Restaurants in United Kingdom near Skiddaw Hotel

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (the United Kingdom or the U.K.) is a constitutional monarchy in northern Europe.

The Union comprises four constituent nations: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It occupies all of the island of Great Britain, the northeastern portion of the island of Ireland and most of the remaining British Isles. It counts Ireland, France, Belgium and Netherlands as its nearest neighbors. The Isle of Man and the various Channel Islands are "crown dependencies," linked to the United Kingdom by various ties and mutual obligations but not part of it (or of the European Union). Gibraltar is a British territory within the E.U., with its own autonomous government.

The U.K. today is a diverse patchwork of native and immigrant cultures, possessing a fascinating history and dynamic modern culture, both of which remain hugely influential in the wider world. Although Britannia no longer rules the waves, the U.K. is still a popular destination for many travellers. The capital city of the United Kingdom (and the largest city) is London.