Weird Facts About the UK

Bizarre and Amusing Facts About the United Kingdom

Prepare to be amazed by these weird and wonderful facts about the United Kingdom. From peculiar laws to strange traditions, these tidbits will give you a unique perspective on British culture and history.

• It's illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament

  Due to an ancient law, it is technically illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament. This is because anyone who dies there is entitled to a state funeral, which would be quite costly!

• The Queen owns all the swans in England

  By law, all unmarked swans in open water in England belong to the Queen. This dates back to the 12th century when swans were considered a delicacy.

• There's a town called "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch"

  This Welsh town has the longest place name in Europe and the second longest in the world. It translates to "St Mary's Church in the Hollow of the White Hazel Near to the Rapid Whirlpool of Llantysilio of the Red Cave".

• The UK has a Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office

  Since the 1500s, the UK government has employed cats to catch mice in its buildings. The current Chief Mouser is a cat named Larry, who has served since 2011.

• It's illegal to handle salmon suspiciously

  According to the Salmon Act of 1986, it is illegal to handle salmon in suspicious circumstances. This law was created to prevent salmon poaching.