Physical Geography of the British Isles

Mountains & Hills

Scottish Highlands (Ben Nevis 1,344m), Grampians, Pennines, Cambrian Mountains, Mourne Mountains.

Rivers & Lakes

Longest: River Severn (354 km). Major: Thames (London), Clyde (Glasgow). Largest lake: Loch Ness (36 km²).

Coastline

12,000+ km varied coast: cliffs, beaches, estuaries. Famous: White Cliffs of Dover.

Climate

Temperate maritime: mild winters (~5°C Jan), cool summers (~18°C Jul), frequent rain.

Vegetation

Temperate forests (oak, ash, elm), moorland, heathland, wildflowers (bluebells, daisies).

Wildlife

Mammals: foxes, rabbits, squirrels. Birds: robins, blackbirds, blue tits. Reptiles: lizards, snakes. Amphibians: frogs, toads.