How many ceremonial (or geographical) counties are there in England?

The correct answer is 48 ceremonial counties in England. Ceremonial counties are geographical areas that are associated with the lieutenancies, which are administrative regions used for the purposes of the Lord-Lieutenant's office. The definition of these counties was established in 1997, and they are often used for various administrative purposes, as well as cultural and geographical references.

Each ceremonial county has a Lord-Lieutenant who represents the Monarch in the area. The number 48 reflects the current count of these counties, which includes areas like Greater London, which is treated as a separate county, and others that may combine smaller areas for practical uses. Understanding the distinction between ceremonial counties and other forms of counties, such as metropolitan or non-metropolitan counties, is crucial for grasping the administrative divides in England.