Great Britain
Great Britain is a geographic term referring to the island in the North Atlantic Ocean which is also known as just ‘Britain’. It is a political term for the part of the British Isles that is made up of England, Scotland, and Wales (as well as the outlying islands that fall under their administration, e.g. the Isle of Wight).
Great Britain is the largest part of the United Kingdom (full name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland).
Great Britain was formed (as the Kingdom of Great Britain) in 1707 through the political union that joined the kingdoms of England and Scotland, ratified by the 1706 Treaty of Union.
Strictly-speaking, there is no capital city of Great Britain, although it is commonly assumed to be London, given that this largest city is the capital of England and the United Kingdom as a whole.
For more information see:United Kingdom.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
AI and automation in 3D modelling and spatial design
Can almost half of design development tasks be automated?
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
The maintenance challenge of tenements.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.
Shortlist for the 2025 Roofscape Design Awards
Talent and innovation showcase announcement from the trussed rafter industry.