About the UK

About the UK

The UK comprises of 4 different countries, England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.   The official name of the UK is The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.   Great Britain does not include Northern Ireland.

Facts about the UK

Population- 60.2 million (2005)
Official Language- English
Capital- London
Area- 242,514 sq km
Main religion- Christianity
Currency- Pound Sterling (£1.00 equals 100 pence)
Life expectancy- 76 (men) 81 (women)
Main exports- Chemicals, foodstuffs and manufactured goods
Head of State- Queen Elizabeth II

England

England is the largest country in the UK, and covers about two thirds of the land. England is home to more than 84% of the population of the UK.

National Day- St George’s Day (23rd April)
National Emblem- The Rose
National Flag- The St George’s Cross, a red cross on a white background
Capital- London

Wales

Wales is called Cymru in Welsh.   It is located to the west of the UK.   Welsh people are often fiercely patriotic, and all signs in Wales are printed in both English and Welsh.

National Day- St David’s Day (1st March)
National Emblem- The Leek and the Daffodil
National Flag- The Welsh Dragon, a red dragon on a background of white over green
Capital- Cardiff

Scotland

Scotland is to the North of the UK, and has the lowest population density of the UK.   Scotland also have their own language, Celtic, although it is more common to hear English being spoken.   Scotland is distinct from the rest of the UK, in that they have their own education and legal system.