Map for North West
Introduction
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Data are provided by the Office for National Statistics.
North West Region Overview
The North West is one of the nine official regions of England, and it's known for its rich industrial heritage, vibrant cities, and beautiful landscapes.
Geography: The North West is located in the upper left corner of England and is bordered by the Irish Sea to the west, the North East region to the north-east, Yorkshire and the Humber to the east, and the West Midlands and Wales to the south. It comprises the counties of Cumbria, Lancashire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Cheshire.
Economy: Historically, the North West was at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution with sectors like textiles, coal mining, and shipbuilding playing dominant roles. Today, its economy is diverse with strong sectors in finance, media, manufacturing, health, education and tourism.
Education: The region is home to several prestigious universities, including the University of Manchester, University of Liverpool, Lancaster University and the University of Central Lancashire.
Transport: The region is well-connected with motorways like the M6, M60, and M62. Major railway lines, including the West Coast Main Line, serve the region. Manchester Airport is one of the busiest in the UK, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Culture and Heritage: From the Beatles in Liverpool to the rich literary history of the Lake District, the North West has made significant cultural contributions. The region also boasts several museums, theatres, and galleries, including the Tate Liverpool and The Lowry in Salford.
Natural Beauty: The Lake District in Cumbria is one of the highlights, known for its lakes, mountains, and literary associations. There's also the Lancashire coastline, the Forest of Bowland and parts of the Peak District in Cheshire.
Population and Urban Areas: Major cities include Manchester, Liverpool, Preston, and Chester. The North West has a mix of bustling urban centres and tranquil rural areas.
Industry: Beyond its historical industries, the North West is currently known for its contributions in areas such as digital and creative sectors (especially in places like MediaCityUK in Salford), aerospace, pharmaceuticals and energy.