Explore the political map of UK showing England, Wales, Scotland and Northern ireland with their capitals and major cities. The United Kingdom is divided into four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each country has its own system of administrative and geographic demarcation. England is further divided into 48 ceremonial counties. Scotland comprises 32 council areas, while Wales is divided into 22 principal areas, and Northern Ireland is split into 11 districts. The UK's total population is approximately 67 million, with England being the most populous at around 56 million, followed by Scotland with 5.4 million, Wales with 3.1 million, and Northern Ireland with 1.9 million. These political divisions play a crucial role in the governance and regional administration of the UK.
Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, including: Saint Helena, Ascension Island, Tristan da Cunha
South Atlantic Ocean
420
162
5,633 (total; 2016 census), 4,349 (Saint Helena; 2019 census), 880 (Ascension; estimate), 1,000 non-permanent (Ascension; UK military personnel; estimate), 300 (Tristan da Cunha; estimate), 9 non-permanent (Tristan da Cunha; weather personnel)
Jamestown
South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
South Atlantic Ocean
3,903
1,507
0, 99 non-permanent (officials and research personnel)
King Edward Point
Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia
Cyprus, Mediterranean Sea
255
98
7,700 (Cypriots; estimate), 8,000 non-permanent (UK military personnel and their families; estimate)
Episkopi Cantonment
Turks and Caicos Islands
Lucayan Archipelago, North Atlantic Ocean
430
166
38,191 (2019 estimate)
Cockburn Town
Regions of England
Name
Population
Area km2
Area sq mi
Largest urban area
South East
9,180,135
19,072
7,364
South Hampshire
London
8,961,989
1,572
607
Greater London Built-up Area
North West
7,341,196
14,108
5,447
Greater Manchester Built-up Area
East of England
6,236,072
19,116
7,381
Southend Urban Area
West Midlands
5,934,037
12,998
5,019
West Midlands Conurbation
South West
5,624,696
23,836
9,203
Bristol Built-up Area
Yorkshire and the Humber
5,502,967
15,405
5,948
West Yorkshire Built-up Area
East Midlands
4,835,928
15,625
6,033
Nottingham Urban Area
North East
2,669,941
8,579
3,312
Tyneside
Largest urban areas of the United Kingdom
Rank
Urban area
Population
Principal settlement
1
Greater London Urban Area
9,787,426
London
2
Greater Manchester Urban Area
2,553,379
Manchester
3
West Midlands Urban Area
2,440,986
Birmingham
4
West Yorkshire Urban Area
1,777,934
Leeds
5
Greater Glasgow
985,290
Glasgow
6
Liverpool Urban Area
864,122
Liverpool
7
South Hampshire
855,569
Southampton
8
Tyneside
774,891
Newcastle
9
Nottingham Urban Area
729,977
Nottingham
10
Sheffield Urban Area
685,368
Sheffield
11
Bristol Urban Area
617,280
Bristol
12
Edinburgh Urban Area
512,150
Edinburgh
13
Leicester Urban Area
508,916
Leicester
14
Belfast Urban Area
483,418
Belfast
15
Brighton and Hove built-up area
474,485
Brighton
16
South East Dorset conurbation
466,266
Bournemouth
17
Cardiff Urban Area
390,214
Cardiff
18
Teesside
376,633
Middlesbrough
19
The Potteries Urban Area
372,775
Stoke-on-Trent
20
Coventry and Bedworth Urban Area
359,262
Coventry
The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom (UK) is a sovereign state located off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe. It comprises four distinct countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each of these countries has its own unique cultural identity, legal system, and educational framework. The political structure of the UK is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. The UK Parliament, located in Westminster, London, is the supreme legislative body, but each country has varying degrees of legislative power through devolved administrations.
England
England is the largest and most populous country in the UK, with a population of approximately 56 million people. It is divided into 48 ceremonial counties, which serve as geographic and cultural regions. England does not have a separate parliament or assembly; instead, it is directly governed by the UK Parliament. Major cities in England include London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool. London, the capital city, is not only the political and economic hub of the UK but also a global city with significant influence in finance, culture, and international affairs.
Scotland
Scotland, located to the north of England, has a population of around 5.4 million people. It is divided into 32 council areas, which are responsible for local government functions. Scotland has its own parliament, located in Edinburgh, which has significant powers over areas such as education, health, environment, and justice. The Scottish Parliament was established in 1999 following a devolution referendum. Scotland is known for its rich cultural heritage, distinct legal system, and contributions to arts, science, and engineering. Major cities include Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Dundee.
Wales
Wales, situated to the west of England, has a population of about 3.1 million people. It is divided into 22 principal areas, each governed by a local council. Wales has its own devolved legislature, the Senedd (Welsh Parliament), located in Cardiff, which has powers over areas including health, education, and local government. The Senedd was established in 1999 following a devolution referendum. Welsh culture is celebrated for its language, music, and literature, with the Welsh language being spoken by a significant portion of the population. Major cities include Cardiff, Swansea, and Newport.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland, located on the island of Ireland, has a population of approximately 1.9 million people. It is divided into 11 districts, each with its own council responsible for local services. Northern Ireland has a devolved legislature, the Northern Ireland Assembly, located in Belfast, which has powers over areas such as health, education, and justice. The Assembly was established as part of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, aimed at bringing peace to the region after decades of conflict known as the Troubles. Major cities include Belfast and Londonderry (Derry).
Governance and Devolution
The UK Parliament retains sovereignty and has the power to legislate on any issue, but devolution has granted varying degrees of legislative power to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Devolved powers include areas such as health, education, and transportation, while reserved matters like defence, foreign policy, and immigration remain under the purview of the UK Parliament.
Government and Politics
The United Kingdom (UK) operates under a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy, one of the oldest and most established political systems in the world. The government and politics of the UK are characterised by a rich historical legacy, intricate legal frameworks, and a commitment to democratic governance.
The Monarchy
The UK is a constitutional monarchy, meaning the monarchy is bound by law to operate within certain constraints. The current monarch, as of 2024, is King Charles III. The monarch's role is largely ceremonial, and real political power is exercised by elected officials. The monarch's duties include the opening of Parliament, the granting of honours, and the formal appointment of the Prime Minister, although these actions are typically carried out on the advice of the sitting Prime Minister and the government.
The Parliament
The UK Parliament is bicameral, consisting of two houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The House of Commons is composed of 650 Members of Parliament (MPs) who are elected during general elections, held at least every five years. The party that secures the majority of seats usually forms the government, and its leader becomes the Prime Minister. The House of Lords, on the other hand, is made up of appointed members, including life peers, bishops, and hereditary peers. While the House of Lords reviews and suggests amendments to legislation, it does not have the same legislative power as the House of Commons.
The Prime Minister and the Cabinet
The Prime Minister is the head of government and is usually the leader of the political party that has the most seats in the House of Commons. The Prime Minister appoints members of the Cabinet, who are senior ministers responsible for specific government departments. The Cabinet meets regularly to discuss and make decisions on government policy and strategy. As of 2024, the Prime Minister is Rishi Sunak, leader of the Conservative Party.
Devolution
The UK has devolved governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with varying degrees of legislative power. The Scottish Parliament, located in Edinburgh, has extensive powers over areas such as education, health, and justice. The Welsh Parliament, or Senedd, in Cardiff, manages areas including health, education, and local government. The Northern Ireland Assembly, based in Belfast, has powers over health, education, and justice, among others. Devolution allows these nations to tailor policies to their specific needs while remaining part of the UK.
Political Parties
The UK has a multi-party system, with the Conservative Party and the Labour Party being the two dominant political forces. Other significant parties include the Scottish National Party (SNP), the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). The political landscape is dynamic, with parties often forming coalitions or alliances to achieve majority support in Parliament.
Elections
Elections in the UK are held for different levels of government, including the UK Parliament, devolved parliaments/assemblies, local councils, and the European Parliament (until Brexit). General elections for the UK Parliament are held every five years, while devolved and local elections have different cycles. The UK uses the first-past-the-post electoral system for general elections, where the candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins.
The Judiciary
The judiciary in the UK is independent of the government and is tasked with interpreting and applying the law. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the UK, established in 2009 to replace the House of Lords as the final court of appeal. The judiciary plays a crucial role in ensuring that laws passed by Parliament are in accordance with the constitution and protecting the rights and liberties of individuals.
Local Government
Local government in the UK is responsible for providing a range of services, including education, housing, transport, and social services. Local authorities are elected bodies that manage these services and ensure that local needs and priorities are met. England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland each have their own systems of local government, with varying structures and responsibilities.
International Relations
The UK has a significant role in international politics, being a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a leading member of NATO, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the G7. The UK's foreign policy focuses on promoting democracy, human rights, and free trade, while maintaining strong diplomatic and economic relationships worldwide.
Current Issues and Challenges
The UK faces several political challenges, including managing the implications of Brexit, addressing regional inequalities, and responding to global issues such as climate change and international security threats. The political landscape is also shaped by debates over the future of the Union, with movements for independence in Scotland and discussions on the status of Northern Ireland.
The governance and political structure of the United Kingdom are complex and multifaceted, reflecting centuries of evolution and adaptation. The system seeks to balance the powers of the central government with those of the devolved administrations, ensuring that the diverse needs of its population are met while upholding the principles of democracy and rule of law.
History of the United Kingdom
The history of the United Kingdom is a rich and complex tapestry that spans millennia, marked by significant events and influential figures that have shaped the modern nation. The UK, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, has a storied past that reflects its evolution from ancient times to a global power.
Ancient Britain and Roman Conquest
The earliest known human presence in the UK dates back to around 800,000 years ago. By the Iron Age, the islands were inhabited by various Celtic tribes. The Roman conquest of Britain began in AD 43 under Emperor Claudius, leading to the establishment of Roman Britain. The Romans built extensive infrastructure, including roads, baths, and Hadrian's Wall, which marked the northern limit of their empire. Roman rule lasted until the early 5th century, when they withdrew their legions, leaving the native Britons to fend for themselves.
Medieval Period
The early medieval period saw the arrival of Anglo-Saxons, who established several kingdoms across England. The Heptarchy period, consisting of seven kingdoms, eventually led to the unification of England under King Æthelstan in 927. The Viking invasions in the 8th and 9th centuries further shaped the British Isles, leading to the establishment of the Danelaw in parts of England.
In 1066, the Norman Conquest, led by William the Conqueror, brought significant changes to England, including the introduction of feudalism and the construction of iconic structures such as the Tower of London. The medieval period also saw the development of the English legal system and the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, which laid the foundation for constitutional governance.
Formation of the United Kingdom
The political landscape of the British Isles continued to evolve over the centuries. In 1536 and 1543, the Laws in Wales Acts were passed, annexing Wales to England and creating the legal entity known as the Kingdom of England and Wales. Scotland remained a separate kingdom until the Union of the Crowns in 1603, when James VI of Scotland also became James I of England, uniting the two crowns.
The formal creation of the United Kingdom came with the Acts of Union 1707, which united the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland into the Kingdom of Great Britain. This was followed by the Acts of Union 1800, which brought Ireland into the union, forming the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. However, the Anglo-Irish Treaty of 1921 led to the establishment of the Irish Free State, now the Republic of Ireland, leaving Northern Ireland as part of the UK.
Industrial Revolution and Global Influence
The 18th and 19th centuries saw the UK at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution, transforming it into the world's leading economic and industrial power. Innovations in technology, transportation, and manufacturing spurred rapid urbanisation and significant social changes. During this period, the British Empire expanded to its zenith, becoming the largest empire in history, encompassing territories across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania.
20th Century to Present
The 20th century was marked by two World Wars, which had profound impacts on the UK. The end of World War II saw the beginning of the decolonisation process, leading to the independence of many British colonies and the transformation of the British Empire into the Commonwealth of Nations.
In recent decades, the UK has undergone significant political and social changes. The establishment of devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland in the late 20th century granted these regions greater autonomy. The Good Friday Agreement of 1998 was a pivotal moment in the peace process for Northern Ireland, helping to end decades of conflict known as the Troubles.
In 2016, the UK voted to leave the European Union in a referendum, a process commonly known as Brexit. The UK formally left the EU on 31 January 2020, marking a new chapter in its history.
Current Context
Today, the UK is a leading global power with a diverse and multicultural society. It remains a significant player on the world stage, with a strong economy, influential cultural exports, and a rich historical legacy that continues to shape its identity and values. The UK’s history is a testament to its resilience, adaptability, and enduring influence.
Geography
The geography of the United Kingdom (UK) is diverse and varied, encompassing a range of landscapes from rugged coastlines and rolling hills to fertile plains and mountainous regions. The UK consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with its own distinct geographic features.
England
England is the largest country in the UK, covering an area of 130,279 square kilometres. It is characterised by lowland terrain, with notable upland regions such as the Pennines and the Cotswolds. The southeast features the North and South Downs, a series of chalk hills. The highest point in England is Scafell Pike in the Lake District, standing at 978 metres. England's coastline, stretching over 12,000 kilometres, includes famous landmarks such as the White Cliffs of Dover and the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance.
Scotland
Scotland, covering 77,933 square kilometres, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. The Highlands, home to the UK's highest peak, Ben Nevis (1,345 metres), dominate the northern part of the country. The Grampian Mountains and the Southern Uplands add to Scotland's varied topography. Scotland is also known for its numerous lochs (lakes), including Loch Ness, famous for its legendary monster, and Loch Lomond, the largest by surface area. The coastline is deeply indented, creating many natural harbours and fjord-like sea lochs.
Wales
Wales, with an area of 20,735 square kilometres, is predominantly mountainous, particularly in the north and central regions. The highest peak is Mount Snowdon, at 1,085 metres, located in Snowdonia National Park. The Brecon Beacons and the Cambrian Mountains are other significant upland areas. Wales has a coastline of around 2,700 kilometres, featuring cliffs, sandy beaches, and estuaries. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, the only coastal national park in the UK, showcases the country's rugged shoreline and rich marine life.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland, the smallest country in the UK, covers 14,130 square kilometres. It features a mix of lowlands and uplands, with the Sperrin Mountains, the Mourne Mountains, and the Antrim Plateau being the most prominent highland areas. The highest peak is Slieve Donard, standing at 850 metres. Northern Ireland is home to Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the UK, covering 383 square kilometres. The coastline is known for its scenic beauty, including the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique basalt columns.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The UK has an extensive network of rivers and water bodies that play a crucial role in its geography and economy. The River Thames, at 346 kilometres, is the longest river entirely in England, while the River Severn, at 354 kilometres, is the longest river in the UK, flowing through both Wales and England. Scotland's longest river is the River Tay, measuring 188 kilometres. Other significant rivers include the Trent, the Mersey, and the Clyde.
Climate
The UK experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterised by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and frequent cloud cover. The climate varies across the country, with western areas generally wetter and milder due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean. Eastern regions tend to be drier and cooler. The UK also experiences occasional extreme weather events, such as heavy snowfall, flooding, and storms.
Natural Resources and Biodiversity
The UK is rich in natural resources, including coal, oil, natural gas, and various minerals. It also has significant renewable energy potential, particularly from wind and tidal power. The country's diverse habitats support a wide range of flora and fauna, from ancient woodlands and heathlands to coastal marshes and alpine ecosystems. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect endangered species and preserve the UK's natural heritage.
