Anguilla

Anguilla is a small, low-lying island and British Overseas Territory in the eastern Caribbean. The territory’s administrative centre is The Valley and the island covers a compact land area.

Beaches with white sand and shallow coastal waters are the primary attractions, along with small resorts and a relaxed island pace rather than large-scale tourism infrastructure. Marine activities such as snorkeling, diving and boating are common draws.

The island was colonised and settled by European powers from the 17th century and has remained a British territory; it has local government but retains ties to the United Kingdom. In the 20th century it developed as a distinct overseas territory with its own administrative arrangements.

Geographically Anguilla sits in the eastern Caribbean’s Leeward Islands chain, north of several neighbouring Caribbean islands. It is largely flat with coastal coral reefs and small offshore cays.

• Size and status: Covers a compact area of under 100 square kilometres and is a British Overseas Territory with the administrative centre at The Valley.