Where should I move in England?

Hello,
My friend and I will be moving to England, temporarily for a year, and we were looking to live in the southwest. We are just under 30, so we would like a place that has good nightlife and shopping, but not an expensive town. I was looking in the Swindon area, but I'm not sure what Swindon has to offer. We just don't want to be in a town with nothing to do. We are from Hamilton, ON and there's always plenty to do here. We like sports, outdoor activities, clubs, pubs, and other sources of entertainment. Any comments or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!

I was wondering if anyone knew a good website for finding a flat, besides gumtree?

I would recommend Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Nottingham etc.
Travel.justluxe adviser

Move to Bristol - its the best place in the Southwest, lively, arty, sporty, lots of nightlife, great shopping etc. Let me know how you get on, I live here and would love to know what you think of it!!!!

Katie

PS - MOVE TO SWINDON AT YOUR PERIL! It will be the worse thing you do!!

-- Tue Sep 08, 2009 5:37 pm --

Move to Bristol - its the best place in the Southwest, lively, arty, sporty, lots of nightlife, great shopping etc. Let me know how you get on, I live here and would love to know what you think of it!!!!

Katie

PS - MOVE TO SWINDON AT YOUR PERIL! It will be the worse thing you do!!