Where is United Kingdom Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 18, 2024

Where is United Kingdom located on the map? United Kingdom is an independent nation located in Northern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of United Kingdom on maps.

United Kingdom Location in World Map

Great Britain is in Western Europe. Officially, the country is called the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, or United Kingdom for short, in English: United Kingdom, which is why it is also called UK for short. The United Kingdom includes England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

England, Wales and Scotland are located on a large island, surrounded by the Atlantic, the North Sea and the English Channel. The English Channel is an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean that separates England from France. Northern Ireland forms a second island west of it with the Republic of Ireland. Both islands (plus other smaller ones) are the “British Isles”.

“Great Britain” actually only refers to the largest of the British Isles, but we also use the name for the entire country. The name England is also common, although England is actually only part of the country, but the largest part of it. The residents are called British. Depending on where they live, they are also English, Scots, Welsh or Northern Irish.

The map shows Great Britain.

Location Information of the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom (UK) is an island nation located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. Comprising four constituent countries — England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — the UK is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the North Sea, the English Channel, and the Irish Sea. The country plays a significant role in global political, economic, and cultural affairs.

Latitude and Longitude

The UK is positioned between approximately 49° and 61° North latitude and -8° and 2° West longitude. This strategic location places the country at the crossroads of Europe and the Atlantic Ocean, giving it a temperate maritime climate and significant influence over global trade and history.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: London

London, the capital city of the United Kingdom, is located in the southeastern part of England along the River Thames. With a population of about 9 million people in the metropolitan area, London is one of the largest and most influential cities in the world. As the political, economic, cultural, and historical center of the UK, London is home to iconic landmarks such as:

Buckingham Palace (the residence of the British monarchy)
The Tower of London
The British Museum
The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

London is also a global hub for finance, arts, fashion, and education, drawing millions of international tourists every year.

Major Cities

Manchester: Located in the north of England, Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, vibrant music scene, and sports culture. It is home to world-renowned football clubs like Manchester United and Manchester City.
Birmingham: As the second-largest city in the UK, Birmingham is an important center for industry, commerce, and culture. It is situated in the West Midlands region and has seen a resurgence in arts and food culture in recent years.
Edinburgh: The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the annual Edinburgh Festival. Key sites include the Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Glasgow: Located in the central part of Scotland, Glasgow is known for its thriving arts scene, vibrant nightlife, and significant role in commerce and education. It is Scotland’s largest city and has been recognized as a UNESCO City of Music.
Cardiff: The capital of Wales, Cardiff is located on the southern coast and is known for its waterfront attractions, medieval castles, and vibrant cultural scene. Cardiff Castle and the Millennium Stadium are major landmarks.
Belfast: The capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast has a rich industrial and maritime heritage. It is home to the Titanic Belfast Museum and a growing arts and music scene.

Time Zone

The United Kingdom operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) during the winter months, which corresponds to UTC +0. From late March to late October, the UK observes British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT+1 or UTC +1. The time difference between the UK and several major U.S. cities is as follows:

New York City (Eastern Standard Time): The UK is 5 hours ahead of New York City during standard time and 4 hours ahead during daylight saving time in the UK.
Los Angeles (Pacific Standard Time): The UK is 8 hours ahead of Los Angeles during standard time and 7 hours ahead during daylight saving time in the UK.

Climate

The climate of the United Kingdom is classified as temperate maritime, characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall throughout the year. The climate can vary depending on the region, but the general features of the UK’s weather are:

Summer (June to August): Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), though temperatures can occasionally rise higher, especially in southern England. Summer days tend to be long, with daylight lasting until 9:00 PM or later.
Autumn (September to November): The weather starts to cool down with average temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This season is marked by increasingly rainy conditions, especially in western regions.
Winter (December to February): The UK experiences mild winters with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Snowfall is infrequent but can occur, especially in inland areas and northern parts of the country.
Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). Rain showers are common, but the season is known for its blossoming flowers and longer daylight hours.

Due to the maritime influence of the surrounding seas, the UK is prone to unpredictable weather, with significant regional differences in temperature and precipitation.

Economic Status

The United Kingdom has one of the largest and most developed economies in the world. It is considered a high-income economy with a highly diversified industrial base. Key aspects of the UK economy include:

Services Sector: The services industry, particularly financial services, is the backbone of the UK economy. London is one of the leading financial centers globally, with a strong presence of international banks, investment firms, and insurance companies.
Manufacturing: Though manufacturing has declined as a proportion of GDP, the UK remains a leader in industries like aerospace, automotive, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. The country is home to major multinational companies like Rolls-Royce, Jaguar Land Rover, and GlaxoSmithKline.
Energy: The UK is a leader in offshore wind power and renewable energy. While oil and gas production have declined in recent years, the country remains a significant player in global energy markets.
Agriculture: The UK has a relatively small agricultural sector, but it remains a key producer of crops like wheat, barley, and potatoes. Livestock farming, particularly cattle and sheep, is also important.
Trade and Industry: The UK has a strong tradition of trade and continues to play a key role in global commerce. As a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and various trade agreements, the UK has diversified its international trade relationships.

Despite facing challenges such as Brexit and an aging population, the UK continues to maintain a stable economy with a high standard of living, though income inequality remains a persistent issue.

Tourist Attractions

The United Kingdom is a diverse country with a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that draw millions of tourists each year. Some of the most popular destinations include:

1. The Tower of London and Buckingham Palace (London)

Two of the most iconic landmarks in London, the Tower of London houses the Crown Jewels and has a rich history as a royal palace and prison. Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, is another must-see for tourists interested in British history and royal traditions.

2. Stonehenge (Wiltshire)

Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, attracts visitors for its mysterious origins and its impressive arrangement of massive standing stones. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. The Scottish Highlands (Scotland)

For lovers of nature and outdoor adventures, the Scottish Highlands offer some of the most stunning landscapes in the UK, including dramatic mountains, lochs (lakes), and glens (valleys). Popular attractions include Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, and Isle of Skye.

4. Edinburgh Castle (Edinburgh)

This historic fortress, perched on an extinct volcanic rock, offers panoramic views of the city and is home to Scotland’s crown jewels. It is a major cultural and historical symbol of Edinburgh.

5. Lake District National Park (England)

Located in northwest England, the Lake District is famous for its beautiful lakes, charming towns, and scenic trails. The park has inspired many poets, including William Wordsworth.

6. Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder featuring approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. It is one of Northern Ireland’s most visited tourist attractions.

7. Cardiff Castle (Cardiff)

A medieval castle in the heart of Cardiff, this historical site has been transformed over the centuries and offers insight into the rich history of Wales.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 6 months) for tourism, business, or family visits in the United Kingdom. However, there are specific requirements:

Passport: U.S. travelers must have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay in the UK, although it’s recommended to have at least six months of validity remaining upon entry.
Proof of Sufficient Funds: Travelers may be asked to demonstrate they have enough money to cover their stay.
Return Ticket: Visitors may also be asked for proof of their return or onward travel plans.

It is important to check for any changes to entry requirements before traveling, as these can vary depending on specific circumstances such as health or security measures.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

The distances from London, the UK’s capital, to key U.S. cities are as follows:

Distance from London to New York City: Approximately 5,570 km (3,460 miles), with a flight time of around 7 to 8 hours.
Distance from London to Los Angeles: Approximately 8,750 km (5,440 miles), with a flight time of about 10 to 11 hours.

United Kingdom Facts

Size	242,910 km²
Residents	65.63 million
Languages	English, locally also Cornish, Irish, Scottish Gaelic, Welsh
Capital	London
Longest river	Severn (354 km)
Highest mountain	Ben Nevis (1,343 m)
Currency	British pound sterling