What is the number of Cities in England?
The Introverted Solo Traveller contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
You want to know the number of cities in England? Then you’re at the right place here.
As time is money, the simple answer to the question is as of October 2023, there are 55 in England, and 76 cities in the United Kingdom all together; 8 in Scotland, 7 in Wales, and 6 in Northern Ireland.
If you want to find out a bit more about cities in England, then read on, I’ll explain, the difference between a town and a city, and what the royals have to do with this all, and the process to become a city.
The Difference Between a Town and a City
Here in England, the leap from a town to a city isn’t just about growing big and bustling (meaning there is no minimum population), rather it’s about earning a royal nod through a Royal Charter or having a grand cathedral stand tall amidst the town’s skyline.
The History of Cities in England
The history of cities in England is like stepping into a time machine, where each city has its tales woven with ancient threads. Here’s a glimpse into some of the oldest cities in England:
Colchester
Often regarded as Britain’s oldest recorded town, Colchester’s claim to the title of “Britain’s First City” is rooted in its ancient Roman connections. As a former Roman British capital, Colchester’s historical narrative spans over 2,000 years, with its essence captured in the architectural marvels and cultural remnants that grace the city today.
Bath
Bath is a city that transports you back to the Roman era with its well-preserved Roman Baths and stunning Georgian architecture. Established as a spa town by the Romans in AD 43, Bath’s history is literally embedded in its name and the ancient baths that have stood the test of time.
York
York’s historical narrative is a rich blend of Roman, Viking, and Medieval influences. Established in 71 AD as Eboracum, it was once a significant Roman settlement. The city’s ancient walls, York Minster, and the Shambles are living testimonials to York’s vibrant history, narrating tales from bygone eras.
London
London, the capital and largest city in the UK, is a city where the old coexists with the new. With a history dating back to Roman times when it was known as Londinium, London is a historical playground where every nook and cranny has a story to tell. From the Tower of London to Westminster Abbey, the city’s historical landmarks are pages from London’s extensive historical narrative.
Each of these cities, with their ancient roots and historical landmarks, contributes to the beautifully complex historical mosaic that is England. Their stories are not merely remnants of the past, but a living, breathing part of England’s cultural and historical identity.
The Current Number of Cities
Cruising back to today from our historical detour, we find England is home to 55 cities, each with its own slice of charm. And the list got a bit of a boost recently! During the Queen’s Jubilee in 2022, six towns across the UK got an upgrade to city status, with three of these newcomers being in England. It’s like the urban family here just got a few more members!
And the newcomers are:
- Colchester
- Milton Keynes
- Doncaster
Fun Fact 1: Southend-on-Sea was also awarded City status in 2022, but not as part of the Jubilee.
Fun Fact 2: Overseas territories and crown dependencies were able to apply for city status and Stanley, in the Falklands, and Douglas, in the Isle of Man, were given the status and are now recognised as cities.
Smallest and Largest Cities by Population
As you already know, size doesn’t matter – even when it’s about UK cities. Here is a short overview of the largest and smallest cities by population. Showcasing, you don’t always need to be big to be on the map.
Largest cities
- London (8.9 million)
- Birmingham (1.14 million)
- Manchester (553,000)
- Liverpool (497,000)
Smallest cities
- Wells (10,000)
- Ripon (17,000)
- Ely (19,000)
- Truro (20,000)
Application Process to Gain City Status
The process of gaining city status in England is steeped in a blend of tradition and formal administrative procedures. Here’s a more detailed look into the application process, particularly focusing on the recent competition held during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 (where eight new cities were selected):
1. Application Submission
Towns wishing to attain city status could apply as part of a competition held in honour of the Queen’s 2022 Platinum Jubilee. A total of 38 places across the UK and British Overseas Territories participated in this competition, illustrating the appeal and significance of city status.
2. Evaluation by an Expert Panel and Ministers
Unlike previous competitions, this time around an expert panel was introduced to work closely with Ministers in evaluating the applications and making recommendations. This collaborative effort ensures a thorough review of each application before forwarding the recommendations for final approval.
3. Criteria for Evaluation
The applicants were required to highlight the distinct identity and community spirit of their area, and how these elements made their area deserving of city status. Additionally, they were encouraged to outline the royal associations of their area.
4. Final Approval by the Monarch
The ultimate approval for city status is granted by the Monarch, based on the recommendations made by the expert panel and Ministers.
5. Announcement of New Cities
Once the Monarch’s approval is obtained, the new cities are publicly announced, marking a significant milestone for the towns and adding to the total tally of cities within the UK.
It’s not only announced publicly but they are granted city status by letters patent, meaning a document issued by the monarch is sent to them.
Impact of City Status
Attaining city status can have a notable impact on the local communities. It opens up new opportunities, enhances local pride, and potentially boosts the local economy and population growth. The improved national and global standing can attract investments and bring more attention to the city.
This structured yet prestigious process underscores the importance of city status, marking a blend of historical significance and modern-day governance in the UK’s urban landscape.
Interesting Facts About English Cities
England’s cities are a treasure trove of fascinating facts and historical snippets that often lie tucked away, waiting to be discovered. Here are a few fun, unusual, and little-known facts related to a few of these cities:
London’s Hidden Rivers
Beneath the bustling streets of London flow several hidden rivers. The Fleet, the Tyburn, and the Effra are among the subterranean rivers that once flowed openly but are now concealed beneath the urban sprawl.
Bath’s Ancient Curse Tablets
The Roman Baths in Bath are not just architectural marvels, but they house ancient curse tablets! These tablets were inscribed by Romans seeking justice from the goddess Sulis Minerva, a blend of a Roman and Celtic deity.
York’s Snickelways
York is home to a quirky network of narrow passageways called Snickelways. These charming, narrow lanes crisscross the city, offering a whimsical journey through York’s medieval layout.
Liverpool’s Lamb Bananas
Liverpool hosts a herd of quirky sculptures known as Super Lamb Bananas. These eccentric pieces of art are a blend of a lamb and a banana, symbolising the city’s port history of trading in wool and importing bananas.
Colchester’s Oyster Feast
Colchester has been celebrating its Oyster Feast since the 14th century, marking the end of the oyster-fishing season. It’s a tradition that connects the city to its ancient fishing heritage.
The Whispering Gallery in St Paul’s Cathedral
London’s St Paul’s Cathedral houses a Whispering Gallery where a whisper against its walls can be heard clearly on the opposite side, thanks to its unique acoustics.
Bristol’s Smuggling Past
Bristol’s underground tunnels bear testimony to a smuggling past. The Redcliffe Caves were once a hub for smugglers seeking to move goods discreetly.
Nottingham’s Hidden Caves
Nottingham sits atop a network of over 500 sandstone caves, dating back to the Dark Ages. These caves have served as dwellings, cellars, and even air-raid shelters over the centuries.
The Pint-Sized Park in Norwich
Norwich hosts one of the smallest parks in the world, Plantation Garden, which is a Victorian-era garden tucked away in a former chalk quarry.
Conclusion: How Many Cities Are In England?
There are 55 cities in England, but what makes this so special is that this number is not (only) based on the population. Many cities have fewer than 50,000 inhabitants and yet stand city-strong.
The monarchs have their say in what town becomes a city or if there is a little cathedral planted there.
If you want some inspiration for additional cities and towns to visit in Kent, then check out 21 Places to Visit in Kent.
