Chapter 4: A Modern, Thriving Society

This chapter covers everyday British life. Questions often test the patron saints’ days and major traditions.

Patron saints' days

• St David's Day — Wales — 1 March
• St Patrick's Day — Northern Ireland — 17 March
• St George's Day — England — 23 April
• St Andrew's Day — Scotland — 30 November

Festivals and traditions

• Christmas (25 December) and Easter are the main Christian festivals.
• Bonfire Night (5 November) remembers the Gunpowder Plot of 1605.
• Remembrance Day (11 November) honours those who died in war.
• Other faiths' festivals are widely celebrated: Diwali, Eid, Hanukkah and Vaisakhi.

Sport, arts and landmarks

• Popular sports: football, cricket, rugby, tennis and golf. Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament; London hosted the 2012 Olympics.
• Famous landmarks include Big Ben, Edinburgh Castle, Snowdonia and the Giant's Causeway.

Key facts to remember

• Saints' days: St David (1 Mar), St Patrick (17 Mar), St George (23 Apr), St Andrew (30 Nov).
• Bonfire Night is 5 November; Remembrance Day is 11 November.