You'll want to know these ten fascinating facts about the United Kingdom.
1. London's public transportation system may be more extensive than you believe.
London features one of the world's oldest – and largest - public transportation systems. The London Underground has almost 400 escalators in its 270 stations (the longest being at Angel in North London), but there are another 40 stations that are no longer in operation - and that's before we even get to the famed red buses.
2. Stonehenge predates the Pyramids in terms of age.
Stonehenge, which is located in the south of England and is one of the UK's most well-known tourist attractions, is thought to have been built approximately 3000BC, making it older than Egypt's pyramids.
3. The Queen might send you a birthday greeting.
You may have heard that persons who reach the age of 100 receive a telegram from the Queen. It's now a customised card, and it's not only for your hundredth birthday — you can apply for one for your 105th birthday, as well as each subsequent birthday year after you turn 105.
4. The Queen is without a passport.
Queen Elizabeth II has travelled to over 100 countries on official business, although she does not require a passport. Because British passports are issued in the name of the Queen, this is the case.
5. The United Kingdom isn't Great Britain.
It's a widespread misconception, but Great Britain and the United Kingdom are not the same things. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, yet it is not part of the United Kingdom.
6. London is home to the world's largest library.
The British Library in King's Cross, London, has a catalogue of over 170 million items.
7. Scotland's national sport is golf.
The sport was created in the 15th century at St. Andrews. King James II notably prohibited it in 1457 because it was interfering with archery practice practice. Scotland continues to have some of the best 'links' courses in the world.
8. Scotland is also home to a well-known monster.
The Loch Ness Monster (affectionately known as 'Nessie') is said to live in Loch Ness, the UK's largest lake. Even though this monster is purely legendary, many individuals claim to have seen her in recent decades.
9. Royal marriages are observed as national holidays.
The United Kingdom enjoys a nice ceremony, and royal weddings are no exception. The most recent important event was Prince William's marriage to Catherine Middleton in 2011. Their wedding day was proclaimed a national holiday, giving them an extra day off.
10. Ancient languages are still spoken, but in a limited number of places.
In the United Kingdom, four surviving Celtic languages are still officially recognized today. Scottish Gaelic, Irish Gaelic, Welsh, and Breton are the four languages.
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