A quick summary of this incredible destination and some useful info
The United Kingdom refers to a nation of 4 countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The countries are closely linked by history, culture, and language. On a Nordic Visitor trip, you can explore Scotland, England and Wales together. We also offer tours to Ireland and Northern Ireland who share a nearby island.
When it comes to nature, the UK is packed with some incredible sights. Thanks to its miles of coastline, all 4 countries boast some fantastic beaches. There’s also 100s of mountains for you to hike, lakes and lochs for you to swim in, and valleys for you to explore. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.
The countries that make up the UK date back as far as the 10th century, so it makes sense that the nation is steeped in history. You’ll find culture around every corner of each city, town and village.
With nearly 200 Michelin-starred restaurants, countless cafés, pubs and bars, the food and drink scene across the UK is remarkable. There’s something for every taste, budget and occasion.
- Discover it all on a classic UK tour
The individual countries are all welcoming and safe, and make excellent travel destinations all year round. Here’s a few quick facts about the UK, England, Scotland and Wales:
The UK
Capital: London
Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) in winter and British Summer Time (BST) in summer
Country code: +44
Emergency services: 999
Currency: pound sterling (also known as Great British pound, GBP, £)
Form of government: Constitutional monarchy with parliamentary democracy
England
Capital: London
Population: 55.9 million
Language: English
Total area: 130,279 km2
Location: England is located in the southern two thirds of the UK, and is the biggest of the 4 countries that make up the nation. It shares a border with Scotland to the north, and Wales to the west.
Scotland
Capital: Edinburgh
Population: 5.4 million
Language: English is the primary language, but Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of north and west Scotland
Total area: 77,910 km2
Location: Scotland is the northernmost country within the UK and borders only England. As well as mainland Scotland, there’s nearly 800 smaller islands off its west and northern coasts.
Wales
Capital: Cardiff
Population: 3.1 million
Language: English is the primary language, but Welsh is recognised as an official language and is widely spoken
Total area: 20,779 km2
Location: Wales is found in the southwest of the UK, bordering only England. It also borders the Irish sea and the Bristol channel.
