1. Discover the difference between the UK and Great Britain.
2. Learn about Stonehenge and its significance.
3. Uncover unusual traditions and customs, including royal swans and dog breeds.
4. Explore the intriguing history of London and famous landmarks.
5. Find out about famous English writers and events that shaped the nation.
England is a country steeped in history and culture, with an archaeological record dating back to the early Neolithic period and beyond. There is so much to discover in the United Kingdom. You may know about their love of tea or the invention of the Indian dish, the Chicken Tikka Masala, but do you know everything about this magnificent country?
We have compiled a list of interesting facts about England that you might not have already known. Read on to see if you are truly an anglophile or just a pretender to the crown.
Interesting Facts about England
England is the largest country in the United Kingdom with a population of more than 56 million people. It is bordered by the English Channel, The North Sea, and the Atlantic Ocean. The capital city of England is London, which is connected to mainland Europe by the Channel Tunnel, the second-longest undersea tunnel in the world. Now, let’s take a look at some fun facts about England.
1. There is A Difference Between the UK and Great Britain
The terms “UK” and “Great Britain” are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different things. The official name of the United Kingdom is the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Great Britain refers to the largest island in the British Isles, which includes England, Scotland, and Wales. Conversely, the UK encompasses all four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, which together form a sovereign state.
2. Stonehenge Is Older Than the Pyramids
Stonehenge is as ancient as it is mysterious, dating back around 5,000 years. This stone circle is of great religious importance to those of the Druidic faith and has puzzled archaeologists for centuries about its origins and purpose, believed to be a site of enormous ritualistic significance.
3. The Queen of England Created a New Dog Breed
The Queen of England was famous for her beloved Corgis. When her sister Princess Margaret introduced her dachshund Pipkin, a new breed called Dorgis was born. This brand new breed initially bred by the royal sisters reflects the unique stories that English royalty often entails.
4. London Bridge is No Longer in London
Interestingly, the original London Bridge has relocated to Arizona, USA, having been transported from London in the 1970s. Today, it evokes a distinct English feel, demonstrating how globalized cultural exchanges can reshape our perceptions of landmarks.
5. All the Swans Are Royal
Swans in the UK are owned by the crown, a practice established in the 12th century. To harm or kill one could be considered treason, highlighting the unique laws that govern the natural life in England.
6. The Royal Residence
While Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the King, Windsor Castle holds the title of the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world. Constructed by William the Conqueror, it has been a royal dwelling for centuries and is home to St. George’s Chapel, known for significant royal events.
7. Ravens and the Tower of London
According to legend, the six resident ravens at the Tower of London must be kept; otherwise, the kingdom will fall. This tradition dates back to the reign of King Charles II, demonstrating how folklore weaves itself throughout English history.
8. The Romans Invaded England for the Oysters
The Romans invaded Britain primarily for the oysters from Colchester, establishing the first city long before London was a gleam in anyone’s eye. This reflects how local delicacies can shape historical events.
9. First Capital
Winchester was the first significant royal city and administrative center of England, serving as the capital during the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex. It was home to several kings and remained important throughout the Middle Ages.
10. London’s Ice Wells
During the Victorian era, ice cream became immensely popular in London. Entrepreneur Carlo Gatti constructed ice wells beneath Kings Cross Station, illustrating the innovative spirit of the time. Today, visitors can explore these historical ice wells.
11. Big Ben
Many believe Big Ben to be the clock itself, but it is actually the Great Bell housed in the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster. This iconic landmark has seen numerous silences throughout its storied history.
12. The World of Literature
England is notable for its literary history, being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Many esteemed authors, from Jane Austen to George Orwell, have shaped literature as we know it today.
13. London Has 40 Abandoned Tube Stations
The London Underground has 270 active stations, yet 40 remain abandoned, serving as relics of the city’s past. This demonstrates how urban development can lead to the ghostly remnants of history.
14. King Henry VII Levied a Tax on Beards
In a rather unusual episode in Tudor history, King Henry VIII imposed a beard tax in 1585. Such taxes, which included absurd items like windows and salt, reflected the quirky side of English governance.
15. The Annual Devonshire Manhunt Festival
Combe Martin in Devon hosts an annual event that reenacts the story of Earl Hugh O’Neill, transforming the community into a festive celebration filled with theatrical performances and traditional revelry.
16. It Has Some Amazing Place Names
England is known for its quirky place names like Badgers Mount and Spankers Lane, which showcase the nation’s unique and humorous character. Keep an eye out for these amusing titles as you explore.
17. You Are Never Far From the Sea
With its geographic layout, you will never be more than 70 miles from the sea, even in the heart of England. This proximity to water has fundamentally shaped the country’s culture and lifestyle.
18. The English Language
The official language of England is English, one of the most spoken languages globally. Its extensive reach is a legacy of the British Empire’s history, showcasing the language’s significance in global communication.
19. England is Home to Many Famous Scientists
England has produced some of the greatest scientific minds, including Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin, underscoring the country’s pivotal role in the advancement of knowledge and innovation.
20. Annual Cheese Rolling Competition
Every year in Gloucestershire, participants chase a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper’s Hill. This bizarre yet entertaining event has been a tradition for over 200 years.
21. An Englishman Invented the World Wide Web
Sir Tim Berners-Lee, a British computer scientist, invented the World Wide Web in 1989 at CERN. His revolutionary creation changed how we share information and interact online.
22. In 1996 England Won The FIFA World Cup
Although England’s football achievements may be few, its top-tier talent in the Premier League keeps it among the best teams in the world. Their historical triumph in 1966 against Germany remains a proud moment in sports.
Interesting England Facts
Hopefully, these fun facts about England have inspired you to explore the British Isles and discover its incredible cultures for yourself. There is a great deal to explore!
