UK Cities Map

Explore United Kingdom cities map to locate all the major cities in UK. The United Kingdom boasts a diverse range of cities, each contributing significantly to the nation's economy and culture. London, the capital, is a global financial hub with a population of over 9 million, renowned for landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London. Birmingham, the UK's second-largest city, has a population of approximately 1.1 million and is a major centre for industry and commerce. Manchester, with a population of around 553,000, is famous for its vibrant music scene and sporting heritage. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has a population of about 524,000 and is celebrated for its historic and cultural attractions, including the annual Edinburgh Festival. These cities reflect the UK's rich history and dynamic contemporary life.

About UK Cities Map

Explore the United Kingdom cities map to locate all the major cities of United Kingdom, a country in Europe continent.

Cities of UK

The United Kingdom is home to a diverse array of cities, each with unique characteristics and contributions to the nation's cultural and economic landscape. From bustling metropolises to historic centres, these cities offer a wealth of experiences and insights into the UK’s rich heritage and dynamic modern life.

London

London, the capital city, is a global powerhouse with a population exceeding 9 million. It stands as a major financial centre, housing the London Stock Exchange, the Bank of England, and numerous multinational corporations. Iconic landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and the Tower of London draw millions of tourists annually. London is also a cultural hub, with renowned institutions like the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the West End theatre district. The city’s transport network, including the London Underground, is among the most extensive and sophisticated in the world.

Birmingham

Birmingham, the UK's second-largest city, has a population of around 1.1 million. Historically known as the "City of a Thousand Trades" due to its industrial past, Birmingham today is a centre for commerce, education, and culture. The city hosts the Birmingham Bullring, one of the largest shopping centres in the country, and the NEC (National Exhibition Centre), a leading venue for international events. Birmingham's vibrant arts scene is exemplified by the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and the Symphony Hall, home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Manchester

Manchester, with a population of approximately 553,000, is renowned for its contributions to music, sports, and industry. The city played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution and continues to be a centre for innovation and enterprise. Manchester is home to two major football clubs, Manchester United and Manchester City, both of which have large global followings. The city’s music scene has produced iconic bands such as Oasis and The Smiths. Manchester also boasts impressive cultural institutions, including the Manchester Art Gallery and the Museum of Science and Industry.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has a population of about 524,000. The city is famous for its historic and architectural landmarks, including the Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. Edinburgh's cultural calendar is highlighted by the annual Edinburgh Festival, which encompasses the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the Edinburgh International Book Festival. The city is also an educational hub, home to the University of Edinburgh, one of the world's leading universities.

Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, has a population of around 635,000. Known for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture, Glasgow is also a major cultural centre, hosting institutions such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Glasgow Science Centre. The city's music scene is vibrant, with venues like the SSE Hydro and King Tut's Wah Wah Hut hosting local and international acts. Glasgow's economy is diverse, encompassing finance, manufacturing, and creative industries.

Liverpool

Liverpool, with a population of approximately 498,000, is globally recognised for its maritime history and cultural heritage. The city was a major port during the British Empire and is known for the historic Albert Dock and the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Liverpool is also synonymous with The Beatles, and visitors can explore numerous attractions related to the iconic band, including The Beatles Story museum and the Cavern Club. The city’s football teams, Liverpool FC and Everton FC, are among the most successful in English football history.

Bristol

Bristol, a city of around 463,000 people, is noted for its vibrant cultural scene and maritime history. The city's economy is supported by industries such as aerospace, media, and information technology. Bristol's historic harbour is a focal point, home to the SS Great Britain and the contemporary arts centre, Arnolfini. The city also hosts the annual Bristol International Balloon Fiesta, one of the largest hot air balloon events in Europe.

Leeds

Leeds, with a population of about 793,000, is a key player in the UK's financial and legal sectors. The city is home to major banking and insurance firms and hosts a thriving digital sector. Leeds' cultural offerings include the Leeds Art Gallery, the Royal Armouries Museum, and the West Yorkshire Playhouse. The city is also known for its shopping districts, such as the Victoria Quarter and Trinity Leeds.

Cardiff

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has a population of approximately 362,000. The city is a significant cultural and sporting centre, hosting events at the Principality Stadium and the Wales Millennium Centre. Cardiff's historical landmarks include Cardiff Castle and the Cardiff Bay waterfront. The city is also home to several higher education institutions, including Cardiff University.

Belfast

Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, has a population of around 343,000. The city played a crucial role in the shipbuilding industry, most famously as the birthplace of the RMS Titanic. Today, the Titanic Belfast museum is a major tourist attraction. Belfast's cultural scene includes the Ulster Museum, the Lyric Theatre, and the annual Belfast Festival. The city’s economy has diversified, with significant growth in the technology and financial services sectors.

List of Cities of United Kingdom

S.N.	City Name	Region, Country	Population
1	London	London, England	12,156
2	Westminster	London, England	213,119
3	Birmingham	West Midlands, England	1,171,467
4	Leeds	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	829,417
5	Glasgow	Scotland	620,700
6	Manchester	North West, England	585,057
7	Sheffield	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	579,082
8	Bradford	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	556,880
9	Edinburgh	Scotland	512,700
10	Liverpool	North West, England	504,932
11	Bristol	South West, England	482,815
12	Cardiff	Wales	381,759
13	Leicester	East Midlands, England	379,963
14	Coventry	West Midlands, England	368,483
15	Wakefield	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	362,355
16	Belfast	Northern Ireland	345,418
17	Nottingham	East Midlands, England	330,949
18	Newcastle upon Tyne	North East, England	315,110
19	Doncaster	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	314,252
20	Milton Keynes	South East, England	297,180
21	Salford	North West, England	282,487
22	Sunderland	North East, England	279,556
23	Brighton and Hove	South East, England	278,455
24	Wolverhampton	West Midlands, England	271,173
25	Kingston upon Hull	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	271,095
26	Plymouth	South West, England	267,888
27	Derby	East Midlands, England	265,082
28	Stoke-on-Trent	West Midlands, England	261,867
29	Southampton	South East, England	257,160
30	Swansea	Wales	245,440
31	Aberdeen	Scotland	224,000
32	Peterborough	East, England	218,179
33	Portsmouth	South East, England	209,171
34	York	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	206,825
35	Colchester	East, England	196,808
36	Chelmsford	East, England	185,288
37	Southend-on-Sea	East, England	182,278
38	Oxford	South East, England	165,257
39	Newport	Wales	163,547
40	Canterbury	South East, England	160,351
41	Preston	North West, England	155,634
42	Dundee	Scotland	148,100
43	Cambridge	East, England	147,797
44	St Albans	East, England	147,410
45	Lancaster	North West, England	145,346
46	Norwich	East, England	144,251
47	Chester	North West, England	138,873
48	Exeter	South West, England	137,462
49	Wrexham	Wales	137,341
50	Gloucester	South West, England	133,998
51	Winchester	South East, England	132,341.00
52	Durham	North East, England	126,486.00
53	Carlisle	North West, England	110,024.00
54	Worcester	West Midlands, England	104,589.00
55	Lincoln	East Midlands, England	102,392.00
56	Bath	South West, England	95,043.00
57	Derry	Northern Ireland	85,279.00
58	Dunfermline	Scotland	76,210.00
59	Bangor	Northern Ireland	64,596.00
60	Inverness	Scotland	63,730.00
61	Hereford	West Midlands, England	53,113.00
62	Lisburn	Northern Ireland	51,447.00
63	Stirling	Scotland	49,950.00
64	Perth	Scotland	47,350.00
65	Salisbury	South West, England	41,552.00
66	Lichfield	West Midlands, England	32,580.00
67	Chichester	South East, England	29,407.00
68	Newry	Northern Ireland	28,530.00
69	Truro	South West, England	21,046.00
70	Ely	East, England	20,574.00
71	Ripon	Yorkshire and the Humber, England	16,590.00
72	Armagh	Northern Ireland	16,310.00
73	Bangor	Wales	15,060.00
74	Wells	South West, England	11,145.00
75	St Asaph	Wales	3,485.00
76	St Davids	Wales	1,751.00

British Overseas Cities

The British Overseas Territories comprise a diverse collection of cities and territories, each with unique cultural, economic, and geographical attributes. These territories, though not part of the United Kingdom, maintain a special relationship with the UK and reflect a blend of British and local influences.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar, located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, is a strategic military and commercial hub. With a population of around 34,000, it covers an area of just 6.7 square kilometres. Gibraltar's economy is primarily driven by tourism, financial services, and shipping. The iconic Rock of Gibraltar, home to the famous Barbary macaques, is a major tourist attraction. Additionally, Gibraltar's port serves as a key refuelling stop for ships crossing the Mediterranean.

Bermuda

Bermuda, situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, consists of approximately 138 islands, with a population of around 64,000. Its economy is dominated by offshore insurance and reinsurance, tourism, and international business. Hamilton, the capital city, is known for its vibrant financial district and colourful colonial architecture. Bermuda's Pink Sand Beaches, including those at Horseshoe Bay, attract tourists from around the world. The island's subtropical climate makes it a year-round destination.

Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, consists of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman. The territory has a population of approximately 65,000. The capital, George Town, located on Grand Cayman, is a major global financial centre, particularly known for its offshore banking and investment funds. Tourism also plays a vital role, with Seven Mile Beach and Stingray City being popular attractions. The islands' pristine coral reefs make them a favoured spot for scuba diving and snorkelling.

Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, are home to about 3,400 residents. Stanley, the capital, is the largest settlement and the centre of the islands' economic activities, which include fishing, tourism, and sheep farming. The islands are renowned for their abundant wildlife, including penguins, sea lions, and albatrosses. The remote and rugged landscape attracts adventure tourists and nature enthusiasts.

British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands (BVI), comprising over 50 islands and cays in the Caribbean, have a population of around 30,000. Road Town, on Tortola, is the capital and the main commercial centre. The BVI's economy is heavily reliant on tourism and financial services, particularly offshore banking and company registrations. The islands are a popular sailing destination, known for their clear waters, coral reefs, and picturesque beaches.

Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands, located southeast of the Bahamas, consist of 40 islands and cays, with a population of about 38,000. Providenciales, often referred to as Provo, is the most developed island and the main tourist hub. Grace Bay Beach, on Providenciales, is renowned for its stunning white sand and turquoise waters. The economy is driven by tourism, offshore financial services, and fishing.

Anguilla

Anguilla, a small island in the Caribbean, has a population of approximately 15,000. The island's economy is primarily based on tourism, offshore banking, and fishing. The capital, The Valley, is the administrative centre. Anguilla is famous for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant culinary scene. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and beautiful landscapes attract visitors seeking relaxation and tranquillity.

Montserrat

Montserrat, known as the "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean," has a population of around 5,000. The island's capital, Plymouth, was abandoned due to volcanic eruptions in the 1990s, leading to the establishment of a new administrative centre at Brades. The island's economy relies on tourism, agriculture, and fishing. Montserrat is known for its lush green hills, volcanic landscapes, and the annual Montserrat Festival celebrating the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Saint Helena

Saint Helena, located in the South Atlantic Ocean, is one of the most remote inhabited islands in the world, with a population of about 4,500. Jamestown, the capital, is a quaint town known for its Georgian architecture and historical significance. The island's economy is supported by tourism, agriculture, and fishing. Saint Helena is famous for being the place of Napoleon Bonaparte's exile and offers unique attractions such as Jacob’s Ladder and the island’s diverse endemic flora and fauna.

Ascension Island

Ascension Island, part of the Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha territory, is located in the South Atlantic Ocean and has a population of around 800. Georgetown is the capital and the main settlement. The island serves as an important military base and communication hub. Ascension's economy is primarily based on government services and limited tourism. The island is known for its volcanic landscapes, Green Mountain, and significant wildlife, including nesting sea turtles and seabird colonies.

Tristan da Cunha

Tristan da Cunha, the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, has a population of about 250. The main settlement is Edinburgh of the Seven Seas. The island’s economy is based on agriculture, fishing, and handicrafts. Tristan da Cunha's rugged terrain and isolation attract adventurous travellers and researchers interested in its unique ecosystem and birdlife.

List of British Overseas Cities

S.N.	City Name	Territory / Dependency	Status	Population
1	Gibraltar	Gibraltar, southwestern EuropeMap	British Overseas Territory	32,194
2	Hamilton	Bermuda, North Atlantic Ocean	British Overseas Territory	854
3	Jamestown	St Helena,, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, South Atlantic Ocean	British Overseas Territory	629
4	Stanley	Falkland Islands, South Atlantic Ocean	British Overseas Territory	2,460
5	Douglas	Isle of Man, Irish Sea	Crown Dependency	27,938

History of City status in the United Kingdom and Ireland, also Roman cities in Britain

The history of city status in the United Kingdom and Ireland is rich and complex, rooted in historical, administrative, and ecclesiastical traditions. City status is a prestigious designation granted by the monarch or the government and historically, it has been associated with having a diocesan cathedral.

Medieval Origins

In medieval times, city status in the UK and Ireland was often linked to ecclesiastical significance. The presence of a cathedral was typically the primary criterion for a settlement to be granted city status. For example, Canterbury, home to the Archbishop of Canterbury, the senior bishop of the Church of England, has been a city since the early medieval period. Similarly, cities like York and Durham gained their status due to their cathedrals.

Industrial Era Changes

During the Industrial Revolution, the criteria for city status began to evolve. The rapid growth of urban areas due to industrialisation prompted the need for new administrative structures. In 1889, Birmingham was granted city status despite lacking a cathedral, marking a shift towards recognising population size, economic importance, and municipal infrastructure. This period saw cities like Manchester and Liverpool, both centres of industry and commerce, gaining city status.

Modern Criteria and Procedures

Today, city status is granted by the British monarch on the advice of the government. There are no fixed criteria, but factors such as historical significance, economic strength, and cultural heritage are considered. The process often coincides with significant national events, such as jubilees. For instance, in 2012, as part of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Perth in Scotland regained its city status, which it had lost in 1975.

In Ireland, the concept of city status also has historical roots. Dublin, the capital, has been a city since the medieval period. In modern times, city status in the Republic of Ireland is determined by legislation, with Cork, Limerick, Galway, and Waterford among those officially recognised as cities.

Roman Cities in Britain

The Roman occupation of Britain, which began in AD 43, had a profound impact on the urban landscape. The Romans established numerous towns and cities, many of which laid the foundations for modern urban centres. These cities were often military bases that developed into administrative and commercial hubs.

Londinium (London)

Londinium, founded around AD 47, quickly became the administrative and commercial capital of Roman Britain. Located on the River Thames, its strategic position facilitated trade and communication. At its peak, Londinium had a population of around 60,000 and featured impressive structures such as a basilica, forum, and amphitheatre. The remains of the Roman Wall and the London Mithraeum are notable archaeological sites that testify to its historical importance.

Eboracum (York)

Eboracum, established in AD 71, served as a major military and administrative centre in the north of Britain. It was the headquarters of the Sixth Legion and later the home of the Emperor’s court when Constantine the Great was proclaimed emperor here in AD 306. The city was well-fortified and included structures like the Roman Baths and the York Minster, which stands on the site of the Roman headquarters building.

Verulamium (St Albans)

Verulamium, near modern-day St Albans, was one of the largest Roman cities in Britain. Founded around AD 50, it was a major centre of trade and governance. The city had a theatre, basilica, and extensive defensive walls. The ruins of Verulamium, including its mosaics and hypocausts, are a significant tourist attraction today.

Camulodunum (Colchester)

Camulodunum, now Colchester, is considered the first Roman capital of Britain. Founded as a colony for retired soldiers in AD 49, it was initially a military fortress before becoming a civilian settlement. It was the site of the infamous Boudican Revolt in AD 60-61, where much of the city was destroyed. Notable Roman remains in Colchester include the Balkerne Gate and the foundations of the Temple of Claudius.

Aquae Sulis (Bath)

Aquae Sulis, now known as Bath, was renowned for its thermal springs. The Romans built extensive baths and a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. The city attracted visitors from across the empire seeking the curative properties of the hot springs. The Roman Baths, remarkably well-preserved, remain a major tourist attraction.

Venta Silurum (Caerwent)

Venta Silurum, in modern-day Caerwent, Wales, was the tribal capital of the Silures. Founded around AD 75, it became an important market town with a forum, basilica, and defensive walls. Significant portions of the Roman town walls and the ruins of a Roman temple can still be seen today.