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The United Kingdom and Ireland

House of Parliment

The Treaty of Union, put into effect by the Acts of Union passed by the Parliaments of England and Scotland in 1707, created a political union in the form of a United Kingdom of Great Britain. Almost a century later, the Act of Union 1800 united the Kingdom of Ireland with the Kingdom of Great Britain. Prior to 1707, England and Scotland had existed as separate sovereign and independent states with their own monarchs and political structures from the 9th century. Though the Scottish King, James VI, became King of England as well in 1603, creating a personal union between the kingdoms, the countries had remained separate. On the other hand' the once independent Principality of Wales was brought into the union in 1707 as it had fallen under the control of English monarchs from the Statute of Rhuddlan in 1284 and thereafter annexed to England under the Laws in Wales Acts of 1535 and 1542. Ireland had also been brought under English control between 1541 and 1691, but only joined to form the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in 1801.

Melrose Abbey, Scotland

England's eventful history and scenic diversity render it one of the world's most popular visitor destinations. Although only united as a single nation little over 1000 years ago, its origins go back to the dawn of civilisation, and the variety of interest it offers reflects this. From prehistoric Stonehenge to 21st-century attractions like London's Millennium Eye, its inhabitants have (and do) contributed much to the appeal of the UK's largest constituent country. This is not restricted to a material legacy, either - England's cultural mix is rich, thanks to the many invaders, settlers and immigrants who have arrived on her shores through the millennia. Countless others around the globe share aspects of customs, language and history with the English themselves. England's heritage, and therefore her appeal as a destination, is many faceted and deeply rooted, ranging from the literary genius of Shakespeare to 'everyday' pageantry in the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

The variety and contrast in the nation's countryside is enormous, too, and is often a source of surprise to many visitors venturing beyond the cities for the first time - as is the vast range of visitor attractions, resorts and sights to see and enjoy.

Tower Bridge, London

The United Kingdom and the England of today give a friendly welcome, and a thriving experience with a touch of classic grandeur, it is a place where the idiosyncrasies of its people, their sense of humour and its costume enrich the lives of those around, and has up to this date become one of the most popular destinations for visitors in the world.