The United Kingdom Google Maps

Google Maps and detailed facts about the United Kingdom (UK). This page lets you explore the United Kingdom and its border countries (Country Location: Western Europe, islands – including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland – between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea; northwest of France) through detailed Satellite imagery – fast and easy as never before Google Maps.

Find comprehensive information about this country’s diversity below: Google Maps, geography, economy, science, people, culture, environment, government, and history – All in One Wiki page.

There is also a Street View and free Driving Directions at your service. Your Google Satellite Map Sightseeing in the United Kingdom in Europe starts here at Driving Directions and Maps.com.

This image shows the draft map of the United Kingdom, Europe. For more details of the map of the United Kingdom, please see this page below.

This image shows the location of the United Kingdom, Europe. For more geographical details of the United Kingdom, please see this page below.

Table of contents

Background

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the UK, was formed through the unification of England and Scotland under the Acts of Union in 1701. Ireland joined under the 1800 Acts of Union, and Wales had been incorporated into the Kingdom of England since the 16th century. The UK has historically played a leading role in developing parliamentary democracy and advancing literature and science. After a rapid expansion of the British Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries, the early 20th century saw its decline, marked by World Wars and the Irish Republic’s withdrawal from the Union. The latter half of the century saw the UK rebuild itself into a modern and prosperous European nation. The UK has been a permanent member of the UN Security Council, a founding member of NATO, and the Commonwealth of Nations. In a historic referendum on June 23, 2016, UK citizens voted to leave the EU, and the country officially departed on January 31, 2020.

Overview

The UK is located in Western Europe and comprises the island of Great Britain, the northeastern part of the island of Ireland, and several smaller islands. It is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy and was a member of the EU until 2020. The UK’s highly diversified and developed economy is known for its financial services, manufacturing, and cultural influence.

Official Name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Date of Formation: Acts of Union in 1701 (England and Scotland); 1800 (Ireland)
Capital: London
Population: Approximately 68.14 million (2023 estimate)
Total Area: N/A
Population Density: N/A
Languages: English (official), Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, and others
Religions: Predominantly Christian, with a variety of other faiths represented
Ethnic Origin: Predominantly White British, along with diverse ethnic groups
Government: Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
Currency: British Pound (GBP)
Literacy Rate: N/A
Calorie Consumption: N/A

The United Kingdom Google Maps

Google Maps is invaluable for exploring the UK’s geography, cities, and cultural landmarks. The UK’s location, between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, northwest of France, is easily navigable through the app, offering insights into its diverse landscapes and urban centers.

The map below shows the United Kingdom’s cities, towns, highways, main roads, streets, and Street Views. To find a location, use the form below, type any city or place, view a simple map, and click the “show map” button.

The Google Maps above shows the United Kingdom with its location: Europe (geographic coordinates: 54 00 N, 2 00 W) and the United Kingdom’s international borders; total: 443 km. Border countries (total: 1): Ireland 443 km; furthermore, it’s inland counties boundaries.

The map of the United Kingdom and Europe is for informational use only. No representation is made or warrantied given any map or content by the Driving Directions and Maps site. The user assumes all risks of using the United Kingdom Google Maps and Facts/Wiki.

Climate

The United Kingdom’s climate is characterized by its temperate maritime nature, largely influenced by the North Atlantic Current. This setting results in generally mild temperatures and variable weather across the country. Here’s an extended overview of the UK’s climatic conditions, incorporating factual and interesting aspects:

Moderating Influence of the North Atlantic Current: The North Atlantic Current, an extension of the Gulf Stream, is crucial in moderating the UK’s climate. This oceanic current brings warm water from the Gulf of Mexico, making the UK’s climate milder than other regions at similar latitudes.
Temperature Range: The UK generally experiences mild temperatures throughout the year. Winter temperatures average around 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), while summer temperatures average between 14°C and 25°C (57°F to 77°F). Extreme temperatures are rare but can occur.
Precipitation Patterns: Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, but the western parts of the UK, particularly the mountainous regions of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, receive more rain than the east. The western highlands of Scotland are one of the wettest places in Europe, receiving over 3,000 mm (118 inches) of rain annually.
Overcast Days: The UK is known for its cloudy skies, with over half of the days being overcast. This is partly due to the country’s location at the meeting point of several different air masses, including polar maritime air from the west and continental air from the east.
Regional Variations: There are significant regional climatic variations within the UK. For example, the southeast of England is the driest and warmest part of the UK, while the northwest experiences the most rainfall and cooler temperatures.
Snowfall: Snowfall is more common in the UK’s northern and higher elevation areas but relatively infrequent in the lowland areas, especially in the south. When snow does occur, it can impact transportation and daily life due to the UK’s moderate climate.
Wind Patterns: The UK is often windy, with the strongest winds typically occurring in winter. Coastal areas and highlands are particularly prone to strong winds.
Fog and Mist: Fog and mist are common in the UK, especially in valleys and low-lying areas during autumn and winter. London, for example, was historically known for its thick fogs, famously termed “pea-soupers.”
Climate Change Impact: Like many countries, the UK is experiencing the effects of climate change, including warmer temperatures, rising sea levels, and changes in precipitation patterns. This has implications for agriculture, wildlife, and human settlements.
Gardening and Agriculture: The UK’s temperate climate favors various crops and ornamental gardens. The country is renowned for its lush gardens and parks, which are integral to its cultural heritage.

The UK’s temperate maritime climate, with its mild temperatures, regular rainfall, and frequent overcast conditions, significantly shapes its natural landscapes, agriculture, and lifestyle. Understanding these climatic conditions is essential for environmental planning, agriculture, and addressing the challenges of climate change.

Geography

Diverse landscapes, from mountainous regions to rolling plains and coastal areas, characterize the United Kingdom’s geography. Here’s an extended overview of the UK’s geographical features, including more detailed statistics and information about its neighboring countries:

Rugged Hills and Low Mountains: The UK’s terrain includes several mountainous regions. In Scotland, the Highlands are known for their rugged terrain and include the Grampian Mountains, where Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest point at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), is located. Wales has the Snowdonia mountain range, with Snowdon being the highest peak in Wales. Northern England features the Pennines, often described as the “backbone of England.”
Rolling Plains: The east and southeast of the UK are characterized by level to rolling plains. Areas such as East Anglia and the Southeast of England have landscapes more conducive to agriculture and urban development.
Lowest Point – The Fens: The Fens, located primarily in eastern England, are a coastal plain near sea level. The lowest point in the Fens and the UK is Holme Fen in Cambridgeshire, which is about -4 meters (-13 feet) below sea level.
Coastal Features: The UK has a varied coastline, with rugged cliffs in places like Cornwall and Yorkshire and beautiful beaches in areas such as the south coast of England and parts of Wales. The coastline of Great Britain is notable for its length relative to the country’s area, offering a wide range of marine and estuarine habitats.
Rivers and Lakes: The UK has numerous rivers and lakes. Major rivers include the Thames, Severn, and Trent in England, the Clyde and Tay in Scotland, and the Taff and Wye in Wales. The Lake District in northwest England is known for its picturesque lakes and mountains.
Surrounding Countries and Waters:

Ireland: To the west of the UK, across the Irish Sea, is the Republic of Ireland.
France: To the southeast, across the English Channel, is France. The Channel Tunnel connects the two countries.
Belgium and the Netherlands: Across the North Sea to the east are Belgium and the Netherlands.
Norway: To the northeast, across the North Sea, is Norway.

Climate Influence: The UK’s varied terrain influences its local climates. Mountainous areas tend to be cooler and wetter, while the eastern plains are drier and warmer in comparison.
National Parks and Natural Beauty: The UK has 15 national parks, including the Peak District, Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands, which are protected for their natural beauty and offer a range of outdoor activities.
Agricultural Land: Despite the prevalence of hills and mountains, a significant portion of land in the UK is used for agriculture, particularly in the plains and lowland areas.
Geological Diversity: The UK’s geological diversity is notable, with various rock types and geological structures. This diversity has influenced the landscape, soil types, architecture, and building materials used in different regions.

The UK’s varied terrain, from its mountainous regions to its rolling plains and extensive coastline, defines its natural beauty and resources and influences its climate, biodiversity, and human activities. The country’s position on the European continent and its proximity to neighboring countries are important for understanding its geopolitical and environmental context.

Resources and Land Use

The UK’s natural resources include coal, petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, lead, zinc, gold, tin, limestone, salt, clay, chalk, gypsum, potash, silica sand, slate, and arable land.

Population Data

As of 2023, the UK’s population is approximately 68.14 million. The population is concentrated around London, Manchester, Liverpool, in the Scottish lowlands between Edinburgh and Glasgow, southern Wales around Cardiff, and eastern Northern Ireland centered on Belfast.

Economic Data

The real GDP of the UK is estimated at $3.136 trillion as of 2022. The economy experienced a growth rate of 4.1% in 2022 and is primarily driven by the services sector.

Drinking Water Source

The UK boasts a 100% access rate to improved drinking water sources for both urban and rural populations.

Population, Median Age, Migration, and Citizenship

The median age in the UK is 40.6 years. The net migration rate is 3.2 migrants/1,000 population as of 2023.

Average Number of Childbirths

The total fertility rate in the UK is 1.63 children born per woman as of 2023.

Is this country a Safe Destination?

The UK is generally considered a safe destination, though, like any major country, it has areas with higher crime rates.

Healthcare and Infectious Diseases

The UK spends 12% of its GDP on healthcare and has a physician density of 3 physicians/1,000 population as of 2020.

Natural Hazards

The UK primarily faces winter windstorms and floods as natural hazards.

The Flag and Other Symbols

The UK’s Union Jack flag combines the crosses of England, Scotland, and Ireland’s patron saints. Its national symbols include the lion, Tudor rose, oak, dragon, daffodil, leek, and shamrock.

Constitution

The UK’s constitution is uncodified, based partly on statutes, common law, and practice, with the latest amendments made in 2020 related to its withdrawal from the EU.

Legal System

The UK’s legal system is a common law system, with nonbinding judicial review of Acts of Parliament under the Human Rights Act of 1998.

About the Unemployment Rate, Labor Force, and Poverty Line

The unemployment rate was 4.53% in 2021. About 18.6% of the population lived below the poverty line as of 2017.

About the Budget and Central Government Debt

The UK’s public debt stood at 195.39% of GDP in 2020, with budget revenues of $998.006 billion and expenditures of $1.362 trillion in 2020.

Inflation Rate and Prime Lending Rate

The inflation rate was 2.52% in 2021.

Export/Import Partners and Data

Major export partners include the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands, with key exports being cars, gold, gas turbines, crude petroleum, and packaged medicines. Imports mainly come from China, Germany, and the United States.

Renewable Energies Used

The UK has been progressively increasing its use of renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and biomass.

Telecommunication Data, Calling Code

The UK has an advanced telecommunications system, with a country code of +44. It has seen significant investment in infrastructure and 5G technologies.

Transport Infrastructure

The UK has an extensive transport network, including major airports, a vast railway system, and significant ports like Dover, Felixstowe, and Southampton.

More Interesting Facts

The UK is known for its rich historical heritage, cultural diversity, and influence in global politics, finance, and culture. It hosts numerous world-famous landmarks and museums and is renowned for its contributions to music, literature, and the arts.

Did You Know?

Oldest Sovereign State: The United Kingdom is one of the oldest sovereign states in the world. Its constitutional monarchy, with a history dating back to the unification of England and Scotland in 1707, is one of the longest-established.
World’s Longest Reigning Monarch: Queen Elizabeth II, who ascended to the throne in 1952, is the longest-reigning current monarch and the longest-reigning queen regnant in world history.
Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution: The UK was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century, which transformed the country and, later, the world with innovations in manufacturing, transportation, and technology.
The Greenwich Meridian: Greenwich, London, is the location of the Prime Meridian (0 degrees longitude), where East meets West. It’s also home to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), the standard from which all world times are measured.
Diverse Landscapes: The UK’s highest point is Ben Nevis in Scotland at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), while its lowest point is in the Fens of Eastern England, which lies at -4 meters (-13 feet) below sea level.
Stonehenge Mystery: Stonehenge, located in Wiltshire, England, is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments. Its circle of standing stones, estimated to be erected around 2500 BC, is a subject of archaeological fascination and mystery.
The Lake District: The Lake District National Park in northwest England is known for its stunning lakes, mountains, and forests. It was a major inspiration for early 19th-century English Romantic poetry and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The English Language: The UK is the birthplace of the English language, which is the third most spoken native language in the world and the most widely learned second language.
World Heritage Sites: The UK has 32 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Tower of London, Edinburgh Old and New Towns, and the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland.
Inventions and Discoveries: The UK has been the site of numerous significant scientific discoveries and inventions, including the laws of motion (Sir Isaac Newton), the theory of evolution (Charles Darwin), the World Wide Web (Tim Berners-Lee), and the telephone (Alexander Graham Bell).
The Beatles: Liverpool, England, is the birthplace of The Beatles, arguably the most influential band in the history of popular music. The city is a UNESCO City of Music.
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC): Founded in 1922, the BBC is the world’s oldest national broadcaster and one of the largest news broadcasters globally.

These facts about the United Kingdom highlight its rich history, cultural significance, and contributions to science, technology, and the arts, making it a country of global importance and influence.

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