20 Interesting Facts You Should Know About England

England, one of the unique countries of the United Kingdom region and Europe, is a place that stands out with its quality schools, especially in language education and university education. With world-renowned schools such as Oxford University, Cambridge University, and Imperial College London, the UK is home to one of the most prestigious education systems in the world. In addition, tens of thousands of tourists flock to the country every year, attracting attention with its economic power, historical cities and settlements, interesting festivals, and culture. England has global significance due to the history and influence of the British Empire and has made significant contributions in many fields such as art, literature, science, and music.

Whether you have been to England before or not, in this article we have gathered 20 interesting facts about England that you should know.

1. The first postage stamp was made in England.

The first postage stamp was made in England. England played an important role in the invention and use of the postage stamp. On May 1, 1840, the first official postage stamp, the "Penny Black", was introduced in England. The Penny Black was a black stamp bearing the portrait of Queen Victoria. This stamp served as a means of paying for postage. In addition to making the postal system more efficient, the Penny Black stamp increased the speed and ease of mail delivery with the use of stamps. Therefore, the invention of the Penny Black stamp in England is considered a turning point in the history of postage stamps.

2. Stonehenge is one of the oldest monuments in the world.

Stonehenge is a famous prehistoric monument located on Salisbury Plain in southwest England. This ancient structure is considered one of the most famous stone monuments in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stonehenge dates back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods and is thought to have been built between 3000-2000 BC. The construction process continued for many years and was modified at different stages. There are many theories about the purpose of Stonehenge, but it is not known exactly. Some theories suggest that it was used as a center for astronomical observation, religious rituals, or social events.

3. Queen Elizabeth is the longest-reigning monarch of the United Kingdom.

Queen Elizabeth II, in full Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor, has been the monarch of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries since February 6, 1952. Queen Elizabeth II was born in London on April 21, 1926. Her father was George VI, and her mother was Queen Elizabeth (widowed Queen Anne).

Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in the history of England and the United Kingdom. On February 6, 1952, upon the death of her father, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth II ascended the throne, and on September 9, 2015, she was crowned Queen Elizabeth II, having lived 23,226 days, 16 hours, 23 minutes, and 30 seconds since her accession to the throne. This period exceeded Queen Victoria's (1837–1901) 63 years, 216 days, 23 hours, and 25 minutes on the throne, setting a new record.

4. British passports are issued in the Queen's name.

I can provide information about the British passport. A British passport is an official document issued to citizens of the United Kingdom to travel abroad and document their identity. A British passport is issued to individuals who are citizens of the United Kingdom. This includes citizens of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. British passports are issued in the name of the Queen. The Queen of England is the official monarch of the United Kingdom, and British passports bear the royal emblem and the Queen's name. Passports are issued in the Queen's name and with her authorization by the Home Office or relevant authorities.

5. Oxford University is the oldest higher education institution in the United Kingdom.

The University of Oxford is internationally recognized as a respected educational institution and is renowned for its academic excellence. Students from all over the world prefer it as a center of education. The University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in a variety of disciplines. A wide range of academic subjects are taught through departments within different colleges and faculties.

Research is conducted in a wide range of disciplines at the university, and the faculty members are internationally recognized academics. The University of Oxford's research activities have been influential worldwide. The University of Oxford is the oldest higher education institution in the United Kingdom. Until 1877, lecturers were not allowed to marry.

6. Fordwich is the Smallest Town in England, with around 400 people.

Fordwich is a small town in the English county of Kent, on the banks of the River Stour. Fordwich is known as the smallest town in England. Although it was an old village in Kent, it became an important trading center in the Middle Ages. At that time, the River Stour represented a waterway from the sea to the interior, and Fordwich occupied a strategic position on this route.

Fordwich was recognized as one of the five municipalities of England by King Henry III in 1184. As such, Fordwich has the status of a "Municipal Town" and has retained its independence in its local government. The town is a tourist attraction due to the beautiful river landscape around it. Visitors can take boat trips on the river and spend time in the riverside parks for walks and picnics.

7. All Horses in the United Kingdom must have a passport.

In 2005, the UK Animal Health Act introduced the requirement for horse passports to document the identity of horses and ensure their traceability. A horse passport is an official document that contains the horse's identification details, owner, health history, and vaccination information. The passport is issued from the moment the horse is born and is kept up-to-date throughout the horse's life.

Horse owners must present the horse passport when breeding, selling, traveling, or participating in competitions. In addition, the horse's medical treatments, vaccination program, and veterinary examinations are also recorded in the passport. This regulation aims to protect the health and welfare of horses, ensure traceability, and ensure that medical treatments are carried out appropriately. It also fulfills the legal requirements for the transportation and trade of horses.

8. The British Library is the second-largest library in the world.

The British Library is one of the UK's most important cultural institutions, with rich collections, research facilities, and cultural events. It is an important resource center for both local and international researchers and cultural enthusiasts. The British Library is the second-largest library in the world, holding over 150 million items.

This important library was founded in 1973. However, its collection is a merger of several important older libraries. The Royal Library, the British Museum Library, the India Bureau Library, and some other important collections form the basis of the British Library.

9. Shakespeare added about three thousand words to the English language.

William Shakespeare is one of the most famous playwrights of English literature and has greatly contributed to the enrichment of the language through his works. Shakespeare added about three thousand words to the English language. Shakespeare used many new words or existing words in different ways in his plays. For example, words such as "eyeball", "bedazzle", assassination," and "lonely" appeared for the first time or became popular in Shakespeare's works.

The metaphors and idioms used in Shakespeare's works have had a profound impact on the English language. For example, phrases such as "All that glitters is not gold" or "The world is your oyster" are still frequently used today.

10. You can go from England to France via the underwater tunnel.

You can travel from England to France via an underwater tunnel. There is a tunnel called Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, which is used to cross the English Channel between England and France. This tunnel runs between the Channel Tunnel Terminal in Folkestone, England, and the Coquelles Terminal in Calais, France.

The Eurotunnel Le Shuttle allows vehicles and passengers to cross the English Channel to reach France. This journey is a fast and practical option for people traveling by car, motorcycle, or bus from the UK to France or from France to the UK. The journey time is very short thanks to the length of the tunnel and the fast transportation system with high-speed trains. It usually varies between 35 minutes and 1 hour.

11. England is considered the birthplace of modern football.

England is considered the birthplace of modern football. The modern rules of football were established by the Football Association (FA), which was founded in England in 1863. The FA is a pioneering organization that took the first steps to standardize football and set the rules of the game. In England, the first football clubs emerged, laying the foundations of modern football. In 1857, Sheffield Football Club was founded as one of the oldest football clubs in the world. Other clubs followed and contributed to the popularization of football.

In England, the Football League was founded in 1888. This is considered the world's first national football league. In its first season, 12 teams took part, and the league format helped regulate the organization and competition of professional football. Football gained great popularity among the people in England. Factory workers and other working classes enjoyed playing football or watching matches on weekends. This helped football become widespread and attract great public interest.

12. Fish and chips are among the most popular traditional dishes in the UK.

Fish and chips is a dish native to England. It can often be found in public restaurants or fish stalls. Fish and chips is a dish of fried fish and chips served with French fries. White, fleshy fish is usually used for fish and chips. The most commonly used fish species is cod, but other species such as trout, haddock, or mackerel can also be used.

Fish and chips are usually wrapped in newspaper and are often seasoned with salt and malt vinegar. It can also be served with a variety of sauces (e.g., mayonnaise, mustard, and tartar sauce). This dish is a popular example of street food and fast food in the UK and is an icon of traditional British cuisine.

13. Tea is one of the national drinks in England.

Tea culture in the UK has a long history and an important place. Afternoon tea is a very popular tradition in the UK. Usually between 15:00 and 17:00, tea is consumed with freshly baked cookies, cakes, sandwiches, and other light snacks. This tradition is especially common in luxury hotels, tea rooms, and historic tea houses.

The British typically prefer black tea. The most commonly consumed teas include Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Assam. Milk and sugar are common ingredients in tea in the UK. Hot tea is served in glasses or cups. In the UK, the term "high tea" refers to a meal consumed close to dinner. This is a meal where, in addition to tea and light snacks, more substantial foods are served. For example, sandwiches, baked fish, meat pies, sausage rolls, and various desserts can be served during high tea.

14. The World's shortest war was fought between Zanzibar and England.

The shortest recorded war took place between Zanzibar and Britain on August 27, 1896. This war resulted in the Sultanate of Zanzibar losing its independence. The British declared war on the Sultanate of Zanzibar and started shelling at 09:02. The battle lasted only 38 minutes, and at 09:40, the Sultanate of Zanzibar surrendered. The British invaded to establish a new government and colonize Zanzibar. The main reason why the war lasted so short was the strong navy and superiority of the British.

15. English is a hybrid language.

English is a hybrid language. English has absorbed words and linguistic elements from various languages throughout history as a result of cultural influence. Old English, a Germanic language that the Anglo-Saxons spoke, is where English originated. However, after the Norman Conquest in the Middle Ages, it underwent a major change under the influence of the French.

The Normans who came to England during the Norman Conquest spoke French and added French words and linguistic features to the English language. During this period, English became a language called Anglo-Norman. During this period, the vocabulary of the English language expanded, and words of French origin were incorporated into English.

16. Cheese rolling races are a thing.

The cheese rolling race in England is a traditional event in the Gloucestershire region. Gloucestershire cheese has a rollable structure. In the cheese-rolling race, competitors try to follow the Gloucestershire cheese as it rolls down a hill. Competitors try to catch the cheese or cross the mound first.

The race takes place on a hill called Cooper's Hill near the city of Gloucester. The hill is quite steep and sloping, so it is a challenge for the cheese to roll down quickly. The race is open to locals and visitors. There are usually many spectators, and the event is very popular. Participants usually take precautions to be prepared, such as wearing sneakers and protective equipment.

17. Buckingham Palace has its own police station.

Buckingham Palace has its own police station. Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British Royal Family and is also known as a major tourist attraction. The palace is guarded by the Buckingham Palace Police Station to ensure security.

The Buckingham Palace Police Station is made up of soldiers belonging to the British Army. Often referred to as the "Queen's Guard", they stand ceremonial guard in front of the palace. They stand out with their red robes, black caps, and high-heeled shoes. They are employed by the Foot Guards, a special unit of the British Army.

18. When you turn 100, you can get a birthday card from the King.

The Queen usually sends birthday cards to people aged 100 and over. This is a special gesture by the Queen of England and is intended to celebrate longevity. However, the Queen's practice of sending birthday cards does not extend to everyone. Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her annual birthday (her actual birthday is April 21) each year with an official ceremony. This ceremony usually takes place on the second Saturday in June and includes a public parade by the Queen and military parades.

The tradition of sending a birthday card to the Queen originated as a gesture of congratulation and celebration of the long lives of people of advanced age. These cards usually bear the Queen's official signature and contain a congratulatory message. However, there is no strict age limit for receiving these cards, and not everyone is guaranteed to benefit from this gesture.

19. A Welsh town has the longest name in the world.

Would you like to take a train to Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogogoch? This place has the longest name in the world. The word Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogogoch has 58 letters and is the longest place name according to Guinness World Records. It is known that the name was lengthened in the 19th century to increase the tourist appeal of the village.

It has become a popular destination among tourists for its quirky and hard-to-remember name. The village is known for its tourist events, souvenir shops, and visitor centers. Tourists also visit the train station where the place is located.

20. The most common surnames in the UK are Smith, Williams, and Jones.

The most common surnames in the UK include Smith, Williams, and Jones. Here is more information on these surnames:

Smith: Smith means "blacksmith" in English. People with this surname are not usually associated with blacksmithing, but historically, they represent families who were involved in the profession. The Smith surname is quite commonly found in England, Scotland, and Wales.

Williams: Williams means "son of William" in English. William is a male name of English origin. The surname Williams is commonly found in England, Wales, and Scotland. People with this surname usually take it as the son of a relative named William.

Jones: Jones means "son of John" in English. John is a male name of English origin. The surname Jones is very commonly found, especially in Wales. In Wales, the surname Jones is found in almost one in five people and is the most common surname in the country.