What’s the difference between the UK and Great Britain and England?

England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom (UK). The UK is a sovereign state that consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Great Britain is a term that refers to the geographical island that contains England, Scotland, and Wales. It is often used as a synonym for the United Kingdom (UK), though does not technically include Northern Ireland.

The UK is a sovereign state that is located off the northwest coast of mainland Europe and is made up of the three countries of Great Britain, as well as Northern Ireland. So, the UK is made up of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, while Great Britain is made up of England, Scotland, and Wales.

The capital of England and the United Kingdom (UK) is the same city, which is London. London is the largest city in the UK and is the seat of the UK’s government, as well as being the capital of England. It is located in southeastern England and is home to many of the country’s most famous landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London.

To summarize the difference between the UK and Great Britain and England:

  • England is a country that is part of the UK.
  • The UK is a country made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
  • Great Britain is an island that contains England, Scotland, and Wales. It is sometimes used as a synonym for the UK, which is made up of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
  • London is both the capital of the UK as well as England.
Map Showing Difference between UK and Great Britain and England
Map of the UK including England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland

Scroll to top

Get the Newsletter

Sign up for our free newsletter and stay up to date on the latest from UK Geopolitics.