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City guide

Swindon, UK

Swindon is a town in Wiltshire, England. At the time of the 2021 census, the population of the built-up area was 224,942, making it the largest settlement in the county.

Type City

Why go

  • Town in Wiltshire, England.
  • Served by Cotswold Airport (GBA).

History

Swindon is a town in Wiltshire, England. At the time of the 2021 census, the population of the built-up area was 224,942, making it the largest settlement in the county. Located at the northeastern edge of the South West England region, Swindon lies on the M4 corridor, 84 miles (135 km) to the west of London and 36 miles (57 km) to the east of Bristol. The Cotswolds lie just to the town's north and the North Wessex Downs lie just to the town's south. It is the centre of Swindon unitary authority.

Airports

Cotswold Airport (GBA) 14 mi to the centre
Cirencester, Gloucestershire, ENG, GB — Indoor waiting area, but you walk out to the aircraft to board — bring an umbrella or a coat if the forecast is poor.
Indoor | Outdoor
Upavon Aerodrome (UPV) 19 mi to the centre
Pewsey, Wiltshire, ENG, GB — Indoor waiting area, but you walk out to the aircraft to board — bring an umbrella or a coat if the forecast is poor.
Indoor | Outdoor
Oaksey Park Airfield 11 mi to the centre
Malmesbury, Wiltshire, ENG, GB
Outdoor
Lotmead Farm Airstrip 2.9 mi to the centre
Wanborough (Wilts), ENG, GB
Outdoor
Draycot Farm Aerodrome 5.1 mi to the centre
Swindon, Wiltshire, ENG, GB
Outdoor

Where things are

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Photographs

When to go

Tourist season
May – September

The warmer, longer-day half of the year is the safest bet for a first visit.

Shoulder season
April, October

Cooler and quieter, with fewer visitors and better value.

Worth avoiding
Deep winter

Short days and the coldest weather — check local conditions before travelling.

Getting there & around

Getting there. The nearest airport on record is Cotswold Airport (GBA); 16 other airports serve the wider area. Check rail and road links from the tourism sources below.

Getting around. Use the map above to orient yourself; nearby hotels, attractions and places to eat are listed from the live Ultimate data for Swindon, UK. Local transit details will be added as the guide is expanded.

Trains & rail

National rail

Coaches & shuttles

Intercity coach
Intercity coach

Tours & experiences