Swindon is a thriving former market town in the south-west of England. Named in 2018 as one of the top 10 best places to make a living in the UK, Swindon is situated in proximity to the glorious countryside of the Cotswolds and Wiltshire’s intriguing prehistoric sites.
The town has been a hub most noticeably since the 19th century when it became the repair and maintenance facility for the new Great Western Railway. Key has always been Swindon’s central location, just 30-odd miles from Bristol, Bath, Cheltenham and Reading; 78 miles and an hour’s train journey from London.
Despite its relatively small population of 186,000, Swindon boasts a wide range of activities and facilities. Taking advantage of the town’s heritage is the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, housed in the beautifully renovated Grade II listed buildings of the Great Western Railway Works.
The McArthurGlen is one of the largest covered designer outlets in Europe including a quality mix of High Street and Designer brands as well as high-end restaurants and cafes. It’s also the site for the STEAM Museum of The Great Western Railway, offering an insight into Swindon’s illustrious railway history.
For independent shops, restaurants and bars, the cultural and characterful centre of Swindon has to be Swindon’s Old Town.
In terms of recreation, Swindon has the Oasis leisure centre with its tropical lagoon-style swimming pool. The Oasis is a reputable entertainment venue too. Swindon has in fact developed a vibrant music scene with Bohemian venues such as The Victoria, Level III, The Beehive and The Castle all playing host to live acts, including bands on tour. And, like the Oasis, there’s the more big-hall venue, the MECA, a converted bingo hall with a 2000 capacity.
An active arts scene is to be found here also with many events taking place throughout the year at venues including the Wyvern Theatre, the Arts Centre and the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery.
If you’re coming for work, Swindon is a great choice, offering a high rate of employment. The town has in fact the 10th most productive workforce in Britain and its average weekly earnings represent the 12th largest average wage. Both gross weekly income and disposable incomes in Swindon are high, with the average person having a gross income of £524.30 per week and the average household enjoying £17,365 of disposable money for the year.
If you’re looking to relocate, you’ll of course want a choice of accommodation. We’d love to welcome you and show you a wide range of houses for rent in Swindon.