Map for South East
Introduction
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Data are provided by the Office for National Statistics.
South East Region Overview
The South East is one of the nine official regions of England, and it's characterized by its prosperous economy, historic sites, and natural beauty.
Geography: The South East region is bordered by Greater London to the north, the North Sea to the east, the English Channel to the south, and the South West region to the west. It comprises counties such as Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex.
Economy: Historically agricultural, today the South East is one of the most economically dynamic regions of the UK, with strong sectors in finance, technology, pharmaceuticals, and services. The region benefits from its proximity to London but also has its own economic hubs.
Education: The region boasts several top-tier universities, including the University of Oxford, University of Southampton, University of Sussex and University of Reading, among others.
Transport: The South East is well-connected by road with motorways like the M25, M3, M20, and M40. It's also a key rail hub with major stations like Reading, Oxford, and Brighton. Furthermore, ports like Dover are vital for ferries to continental Europe, and airports like Southampton and Gatwick serve numerous domestic and international destinations.
Culture and Heritage: The South East has a wealth of historic sites including the ancient city of Canterbury with its cathedral, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, and the historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells. Events like the Henley Royal Regatta and the Cowes Week sailing regatta also draw many visitors.
Natural Beauty: From the Chiltern Hills and the New Forest to the South Downs, the region offers varied landscapes. The coastline, stretching from Kent through to Hampshire, provides some striking seaside views and beaches.
Population and Urban Areas: The South East contains a mix of bustling urban centres, historic towns, and tranquil villages. Major cities and towns include Brighton, Oxford, Reading, Southampton and Canterbury.
Climate: The region generally experiences a temperate maritime climate, with milder temperatures and less rainfall compared to some other parts of the UK. Coastal areas tend to be particularly mild.
Industry: Apart from its diverse modern sectors, the South East is also known for traditional industries like winemaking (with several vineyards gaining international acclaim) and agriculture.