It’s well known these days that choosing where to live is all about location, location, location. The most gorgeous mansion is worth diddly-squat if it’s in the middle of a disgusting swamp, unless of course you are Shrek. If you’re on the move at the moment and trying to decide where to go, you’re in luck.
Furniture company Furniture Box has done some research into what the best places to live in the UK. The study surveyed 5,000 people across the nation and asked them a series of questions about stuff like the quality of their green spaces, schools, and independent shops, pubs and restaurants. Then, Furniture Box put it all together to determine the most pleasant place in the UK.
And the gold goes to… Stratford-upon-Avon! The historical town, best known for birthing the Bard himself, is more than just the home of Shakespeare. It’s also full of great state schools and cute places to eat and drink. According to Furniture Box it is ‘a thriving community flanked by the beautiful river Avon’, ideal for families, or anyone looking to live a slightly slower life, with the added bonus of constant access to the newest production of Macbeth. All in all, it’s got a lot going for it.
Second was Harrogate in Yorkshire, which was also named the best place in the country for a staycation back in September. The reasons that it makes for such a nice weekend way are the same as the ones which make it such a lovely place to live – its picturesque architecture, abundance of green spaces, and spas. Lots of spas. It’s no wonder they’re so relaxed.
Closing out the top three was Whitley Bay, a small village just north of Newcastle. Whilst the weather might not always be ideal for swimming, living by the water is always a good idea if you’re looking for tranquillity. Pair that with this town’s excellent schools, and you’re onto a winner.
The main thing to take away from this is that people in smaller places seem to be more content, as only a few city neighbourhoods were in the top 70. You can find where London neighbourhoods ranked here, have a look at the full list here to see if your hometown made the cut, or to choose where exactly to begin your new, happier life.
Staycations according to Time Out
Stratford-upon-Avon and Harrogate may be ideal, but they aren’t the only places worth visiting in the UK. Here’s our favourite UK road trips, and some of what we consider to be the most beautiful places in the country. We’ve also got guides to the most romantic locations in the UK, and some pretty cool castles you can stay overnight in.
Did you see that Glastonbury is changing its booking process this year? Here’s everything you need to know.
Plus: could Edinburgh Zoo’s cute new pygmy hippo be the next Moo Deng?
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.