10 Fascinating Facts About England You Probably Didn’t Know
England is a country that has captured the imagination of people around the world for centuries. With a rich history, culture, and some of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet, England is a destination that many people dream of visiting. In this article, we’ll take a look at ten fascinating facts about England that you probably didn’t know.
Fact #1: The Queen of England Doesn’t Need a Driver’s License
Queen Elizabeth II is the current monarch of England, and she has never needed a driver’s license. The Queen is the only person in the UK who is allowed to drive without one. This is due to the fact that all driver’s licenses in the UK are issued in her name.
Fact #2: England Has Over 100 Universities
England is home to some of the most famous universities in the world, such as Oxford and Cambridge. However, the country also has over 100 other universities, many of which are highly respected and internationally renowned.
Fact #3: The Oldest Fish and Chips Restaurant in England Has Been Open Since 1865
Fish and chips are a quintessential English dish, and the oldest restaurant serving them in the country is the ‘The A.G. Richardson’s Original Fish and Chip Shop’ in Leeds. It has been open since 1865 and is still serving up delicious fish and chips to this day.
Fact #4: England is the Birthplace of Football
Football, or soccer as it’s known in some parts of the world, was invented in England in the mid-19th century. The first official game was played in London in 1863.
Fact #5: The Oldest Surviving Church in England was Built in the 7th Century
The St. Martin’s Church in Canterbury is the oldest surviving church in England. It was built in the 7th century and has been in continuous use ever since.
Fact #6: London’s Big Ben is Actually the Name of the Bell, Not the Tower
The iconic tower that houses the famous clock in London is called the Elizabeth Tower. The nickname ‘Big Ben’ actually refers to the 13.5-ton bell inside the tower.
Fact #7: England Has the Largest Number of Castles in the World
England is home to over 1,500 castles, which is the highest number in the world. Many of these castles date back to the Middle Ages and are a popular attraction for tourists.
Fact #8: The Longest Reigning Monarch in English History is Queen Victoria
Queen Victoria reigned for 63 years and seven months, which is the longest reign in English history. She was also the first monarch to live in Buckingham Palace.
Fact #9: Stonehenge is Older Than the Pyramids of Giza
The mysterious stone circle of Stonehenge in Wiltshire is thought to have been built around 2500 BC, making it older than the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Fact #10: The Beatles Had More #1 Hits in the US Than They Did in the UK
Although the Beatles are considered one of the greatest English bands of all time, they actually had more number one hits in the US than they did in their home country. The Beatles had 20 number one hits in the US, compared to 17 in the UK.
In conclusion, England is a country full of rich history, fascinating landmarks, and interesting facts. From the oldest church in the country to the birthplace of football, there is something for everyone to discover in England. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these ten facts will give you a deeper appreciation for this beloved destination.
