Explore the region map of England showing all the nine regions and counties of England. England is divided into nine distinct regions, each with unique characteristics and contributions to the nation's economy and culture. These regions include London, the South East, the South West, the East of England, the West Midlands, the East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, the North East, and the North West. London, the capital, is a global financial hub with a population of over 9 million. The South East is known for its high-tech industries and affluent commuter towns, while the South West boasts picturesque landscapes and a strong tourism sector. The East of England features significant agricultural and manufacturing activities. The West Midlands, with Birmingham as its core, is an industrial and cultural centre. The East Midlands is diverse, with strong logistics and transport sectors. Yorkshire and the Humber are renowned for their historical sites and growing digital industries. The North East, though smaller in population, has a rich industrial heritage and emerging tech sector. The North West, home to cities like Manchester and Liverpool, is a powerhouse of culture and innovation.
England is divided into nine distinct regions, each offering unique contributions to the nation’s economy, culture, and identity. These regions include London, the South East, the South West, the East of England, the West Midlands, the East Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, the North East, and the North West. Each region has its own characteristics, strengths, and key statistics that define its role within the country.
London
London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is a global financial powerhouse and cultural hub. With a population of over 9 million, it is the most populous region in England. The city's economy is diverse, with key sectors including finance, technology, media, and tourism. The London Stock Exchange and numerous multinational corporations are headquartered here. London’s GDP was approximately £500 billion in 2022, making it a crucial economic centre. Cultural landmarks such as the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the West End theatre district attract millions of visitors annually.
South East
The South East is one of the most economically prosperous regions in England, with a population of about 9 million. It encompasses counties such as Kent, Surrey, and Oxfordshire. The region is characterised by its high-tech industries, affluent commuter towns, and significant educational institutions like the University of Oxford. The South East has a robust economy, with a GDP of around £316 billion. The region also benefits from its proximity to London, contributing to its high standard of living and economic dynamism.
South West
The South West, known for its picturesque landscapes and coastal towns, has a population of approximately 5.6 million. This region includes counties such as Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset. Tourism plays a vital role in the economy, with attractions like the Jurassic Coast and Dartmoor National Park drawing visitors. The South West also has a strong agricultural sector, particularly in dairy and crop farming. The region's GDP is around £145 billion, with additional contributions from aerospace and defence industries, particularly in areas like Bristol.
East of England
The East of England, comprising counties such as Essex, Hertfordshire, and Cambridgeshire, has a population of about 6.2 million. This region is notable for its significant agricultural output and advanced manufacturing industries. The presence of Cambridge University has fostered a thriving tech and biotech sector, often referred to as the "Silicon Fen." The East of England's GDP stands at approximately £183 billion. The region also benefits from its strategic location near London and major transport hubs.
West Midlands
The West Midlands, with a population of around 5.9 million, includes cities such as Birmingham, Coventry, and Wolverhampton. This region is an industrial and cultural centre, historically known for its manufacturing and engineering industries. Birmingham, the largest city in the West Midlands, is a significant business hub. The region's GDP is approximately £145 billion, with key sectors including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and digital technologies. The West Midlands also has a rich cultural heritage, with institutions like the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon.
East Midlands
The East Midlands, home to about 4.8 million people, includes counties such as Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and Nottinghamshire. This region is diverse, with strong sectors in logistics, transport, and advanced manufacturing. The East Midlands is a significant player in the UK’s transport infrastructure, with East Midlands Airport serving as a major freight hub. The region's GDP is around £110 billion. Key cities include Nottingham, known for its historical association with Robin Hood, and Derby, a centre for rail and aerospace engineering.
Yorkshire and the Humber
Yorkshire and the Humber, with a population of approximately 5.5 million, is known for its historical sites and growing digital industries. The region includes major cities like Leeds, Sheffield, and York. Leeds is a significant financial and legal centre, while Sheffield is renowned for its advanced manufacturing and steel production. The region's GDP is about £142 billion. Yorkshire's rich cultural heritage includes the historic York Minster and the scenic Yorkshire Dales National Park.
North East
The North East, the smallest region in terms of population, is home to around 2.7 million people. It includes cities such as Newcastle, Sunderland, and Durham. The North East has a rich industrial heritage, particularly in shipbuilding and coal mining, although these industries have declined. Today, the region is focusing on emerging sectors such as digital technology and renewable energy. The GDP of the North East is approximately £65 billion. The region also boasts significant cultural landmarks, including Durham Cathedral and Hadrian’s Wall.
North West
The North West, with a population of about 7.3 million, includes major cities like Manchester and Liverpool. This region is a powerhouse of culture and innovation, with Manchester being a major centre for media, technology, and education. Liverpool, with its rich maritime history, is known for its cultural contributions, particularly in music and sport. The North West's GDP is around £180 billion, with key sectors including finance, manufacturing, and healthcare. The region also has a significant tourism industry, with attractions like the Lake District National Park.
List of Regions in England
Regions
Population
Area km2
Area sq mi
Median gross annual earnings (£) 2019
Largest urban area
South East
9,180,135
19,072
7,364
32,120
South Hampshire
London
8,961,989
1,572
607
38,992
Greater London Built-up Area
North West
7,341,196
14,108
5,447
28,137
Greater Manchester Built-up Area
East of England
6,236,072
19,116
7,381
30,345
Southend Urban Area
West Midlands
5,934,037
12,998
5,019
28,536
West Midlands Conurbation
South West
5,624,696
23,836
9,203
28,654
Bristol Built-up Area
Yorkshire and the Humber
5,502,967
15,405
5,948
27,835
West Yorkshire Built-up Area
East Midlands
4,835,928
15,625
6,033
28,000
Nottingham Urban Area
North East
2,669,941
8,579
3,312
27,187
Tyneside
Counties of England
England is divided into 48 ceremonial counties, each with its unique history, culture, and contributions to the country's identity. These counties are significant both administratively and culturally, offering a diverse array of landscapes, economic activities, and traditions.
Greater London
Greater London, encompassing the capital city of London, is the most populous county with over 9 million residents. It is a global financial and cultural hub, home to iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London. The city is a major centre for finance, media, and tourism, contributing significantly to the national economy.
West Midlands
The West Midlands, with a population of around 2.9 million, includes major cities such as Birmingham, Coventry, and Wolverhampton. Known for its industrial heritage, the county is a key centre for automotive manufacturing and engineering. Birmingham, the largest city, is a significant economic and cultural hub.
Greater Manchester
Greater Manchester, home to approximately 2.8 million people, is known for its vibrant cultural scene and economic dynamism. Manchester, the county's largest city, is a leading centre for media, technology, and education. The county also includes cities such as Salford and Bolton, each contributing to the region's diverse economy.
West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire, with a population of about 2.3 million, includes cities like Leeds, Bradford, and Wakefield. Leeds is a major financial and legal centre, while Bradford is known for its cultural diversity and film heritage. The county has a strong industrial base, particularly in manufacturing and textiles.
Hampshire
Hampshire, located on the southern coast, has a population of around 1.8 million. The county includes cities such as Southampton and Portsmouth, both important maritime hubs. Hampshire is known for its rich history, including the historic city of Winchester, and its beautiful countryside, including the New Forest National Park.
Kent
Kent, known as the "Garden of England," has a population of approximately 1.9 million. It is famous for its orchards, hop gardens, and historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral. The county is also a significant gateway to Europe, with the Port of Dover handling a large proportion of the UK's cross-Channel traffic.
Essex
Essex, with a population of around 1.8 million, is a diverse county with a mix of urban and rural areas. The county includes the town of Chelmsford, its administrative centre, and historic Colchester, known as Britain’s oldest recorded town. Essex has a strong economy, driven by sectors such as finance, technology, and manufacturing.
Surrey
Surrey, located to the southwest of London, has a population of approximately 1.2 million. It is one of the wealthiest counties in England, with affluent towns such as Guildford and Woking. The county is known for its beautiful countryside, including the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Lancashire
Lancashire, home to around 1.5 million people, includes cities such as Preston, Blackburn, and Lancaster. The county has a rich industrial heritage, particularly in textiles and manufacturing. Lancashire also boasts picturesque landscapes, including parts of the Lake District and the Forest of Bowland.
Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire, with a population of about 1.2 million, is known for its historic market towns and proximity to London. The county includes towns such as Watford, St Albans, and Stevenage. Hertfordshire has a strong economy, with significant contributions from sectors like pharmaceuticals, finance, and information technology.
North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire, the largest ceremonial county by area, has a population of approximately 1.1 million. The county includes the historic city of York, known for its Roman, Viking, and medieval heritage. North Yorkshire is also renowned for its national parks, including the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors.
Devon
Devon, located in the southwest, has a population of about 1.2 million. The county is known for its stunning coastlines, including the Jurassic Coast and the English Riviera. Devon’s economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and fishing, with Exeter and Plymouth being major urban centres.
Nottinghamshire
Nottinghamshire, with a population of around 1.2 million, is known for its association with the legend of Robin Hood. The county includes the city of Nottingham, a major centre for education and commerce. Nottinghamshire has a diverse economy, with strong sectors in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics.
Staffordshire
Staffordshire, home to approximately 1.1 million people, includes the city of Stoke-on-Trent, famous for its pottery industry. The county also boasts attractions like Alton Towers and the Peak District National Park. Staffordshire’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from manufacturing, services, and tourism.
Ceremonial counties of England
County for the purposes of the lieutenancies
Population (2018)
Area km2
Area sq mi
Composition Metropolitan and non-metropolitan counties or unitary authority areas
Bedfordshire
669,338
1,235
477
Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Luton
Berkshire
911,403
1,262
487
Bracknell Forest, Reading, Slough, West Berkshire, Windsor and Maidenhead and Wokingham
Bristol
463,405
110
42
Bristol
Buckinghamshire
808,666
1,874
724
Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes
Cambridgeshire
852,523
3,390
1,310
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough
Cheshire
1,059,271
2,343
905
Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Halton, and Warrington
City of London
8,706
2.9
1.12
City of London
Cornwall
568,210
3,562
1,375
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly
Cumbria
498,888
6,767
2,613
Cumbria
Derbyshire
1,053,316
2,625
1,014
Derbyshire and Derby
Devon
1,194,166
6,707
2,590
Devon, Plymouth and Torbay
Dorset
772,268
2,653
1,024
Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole
Durham
866,846
2,676
1,033
County Durham, Darlington, Hartlepool and that part of Stockton-on-Tees north of the centre line of the River Tees
East Riding of Yorkshire
600,259
2,477
956
East Riding of Yorkshire and Kingston-upon-Hull
East Sussex
844,985
1,791
692
East Sussex and Brighton and Hove
Essex
1,832,752
3,670
1,420
Essex, Southend-on-Sea and Thurrock
Gloucestershire
916,202
3,150
1,220
Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire
Greater London
8,899,375
1,569
606
The London boroughs
Greater Manchester
2,812,569
1,276
493
Greater Manchester
Hampshire
1,844,245
3,769
1,455
Hampshire, Portsmouth and Southampton
Herefordshire
192,107
2,180
840
Herefordshire
Hertfordshire
1,184,365
1,643
634
Hertfordshire
Isle of Wight
141,538
380
150
Isle of Wight
Kent
1,846,478
3,738
1,443
Kent and Medway
Lancashire
1,498,300
3,075
1,187
Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool and Lancashire
Leicestershire
1,053,486
2,156
832
Leicestershire and Leicester
Lincolnshire
1,087,659
6,975
2,693
Lincolnshire, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire
Merseyside
1,423,065
647
250
Merseyside
Norfolk
903,680
5,380
2,080
Norfolk
North Yorkshire
1,158,816
8,654
3,341
Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire, Redcar and Cleveland, York and that part of Stockton-on-Tees south of the centre line of the River Tees
Northamptonshire
747,622
2,364
913
Northamptonshire
Northumberland
320,274
5,014
1,936
Northumberland
Nottinghamshire
1,154,195
2,159
834
Nottinghamshire and Nottingham
Oxfordshire
687,524
2,605
1,006
Oxfordshire
Rutland
39,697
382
147
Rutland
Shropshire
498,073
3,488
1,347
Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin
Somerset
965,424
4,170
1,610
Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and Somerset
South Yorkshire
1,402,918
1,552
599
South Yorkshire
Staffordshire
1,131,052
2,714
1,048
Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent
Suffolk
758,556
3,801
1,468
Suffolk
Surrey
1,189,934
1,663
642
Surrey
Tyne and Wear
1,136,371
540
210
Tyne and Wear
Warwickshire
571,010
1,975
763
Warwickshire
West Midlands
2,916,458
902
348
West Midlands
West Sussex
858,852
1,991
769
West Sussex
West Yorkshire
2,320,214
2,029
783
West Yorkshire
Wiltshire
720,060
3,485
1,346
Swindon and Wiltshire
Worcestershire
592,057
1,741
672
Worcestershire
Metropolitan and Non-Metropolitan Counties of England
England is divided into metropolitan and non-metropolitan counties, each with distinct administrative structures and functions. These counties play a crucial role in the local governance and provision of services, and they reflect the diverse character of the regions they encompass.
Metropolitan Counties
Metropolitan counties are large, urban areas that typically encompass major cities and their surrounding suburbs. They were established in 1974 to streamline administrative functions in densely populated regions.
Greater Manchester
Greater Manchester is a metropolitan county in the North West of England, with a population of approximately 2.8 million. It includes the city of Manchester and nine other boroughs, such as Salford, Bolton, and Stockport. The region is a major economic hub, with strong sectors in finance, technology, and education. Manchester is known for its vibrant cultural scene and sporting heritage.
West Midlands
The West Midlands metropolitan county includes Birmingham, Coventry, and Wolverhampton, with a total population of around 2.9 million. This region is historically significant for its role in the Industrial Revolution. Today, it is a centre for automotive manufacturing, engineering, and cultural institutions, such as the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery.
Merseyside
Merseyside, located in the North West, has a population of about 1.4 million. It includes the city of Liverpool and boroughs such as Wirral and St Helens. Liverpool is renowned for its maritime history, cultural contributions, and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The economy is driven by sectors like maritime, tourism, and digital industries.
South Yorkshire
South Yorkshire includes Sheffield, Rotherham, Barnsley, and Doncaster, with a population of approximately 1.4 million. Sheffield is known for its steel production and engineering. The region has diversified its economy to include advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with Sheffield Hallam University being a significant institution.
West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire, with a population of about 2.3 million, includes Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, and Huddersfield. Leeds is a major financial and legal centre, while Bradford has a rich industrial heritage and is known for its film industry. The county has strong sectors in education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Tyne and Wear
Tyne and Wear, located in the North East, includes Newcastle upon Tyne, Sunderland, and Gateshead, with a population of around 1.1 million. Newcastle is a key economic and cultural centre, known for its universities and vibrant nightlife. The region's economy is supported by digital industries, education, and healthcare.
Greater London
While not classified as a metropolitan county, Greater London functions similarly, with a population of over 9 million. It is a global financial and cultural hub, comprising 32 boroughs and the City of London. London is a centre for finance, media, tourism, and international diplomacy.
Non-Metropolitan Counties
Non-metropolitan counties, or shire counties, typically encompass larger rural areas and smaller towns. These counties have two tiers of local government: county councils and district or borough councils.
Kent
Kent, known as the "Garden of England," has a population of approximately 1.9 million. It is characterised by its agricultural productivity, historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral, and significant ports such as Dover. The economy includes sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics.
Essex
Essex, with a population of around 1.8 million, is a mix of urban and rural areas. It includes towns such as Chelmsford and Colchester. The county has a diverse economy, driven by finance, technology, and manufacturing. Essex also benefits from its proximity to London and major transport links.
Surrey
Surrey, located to the southwest of London, has a population of about 1.2 million. It is one of the wealthiest counties, with affluent towns like Guildford and Woking. The economy is driven by finance, technology, and healthcare, with a significant number of residents commuting to London for work.
Hampshire
Hampshire, with a population of approximately 1.8 million, includes cities like Southampton and Portsmouth. These cities are important maritime hubs. The county is known for its beautiful countryside, including the New Forest National Park, and its strong sectors in defence, aerospace, and maritime industries.
Hertfordshire
Hertfordshire, with a population of around 1.2 million, is known for its historic towns and proximity to London. It includes towns such as Watford and St Albans. The economy is diverse, with significant contributions from pharmaceuticals, finance, and information technology.
Devon
Devon, in the southwest, has a population of about 1.2 million. It is known for its stunning coastlines and national parks. The economy is largely driven by tourism, agriculture, and fishing. Major cities include Exeter and Plymouth, which are centres for education and commerce.
North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire, the largest county by area, has a population of approximately 1.1 million. It includes the historic city of York and extensive rural areas. The county is known for its national parks, including the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. Key economic sectors are tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.
List of Metropolitan Counties of England
Metropolitan county
Population (2017)
Constituent Metropolitan boroughs
Greater Manchester
2,798,800
City of Manchester, City of Salford, Bolton, Bury, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford, Wigan
Merseyside
1,416,800
City of Liverpool, Knowsley, St Helens, Sefton, Wirral
South Yorkshire
1,250,000
City of Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham
Tyne and Wear
1,299,000
City of Newcastle upon Tyne, City of Sunderland, Gateshead, South Tyneside, North Tyneside
West Midlands
2,897,300
City of Birmingham, City of Coventry, City of Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall
West Yorkshire
2,307,000
City of Leeds, City of Bradford, City of Wakefield, Calderdale, Kirklees
List of Non-Metropolitan Counties of England
S.N.
Non-metropolitan county 1974
1
Avon
2
Bedfordshire
3
Berkshire
4
Buckinghamshire
5
Cambridgeshire
6
Cheshire
7
Cleveland
8
Cornwall
9
Cumbria
10
Derbyshire
11
Devon
12
Dorset
13
Durham
14
East Sussex
15
Essex
16
Gloucestershire
17
Hampshire
18
Hereford and Worcester
19
Hertfordshire
20
Humberside
21
Isle of Wight
22
Kent
23
Lancashire
24
Leicestershire
25
Lincolnshire
26
Norfolk
27
North Yorkshire
28
Northamptonshire
29
Northumberland
30
Nottinghamshire
31
Oxfordshire
32
Salop
33
Somerset
34
Staffordshire
35
Suffolk
36
Surrey
37
Warwickshire
38
West Sussex
39
Wiltshire
Districts of England
England is divided into a variety of districts, each with its unique characteristics, demographics, and administrative functions. These districts play a crucial role in local governance, providing essential services and representing the diverse communities within the country. There are different types of districts, including metropolitan districts, non-metropolitan districts, and unitary authorities.
Metropolitan Districts
Metropolitan districts are found within metropolitan counties and often cover large urban areas. They have a single tier of local government responsible for all local services.
Manchester
Manchester is a metropolitan district in Greater Manchester with a population of approximately 553,000. It is a major cultural, financial, and educational centre, known for its universities, media companies, and sports clubs, including Manchester United and Manchester City.
Birmingham
Birmingham, located in the West Midlands, is the largest metropolitan district with a population of over 1.1 million. It is a key economic hub, historically known for its industrial heritage and now recognised for its diverse economy, including sectors like finance, education, and healthcare.
Leeds
Leeds, in West Yorkshire, has a population of around 793,000. It is a significant financial and legal centre, home to numerous banks and law firms. The city also has a vibrant cultural scene, with landmarks like the Leeds Art Gallery and the Royal Armouries Museum.
Non-Metropolitan Districts
Non-metropolitan districts, also known as shire districts, exist within non-metropolitan counties. They typically have a two-tier system of local government, where district councils share responsibilities with county councils.
Chelmsford
Chelmsford, located in Essex, has a population of approximately 180,000. It is a key administrative centre and home to Anglia Ruskin University. The city also has a rich history, including Chelmsford Cathedral and the Hylands House estate.
South Cambridgeshire
South Cambridgeshire surrounds the city of Cambridge and has a population of about 157,000. It is known for its high-tech industries and research facilities, benefitting from proximity to the University of Cambridge.
Cornwall
Cornwall, a non-metropolitan district in the South West, has a population of around 570,000. Known for its stunning coastline and cultural heritage, Cornwall's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and fishing.
Unitary Authorities
Unitary authorities are a type of district that functions as a single-tier local government, responsible for all local government functions within their area.
Bristol
Bristol is a unitary authority with a population of approximately 463,000. It is a major cultural and economic centre in the South West, known for its maritime history, aerospace industry, and vibrant arts scene.
Kingston upon Hull
Kingston upon Hull, often referred to as Hull, is a unitary authority in East Yorkshire with a population of about 259,000. The city has a strong maritime heritage and is a major port, playing a crucial role in trade and logistics.
Leicester
Leicester, in the East Midlands, is a unitary authority with a population of around 355,000. The city is known for its diverse cultural community, historical landmarks like Leicester Cathedral, and its status as a major economic hub.
London Boroughs
Greater London is divided into 32 boroughs, each functioning as a unitary authority. These boroughs are responsible for a wide range of local services and have significant autonomy.
Westminster
Westminster, in central London, has a population of approximately 250,000. It is the political heart of the UK, home to the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and numerous government offices. The borough is also a major tourist destination.
Camden
Camden, located in North London, has a population of about 270,000. It is known for its cultural diversity, vibrant markets, and institutions like the British Museum and the British Library.
Kensington and Chelsea
Kensington and Chelsea is one of the wealthiest boroughs in London, with a population of around 160,000. It is famous for its affluent neighbourhoods, high-end shopping, and landmarks like Kensington Palace and the Natural History Museum.
