The United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland (the United
Kingdom or the UK) [1] is a constitutional
monarchy in northern Europe.
The Union comprises four constituent
nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and
Northern Ireland. It occupies all of
the island of Great Britain, the north-eastern
portion of the island of Ireland and
most of the remaining British Isles.
It counts Ireland, France, Belgium and
Netherlands as its nearest neighbours.
The Isle of Man and the various Channel
Islands are "crown dependencies",
linked to the UK by various ties and
mutual obligations but not part of it
(or of the EU). Gibraltar is a British
territory within the EU with its own
autonomous government.
The UK today is a diverse patchwork
of native and immigrant cultures, possessing
a fascinating history and dynamic modern
culture, both of which remain hugely
influential in the wider world. Although
Britannia no longer rules the waves,
the UK is still a popular destination
for many travellers. The capital city
of the United Kingdom (and the largest
city) is London.
Cities
Many cities and towns in the United Kingdom
are of interest to travellers outside
the capital city of London. Following
is an alphabetical selection of nine -
others are listed under their specific
regions: