Seven Fun facts about the United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is a fascinating place with a rich history and many unique traditions. From its love of tea to its famous landmarks, there's always something interesting to learn about this country. Here are some fun facts that highlight just a few of the things that make the UK special.
Tea Time Is Serious Business
British people love their tea. They drink around 100 to 160 million cups every day, adding up to about 36 billion cups a year. Unlike many other countries, almost all tea drinkers in the UK (98%) add milk to their tea.
Ancient Stonehenge Predates the Pyramids
Stonehenge, one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments, is even older than the pyramids. The first stones were part of an early henge monument built around 3000 BC. The exceptional stone circle was constructed in the late Neolithic period, about 2500 BC. The pyramids were built and finished around 2500-2400 BC. Both monuments are very old and worth a visit!
The Queen Traveled Without a Passport
Queen Elizabeth II, during her 70 years on the throne, visited over 100 countries on official duties. Despite the need for identity cards for everyone else, she didn't need a British passport. This is because passports are issued in her name.
"The Mousetrap" Holds the Record
St. Martins Theatre in London’s West End hosts the world's longest-running show, Agatha Christie’s "The Mousetrap." The show has been running since 1952. It started as a radio play called "Three Blind Mice" and tells the story of seven strangers snowed in at a countryside home.
The First Postage Stamp Was British
Before postage stamps, sending letters was expensive. In May 1840, the UK issued the first stamp, called the "Penny Black." It featured Queen Victoria. This innovation made sending letters cheaper and increased the popularity of postcards, letters, and Christmas cards.
Cheese Rolling: A Unique Sport
Cheese rolling is a unique sport that started in the 15th century. Every year, competitors gather at Cooper’s Hill in Gloucestershire to chase a 3.2-kilogram (7lb) wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep hill. The winner, who crosses the finish line first, wins the wheel of cheese.
A Town with a Very Long Name
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch is the longest town name in Europe and one of the longest town names in the world. Often road signs in Wales are written in both Welsh and English. The translation of Llanfairpwll (the more manageable version) is ‘St. Mary's Church in the hollow of white hazel, near a rapid whirlpool, and the Church of St. Tysilio near the red cave’.