Nine famous places are worth knowing. They are easier to remember grouped by nation: five in England, two in Scotland, and one each in Wales and Northern Ireland.
England: three London sights
Big Ben is, strictly speaking, the nickname of the great bell inside the clock at the Houses of Parliament in London, although lots of people use the name for the whole clock. The clock is more than 150 years old. In 2012 its tower was named the Elizabeth Tower to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Elizabeth II, her 60th year as queen.
The clock face of the Elizabeth Tower at the Houses of Parliament, home of the great bell known as Big Ben.
Photo: Julian Herzog, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The London Eye is a giant observation wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames, 443 feet (135 metres) high. It was first built as part of Britain's celebrations for the new millennium (the year 2000), and it is still at the centre of the New Year fireworks.
William the Conqueror (William I) built the first Tower of London after he became king in 1066. Visitors are shown round by the Yeoman Warders, often called Beefeaters, who explain the building's long history. Visitors can also see the Crown Jewels there.
The Tower also keeps at least six ravens at all times. Legend says that if the ravens ever leave, the kingdom will fall, so a special keeper looks after them. It's only a legend, but the tradition is still followed today.
Quiz
What does the name "Big Ben" properly refer to?
Strictly, Big Ben is the nickname of the great bell, although many people use it for the whole clock. In 2012 the tower was named the Elizabeth Tower, not Big Ben. The observation wheel on the South Bank is the London Eye.
Quiz
Which TWO of these statements about the Tower of London are correct?
William the Conqueror began the Tower of London soon after taking the throne in 1066, so it is centuries older than the 1800s. Big Ben is the bell in the clock at the Houses of Parliament, not at the Tower.
