Background: Great Britain, the dominant industrial and maritime power of the 19th century, played a leading role in developing parliamentary democracy and in advancing literature and science. At its zenith, the British Empire stretched over one-fourth of the earth's surface. The first half of the 20th century saw the UK's strength seriously depleted in two World Wars. The second half witnessed the dismantling of the Empire and the UK rebuilding itself into a modern and prosperous European nation. As one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council, a founding member of NATO, and of the Commonwealth, the UK pursues a global approach to foreign policy; it currently is weighing the degree of its integration with continental Europe. A member of the EU, it chose to remain outside the Economic and Monetary Union for the time being. Constitutional reform is also a significant issue in the UK. The Scottish Parliament, the National Assembly for Wales, and the Northern Ireland Assembly were established in 1999, but the latter is suspended due to bickering over the peace process.
July 8th 2008Europe » United Kingdom » England » Cumbria » Keswick The kids are hooked on exploring by bike, especially Lucy; she tags on the back of Darren’s bike and has an easy ride.
The track we chose was an old railway line so it’s nice a flat, run ... [full story]
June 30th 2008Europe » United Kingdom » England » Cumbria » Keswick At the northern end of the Lake District is Keswick (pronounced Kesick) another pretty town as they all seem to be. I haven’t come across an ugly town yet. Walking is the main attraction here to ... [full story]
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