9 km condensate/gas, 28,603 km gas, 59 km liquid petroleum gas, 5,256 km oil, 175 km oil/gas/water, 4,919 km refined products, 255 km water (2013)

Political parties

Alliance Party or APNI (Northern Ireland) 
Conservative and Unionist Party 
Democratic Unionist Party or DUP (Northern Ireland) 
Green Party of England and Wales or Greens 
Labor (Labour) Party 
Liberal Democrats (Lib Dems)
Party of Wales (Plaid Cymru) 
Reform UK 
Scottish National Party or SNP 
Sinn Fein (Northern Ireland) 
Social Democratic and Labor Party or SDLP (Northern Ireland) 
Traditional Unionist Voice or TUV 
UK Independence Party or UKIP 
Ulster Unionist Party or UUP (Northern Ireland) 
Workers Party of Great Britian

Suffrage

18 years of age; universal

Telecommunication systems

general assessment: UK’s telecom market remains one of the largest in Europe, characterized by competition, affordable pricing, and its technologically advanced systems; mobile penetration above the EU average; government to invest in infrastructure and 5G technologies with ambition for a fully-fibered nation by 2033; operators expanded the reach of 5G services in 2020; super-fast broadband available to about 95% of customers; London is developing smart city technology, in collaboration with private, tech, and academic sectors (2021)

domestic: fixed-line is 48 per 100 and mobile-cellular is 120 per 100 (2021)

international: country code - 44; Landing points for the GTT Atlantic, Scotland-Northern Ireland -1, & -2, Lanis 1,-2, &-3, Sirius North, BT-MT-1, SHEFA-2, BT Highlands and Islands Submarine Cable System, Northern Lights, FARICE-1, Celtic Norse, Tampnet Offshore FOC Network, England Cable, CC-2, E-LLan, Sirius South, ESAT -1 & -2, Rockabill, Geo-Eirgrid, UK-Netherlands-14, Circle North & South, Ulysses2, Conceto, Farland North, Pan European Crossing, Solas, Swansea-Bream, GTT Express, Tata TGN-Atlantic & -Western Europe, Apollo, EIG, Glo-1, TAT-14, Yellow, Celtic, FLAG Atlantic-1, FEA, Isle of Scilly Cable, UK-Channel Islands-8 and SeaMeWe-3 submarine cables providing links throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Australia, and US; satellite earth stations - 10 Intelsat (7 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), and 1 Eutelsat; at least 8 large international switching centers (2019)

Terrain

mostly rugged hills and low mountains; level to rolling plains in east and southeast

Government type

parliamentary constitutional monarchy; a Commonwealth realm

Country name

conventional long form: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; note - the island of Great Britain includes England, Scotland, and Wales

conventional short form: United Kingdom

abbreviation: UK

etymology: self-descriptive country name; the designation "Great Britain," in the sense of "Larger Britain," dates back to medieval times and was used to distinguish the island from "Little Britain," or Brittany in modern France; the name Ireland derives from the Gaelic "Eriu," the matron goddess of Ireland (goddess of the land)

Location

Western Europe, islands - including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland - between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea; northwest of France

Map references

Europe

Irrigated land

718 sq km (2018)

Diplomatic representation in the US

chief of mission: Ambassador Karen Elizabeth PIERCE (since 8 April 2020)

chancery: 3100 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008

telephone: [1] (202) 588-6500

FAX: [1] (202) 588-7870

email address and website:
ukin.washington@fcdo.gov.uk

https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-washington

consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco

Internet country code

.uk

Refugees and internally displaced persons

refugees (country of origin): 21,904 (Iran), 15,615 (Eritrea), 11,371 (Sudan), 12,155 (Syria), 10,259 (Afghanistan), 8,009 (Pakistan), 7,699 (Iraq) (mid-year 2022); 255,060 (Ukraine) (as of 12 March 2024)

stateless persons: 5,483 (2022)

GDP (official exchange rate)

$3.34 trillion (2023 est.)

note: data in current dollars at official exchange rate

Credit ratings

Fitch rating: AA- (2020)

Moody's rating: Aaa (2020)

Standard & Poors rating: AA (2016)

note: The year refers to the year in which the current credit rating was first obtained.

Total renewable water resources

147 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)

School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)

total: 17 years

male: 17 years

female: 18 years (2020)

Urbanization

urban population: 84.6% of total population (2023)

rate of urbanization: 0.8% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
total population growth rate v. urban population growth rate, 2000-2030

Broadcast media

public service broadcaster, British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), is the largest broadcasting corporation in the world; BBC operates multiple TV networks with regional and local TV service; a mixed system of public and commercial TV broadcasters along with satellite and cable systems provide access to hundreds of TV stations throughout the world; BBC operates multiple national, regional, and local radio networks with multiple transmission sites; a large number of commercial radio stations, as well as satellite radio services are available (2018)

Drinking water source

improved: urban: 100% of population

rural: 100% of population

total: 100% of population

unimproved: urban: 0% of population

rural: 0% of population

total: 0% of population (2020 est.)

National anthem

name: "God Save the King"

lyrics/music: unknown

note: in use since 1745; by tradition, the song serves as both the national and royal anthem of the UK; it is known as either "God Save the Queen" or "God Save the King," depending on the gender of the reigning monarch; it also serves as the royal anthem of many Commonwealth nations
This is an audio of the National Anthem for United Kingdom. The national anthem is generally a patriotic musical composition - usually in the form of a song or hymn of praise - that evokes and eulogizes the history, traditions, or struggles of a nation or its people. National anthems can be officially recognized as a national song by a country's constitution or by an enacted law, or simply by tradition. Although most anthems contain lyrics, some do not.

Major urban areas - population

9.648 million LONDON (capital), 2.791 million Manchester, 2.665 million Birmingham, 1.929 million West Yorkshire, 1.698 million Glasgow, 952,000 Southampton/Portsmouth (2023)

International law organization participation

accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction with reservations; accepts ICCt jurisdiction

Physician density

3 physicians/1,000 population (2020)

Hospital bed density

2.5 beds/1,000 population (2019)

National symbol(s)

lion (Britain in general); lion, Tudor rose, oak (England); lion, unicorn, thistle (Scotland); dragon, daffodil, leek (Wales); shamrock, flax (Northern Ireland); national colors: red, white, blue (Britain in general); red, white (England); blue, white (Scotland); red, white, green (Wales)

Mother's mean age at first birth

29 years (2018 est.)

note: data represents England and Wales only

Contraceptive prevalence rate

76.1% (2010/12)

note: percent of women aged 16-49

GDP - composition, by end use

household consumption: 61.8% (2023 est.)

government consumption: 20.7% (2023 est.)

investment in fixed capital: 18.3% (2023 est.)

investment in inventories: -0.5% (2023 est.)

exports of goods and services: 32.2% (2023 est.)

imports of goods and services: -33.4% (2023 est.)

note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection

Dependency ratios

total dependency ratio: 57.7

youth dependency ratio: 27.8

elderly dependency ratio: 29.8

potential support ratio: 3.4 (2021 est.)

Citizenship

citizenship by birth: no

citizenship by descent only: at least one parent must be a citizen of the United Kingdom

dual citizenship recognized: yes

residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years

Population distribution

the core of the population lies in and around London, with significant clusters found in central Britain around Manchester and Liverpool, in the Scottish lowlands between Edinburgh and Glasgow, southern Wales in and around Cardiff, and far eastern Northern Ireland centered on Belfast

Electricity access

electrification - total population: 100% (2022 est.)

electrification - urban areas: 99.9%

electrification - rural areas: 100%

National air transport system

number of registered air carriers: 20 (2020)

inventory of registered aircraft operated by air carriers: 794

annual passenger traffic on registered air carriers: 165,388,610 (2018)

annual freight traffic on registered air carriers: 6,198,370,000 (2018) mt-km

Civil aircraft registration country code prefix

G

Sanitation facility access

improved: urban: 99.8% of population

rural: 99.8% of population

total: 99.8% of population

unimproved: urban: 0.2% of population

rural: 0.2% of population

total: 0.2% of population (2020 est.)

Ethnic groups

White 87.2%, Black/African/Caribbean/black British 3%, Asian/Asian British: Indian 2.3%, Asian/Asian British: Pakistani 1.9%, mixed 2%, other 3.7% (2011 est.)

Religions

Christian (includes Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist) 59.5%, Muslim 4.4%, Hindu 1.3%, other 2%, unspecified 7.2%, none 25.7% (2011 est.)

Languages

English

note: the following are recognized regional languages: Scots (about 30% of the population of Scotland), Scottish Gaelic (about 60,000 speakers in Scotland), Welsh (about 20% of the population of Wales), Irish (about 10% of the population of Northern Ireland), Cornish (some 2,000 to 3,000 people in Cornwall) (2012 est.)

Imports - partners

China 12%, Germany 10%, US 10%, Norway 8%, Netherlands 5% (2022)

note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports

Communications - note

note 1: the British Library claims to be the largest library in the world with well over 150 million items and in most known languages; it receives copies of all books produced in the UK or Ireland, as well as a significant proportion of overseas titles distributed in the UK; in addition to books (print and digital), holdings include: journals, manuscripts, newspapers, magazines, sound and music recordings, videos, maps, prints, patents, and drawings

note 2: on 1 May 1840, the United Kingdom led the world with the introduction of postage stamps; the Austrian Empire had examined the idea of an "adhesive tax postmark" for the prepayment of postage in 1835; while the suggestion was reviewed in detail, it was rejected for the time being; other countries (including Austria) soon followed the UK's example with their own postage stamps; by the 1860s, most countries were issuing stamps; originally, stamps had to be cut from sheets; the UK issued the first postage stamps with perforations in 1854

Elevation

highest point: Ben Nevis 1,345 m

lowest point: The Fens -4 m

mean elevation: 162 m

Transportation - note

begun in 1988 and completed in 1994, the Channel Tunnel (nicknamed the Chunnel) is a 50.5-km (31.4-mi) rail tunnel beneath the English Channel at the Strait of Dover that runs from Folkestone, Kent, England to Coquelles, Pas-de-Calais in northern France; it is the only fixed link between the island of Great Britain and mainland Europe

Current health expenditure

12% of GDP (2020)

Literacy

total population: NA

male: NA

female: NA

Military and security service personnel strengths

approximately 145,000 regular forces (80,000 Army including the Gurkhas; 33,000 Navy including the Royal Marines; 32,000 Air Force) (2024)

note: the military also has approximately 40-45,000 reserves and other personnel on active duty

Military equipment inventories and acquisitions

the inventory of the British military is comprised mostly of domestically produced weapons and equipment, with a smaller mix of some imported Western weapons systems, particularly from the US; the UK defense industry is capable of producing a wide variety of air, land, and sea weapons systems and is one of the world's top weapons suppliers; it also cooperates with other European countries and the US in the research and development of weapons systems (2024)

Military deployments

the British military has more than 8,000 personnel on permanent or long-term rotational deployments around the globe in support of NATO, UN, or other commitments and agreements; key deployments include approximately 1,000 in Brunei, approximately 2,500 in Cyprus (includes 250 for UNFICYP), approximately 900-1,000 in Estonia (NATO), over 1,000 in the Falkland Islands, 500-600 in Gibraltar, and more than 1,000 in the Middle East; its air and naval forces conduct missions on a global basis; the British military also participates in large scale NATO exercises, including providing some 16,000 personnel for the 6-month 2024 Steadfast Defender exercise (2024)

Terrorist group(s)

Terrorist group(s): Continuity Irish Republican Army; Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); New Irish Republican Army; al-Qa'ida

note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide

Military - note

the British military has a long history, a global presence, and a wide range of missions and responsibilities; these responsibilities include protecting the UK, its territories, national interests, and values, preventing conflict, providing humanitarian assistance, participating in international peacekeeping, building relationships, and fulfilling the UK’s alliance and treaty commitments; in addition to its role in the UN, the UK is a leading member of NATO and has made considerable military contributions to NATO missions in such places as Afghanistan, the Baltics, and Iraq, as well the Baltic and Mediterranean seas and the waters of the North Atlantic

the UK is a member of the Five Power Defense Arrangements (FPDA), a series of mutual assistance agreements reached in 1971 embracing Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the UK; in 2014, the UK led the formation of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a pool of high-readiness military forces from the Baltic and Scandinavian countries intended to respond to a wide range of contingencies both in peacetime and in times of crisis or conflict; the UK military also has strong bilateral ties with a variety of foreign militaries, particularly the US, with which it has a mutual defense treaty; British and US military forces have routinely operated side-by-side across a wide range of operations; other close military relationships include Australia, France, Germany, and the Netherlands; in 2010, for example, France and the UK signed a declaration on defense and security cooperation that included greater military interoperability and a Combined Joint Expeditionary Force (CJEF), a deployable, combined Anglo-French military force for use in a wide range of crisis scenarios, up to and including high intensity combat operations

the British Armed Forces were formed in 1707 as the armed forces of the Kingdom of Great Britain when England and Scotland merged under the terms of the Treaty of Union; while the origins of the armed forces of England and Scotland stretch back to the Middle Ages, the first standing armies for England and Scotland were organized in the 1600s while the navies were formed in the 1500s; the Royal Marines were established in 1755; the Royal Air Force was created in April 1918 by the merger of the British Army's Royal Flying Corps and the Admiralty's Royal Naval Air Service (2024)

Total water withdrawal

municipal: 6.23 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)

industrial: 1.01 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)

agricultural: 1.18 billion cubic meters (2020 est.)

Waste and recycling

municipal solid waste generated annually: 31.567 million tons (2014 est.)

municipal solid waste recycled annually: 8,602,008 tons (2015 est.)

percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 27.3% (2015 est.)

Average household expenditures

on food: 8.5% of household expenditures (2022 est.)

on alcohol and tobacco: 3.4% of household expenditures (2022 est.)

Air pollutants

particulate matter emissions: 9.52 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)

carbon dioxide emissions: 379.02 megatons (2016 est.)

methane emissions: 49.16 megatons (2020 est.)

National heritage

total World Heritage Sites: 33 (28 cultural, 4 natural, 1 mixed); note - includes one site in Bermuda

selected World Heritage Site locales: Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast (n); Ironbridge Gorge (c); Stonehenge, Avebury, and Associated Sites (c); Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd (c); Blenheim Palace (c); City of Bath (c); Tower of London (c); St Kilda (m); Maritime Greenwich (c); Old and New Towns of Edinburgh (c); Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (c); The English Lake District (c)

Child marriage

women married by age 18: 0.1% (2020 est.)

Coal

production: 1.891 million metric tons (2022 est.)

consumption: 8.568 million metric tons (2022 est.)

exports: 691,000 metric tons (2022 est.)

imports: 7.792 million metric tons (2022 est.)

proven reserves: 26 million metric tons (2022 est.)

Electricity generation sources

fossil fuels: 41.5% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)

nuclear: 13.6% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)

solar: 4.3% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)

wind: 25.3% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)

hydroelectricity: 1.7% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)

biomass and waste: 13.5% of total installed capacity (2022 est.)

Natural gas

production: 37.758 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)

consumption: 70.141 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)

exports: 23.475 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)

imports: 56.501 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)

proven reserves: 180.661 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)

Petroleum

total petroleum production: 753,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)

refined petroleum consumption: 1.397 million bbl/day (2023 est.)

crude oil estimated reserves: 2.5 billion barrels (2021 est.)

Gross reproduction rate

0.8 (2024 est.)

Currently married women (ages 15-49)

50.7% (2023 est.)

Remittances

0.12% of GDP (2023 est.)
0.13% of GDP (2022 est.)
0.11% of GDP (2021 est.)

note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities

Nuclear energy

Number of operational nuclear reactors: 9 (2023)

Number of nuclear reactors under construction: 2 (2023)

Net capacity of operational nuclear reactors: 5.88GW (2023 est.)

Percent of total electricity production: 12.5% (2023 est.)

Number of nuclear reactors permanently shut down: 36 (2023)

Space program overview

has a comprehensive space program and is active across all areas of the space sector outside of launching humans into space, including satellite/space launch vehicles (SLVs)/rockets and their components, space probes, satellites and satellite subcomponents, space sensors, spaceports, and various other space-related technologies; as a founding member of the European Space Agency (ESA), it is heavily involved in ESA programs and has bi-lateral relations with many members; is a close partner of the US NASA and since 2016 has forged over 350 relationships with international organizations across nearly 50 developing countries; has a large commercial space sector that produces SLVs, SLV components, satellites, satellite subcomponents and sensors, and other space-related technologies; the UK has a space industrial plan, and the UKSA has provided funding to encourage and support commercial space projects (2024)

note: further details about the key activities, programs, and milestones of the country’s space program, as well as government spending estimates on the space sector, appear in the Space Programs reference guide

Space launch site(s)

Spaceport 1 (Outer Hebrides, Scotland; operational 2023); Spaceport Machrihanish (Argyll, Scotland; operational 2024); Glasgow Prestwick (South Ayrshire, Scotland; operational 2024 for horizontal launches); Spaceport Snowdonia (Gwynedd, Wales; operational 2024); SaxaVord UK Spaceport (Unst, Shetland Islands; operational 2023); Sutherland Spaceport (Sutherland, Scotland; operational 2024); Sutherland, Scotland (Cornwall Airport Newquay, Cornwall; operational 2023 for horizontal launches) (2024)

Space agency/agencies

UK Space Agency (UKSA; established in 2010); the UKSA replaced the British National Space Center (BNSC; organized in 1985); UK Space Command (formed 2021) (2024)

Geoparks

total global geoparks and regional networks: 9

global geoparks and regional networks: Black Country; Cuilcagh Lakelands (includes Ireland); English Riviera; Fforest Fawr; GeoMôn; Mourne Gullion Strangford; North Pennines AONB; North-West Highlands; Shetland (2023)

Ports

total ports: 185 (2024)

large: 7

medium: 24

small: 67

very small: 86

size unknown: 1

ports with oil terminals: 67

key ports: Aberdeen, Barrow-in-Furness, Barry, Belfast, Blyth, Bristol, Cardiff, Dundee, Falmouth Harbour, Glasgow, Greenock, Grimsby, Immingham, Kingston-upon-Hull, Leith, Lerwick, Liverpool, London, Londonderry, Lyness, Manchester, Milford Haven, Newport, Peterhead, Plymouth, Portland Harbour, Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton, Sunderland, Teesport, Tynemouth

Labor force

35.275 million (2023 est.)

note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work

Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)

total: 12.5% (2023 est.)

male: 14.5% (2023 est.)

female: 10.5% (2023 est.)

note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment

Net migration rate

2.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2024 est.)

Median age

total: 40.8 years (2024 est.)

male: 40.1 years

female: 41.5 years

Debt - external

(2019)

Maternal mortality ratio

10 deaths/100,000 live births (2020 est.)

Reserves of foreign exchange and gold

$177.915 billion (2023 est.)
$176.41 billion (2022 est.)
$194.181 billion (2021 est.)

note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars

Waterways

3,200 km (2009) (620 km used for commerce)

Public debt

142.28% of GDP (2022 est.)

note: central government debt as a % of GDP

Total fertility rate

1.63 children born/woman (2024 est.)

Military expenditures

2.3% of GDP (2024 est.)
2.3% of GDP (2023)
2.3% of GDP (2022)
2.3% of GDP (2021)
2.4% of GDP (2020)

Unemployment rate

4.06% (2023 est.)
3.73% (2022 est.)
4.83% (2021 est.)

note: % of labor force seeking employment

Population

total: 68,459,055 United Kingdom

male: 34,005,445

female: 34,453,610 (2024 est.)

Internet users

total: 64.99 million (2021 est.)

percent of population: 97% (2021 est.)

Carbon dioxide emissions

353.407 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)

from coal and metallurgical coke: 19.558 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)

from petroleum and other liquids: 194.001 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)

from consumed natural gas: 139.848 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2022 est.)

Area

total : 243,610 sq km

land: 241,930 sq km

water: 1,680 sq km

note 1: the percentage area breakdown of the four UK countries is: England 53%, Scotland 32%, Wales 9%, and Northern Ireland 6%

note 2: includes Rockall and the Shetland Islands, which are part of Scotland

Taxes and other revenues

27.3% (of GDP) (2022 est.)

note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)

$3.7 trillion (2023 est.)
$3.696 trillion (2022 est.)
$3.542 trillion (2021 est.)

note: data in 2021 dollars

Roadways

total: 416,461 km (2022)

Airports

1,043 (2024)

Infant mortality rate

total: 3.8 deaths/1,000 live births (2024 est.)

male: 4.2 deaths/1,000 live births

female: 3.3 deaths/1,000 live births

Telephones - mobile cellular

total subscriptions: 81.564 million (2022 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 121 (2022 est.)

Gini Index coefficient - distribution of family income

32.4 (2021 est.)

note: index (0-100) of income distribution; higher values represent greater inequality

Inflation rate (consumer prices)

6.79% (2023 est.)
7.92% (2022 est.)
2.52% (2021 est.)

note: annual % change based on consumer prices

Current account balance

-$110.393 billion (2023 est.)
-$100.436 billion (2022 est.)
-$14.886 billion (2021 est.)

note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars

Real GDP per capita

$54,100 (2023 est.)
$54,500 (2022 est.)
$52,800 (2021 est.)

note: data in 2021 dollars

Broadband - fixed subscriptions

total: 27,330,297 (2020 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 40 (2020 est.)

Tobacco use

total: 15.4% (2020 est.)

male: 17.3% (2020 est.)

female: 13.5% (2020 est.)

Obesity - adult prevalence rate

27.8% (2016)

Energy consumption per capita

99.499 million Btu/person (2022 est.)

Death rate

9.2 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)

Birth rate

10.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)

Electricity

installed generating capacity: 111.02 million kW (2022 est.)

consumption: 287.128 billion kWh (2022 est.)

exports: 20.793 billion kWh (2022 est.)

imports: 15.451 billion kWh (2022 est.)

transmission/distribution losses: 26.125 billion kWh (2022 est.)

Merchant marine

total: 868 (2023)

by type: bulk carrier 34, container ship 46, general cargo 62, oil tanker 13, other 713

 note: includes Channel Islands (total fleet 2; general cargo 1, other 1); excludes Isle of Man

Children under the age of 5 years underweight

NA

Imports

$1.116 trillion (2023 est.)
$1.115 trillion (2022 est.)
$933.904 billion (2021 est.)

note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars

Exports

$1.075 trillion (2023 est.)
$1.029 trillion (2022 est.)
$929.185 billion (2021 est.)

note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars

Telephones - fixed lines

total subscriptions: 29.798 million (2022 est.)

subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 44 (2022 est.)

Alcohol consumption per capita

total: 9.8 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)

beer: 3.53 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)

wine: 3.3 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)

spirits: 2.35 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)

other alcohols: 0.61 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)

Life expectancy at birth

total population: 82.2 years (2024 est.)

male: 80.1 years

female: 84.4 years

Real GDP growth rate

0.1% (2023 est.)
4.35% (2022 est.)
8.67% (2021 est.)

note: annual GDP % growth based on constant local currency

Industrial production growth rate

0.14% (2023 est.)

note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency

Railways

total: 16,390 km (2020) 6,167 km electrified

GDP - composition, by sector of origin

agriculture: 0.7% (2023 est.)

industry: 16.9% (2023 est.)

services: 72.8% (2023 est.)

note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data

Revenue from forest resources

0.01% of GDP (2018 est.)

Revenue from coal

0% of GDP (2018 est.)

Education expenditures

5.5% of GDP (2020 est.)

Population growth rate

0.45% (2024 est.)
Sources: