Overview of the United Kingdom
Few places are able to squeeze as much history, scenery and culture into a small space as the United Kingdom manages to do. Nature lovers, history buffs, luxury travellers, families on a budget and backpackers will all find spots of the United Kingdom to adore no matter how long or short they are staying.
The United Kingdom is made up of four different countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Each has it own culture and history, though England has traditionally been the dominant nation within the cluster and continues to boast over 80 per cent of the total population in the UK.
Must-see cities
London
History, tourist attractions, top notch theatres, five-star accommodations, unbelievable scenery and scrumptious food—London’s got it all. For as long as the city has existed there have been wordsmiths and poets dedicated to capturing the lively and innovative nature of London. Beloved by all age groups, the city is as much about important historical landmarks like Big Ben, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, as it is about the modern additions to the city like the Millennium Bridge, the London Eye, Diana Memorial Fountain and the Tate Modern Museum.
Beyond the physical locations in the city that draw you, there is a diversity that is impossible to capture in a blog post. For a small taste, consider that over 300 languages compete for airspace in London’s soundscape and that number hints just slightly at the number of ethnic restaurants, apparel spots and music venues that set up shop throughout the city’s streets. The incredible clash of diverse cultures creates perhaps the most international city in the entire world—all while managing to keep and exude that traditional and truly intrinsic British personality.
Cardiff
Cardiff is the capital of Wales as well as the largest city in the country. While it mimics London in having a rich cultural history and a vibrant modern vibe, there is one major difference between the two: English isn’t the only national language in Wales, Welsh is on the list too. It’s a small country that is chock full of spectacular landscapes and natural attractions with three national parks within the country limits—you’ll never be too far from mountains or the sea.
Besides natural beauty there are cultural attractions galore in Cardiff—it’s one of the UK’s liveliest cities and has earned the title of Europe’s youngest capital. There is the Cardiff Castle that looks like it’s out of a fairy tale, the Wales Millennium Centre for performing arts and sporting events and the home of the sci-fi series Doctor Who which gives visitors a chance to have the full Doctor Who Experience.
Edinburgh
There is so much to do in Scotland’s capital city that it can be hard to know where to begin exploring. We suggest beginning with the Royal Mile where you’ll first experience the medieval and incredible Edinburgh Castle and end with the Holyroodhouse, where Queen Elizabeth stays when she’s in town. That’s not all you’ll see on the path though—you’ll also see Scottish Parliament Building, St. Giles’ Cathedral and many other historical buildings. It’ll also be your first chance to spot the differences between the medieval and cobbled streets of Old Town Edinburgh in contrast to the gothic and elegant structures that make up New Town.
Edinburgh is home to more Michelin rated restaurants than any other part of the UK (besides London) so you’ll have your pick of some superb dinners throughout town. After dinner, as the night descends, try one of the city’s plentiful ghost tours that share the dark and spooky history of Edinburgh through the ages. Then stay up past your bedtime by heading to any of the bustling nightlife spots. There are classy cocktail spots in New Town, rowdy pubs in Old Town and plenty of places in between.
Belfast
Perhaps the most rural capital city in this list, Belfast acts as a gate to the natural wonders and beauty on display in Northern Ireland. The city itself is very compact and easy to navigate as you visit the numerous attractions within city limits. The Belfast Castle is a must-see destination and offers visitors fascinating insight into the history and culture of Belfast. More geared towards a small-town crowd, the pace of life in Belfast is a little less hectic than London or Edinburgh and it creates a very comforting, cosy and welcoming atmosphere for visitors to Northern Ireland.
A brief history
The longest standing union among the four countries goes to England and Wales—their union began way back in 1284 with the Statute of Rhuddlan. Henry the 8th formalised the agreement by creating The Laws in Wales Act in 1536. Then, in 1707, Scotland and England agreed to permanently join as Great Britain. This occurred a full 100 years after James the 6th (of Scotland) inherited the English throne.
1801 saw Ireland enter the mix for the first time, when Great Britain and Ireland came together under the title of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. It wasn’t until 1927 that the Northern part was added to the official title, six years after there was formalised partition of Ireland in 1921. Today, the full name remains The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Travel considerations for Aussies
Before you depart for the UK on your next holiday, be sure to understand the entry and exit conditions including currency differences, customs processes and other regulations that are in place to travel within UK borders. Generally, visas are not required if you are entering the UK for a tourism stay of up to six months and any length of time beyond that will require a visa. Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to Australia. You should carry two copies of a recent passport photo with you in case you need a replacement passport while overseas.
Travelling overseas can get expensive quickly, but covering your trip from unexpected problems doesn’t have to be. youGo Travel Insurance offers international travel insurance that is top-quality, customisable and perfect for any traveller—from backpackers to families on holiday (and on a budget). When you travel to the United Kingdom with an international insurance policy from youGo, you can rest easy knowing you have medical and logistical support no matter where you end up.