KidZone Geography: United Kingdom
Cities
Major cities in the UK are found across the country, though most of the population is concentrated in England with, each of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have a population of under six million people.
Though the UK is known for it's countryside, it is an extremely urban country. It contains almost three times the population of Canada in an area one third the size of Alberta. The regional capitals are some of the most well known cities, especially London. London has a population of over 8 million people and is home to many prestigious universities, the UK government and royal family. It is a major tourist and business destination with the main airport Heathrow one of the busiest in the world. The city has many recognisable features from Big Ben, the London Eye, buses, the Tube (London Underground) and more. The next two biggest cities in England are Birmingham and Manchester respectively. These cities are competitive over the title of second city, the next most important city in England after London. Both cities are hubs of sport, education and culture with large student and professional populations.
The regional capitals are also important urban hubs within the UK. Cardiff, the capital of Wales, has a population just under 400,000 and is a large tourist destination. Welsh government, sport and media are all centred here along with multiple universities leading to a lively and vibrant city. Scotlands capital Edinbugh houses approximately 500,000 people and is a highly professional city, large areas make up world heritage sites and so tourism is also a major industry. Finally, Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland has a population of around 350,000. Originally a strongly industrial city, recent regeneration has meant the city is now one of the best places to live in the UK.