The Largest Cities in South West England
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South West England is home to five million people who mostly live in small towns and villages. It is, however, also home to several larger cities and towns which are a great starting point for exploring the region, while many of them are an attraction themselves: |
Bristol. It has a population of 1,070,000 and is the most populous city in South West England and the sixth most populous city in England. It was given a Royal Charter in the mid-12th century and County status in 1370s. Just like other larger cities in England, Bristol is a great choice for urban vacations but it is also a popular choice among South West England visitors due to its proximity to some of the region’s most famous attractions.
Plymouth. The town with a population of 250,000 used to be one of the most important shipping ports in England. Its is still influenced by shipbuilding although the city’s economy today mostly bases on service sector. It is home to several landmarks worth visiting such as the Royal Citadel, Smeaton’s Tower, Plymouth Naval Memorial, Mayflower Steps and Saltram House.
Bath. The city with a population of 83,000 is one of the most visited places in South West England due to its world class attractions such as the amazingly well preserved Roman Bath, Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, The Circus, Grand Pump Room and many others. In 1987, the City of Bath was inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list for its spectacular architecture. The city is only 21 kilometres south-east of Bristol.
Exeter. This historic city is located 60 kilometres north-east of Plymouth and 110 kilometres south-west of Bristol. It is home to nearly 120,000 people and is less popular choice among tourists than other South West England larger cities although it is worth visiting as well. Some of the most spectacular sights and landmarks include the Exeter Cathedral, Exeter Clock Tower, St Nicholas Priory, Parliament Street, Exeter Guildhall and Exeter Synagogue.
Gloucester. The county town of Gloucestershire located 50 miles north-east of Bristol has a population of about 120,000. Its history dates back to the 1st century AD when it was founded by the Romans as Colonia Glevum Nervensis. Due to its rich history, the city offers plenty of interesting sites to visit such as the Gloucester Cathedral, St Mary de Lode, St Nicholas Church, St Mary de Crypt Church and a number of medieval buildings.
Salisbury. The only city in Wiltshire at the confluence of five rivers – Ebble, Nadder, Bourne, Wylye and Avon was established only in 1220 but it history dates back to prehistory. Its main attraction is the Salisbury Cathedral which was built in the first half of the 13th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Early English architecture.
Weymouth. The town with a population of 50,000 is located on the halfway along the Jurassic Coast which makes it an excellent choice if you would like to visit this World Heritage Site. However, the town offers several attractions itself such as the ruins of the Sandsfort Castle, Weymouth esplanade Georgian architecture and Victoria’s Jubilee Clock, Nothe Fort and Brewers Quay.
Other larger cities and towns in South West England are Poole, Bournemouth, Swindon, South East Dorset, Torbay, Cheltenham, Weston-super-Mare and Taunton.