The United Kingdom is a country overflowing with captivating history, quirky customs, and lots of unexpected things. With some seriously bizarre facts and mysterious landmarks, the UK has a unique charm. Are you prepared to discover some fun, strange, and truly amazing facts about the country of tea and crumpets? Let’s take a look!
1. More Than 60,000 Pubs – That’s A Lot Of Pints! 🍻
Want to enjoy a pint? You are in luck! Over sixty thousand pubs are based throughout the United Kingdom, all with a great custom of having relaxing drink in cozy local spots. Be it the classic British ‘boozer’, or the modern trendy gastro pub, places to have a pint of ale or some local cider will never run dry. Some of the pubs are centuries old – so every drink comes with a serving of history!
2. Big Ben Isn’t Big Ben! 🕰️A Royal Custom: The Changing of the Guard 🏰
One of the best traditions in the UK can be watched at Buckingham Palace. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is done almost every day and it is a quite a sight to see. The guards in full regalia red coats and high bearskin hats, stride smartly, doing the ceremonial change of the guards outside the Queen’s official home.
3. The World’s Oldest Surviving Boat 🛶
The Dover Boat, discovered in Dover, Kent, is a remarkable piece of ancient history. It is believed to be more than three thousand years old, dating back to around 1575 BCE, which makes it the world’s oldest surviving boat. Just imagine sailing across the sea in the UK on this boat over three thousand years ago. This artifact proves that the country has a long-standing relationship with the sea!
4. There’s a Town Named ‘Dull’ and a Village Called ‘Boring’! 🏙️
In 2012, Boring, a village in Oregon, USA, and Dull, a Scottish town, became officially linked as ‘sister towns’ and hosted a combined event. It’s a pretty hilarious pairing of places, but there’s clearly a sense of community between the two distinct places despite how quiet they seem~! Japan is known for a lot of astonishing things, but these towns are certainly an “interesting” find.
5. A Place Where You Can Stand in Four Countries at Once! 🌍
Nothing beats the breathtaking landscape of Lake District, especially when you get to see four countries at one time! There truly is something special about England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland as they all meet at a singular point enabling the picturesque sight. This serves as the perfect photo opportunity for claiming you’ve been to four countries yet being in the same spot!
6. Don’t Fool Yourself! The Queen’s Corgis Are Not Regular Dogs. They Are Absolute Royals 🐶
The Corgis of Queen Elizabeth II are actually held in great esteem and have been a part of British history and royal family life for decades. Over 30 Corgis were owned by the Queen and she took them with her during her royal engagements, events, and tours unlike any other monarch. They were considered to be household members, relishing exquisite tailors’ services along with skin treatment which led to them having portraits.
7. The UK Has Over 10,000 Ancient Castles 🏰
Think about it: 10,000 castles. Numerous impressive and ancient castles are positioned in scenic spots within the UK. These may include the centerpiece Edinburgh Castle, which is located atop a risen volcanic rock or the ethereal appeal of Windsor Castle. Every british castle or fort servs a distinct purpose and they all tell diverse tales of the powerful history of Britain. Most of these forts are available for touristic visits so anyone wishing to experience life as a part of the king’s family can grab this opportunity.
8. The UK is Where Modern Football (Soccer) Originated ⚽
Football became a sport of mania, and for that, the entire world can thank The UK. An official rule system for this sport was established in England with the formation of the Football Association in 1863. Also known as soccer in the US, it gained massive popularity, and the first Premier League match took place in 1992. The football scene of the UK is one of the most competitive and watched leagues in the world.
9. Britain’s Affair with Tea is Abnormally Fascinating 🍵
Other than soccer and tea, the British also have a special fondness for tea. The country has an estimated intake of 100 million cups of tea per day. This beverage became part of the culture in the 17th century and has only been getting more and more popular with time. They take great pride in their morning builder’s tea, and guess there is also an option of afternoon tea accompanied with scones, jam, and clotted cream.
10. A Monstrous “Creature” Lurking in A Baffling Lake 🐉
A giant, necromantic being lurching in a lake in Scotland’s Highland region is known as the fabled Loch Ness Monster, which many have tried capturing on different folklore. “Nessie” is frequently reported roaming around Loch Ness but has no proof of existence. Yet, the mystical being has become quite popular among tourists who visit Scotland to try out to spot the monster.
11. A Hidden Underwater City in London 🏙️
Much below the busy streets of London is a concealed diffusive world, which acts like a secret underwater city. Churchill warrooms built during the Second World War served as headquarters for Britain’s wartime efforts and are located quite below ground. With the preservation of a few rooms, anyone can explore them and experience life in London throughout the blitz.
12. The UK That Holds the Ancient Peak National Park 🌳
Set up in 1951, Peak District National Park is the first ever national park in the United Kingdom, but also the first in the world. It is a sight full of culture and history with their epic features stunning landscapes, rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and breathtaking villages. The national park serves as a destination for hikers, history lovers, and nature explorers.
And there you have it, 13 fun facts which make the United Kingdom quirky, fascinating and downright cool. Be it the history, the landmarks or the offbeat traditions, the UK never ceases to amuse. Who knew this rainy island had so much in store?