About GB
The United Kingdom, also known as the UK, is a sovereign country located in Western Europe. It consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The UK has a total area of 243,610 square kilometers and a population of approximately 68 million people.
The capital city of the UK is London, which is also the largest city in the country. The official language is English, and the currency is the pound sterling.
The UK has a parliamentary system of government, with the monarch as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The UK is a member of various international organizations, including the United Nations, NATO, the European Union (until Brexit), and the Commonwealth of Nations.
The UK is known for its rich history and culture, including landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Stonehenge, and the Tower of London. It is also known for its contributions to literature, music, and sports, with famous authors such as William Shakespeare, musicians such as The Beatles, and sports such as football (soccer) and cricket.
National Culture Objects
Big Ben
Big Ben is the nickname for the Great Bell of the Clock at the Palace of Westminster in London. It symbolizes the United Kingdom's historical heritage and is an iconic representation of London.
Red Telephone Box
The red telephone box is a familiar sight in the United Kingdom, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott. It symbolizes British design and tradition.
Double-Decker Bus
The red double-decker bus is an iconic symbol of London and the UK, representing British public transport and urban culture.
Tea
Tea is an integral part of British culture and daily life, symbolizing the country's traditions, hospitality, and the famous British afternoon tea.
Union Jack
The Union Jack is the national flag of the United Kingdom, symbolizing the unity of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Beefeater
The Beefeater, or Yeoman Warder, is a ceremonial guardian of the Tower of London. It represents the UK’s royal history and ceremonial traditions.
Cricket
Cricket is a popular sport in the UK, symbolizing British leisure, tradition, and the country’s influence on international sports.
Fish and Chips
Fish and chips is a traditional British dish, symbolizing British cuisine and comfort food.
The United Kingdom does not have an official national anthem.
It is a patriotic song that dates back to the 18th century and is often played on ceremonial occasions such as the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, state visits, and sporting events. The lyrics of the song vary depending on whether it is sung for the monarch ("King") or for the country (using "Britain" or "United Kingdom").
God save our gracious King!
Long live our noble King!
God save the King!
Send him victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us:
God save the King!
O Lord our God arise,
Scatter his enemies,
and make them fall:
Confound their politics,
Frustrate their knavish tricks,
On thee our hopes we fix:
God save us all!
Thy choicest gifts in store,
On him be pleased to pour;
Long may he reign:
May he defend our laws,
And ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the King!
