Uk how many countries

This terrain was shaped in the last Ice Age, when thick glaciers covered the land. In northwest England and the Scottish Highlands are dozens of lakes, called lochs.

These were left behind when the Ice Age glaciers melted. They tend to be long and narrow, and some are very deep. Legends say that a giant monster called Nessie lives in Loch Ness in Scotland. In the s and s, people from former colonies in the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia came to the United Kingdom to work. Sports and literature are among the United Kingdom's cultural claims to fame. Soccer, rugby, cricket, boxing, and golf were all invented in Britain.

And the U. Rowling, the writer of the Harry Potter books, is British. About 5, years ago, the center of the United Kingdom was covered with thick forests. Thousands of years ago, these woodlands were cleared by ancient farmers, and today only about 10 percent of the land is forest. The United Kingdom's complex geology gives rise to a wide variety of landscapes and a range of habitats for its animal and plant life. But it is a very crowded country, and there are not many truly wild places left.

The most successful wildlife species are those that can live alongside people. Great Britain's rugged mountains, like the Scottish Highlands, offer habitat that is relatively untouched by humans. The country's 7, miles 12, kilometers of shoreline, ranging from tall cliffs to beaches to marshes, also provide homes for wildlife such as seabirds and seals. Britain's system of government has developed over many centuries. For Americans, the best analogy would be that the UK is like the USA, whilst its four consistent countries are like states.

There is a long and complicated history that follows the formation of the United Kingdom, but here are the highlights: c. Established by the unification of Anglo-Saxon tribes across modern day England. Ireland joins the union, and once again the name changes. This is the UK that remains to this day. So when was the UK established?

The United Kingdom coloured in red with the Republic of Ireland in grey. The first is that it is used to distinguish Britain from its similar sounding, but much smaller French neighbour, Brittany. The British Isles is the name of a group of islands situated off the north western corner of mainland Europe. Wales is most famed for its amazing landscapes and mountainous areas such as Snowdonia National Park and the scenic, rugged coast and mile path, covering every inch of its coastline.

Scotland has everything - diverse landscapes, remote islands and thriving cosmopolitan cities. It covers around a third of the total UK landmass, roughly divided into three areas - the Lowlands with its thick woodlands, the Highlands and its towering mountains and lochs, and the islands and their peace, quiet, and far-reaching sea views.

The highest point in Scotland, and the whole of the British Isles for that matter, is Ben Nevis, which reaches 4,ft at its peak - a great challenge for hikers. Drive the incredible Causeway Coastal Route around the Atlantic Ocean and stop at one of many quaint villages for the night to sip on a Guinness. Feeling a little stuck about where to visit first? Check out our range of day tours from London for some inspiration.