South West England is one of the nine official regions of England, covering an area of approximately 9,200 square miles. It is the largest region in England and is bounded by the English Channel and Atlantic ocean to the west and south, and by the counties of Devon, Somerset, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire to the east and north.
The region has a population of over 5.6 million and comprises of the counties of Gloucestershire, Bristol, Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly. This region hosts around 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jurassic Coast and the City of Bath.
South West England is known for its picturesque landscapes, which include coastline, moorlands, and farming valleys. The region is also home to five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, two National Parks (Exmoor, Dartmoor), and several towns and cities with a rich history and unique character.
The region has a mixed economy, with sectors like agriculture, tourism, fishing, manufacturing, and service industries all contributing. It's particularly well-known for its cider, Cheddar cheese, Cornish pasties, and cream teas.
Tourism is a major industry in the South West due to its climate, coastline, and historical sites. The region attracts millions of visitors each year, adding significantly to the local economy.
Despite its size, its only major city is Bristol, but it has several sizeable towns including Bath, Plymouth, Gloucester, Swindon, and Exeter.
The region also benefits from several renowned educational and research institutions, including the Universities of Bristol, Bath, Exeter, and the University of the West of England.
Overall, the South West of England is a region with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a diverse economy.
Crawthorne Dorchester
Dorset
DT2 7NG
United Kingdom