The best places to live in the UK

Saffron Walden in Essex tops a list of 72 locations in this year’s Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide, released online on Friday 21st March. Judges at The Sunday Times visited all the locations and assessed factors from schools to transport, broadband speeds and mobile signal to culture, as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street.

The Essex market town was praised for its “knockout” good looks. Saffron Walden’s appeal, according to the judges, lies in its blend of convenient commuter access to both London and Cambridge, high-performing state schools, and a thriving cultural scene. Find properties for sale in Saffron Walden.

Beyond Saffron Walden, The Sunday Times also identified standout locations across the UK. Here are the regional winners:

East: Chelmsford, Essex

This thriving city blends the convenience of urban living with countryside charm. With excellent schools, swift train connections to London, and a growing independent food and retail scene, Chelmsford is a top choice for families and commuters alike. Judges praised its schools and transport connections. Find properties for sale in Chelmsford.

London: Walthamstow

A vibrant, diverse, and artistic enclave in East London, Walthamstow offers a mix of period homes, trendy eateries, and the vast green spaces of Epping Forest. Walthamstow was described by judges as diverse, vibrant and cool without being frosty. Find properties for sale in Walthamstow.

Midlands: Ilmington, Warwickshire

Nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds, Ilmington offers a picturesque village lifestyle with excellent local amenities and a warm, welcoming community. Perched on the edge of the Cotswolds, Ilmington was described by the judges as a blissful example of village life as it should be. Find properties for sale in Ilmington.

North and North East: Ilkley, West Yorkshire

Ilkley continues to charm residents with its vibrant community spirit, sporting opportunities, and cultural appeal. Its scenic countryside location and high-quality schools make it a dream destination. The “get up and go” of the community and the sporting and cultural opportunities for young people impressed judges. Find properties for sale in Ilkley.

Northern Ireland: Dundrum, Co Down

Set against a stunning coastal backdrop, Dundrum was lauded for its thriving food scene, outdoor activities, and close proximity to Belfast’s energy and opportunities.The setting for Dundrum was described as magical, with a strong food scene and the buzz of Belfast not far away. Find properties for sale in County Down.

North West: Woolton, Liverpool

A leafy, family-friendly suburb of Liverpool, Woolton boasts excellent schools, abundant parks, and even a patch of woodland. Judges described it as a gloriously family-friendly place to put down roots, with excellent schools, parks and even a patch of woodland. Find properties for sale near Woolton.

South East: Petersfield, Hampshire

With its historic streets and the breathtaking South Downs on its doorstep, Petersfield offers an ideal balance of culture, countryside, and connectivity. There’s always something happening in this lively market town. Judges said there is always something happening in Petersfield’s historic streets, set against the backdrop of the South Downs countryside. Find properties for sale near Petersfield.

South West: The Chew Valley, Somerset

This rural haven in Somerset is not only beautiful but also home to a thriving network of sustainable businesses. Its picturesque landscapes and strong community feel make it an idyllic place to live. Judges said the area is a rural idyll and home to an impressive selection of forward-thinking, sustainable rural businesses. Find properties for sale in The Chew Valley.

Wales: Gower Peninsula, Swansea

The Gower Peninsula impressed judges with its thriving independent businesses and breathtaking natural beauty. Its “wilder corners” are becoming hubs for creativity, sustainability, and coastal living. Judges were impressed with cool, creative and sustainable independent businesses springing up in villages and hamlets in the “wilder corners of the peninsula”. Find properties for sale in Gower Peninsula.

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