18 Reasons the North is Better than the South

The North and the South of the United Kingdom, especially between England, is often a controversial topic bound to result in arguments. Both regions are wonderful, but today, it’s the North’s time to shine. Here …

The North and the South of the United Kingdom, especially between England, is often a controversial topic bound to result in arguments. Both regions are wonderful, but today, it’s the North’s time to shine. Here are 18 reasons the North is better than the South.

Cultural Diversity

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Up north, you’ll find a true melting pot of cultures. As Huddersfield University points out, our region’s multiculturalism has had all sorts of benefits, with cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds offering a rich array of ethnic neighborhoods, cuisine, and festivals. As a result, there really never is a dull day up North (if you ignore the weather, that is).

Educational Institutions

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Top-tier universities are highly concentrated in the North, with institutions such as the University of Manchester, University of Leeds, and Durham University attracting students worldwide. These schools not only provide exceptional education but also drive research and innovation in this part of our country, contributing significantly to the region’s intellectual and economic growth.

Economic Opportunities

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People often neglect to realize that the North boasts a robust economy with diverse job opportunities. It’s not all in London–major financial hubs, including Manchester and Leeds, and numerous thriving industries provide ample employment prospects. The region’s economic stability attracts professionals from various fields, ensuring a prosperous future for us Northerners.

Historical Significance

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Another reason the North is better than the South is that it’s steeped in history and plays a pivotal role in the development of the United Kingdom. Sites like Hadrian’s Wall, York Minster, and numerous Industrial Revolution landmarks offer a fascinating connection to the past, something that is harder to come by down South.

Public Transportation

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While we certainly love to complain about train strikes, we do have fairly efficient and extensive public transportation networks up North. Cities like Manchester and Newcastle have comprehensive bus and tram systems that make commuting convenient and reduce traffic congestion. It’s a heck of a lot easier up here than it is in Southern regions.

Healthcare Quality

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You should never forget how the Northern regions of the UK are home to some of the nation’s best hospitals and medical research centers. Institutions like the Christie Hospital in Manchester and Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary provide cutting-edge medical care, which is really reassuring knowing that you have access to such services on your doorstep.

Four Seasons

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We’re not going to deny that it rains a lot in the North, but we do still experience all four seasons prominently, unlike parts of the South. We enjoy vibrant autumn foliage, snowy winters, blossoming springs, and warm summers, and this seasonal variety enriches daily life and offers diverse recreational activities year-round.

Culinary Scene

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The Northern culinary scene is renowned for its variety, diversity, and quality. Manchester definitely has some of the most diverse food options, but Yorkshire’s traditional dishes, the countless chippies, and many other Northern culinary pockets always offer some tasty scran.

Scenic Landscapes

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Northerners often forget how stunning their natural landscapes are, which are much more interesting than down South. We have rugged coastlines in Northumberland, majestic peaks in the Lake District, and so much more to offer. The region truly offers breathtaking scenery, something that we locals forget all too often.

Progressive Policies

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Compared to the South of the UK, Northern regions often lead the way in terms of progressive policies and social change. Issues like environmental protection, healthcare, and education receive significant attention up here, helping to promote a higher standard of living and reflect the region’s commitment to making the UK a better place.

Cultural Institutions

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You’ll find tons of world-class museums, theatres, and art galleries in the North. Institutions like the Manchester Art Gallery and the Liverpool Philharmonic are particularly prestigious, but there are plenty of smaller, independent spots, too, giving residents and visitors alike access to exceptional cultural experiences.

Sports Teams

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Say what you want about Southern footie, but it’s way better up north. Clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool FC, and Leeds Rhinos are iconic. The passionate fan bases and frequent championship wins create a vibrant sports culture, adding yet another bonus to the region’s appeal.

Public Libraries

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Few people realize that public libraries in the North are renowned for their extensive collections and community programmes. The Manchester Central Library and Leeds Central Library are prime examples, but there are many others. These institutions provide valuable resources and foster a love of reading and lifelong learning up North, pushing us forward.

Lower Cost of Living

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Head down South for a weekend, and you’ll no doubt be running back to the North for our lower cost of living. This economic advantage makes housing, goods, and services much more affordable, providing residents with greater financial stability. When everyone down South complains about paying £7 for a pint, all we can do is laugh.

Quality of Life

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Believe it or not, the quality of life in the North is consistently ranked among the highest in the nation. Factors such as healthcare, education, and cultural amenities all contribute to this, not to mention everything else on this list. Northerners enjoy a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle, making it a truly attractive place to settle.

Community Spirit

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One of the most famous reasons why the North is better than the South is its strong sense of community. Neighborhoods are close-knit, and people often look out for one another and certainly won’t be nervous about striking up a conversation. This community spirit fosters a supportive and friendly atmosphere, making it an inviting place to live and raise a family.

Gravy and Curry Sauce

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How could this list be complete without mentioning gravy? Down South, everyone eats their fish and chips with ketchup, which is pretty depressing in comparison to our Northern love for gravy and curry sauce. Sometimes, we’ll even throw mushy peas into the equation. Either way, Southerners really don’t know what they’re missing.

Our Accent

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Perhaps the most beloved aspect of being a Northerner is our fine selection of cracking accents. It’s absurd how many accents we can fit into our region, and it makes for so much more variety than the more standard English accents found down South. We love their accents, too, but up North, everyone just seems to sound friendlier and more welcoming.