Map for South West

The South West is one of the nine official regions of England, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, coastal beauty, and cultural heritage

Geography: The South West is located in the lower left corner of England and includes the counties of Gloucestershire, Bristol, Wiltshire, Somerset, Dorset, Devon, and Cornwall. It is bordered by Wales to the north, the South East region to the east and the English Channel to the south.

Economy: Historically, the South West had a maritime and agricultural economy. Today, while agriculture remains important, the region has diversified into sectors like tourism, aerospace, technology and finance.

Education: There are several prominent universities in the region, including the University of Exeter, University of Bath, University of Bristol and Bournemouth University.

Transport: The M4 and M5 motorways are major road arteries connecting parts of the region. The railway network serves key destinations like Bristol, Exeter, and Plymouth. Ports like Bristol and Falmouth have historical and modern significance and airports like Bristol and Exeter facilitate domestic and international travel.

Culture and Heritage: The region is steeped in history and folklore, from King Arthur legends in Cornwall to the ancient stone circles of Stonehenge in Wiltshire. The cities of Bath (famed for its Roman-built baths) and Bristol (with its maritime heritage) are cultural hubs.

Natural Beauty: The South West boasts diverse landscapes – from the moorlands of Dartmoor and Exmoor to the picturesque Cotswolds. The coastline, especially spots like the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, is of significant geological interest and beauty.

Population and Urban Areas: While there are bustling cities like Bristol, Plymouth, and Exeter, much of the South West is rural, with quaint villages and market towns dotting the landscape.

Climate: The region generally experiences a maritime climate. Coastal areas, especially in Cornwall and Devon, benefit from milder temperatures due to the Gulf Stream, though rainfall can be higher than some other parts of the UK.

Industry: The South West is home to a thriving aerospace industry (especially around Bristol), agriculture (notably dairy farming and cider production), and tourism, with many flocking to its beaches, historic sites and national parks.