Wolverhampton: What You Need to Know
THE CITY
Wolverhampton is the third largest city in the West Midlands, after Birmingham and Coventry. Located 12 miles (20km) north of Birmingham, the metropolitan borough forms the northwestern part of the West Midlands conurbation, with Walsall located to the east and Dudley to the south.
NICKNAMES
The city is affectionately known as ‘Wolftown’ (Wolf Town’), ‘Wolves’ or ‘Wolvo’ by locals and its motto, ‘Out of Darkness Cometh Light’ has been adopted by the city’s football team, Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C, whose distinctive black and gold strip is a representation of darkness (black) and light (gold).
TRAVEL LINKS
The city benefits from excellent travel links, with the M6 motorway running just outside of Wolverhampton’s east and northwest borders and the M54 motorway located to the north which links to Telford. Wolverhampton Train Station and the western terminus of the West Midlands Metro are both located within the city centre.
HISTORY
Boasting a rich history, the city began life in 985 and was founded by Lady Wulfruna whose importance is referenced throughout the city even to this day. Wolverhampton grew as a market town, specialising in the wool trade but during the industrial revolution became known for its production of steel, coal mining, lock making and automotive manufacturing, in addition it had significant aerospace and service sector industries.
In the year 2000, Wolverhampton was granted city status, which served to underline the area’s importance.
POPULATION AND ETHNIC DIVERSITY
According to ‘WV Insight’, the area has an estimated population of 270,000 in 2025, which has been growing in recent years. Known for its ethnic diversity, 45% of residents in 2021 were identified as ethnic minorities (residents of non-White British heritage). In addition, 23% of the population in the same year were not born within the UK. 85% of the population speak English as their main language.
‘Population Review’ suggests that the city has a higher number of Hindu residents than the national average and also has one of the largest Sikh populations in England and Wales.
The population of the city is projected to rise to 296,102 by 2043. Although the city is considered ‘younger’ than the national average, it still faces challenges from an aging population, with the 65+ age group expected to rise faster than its younger cohorts. (WV Insight).
GOVERNMENT
The vast majority of Wolverhampton is governed by Wolverhampton City Council, however some smaller parts are controlled by South Staffordshire Council.
Three MPs represent the area administered by the City Council in parliament: Wolverhampton West (Warinder Juss MP, Labour), Wolverhampton South East (Pat McFadden MP, Labour) and Wolverhampton North East (Sureena Brackenridge MP, Labour) constituencies. Those administered by South Staffordshire District Council are represented by South Staffordshire Constituency (Mike Wood MP, Conservative).
ECONOMY AND BUSINESS
The city’s largest single employer is Wolverhampton City Council, which employs over 12,000 staff. Birmingham Midshires has its headquarters within the city, along with Marston’s Brewery. Jaguar Land Rover opened a £500 million Engine Assembly Plant at the i54 business park, Wolverhampton in 2014, which has been extended several times over the last decade years, and, there are plans for further expansion in 2025.
Carvers Building Supplies is a notable business in the city and H S Marston, MOOG and Goodrich Actuation Systems make up Wolverhampton’s aerospace industry. New Cross Hospital (NHS) is a significant employer and, University of Wolverhampton and City of Wolverhampton College are two of the most well-know academic institutions in the city.
PLACES OF INTEREST
The Grand Theatre – also known as ‘The Grand’ – first opened its doors in 1894 and hosts a diverse range of performances.
Wolverhampton Art Gallery showcases a phenomenal selection of art and holds many permanent displays. The gallery was established in 1884 and has long been an important part of the city.
Molinuex Stadium is a mecca for football fans and is home to the city’s own Premier League club, Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C.
West Park offers residents the perfect place to step away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre and enjoy beautiful outdoor space.
The National Trust’s Wightwick Manor and Moseley Old Hall are must-visit locations for those who love historic buildings and the Edwardian Bantock House Museum provides an interesting insight into the history of the city.
The Halls plays host to a diverse range of live events, including live music, comedy, circus, psychic shows, boxing and darts and boasts a 3000 capacity.
In addition there are over 600 shops, bars, cafes and restaurants, two indoor shopping centres, indoor and outdoor markets, cinema, clubs and hotels.
FAMOUS FACES
Wolverhampton has been the birthplace of a long list of celebrities, here are just some famous faces who’ve been born and raised in the city: Liam Payne, Anya Chalotra, Beverley Knight, Kevin Rowland, Ashley Williams, Jim Lea, Jacqui Oatley MBE, Nigel Slater, Meera Syal, Frances Barber and Suzi Perry.
