United Kingdom Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Great Britain, State of Western Europe; 244,233 km², 66.5 million residents (2019).The UK consists of the UK, Scotland and Wales, located on the British main island and Northern Ireland on the island of Ireland. In addition, the Orkney Islands, the Shetland Islands and the Outer Hebrides. The UK also has 13 possessions around the world with a total population of around 200,000 residents. The Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are directly subordinated to the krona and are not part of the country. The capital is London (8.4 million residents, 2014).

Country facts

United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland / United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Country abbreviation: GB (UK)
Area: 244 233 km²
Population (2019): 66.5 million residents
Capital: London
Main language: English
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Elizabeth II (Queen)
Head of Government: Theresa May
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 42,491
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 41,340
Currency unit: 1 pound = 100 pence
Currency code: GBP
Country number (telephony): 44
Internet domain name: uk
Time difference compared to Sweden: −1
National Day: Second Saturday in June (Monarch’s official birthday)

Nature

Land use: forest (10%), agricultural land (25%), other (65%)
Highest mountain: Ben Nevis (1,335 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 272 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.2%; birth number 11 ‰, death number 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (18%), 15-64 (64%), 65- (18%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 79 years, women 83 years
Infant mortality (2019): 4 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 75 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.922 (place 14 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 83%
Most populous cities (2014): London (8.4 million residents), Birmingham (1.1 million), Glasgow (596,600)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (1%), industry (20%), service (79%)
Exports (2017): US $ 441,200 million
Main export products: machinery, fuel, chemicals
Main exporting countries: USA, Germany, France
Imports (2017): US $ 615 900 million
Main import products: machinery, fuel, food
Main importing countries: Germany, USA, China
Railway network (2015): 16,500 km

Geography of the United Kingdom

Location

The United Kingdom (UK) is an island nation located in northwestern Europe. It consists of four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The UK is situated off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the North Sea to the east, the English Channel to the south, and the Irish Sea to the west. It shares land borders only with the Republic of Ireland to the west, which is a sovereign state.

The UK is composed of the island of Great Britain (which includes England, Scotland, and Wales) and the northeastern part of the island of Ireland (Northern Ireland), along with several smaller islands such as the Isle of Wight, the Hebrides, the Orkney Islands, and the Shetland Islands. The capital city of the UK is London, which is also the largest city and an important global financial center.

Topography

The topography of the UK is highly varied, with mountainous regions in the north and west, flat plains in the south and east, and numerous rivers, lakes, and coastal features. The UK’s diverse geography is a result of a long geological history, with significant influences from glaciation, erosion, and tectonic activity.

The northern parts of Scotland are home to some of the highest mountains in the UK, including Ben Nevis, which stands at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet) above sea level. The Scottish Highlands are rugged and sparsely populated, offering a stark contrast to the more fertile and populous lowland areas in the south. Wales is similarly mountainous, particularly in the central and northern regions, where Snowdonia National Park is located.

In contrast, much of England’s landscape consists of gently rolling hills, valleys, and plains, with notable lowland areas such as the South East and East Anglia. The River Thames, which flows through London, is one of the most significant waterways in England, and the UK also has numerous smaller rivers and estuaries. Northern Ireland, on the island of Ireland, is mostly hilly, with some fertile plains, particularly in the east.

Natural Resources

The UK has a rich history of resource extraction, particularly in coal, natural gas, and oil. Coal was historically one of the UK’s most important industries, especially during the Industrial Revolution, but its extraction has largely decreased in recent years due to environmental concerns and the shift to cleaner energy sources.

The UK still holds significant natural gas reserves, particularly in the North Sea, and the oil industry remains an important part of the economy, with oil fields in the North Sea contributing substantially to energy production. In addition to energy resources, the UK has a variety of minerals, including limestone, clay, and iron ore, although the country is no longer a major global mining hub.

Agriculture also plays a role in the UK’s economy, especially in terms of crops like wheat, barley, potatoes, and vegetables, and livestock, particularly cattle, sheep, and poultry. However, the UK is a net importer of food due to the country’s relatively small agricultural sector in comparison to its population.

Climate of the United Kingdom

General Climate

The climate of the UK is classified as temperate maritime, meaning it experiences moderate temperatures and high humidity levels, along with regular rainfall throughout the year. This climate is strongly influenced by the surrounding Atlantic Ocean, which helps to moderate temperatures and keeps the country cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than many other northern European countries.

In the winter, temperatures in the UK rarely fall below freezing, and snow is uncommon in most areas, though it can be more frequent in the higher elevations of Scotland and Wales. Summer temperatures are generally mild, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F), although heatwaves do occasionally push temperatures above 30°C (86°F).

Rainfall and Seasonal Variations

Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, though the western parts of the UK, including the Lake District, the Scottish Highlands, and parts of Wales, receive the most precipitation due to orographic rainfall caused by the prevailing westerly winds from the Atlantic. These areas can receive over 2,000 millimeters (79 inches) of rain annually. In contrast, the southeast of England, including London and the surrounding areas, is much drier, with annual rainfall averaging around 600 millimeters (24 inches).

The UK experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring and autumn tend to have mild temperatures, with autumn being the wettest season due to the frequent passage of low-pressure systems from the Atlantic. The winters are generally cool and damp, while summers, though mild, are often marked by cloudy skies and light rainfall.

People of the United Kingdom

Population and Ethnic Composition

The population of the UK is approximately 67 million people. The majority of the population is of British descent, with the largest ethnic group being White British. However, the UK is one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Europe, with significant populations of immigrants and descendants of immigrants. The largest ethnic minority groups in the UK include South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi), Black (African, Caribbean), and Eastern European populations, particularly from countries such as Poland.

The demographic makeup of the UK has been shaped by centuries of immigration and colonization, as well as the expansion of the British Empire. Immigration has increased substantially in recent decades, particularly since the 1950s, due to factors such as the end of the British Empire, EU membership, and the growth of the UK economy. As a result, the UK is home to many different cultural communities, with various languages, religions, and traditions.

Language

English is the official and most widely spoken language in the UK, with more than 98% of the population speaking it as their first language. The English spoken in the UK is rich in regional dialects and accents, which vary significantly across the country. For example, the dialects spoken in places like the West Midlands, the north of England, and Scotland differ substantially in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.

In addition to English, several other languages are spoken in the UK, reflecting its multicultural population. Welsh is spoken in Wales, particularly in the north and west, and it is recognized as an official language alongside English. In Scotland, Scots and Gaelic are spoken, although the latter is a minority language. In Northern Ireland, Irish and Ulster Scots are also spoken, though these languages have fewer speakers compared to English.

Due to immigration, languages such as Punjabi, Urdu, Polish, and Arabic are also spoken by communities across the UK.

Religion

The United Kingdom has a diverse religious landscape, although Christianity is the predominant religion. The Church of England, an Anglican denomination, is the established church in England, and the monarch is the Supreme Governor of the Church. However, religious diversity is widespread, with significant populations of Roman Catholics, particularly in Northern Ireland, and other Protestant denominations such as Methodists and Baptists.

Islam is the second-largest religion in the UK, with significant Muslim communities in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester. Other religions represented in the UK include Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism, and Buddhism, reflecting the country’s multicultural population. Despite the presence of these religions, the UK is also characterized by secularism, with a growing proportion of the population identifying as non-religious or atheist.

Economy of the United Kingdom

Economic Structure

The UK has a highly developed and diversified economy, with services being the dominant sector. The financial services industry is particularly important, with London serving as one of the largest global financial hubs, especially for banking, insurance, and investment management. The UK’s economy is also driven by manufacturing, retail, real estate, information technology, and tourism.

Historically, the UK was one of the first countries to industrialize, and its economy was once heavily reliant on coal, steel, and textiles. While heavy industry has declined over the past few decades, the UK remains a leader in industries such as aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and creative industries, including film, television, and fashion.

Agriculture, while still an important part of the UK economy, contributes a relatively small percentage to the country’s GDP. The UK imports a large portion of its food, and much of its agricultural land is used for grazing livestock, particularly cattle and sheep, as well as for growing cereals, potatoes, and vegetables.

Trade and Commerce

Trade is an integral part of the UK economy, both within Europe and globally. Historically, the UK was one of the world’s leading trade powers, and it continues to be a key player in global commerce. Its primary exports include machinery, chemicals, and vehicles, while its imports mainly consist of oil, machinery, and consumer goods.

The UK was a member of the European Union until 2020, when it formally left following a referendum known as Brexit. The decision to leave the EU has had significant impacts on trade relations, with new agreements being negotiated between the UK and various countries. However, the UK remains a key player in global finance, and London continues to be one of the world’s leading financial centers.

Industry and Technology

The UK has a diverse industrial base, although services dominate its economy. Manufacturing includes sectors such as automotive production, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. The UK is home to several global automotive brands, including Rolls-Royce and Jaguar Land Rover, and its aerospace sector includes major companies such as Airbus and BAE Systems.

The technology sector in the UK has also seen significant growth, particularly in software development, artificial intelligence, and fintech. London is one of the largest tech hubs in Europe, and the UK government has invested heavily in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship in this sector.

Government of the United Kingdom

Political System

The UK is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The monarchy is largely ceremonial, with the reigning monarch serving as the head of state. The current monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, holds a symbolic role in the country’s governance. The government is headed by the Prime Minister, who is the leader of the party that holds the majority in the House of Commons, the lower house of Parliament.

The UK’s Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Members of the House of Commons (MPs) are elected by the public in general elections, which are held every five years. The House of Lords, on the other hand, is made up of appointed members, including life peers, bishops, and hereditary peers.

Political History

The political history of the UK is marked by centuries of development from an absolute monarchy to a parliamentary democracy. The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, laid the foundation for the establishment of constitutional limits on the power of the monarchy. Over the centuries, the British monarchy gradually lost its political power, and Parliament emerged as the primary legislative body.

The British Empire, which spanned the globe at its peak, played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of the UK. Following the empire’s decline in the mid-20th century, the UK became a member of the European Union in 1973, though it eventually voted to leave the EU in the 2016 referendum, an event known as Brexit.

The UK also played a central role in both World Wars and has since developed into a leading global power in trade, finance, and diplomacy.

Governance Challenges

The UK faces several governance challenges, including debates over national identity, the economy, and political independence. The question of Scottish independence remains a contentious issue, as Scotland held a referendum in 2014 on whether to leave the UK, with a majority voting to remain, though calls for another referendum have continued.

The impact of Brexit has been felt across the country, leading to divisions over trade, immigration, and economic policies. Additionally, concerns over income inequality, housing affordability, and the impact of austerity measures have contributed to political debate in recent years.

Culture of the United Kingdom

Traditional Music and Dance

The UK has a rich tradition of music, ranging from classical compositions by figures such as William Byrd and Edward Elgar to the popular music that emerged in the 20th century. The country is known for producing internationally influential musical genres such as rock, punk, and electronic music. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Queen are some of the most iconic bands in music history.

Traditional British folk music is also important to the country’s culture, with genres like Morris dance, Irish dance, and Scottish ceilidh remaining popular in various regions. English folk songs, often accompanied by instruments such as the fiddle and accordion, are an integral part of local festivals and events.

Art and Literature

The UK has produced many renowned artists and writers, from Shakespeare to J.M.W. Turner, contributing significantly to global cultural heritage. British literature is particularly well-known, with authors such as Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, and George Orwell shaping the world of fiction. In contemporary literature, writers like J.K. Rowling have achieved international success.

In art, the UK has produced notable painters such as Francis Bacon and Damien Hirst, with movements like the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and British Pop Art leaving a lasting legacy. London is home to many world-class art institutions, such as the Tate Modern and the National Gallery.

Cuisine

British cuisine is known for its hearty, simple dishes. Traditional meals such as fish and chips, roast dinners, and shepherd’s pie reflect the country’s agricultural history. In recent decades, British cuisine has evolved, incorporating influences from the diverse range of cultures that make up the UK’s population. This multicultural influence has enriched the food scene, leading to the widespread popularity of Indian, Chinese, and Caribbean cuisines.

Afternoon tea is an iconic British tradition, offering a selection of sandwiches, scones, and cakes, typically enjoyed in the afternoon. Despite the historical reputation of British food as bland, it has undergone significant transformation, and the UK’s food scene is now known for its variety and creativity.

Festivals and Celebrations

The UK has a vibrant calendar of festivals and celebrations. Bonfire Night, held on November 5, commemorates the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 with fireworks, bonfires, and community events. Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated, with traditions such as Christmas markets, parades, and feasts. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is one of the largest arts festivals in the world, drawing performers and visitors from all over the globe.

Sporting Culture

The UK is home to several popular sports, including football (soccer), rugby, cricket, and tennis. Wimbledon is one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments globally, while the Premier League is one of the world’s most-watched football leagues. Rugby has strong traditions in England, Wales, and Scotland, and cricket enjoys a historic following, particularly during the summer months. These sports, along with athletics and cycling, play a significant role in British culture, with major events such as the London Marathon and The Ashes attracting large audiences.