IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic: Hometown

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Hometown is a topic that often comes up in the IELTS speaking part 1. Below you will find a list of some example questions and answers that you could encounter during part 1 of the IELTS Speaking test.

The questions below are based on the real IELTS speaking exam. They serve as a great IELTS Speaking Part 1 prediction questions to help you prepare better before your test.

Hometown Speaking Part 1 – Set 1

Where are you from?
I am from New Delhi, the capital city of India. It’s a deeply historic place where important political decisions are taken even today. The Prime Minister of the country as well as the President live here along with bureaucrats and decision makers.
Is your hometown a good place to live?
Well, I love Delhi but the air quality index has been getting out of hand lately, and I find myself unable to deal with the air pollution. I find masks suffocating so that’s not really an option. Most people are not even aware of the respiratory diseases they are living with.

Hometown Vocabulary Speaking Part 1 – Set 1

Air quality index – The Air Quality Index (AQI) is used for reporting daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted your air is, and what associated health effects might be a concern for you.
To get out of hand– to get difficult to control

Set 2

Where are you from?
I’m from a mountain district in Nepal called Solukhumbu but I live these days in the capital city of Kathmandu with my siblings.
Do you like your hometown? Why?
Absolutely! It is home to none other than Mount Everest, and every trekker has to make their way through the Solukhumbu region of Nepal if they plan to get to the base camp, or even attempt to scale the world’s highest mountain.

Set 3

What is your hometown known for?
The city of Madrid is the capital of Spain. It is known for the Royal Palaces and some incredible plazas, for example Plaza Mayor. It is steeped in history and lots of tourists come for weekend breaks.
What did they teach you about your hometown at school?
We learnt that it used to have a different name which was influenced by occupation by the Arabs. It only became the capital of Spain in the 17th century. It is made up of architecture from Christian and Moorish cultures.

Set 3 Vocabulary

steeped in (history) – completely full of
made up of – consists of

Set 4

What is your hometown famous for now?
My hometown was for many years just a port on the south coast but in the 1700s, during George the III’s reign, saltwater swimming became a health fad and people started coming to swim in the sea because of the sandy beach. Since then, it’s also become famous for tourism.

Set 4 Vocabulary

A Health fad – A new, popular but not always sensible trend in health

Set 5

Where are you from?
I´m from Denia, a town in Spain. It is between the cities of Valencia and Alicante. I go to the University of Valencia during the week and then at weekends I go back to my town to enjoy what it has to offer.
Describe your hometown.
My hometown is a medium-sized town located on the coast of Spain. It is very popular with tourists in the summer because of the hot climate, beautiful marina and great beaches. The town is vibrant and has lots of bars and restaurants.

Set 5 Vocabulary

vibrant – energetic and lively

Set 6

Where are you from?
I am from a small village in the South West of England. It is a close knit community, everybody knows everybody. In fact, most of my family live in the same village and it is handy to have your relatives so close by.
Did you enjoy growing up in your hometown?
When I was very young it was ideal as I had lots of fields and countryside to explore. When I became a teenager though, I felt trapped and wanted to go further afield, so I live in London now.

Set 6 Vocabulary

close knit (community) – closely connected to each other
handy – convenient (informal)
go further afield – to travel a longer distance

Set 7

Can you tell me about your hometown?
I am from Valencia, a city on the east coast of Spain. It is a beautiful city which attracts lots of tourists so it can be overcrowded in summer. The city centre has lots of historical buildings and architecture to see.

Set 7 Vocabulary

overcrowded – too many people in a place

Set 8

Where do you currently live?
At the moment, I live in Birmingham, in England. It’s a very big and diverse city, and there is a lot going on there.
What is your hometown famous for?
My hometown is famous for this dish6 called steak tartare, which is made with raw beef meat and sometimes a raw egg on top. Paris also has the reputation7 of being a very romantic city.

Set 8 Vocabulary

dish – food prepared in a specific way
reputation – what something or someone is known/famous for

Set 9

Describe your hometown.
My village is really tiny, there is a cafe, a post office, small shop and one pub. The buildings are historic and the views are breathtaking. It is quite far to the city so it can be a little isolating at times but I generally enjoy the peace and quiet.

Set 9 Vocabulary

breathtaking – astonishing, takes your breathe away

Set 10

Where do you live?
I live in Ireland, a town called Cork. My family moved there from Dublin a few years ago. It is a medium sized town so it has all the amenities you need. I enjoy living there as we used to live in a small place, so it is great to have more to do.
Is your hometown a good place to live?
I believe my town to be a fantastic place to live, the people are particularly amiable, the Irish have a reputation for being friendly. There are always things going on, particularly live music and events. This is quite different from the past when it was a dangerous place to live for young people.

Set 10 Vocabulary

amenities – a useful place or feature
amiable – friendly, kind

Set 11

Where is your hometown?
The town where I live is located in the East of England in Norfolk. It is close to the east coast and there are some wonderful beaches to visit. It is located close to the city also which is good for days out.
Is your hometown a good place to live for young people?
In my opinion, Norfolk is a brilliant place for kids and teenagers. For the younger children, there is the beach and lots of parks to enjoy the fresh air. For the older kids, there is a huge shopping centre, sports facilities and a skate park.

Set 12

Tell me about your hometown or where you live.
I am from a town called Kettering, in the Midlands in the UK. It is a medium size town located about an hour north of London, lots of people live there so they can commute to the city.
What is your hometown known for?
Kettering is well-known as a manufacturing town. It produces shoes and leather goods and the famous brand Dr Martin was founded there. Nowadays, a lot of the factories have closed down.

Set 12 Vocabulary

closed down – permanently closed

Set 13

Where are you from?
I am from Peterborough, a town in the midlands in the UK. I have lived there all my life and was brought up by my parents there. I work locally and live close to my friends and family.
Do you like your hometown?
Yes, in general it is a good place to live as it has all the amenities you would expect in a large town. There is a busy town centre with lots of high street shops, a cinema, an ice rink. Some areas are a bit rundown and need some investment to rejuvenate them.
Do you like living in an urban area?
It suits me to live in an urban place because I am a person who likes to be busy and take part in lots of activities. On any given weekend, you can find me running a marathon, shopping or having lunch in town.

Set 13 Vocabulary

brought up – nurtures and raised by parents
rundown – neglected
take part – participate

Set 14

Where are you from?
I´m from Bristol, a city in South West England. It is a huge city with a popular university and a lot of historical buildings. The area near the river is really cosmopolitan with lots of outdoor cafes, restaurants and bars. It really is a great spot.
Do you liWhere did you grow up?
I grew up in Exeter, about an hour from Bristol. It doesn´t have such a vibrant atmosphere as Bristol but it was a good place to grow up. I still regularly visit as I live close by and can get there by train quite easily.
Did you like that city?
I liked growing up in Exeter because I had friends there and we would go out together or hang out at each other’s houses. I have some fond memories of going out and meeting friends, meeting my first boyfriend and going to bars and discos.

Set 15

Where are you from?
I am from Corby, a small town in Northamptonshire in the UK. I was born there and live with my family, parents and my brother. Our house is in the town centre, a small terraced house with a garden.
Where do you live now?
I still live in my hometown of Corby, I can’t really imagine living anywhere else. It is a friendly place to live, we all live in each other’s pockets but not in a negative way.
What do you like about your hometown? Why?
I like the people, they really are friendly and most of my neighbours have a heart of gold and would do anything for anybody. It is a working class area which I think brings people together.
What do you like about your hometown? Why?
I like the people, they really are friendly and most of my neighbours have a heart of gold and would do anything for anybody. It is a working class area which I think brings people together.
What is your favorite place in your town?
My favourite place is the skatepark. I go there most weekends and hang out with friends, skating and watching others on their skateboards. It is a great place for young people to go without getting into trouble.
Can you see yourself living somewhere else in the future?
I have no plans to live anywhere else at the moment as all my friends and family and my school are in my town. If I do well at school, I might apply for university in another place. Then again, I probably won’t go as the cost of university has gone through the roof recently.

Set 15 Vocabulary

terraced – nurtures and raised by parents
in each others pockets – neglected
heart of gold – kind, generous
get into trouble – to do something bad and be punished
go through the roof – prices went up quickly

Set 16

Where are you from?
I am from Devon, a region in the south west of England. The area is very beautiful and has lots of coastline. I was born in a village called Beer where generations of my family have lived before.
Do you like the area?
Yes, I love living in Devon, it has some amazing scenery from walks in the hills to lovely sandy beaches. If you go to one of the bigger towns there is a lot to do; shops, cinemas and theatres. The region attracts lots of tourists from home and away because of its beauty.
Is it a good place for children to live?
In my opinion, it is a great place for children to grow up in because of the outside space, green areas and that can give a sense of freedom and safety. On the other hand, older children can feel that the village is dull, as a teenager I was sometimes bored out of my mind.

Set 16 Vocabulary

home and away – this country and abroad, other countries
bored out of my mind – very bored

Set 17

Where do you live now?
Since I graduated I have lived in London. I wanted to experience more of the world and I also met my husband in the UK so I have made the move long term. London is a great place to live, only the traffic gets on my nerves.
What would you change about your hometown? Why?
I would ban all cars and petrol vehicles from the city centre so that the city was completely green, quieter and less polluted. It would be nice to have even more pedestrian zones and green open spaces like parks and gardens that families and children can enjoy.

Set 17 Vocabulary

get on my nerves – annoying
green – not bad for the environment

Set 18

Where do you currently live?
I currently live in Lisbon, in a small studio apartment. I live by myself so the size is perfect for me.
What do you like most about your hometown?
History is at the heart of Lisbon, and I enjoy the plethora of cultural activities it offers. There are museums and old architecture in close proximity to where I live, which I thoroughly appreciate.

Set 18 Vocabulary

plethora – range

Set 19

Where are you from?
I am from Sheffield, in England. Sheffield is a large city in England and it is quite famous for having the world’s oldest football club, named Sheffield F.C..
Where do you currently live?
I live right outside of Sheffield, in a small village. It is a very accessible town. It has shops and restaurants and a local pub my partner and I are quite fond of.

Set 20

Where are you from?
I come from Rugby, in England. As the name suggests, it is the birthplace of the sport rugby, and it is the second largest town in the county of Warwickshire.
Where do you live at the moment?
I live currently live at home with my kinfolks. It is a medium-sized house, with four bedrooms, one bathroom, and a large living-room. I have been living there ever since we moved in three years ago.
Could you describe your hometown for me, please?
Absolutely. It is a very accessible town, with an amalgamation of Victorian and Tudor-looking architecture. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, as well as a variety of museums.

Set 20 Vocabulary

variety – (in this case) range

Set 21

Tell me about your hometown.
My hometown is in the north of Spain. It is called Santander. It is not a huge city, in fact its pulse is hassle-free enough for a welfare living but it is also an ideal place to socialise and hang out with friends.
How long have you lived there?
I lived there most of my life, for 26 years though it is not where I was born, but it is the spot where I was brought up.
Do you still live in your hometown?
Not really. I usually go there on holidays, because I still have my family living there. I have a house there so it is easy to travel to and spend some carefree days during special times of the year.
Why did you move?
I moved from my hometown during my late adolescence, to attend university, and then life brought me to different parts of Europe for studies first and then work.
Do you like the town where you live now?
Yes I do, but I still miss the mild weather and the tranquil lifestyle in my hometown, that´s why I always save some time to visit and relax.

Set 21 Vocabulary

Hassle-free – easy
Welfare – well being
Hang out – go out with friends
Brought up – to be educated
Carefree – untroubled
Adolescence – teenage years
Tranquil – relaxed

Set 22

Where are you from?
I live in London now but I am originally from Sorrento in Italy. I moved to London to study and to get some life experience and it is the best thing I have ever done. I get a little homesick sometimes but I am able to go home regularly.
Did you enjoy living in your hometown when you were a child?
Yes, I am from a large Italian family so when I was growing up we spent a lot of time together. Sorrento is a beautiful place and although I didn’t appreciate that as a child, I can see the appeal of it now. However, when I was younger there was plenty to do and lots of things to keep me occupied.

Set 22 Vocabulary

homesick – miss things from home, feel sad
the appeal of – the attraction of something

Set 23

Where are you from?
I am from Madrid, in Spain, Madrid is the capital city of Spain and it has world-famous attractions, such as the Prado Museum and the Puerta del Sol square.
Do you like the area you live in? Why?
I do! The area I live in is very central and close to restaurants and convenience stores. I couldn’t ask for more! I am very fortunate to be living on a very quiet street with little traffic. It helps me sleep like a log!
Are you familiar with many people in your area?
I have a few good friends living on my street. We cook together or invite each other for lunches and dinners every once in a while. They are good people. They are friendly and helpful.

Set 23 Vocabulary

I couldn’t ask for more – miss things from home, feel sad
sleep like a log – sleep very deeply and well
every once in a while – sometimes

Set 24

Where are you from?
I am from Sheffield, which is England’s fourth largest city. It was famous in the nineteenth century for producing steel, and it is consequently nicknamed the ‘Steel City’.
Where do you currently live?
I live in Chicago, Illinois, in the United States. Chicago is the third most populated city in the United States, and it has a skyline that stretches across Lake Michigan. It’s a stunning place.

Set 24 Vocabulary

consequently – as a result
nicknamed – given a friendly name
skyline – a view that includes land and buildings defined against the sky
stretches across – extends across
stunning – so beautiful it leaves people in awe of it

Set 25

Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Udaipur in Rajasthan which is possibly India’s most romantic city. It is a top destination with tourists especially French tourists.
Did you have a good childhood?
The best! I was privileged as a child and my parents and grand-parents pampered me because I was their first-born child. I was sent to school in a car with a chauffeur, and was given tons of pocket money to indulge myself in.

Set 25 Vocabulary

Indulge – allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of

Set 26

Do you work or study?
I have just completed my Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Punjab. These past few weeks I have been preparing for the IELTS exam.
Where are you from?
I currently live in a city called Chandigarh which is located to the north of Delhi. It is one of India’s best planned cities, designed by the French modernist architect Le Corbusier.

Set 27

Do you work or study?
I am a university student. I am in my second year of an economics course at a university in Berlin, Germany. When I graduate I hope to study for a Masters and get some work experience.
Where are you from?
I am from a town called Teltow in Germany. It is not far from Berlin but it is much smaller, I think the population is about 20,000 people. It is located close to the mountains and is a quiet tranquil place.

Set 28

Where are you from?
I am from Toulouse in France but it is close to the Spanish border. It is known as the ‘Pink City’ because of the color of the houses, they are built with terracotta bricks. It is large with almost half a million inhabitants.
Is it a good place to bring up children?
I think it is as there is lots to do and learn. I grew up visiting the museums and exploring the city. Children are encouraged to learn about art and culture. France is very family friendly – children are welcome in all places including bars and restaurants.

Set 29

Where are you from?
I´m from Edinburgh, in Scotland. It is famous for its lakes and mountains but also for traditional music and costumes, for example the checked kilt which is a skirt that men wear. It is also well known for its cold weather.
Is your city a good place to grow up?
Yes, I think it is a great place to grow up. There are lots of facilities; cinemas, shops, parks and a historic castle. I was brought up right in the city centre so it was easy to get to everything easily and visit friends and family.

Set 29 Vocabulary

checked kilt – a traditional, patterned Scottish skirt for men
brought up – to be educated and cared for

Set 30

Where are you from?
I am from Birmingham, a city in central England. I am living there and studying fashion at the university. It is a large city, the third largest in the UK. It is very multicultural and is up and coming as a place to live.
Did you grow up there?
No, I grew up in Poland until I was about 10 years old when my parents moved here as there were more work opportunities for migrants. It took a while to settle in and learn the language but I soon took to it like a duck to water.

Set 30 Vocabulary

up and coming – becoming more popular
like a duck to water – to adapt to something naturally

Set 31

Where are you from?
I am from Barcelona in Spain. It is a large city which is famous for the Sagrada Familia, an amazing cathedral and the artist Gaudi. It is a very cosmopolitan city with a lively atmosphere and plenty to do by the beach and in the city centre.
Do you work or study?
I work in a hotel in the city centre. It is a really busy job as lots of guests are coming and going all day long and I am in charge of checking them in and making sure they are happy. I have my hands full for sure.
Can you describe where you live?
I live in an apartment on the outskirts of Barcelona with my flatmate. It is quite small but we have a nice terrace to sit on during the summer. We live on the 10th floor of the block so we need to use a lift to get to the flat. Bareclona is very expensive so we can’t afford to live closer to the centre.
What can you see from your window?
We have an awesome view of the city of Barcelona from a distance, the rooftops and architecture look really stunning. There is a mix of modern and older buildings and it is relaxing to sit looking out.

Set 31 Vocabulary

to have (your) hands full – to be busy
on the outskirts – far from the city centre
stunning – beautiful

Set 32

Where do you live?
I live in Amsterdam in Holland, the Netherlands. It is located in Europe on the North Sea and is famous for the Rhine River. I was born and grew up in Holland and all my family and friends are here.
Do you like the area where you live?
I love Amsterdam, it has a really great buzz about the city and the people are really friendly. It is popular with city breakers because there is plenty to do like cycling by the rivers, shopping, sitting on the streets in cafes with your friends.
Is it a good place for families with children?
I think it is a fantastic place to bring up kids because the Netherlands are very family-friendly and Dutch children are ranked to be the happiest children in the world. There are lots of playgrounds and child friendly cafes and restaurants.
Do you wake up early everyday?
I wake up early during the week because I have to get to work by 8.30am. At the weekends, I prefer to be lazier and lie in until 9 or 10 o’clock. It is great to wake up and then go back to sleep for a snooze.

Set 32 Vocabulary

a great buzz – a good atmosphere
to be ranked – to be out in order
a snooze – to sleep for a short period

Set 33

Where are you from?
I am from Malaga, Spain. It is the area called the Costa del Sol or the sun coast. It is famous for traditional Spanish music called flamenco and the region has lots of festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
Where do you live now?
I have been living in London for the last 2 years whilst studying at university there. London is a great city to be a student as there are loads of things to do and it is an incredible place to live. I won’t be staying long term as property costs an arm and a leg and the cost of living is really high.
What do you like about your city?
I like the energy and the multicultural personality of the city; each area of the city has a different feeling and cultural influence. I love walking by the Thames river and seeing all the well known buildings on the skyline.

Set 33 Vocabulary

cost and arm and a leg – expensive

Set 34

Where are you from?
I am from New York City, in the United States of America. New York in a very multicultural metropolis with a rich history. It has renowned landmarks, such as the Empire State Building and Time Square.
Do you work or study?
I work as a bartender in a popular bar in Manhattan. I enjoy interacting with people and I consider the concoction of drinks an art form.
Where do you currently live?
I live in Manhattan. I rent an apartment with my best friend from college. We used to reside in a different area in the city, but we decided to move to Manhattan three years ago.
How do you like that area? Why?
We both like it very much! It is an incredibly busy area which means that there is never a dull moment there. It’s perfect for people who like to keep busy.
Do you know any people there?
We have befriended many people over the years we have lived there. We don’t have any family living there, but we have made many meaningful connections with people living there.

Set 34 Vocabulary

metropolis – large, busy city
renowned – famous
concoction – mix of elements or ingredients
reside – live in a place
never a dull moment – it’s never boring
befriended – made friends

Set 35

Where are you from?
I come from Oslo, in Norway. Oslo is a metropolis and the capital city of Norway. It is a very popular tourist destination in Northern Europe.
Do you work or are you a student?
I study ancient history at university. I have always been fascinated by the subject, and even as child, I remember being enthralled by stories relating to such time period.
Where do you currently live?
I currently live in the suburbs of Oslo, with my family. My kinfolks consist of my parents and my two younger siblings. We live in a medium-size house in a lovely neighbourhood.
Could you describe this place to me, please?
Yes. It is quite spacious and my siblings and I have our own rooms, which is great, as we can sometimes be lonely wolves and need our space. We have a nice big kitchen and two bathrooms, which makes getting ready in the morning a lot more manageable.

Set 35 Vocabulary

metropolis – large, busy city
enthralled – captivated with fascination
kinfolks – relatives, family members
lonely wolves – people who like to be alone

Set 36

Where are you from?
I come from Casablanca, in Morocco. Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and a very popular tourist destination. One can enjoy delicious gastronomy and the beautiful scenery the city has to offer.
Are you a student or do you work?
I work as a waiter in a restaurant in Casablanca. I love the social interaction with local customers and visitors. Our restaurant welcomes visitors from all over the world, and I love to gain insight into the world through engaging in conversations with them.
What do you like most about your hometown?
I enjoy walking around the streets and hearing people speak different languages. It is also great to see their reactions to what they see around. It provides me with a fresh outlook on my own city!
Do you think that rules ensure safety?
I believe that that is their intended purpose, but I also think that rules are a double-edged sword, in the sense that they can be interpreted and used in helpful or harmful ways.

Set 36 Vocabulary

engaging in conversations – talking
fresh outlook – new perspective
intended purpose – what it is supposed to do
double-edged sword – it has two generally opposing sides

Set 37

Where are you from?
I come from Washington D.C., in the United States of America. It is the capital city of that country, and, unlike other cities, it does not belong to any state. It is its own entity.
How long have you been living in that city?
I have been living in Washington D.C. for about four years now. I truly love living in this city.
Could you describe that place to me?
Yes, of course. It has beautiful architecture and many historical sites. I teared up a little when I saw the Lincoln National Memorial for the first time. There is a myriad of history museums, as well.
What do you find most special about this place?
I just love the diversity and the museums around here. The culture of this place matches my outlook on life and my personal views on the world. There is so much access to knowledge and art, which I very much appreciate.

Set 37 Vocabulary

teared up – had tears in my eyes
myriad – range
outlook – way of interpreting or seeing something

Set 38

Where are you from?
I am from Denver, Colorado, in the United States of America. Fever is the capital city of Colorado and it is situated in the north of the state, and it is home to the football team the Denver Broncos.
Do you have a job or do you study?
I am a Sports student at university. Sports have always given me a sense of accomplishment, and they help get rid of negative energy and restlessness. They are also, of course, and excellent way of keeping healthy.
Where do you live now?
I live in Denver in a studio flat. I enjoy living by myself, as I can sometimes be a bit of a lone wolf. I appreciate the independence I get from living alone.
How long have you been living in that flat?
I have been residing there for the past two years. It’s conveniently close to grocery stores and not too far from my university. I plan to stay there for the duration of the course.

Set 38 Vocabulary

situated – located
a sense of accomplishment – feeling pride of one’s work
lone wolf – someone who likes to be alone

Set 39

Where are you from?
I am from Rome, in Italy. Rome is Italy’s capital city and it is a highly touristic city. It is globally famous for being home to the historic Colosseum.
What do you do?
I am a restaurant manager in Rome. I enjoy working in fast-paced environments and you won’t find me clock-watching! I thoroughly enjoy attending to people’s needs and supporting team members where needed.
Where do you currently live?
I live in a house with my wife and our two children. Our house is quite spacious, however not overwhelmingly big. We have a lovely garden where we enjoy spending time on a sunny day.
Where is your favourite place to go around Rome?
There is a small coffee shop mg family loves to go to. The owner immediately broke the ice when we went there the first time, and has become a good friend of ours ever since.
Is there a place you would like to visit someday?
Yes! My family and I would love to realise our dream of going to London in England. We would love to see Big Ben and the Tower of London. My wife is a Shakespeare aficionado, and a trip to the Globe Theatre would be incredible.
Do you have plans for this visit?
The plan has been in the making for a couple of years now. We have been saving money to ensure we could travel comfortably, and we have researched all the sites we are interested in, as well as accommodation options.

Set 39 Vocabulary

globally – around the world, throughout the world
clock-watching – being lazy
realise our dream – make our dreams come true
in the making – in progress