The United Kingdom pavilion is a bustling destination. Through the seamless blend of architecture that takes you from the streets of London to an English cottage, the essence of this nation is yours to enjoy. Cobble-stoned streets, a quaint pub, the scent of fish and chips in the air combine to make this an authentic “trip across the pond.”  The regal Hampton Court Palace is represented, as well as buildings reflecting the Tudor, Georgian, and Victorian influences that the United Kingdom is noted for. Prized among them is a thatched roof cottage, which is patterned after Anne Hathaway’s. While the more contemporary among you may associate the name with the star of Disney’s Princess Diaries films, Anne Hathaway is the wife of William Shakespeare. Her family home is considered the quintessential English cottage. No detail is missed. There are soot-stained chimneys, a wonderful gazebo, beautiful gardens and perhaps the most photographed items in the World Showcase, replicas of UK phone booths. You can’t miss these bright red structures, nor will you be able to resist taking a picture of them. Tucked in the back of the United Kingdom pavilion is the perfect spot for taking a quiet break. There’s a lovely English garden, topiaries and Tigger’s Maze. Children delight in working their way through this puzzle. A copper roofed gazebo is the showpiece of this section. You may find the loveable Winnie the Pooh and the perfectly proper Mary Poppins making appearances here. (Consult with Guest Services for character appearances.)

While there is no “attraction” at the United Kingdom, there is entertainment with a decidedly British flair. The World Showcase Players are an improvisation group who engage visitors in their hilarious skits. The “British Invasion” performs songs from the Beatles. When you visit the Pub, prepare to engage in a rousing sing-a-long led by the piano player. (Performance dates/times vary. Consult the daily schedule.) You can head to the Harry Ramsden’s Fish & Chips booth and enjoy your meal at a table overlooking the World Showcase lagoon. If you’d like, you can get a yard of ale at the beverage stand located outside the Rose and Crown as the perfect accompaniment to your snack. Traditional pub fare is found at the "Rose and Crown Dining Room". Guests can feast on such specialties as cottage pie, Prime Rib with Yorkshire pudding, Fish & Chips, Bangers & Mash and Steak & Kidney Pie. Finish off the meal with a delicious English trifle. A variety of beers and ales are offered in this charming little pub with the wooden flooring and pressed tin ceiling. The pub is located on the shore of the World Showcase lagoon.  The shops feature the treasures of various regions of the United Kingdom. In “The Toy Soldier", wooden boats, Corgi toys, Winnie the Pooh, coloring books and dolls are found. "Lords and Ladies" offers miniature pottery cottages, chess sets, coin and stamp sets, and mugs to fit all budgets. Scotland's famous sweater maker, "Pringle of Scotland", features lovely lamb's wool and cashmere items, in addition to kilts, tams, socks, ties, scarves and mittens. Clan plaids are identified on a tartan "map" found here. Fine Royal Doulton China is sold in an elegant setting complete with crystal chandelier in "The Queen's Table". Collectors will find Bunnykins and Toby mugs offered here. "The Magic of Wales" offers pottery, souvenirs, hand crafted gifts and carved pieces. Tea lovers will not want to miss the selection of bagged and loose teas, teapots, biscuits and candy found in "The Tea Caddy".  TIP: This is a great place from which to view Illuminations.