* Have a population of at least 1,500 people.
* Have a charter of incorporation, which gives them certain rights and privileges, such as the ability to hold markets and fairs, and to elect a mayor and council.
* Are the seat of a diocese, or have been in the past.
Towns in the United Kingdom
* Do not have a charter of incorporation.
* Are not the seat of a diocese.
* Can be any size, but are typically smaller than cities.
In addition to these basic differences, there are also a number of other factors that can distinguish cities from towns in the United Kingdom. For example, cities are often more economically diverse and have a wider range of cultural and recreational activities than towns. Cities are also more likely to have public transportation systems and other infrastructure that supports a larger population.
Ultimately, the difference between a city and a town in the United Kingdom is a matter of degree. There is no clear-cut line that separates the two, and there are many communities that fall somewhere in between.