My Swindon view: Lots of spirit, football mad and splashes of colour

Living in a house share in the Gorse Hill area, I have experienced lots of adventures since moving here, both socially and professionally.

Originally coming from the north of England, and having lived in both York and Cardiff for university degrees, Swindon provided a different sort of place to reside in.

Given its relatively large population and geographical area, it does remind me of previous cities that I have been to despite it being a town.

It is through getting to know the people that I have seen that town spirit and sense of community shine through, demonstrating what a great town this place truly is.

My hometown Scarborough is not so dissimilar from Swindon with both being large towns with a lot of spirit.

Alongside the people, Swindon has several interesting landmarks and features. This is what I have noticed as a newcomer.

Sublime street art

Swindon has several pieces of vibrant street art from the Guinness toucan to Brazilian footballing legend Ronaldinho. (Image: Newsquest)

When going for a walk around Swindon for the first time, it can be easy just to see the dull greys and blacks which give off a mundane vibe.

Whether this be from the tower block flats or the countless roads, there is no denying that large sections of the area are somewhat devoid of colour.

Yet thanks to the town’s very talented local artists, this is vastly changing throughout Swindon, especially in its centre.

There are large colourful paintings which light up construction hoardings in several spots and the talent on display rivals that of anywhere I have seen before in the country.

It may seem simple, but seeing these vivid creations of hope and vibrance can really brighten someone’s day, making them a welcome addition in the town.

Football fanatics

The County Ground is an impressive stadium. (Image: Newsquest)

Despite having an ice hockey team and the speedway, Swindon’s sporting heart very much belongs to Swindon Town Football Club.

The County Ground is a fantastic stadium and I was lucky enough to see Charlie Austin’s return to the club which involved a debut goal for the striker.

Having seen behind the scenes and interviewed managers and players over the past few weeks, I have really loved seeing into the inner workings of a fantastic football club.

Hearing the fans chants echo throughout the media box on a cold January afternoon was warming and this was only enhanced by the Robins rattling in five goals on the day.

Ruthless roads and roundabouts

The Magic Roundabout is just as glorious in person. (Image: Newsquest)

If Swindon is famous for one thing to those who are from elsewhere in the country, it is for its roundabout, namely the iconic Magic Roundabout.

Upon arriving in Swindon, I realised I would not be disappointed on this front as I witnessed a plethora of connecting roads and even more roundabouts than I expected.

The Magic Roundabout is not quite as intimidating as others suggest however, especially when it is equipped with a small plastic Christmas tree.

Roads around Swindon however do see their fair share of accidents and they do happen more frequently than places I have previously lived in.

Supreme shopping

The Swindon Designer Outlet is a great spot to grab yourself a bargain. (Image: Newsquest)

There are several great places to shop in the area, including the fantastic McArthur Glen Swindon Designer Outlet centre which has many firm favourites when it comes to household brands.

Housed in the fantastic old building, the architecture alone is a reason to visit the location.

The same company have York Designer Outlet close to where I am from and I have visited their Cheshire Oaks branch as well several times, so I am familiar with the concept.

Bargains can be found easily and a simple way of having a day out is accessible to most which even includes pop royalty Midge Ure, who revealed to me that he does some of his shopping there.