Wasps are probably the most familiar and generally disliked of all British insects. Their bodies bear the characteristic black and yellow bands and have a narrow waist in the middle of the body. Wasp stings are usually more painful and alarming than they are dangerous; an initial sharp pain is followed by mild swelling and soreness, which first aid can relieve; if you are concerned seek professional advice.
Sites commonly selected by queen wasps would be soil banks, roof spaces, hollows in trees and walls, etc. Sometimes wasps will have chosen sites in or very close to houses, and home owners are naturally concerned about their presence and may want them removing.
Consider whether or not it is absolutely necessary to destroy a nest, remember wasps are beneficial to your garden helping with pollination and keeping other garden pests under control. The nest will die off naturally, even if left alone.