With a total population of about 57.7 million, England is the largest country in the United Kingdom, which also includes Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The country is home to cities rich in history and diverse cultures.
Here are the 15 largest cities in England, according to population figures from City Population and national statistics from the 2021 Census.
1. London (8.8 million)
London’s population of 8.8 million makes it the biggest city in England. It is also the most densely populated in the U.K. The primary urban area is home to iconic landmarks like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace and the British Museum, which attract millions of visitors annually.
2. Birmingham (1.1 million)
Located in the West Midlands, Birmingham is the second-largest city in England. It has an industrial heritage and a thriving cultural scene. The city features landmarks like the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the Bullring shopping center and its historic canal network.
3. Leeds (536,000)
Leeds has an estimated population of 536,000. Located in West Yorkshire, it is a thriving economic and cultural hub in West Yorkshire with famous shopping districts, architecture and nightlife. The city is home to landmarks like the Royal Armouries Museum and the Leeds Art Gallery.
4. Liverpool (506,000)
Famous as the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool is a city of music, culture and maritime history. The city’s waterfront, a former UNESCO World Heritage Site, includes attractions like the Royal Albert Dock and the Museum of Liverpool. Like other cities on this list, Liverpool takes enormous pride in its football culture.
5. Sheffield (500,000)
Nestled in South Yorkshire, Sheffield — aka the Outdoor City — has stunning green spaces. It is the U.K.’s greenest city, a title the local government takes pride in. The city’s museums, including the Millennium Gallery, celebrate its history in steel production.
6. Manchester (470,000)
Manchester has a notable music and arts scene. It is also home to two world-famous football clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. The city also boasts cultural landmarks like Science and Industry Museum and The Lowry arts center.
7. Bristol (425,000)
Located in the southwest of England, Bristol’s landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain highlight the city’s engineering heritage. Its street art, including works by Banksy, adds to its cultural charm.
8. Leicester (406,000)
Leicester is a diverse and historic city in the East Midlands. Famous for the discovery of King Richard III’s remains, the city is home to landmarks like the King Richard III Visitor Centre and Leicester Cathedral.
9. Coventry (344,000)
Coventry, known as the “City of Peace and Reconciliation,” is famous for its medieval history and its role in the automotive industry. Some attractions include the Coventry Cathedral and the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.
10. Bradford (333,000)
Bradford is home to the National Science and Media Museum, where visitors can explore exhibits on photography, film and television. The city’s stunning Saltaire Village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
11. Nottingham (299,000)
Nottingham is best known for its association with the legendary Robin Hood. The city features attractions like Nottingham Castle, Wollaton Hall and Sherwood Forest. It is also a hub for shopping and nightlife in the East Midlands.
12. Newcastle upon Tyne (286,000)
Commonly referred to as Newcastle, this city is in northeast England. Its cultural attractions include the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and the Sage Gateshead music venue.
13. Brighton and Hove (277,000)
Brighton and Hove are not two cities but two towns that merged into one. Located on England’s south coast, Brighton and Hove is a seaside city. It is a hub for creativity and LGBTQ+ pride.
14. Derby (275,000)
Located in the East Midlands, Derby’s rail and manufacturing history is notable. The Derby Museum and Art Gallery is one attraction worth visiting.
15. Kingston Upon Hull (270,000)
Kingston upon Hull, commonly known as Hull, offers the award-winning attraction The Deep, a spectacular aquarium showcasing marine life from around the world. Visitors can also explore the historic Hull Old Town, with its cobbled streets and charming pubs.
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
Original article: 15 Largest Cities in England, Ranked by Population
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