Here's a breakdown:
* Ceremonial Counties: These are historical, geographical divisions used mainly for ceremonial purposes. There are 48 ceremonial counties in England. They are often used for local government and for identifying areas for certain purposes.
* Non-metropolitan counties: These are a type of local government area, typically smaller than ceremonial counties. They have their own councils and manage services like education and social care.
* Metropolitan counties: These are large urban areas with their own councils and services. There are 6 metropolitan counties in England.
* Unitary authorities: These are local government areas that are independent of county councils. They are responsible for all services within their boundaries.
It's important to remember:
* The term "county" can be used in different ways, so it's important to understand the context.
* The borders of counties can change over time, so it's always best to check the most up-to-date information.
Beyond Counties:
England is also divided into:
* Regions: These are larger geographical areas, often used for economic planning. There are 9 regions in England.
* Local authority districts: These are the smallest units of local government. They are responsible for managing services at the local level.
Understanding the different ways England is divided is important for understanding local government, geography, and history.