We all strive to be happy in life, and although this looks different for everyone, where we live can significantly impact our happiness levels.
Certain areas may be better equipped than others to help us pursue the lives we want. Plus, different communities have different values, which may or may not match up with our own.
With this in mind, we’ve taken a closer look at 20 of the happiest places to live in Great Britain, as determined by Rightmove’s 2024 Happy at Home Index survey (responded to by over 35,000 people). The survey was based on 15 happiness factors, including togetherness, access to green spaces, and a sense of belonging.
We hope this article will offer some inspiration if you’re thinking about moving.
Note: The places listed within this article were determined by Rightmove’s 2024 Happy at Home Index survey results, in which over 35,000 people gave their thoughts about their area. These 20 locations were found to be the happiest based on 15 happiness factors. However, we appreciate that there are lots of other happy places to live throughout Great Britain and that everyone has different ideas about what they’d be looking for from an area.
Contents
- Woodbridge, East of England
- Richmond upon Thames, Greater London
- Hexham, North East England
- Monmouth, Wales
- Harrogate, Yorkshire and the Humber
- Skipton, Yorkshire and the Humber
- Sevenoaks, South East England
- Leigh-on-Sea, East of England
- Cirencester, South West England
- Wokingham, South East England
- Winchester, South East England
- Stirling, Scotland
- Stratford-upon-Avon, West Midlands
- Horsham, South East England
- Kendal, North West England
- Kensington and Chelsea, Greater London
- Chorley, North West England
- Hove, South East England
- Wandsworth, Greater London
- Hitchin, East of England
1. Woodbridge, East of England
Woodbridge is described as one of the ‘gems’ in Suffolk’s crown and is known for having a real buzz about it. Praised for its arty, historic atmosphere – this riverside town is a hive of activity while still managing to maintain a laid-back, holiday vibe.
Woodbridge has a nautical history of making sails, ropes, and boats – for example, Sir Francis Drake’s fighting ships were built here. Today, wild swimming is popular in Woodbridge’s River Deben and many residents also enjoy a quiet stroll along its banks while admiring the classic, working Tide Mill (and perhaps even spotting the occasional seal!).
Markets are popular in this port and market town, too, and whether you want to go antique shopping, purchase a tailored suit, or enjoy a hearty pub lunch, Woodbridge has a huge choice of independent shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Woodbridge is the safest small town in Suffolk and the average property price is £434,627.
2. Richmond upon Thames, Greater London
It’s not difficult to see why Richmond upon Thames ranks so highly. Set by a lovely stretch of the River Thames, it’s home to some of our island’s most incredible natural spaces – including Kew Gardens, Richmond Park, and Bushy Park (the latter two are home to hundreds of deer!).
This makes it a tranquil escape from some of the busier areas of London, yet there’s still a good offering of modern restaurants, charismatic cafes, unique shops, and local sports clubs. And, if you want more, central London is easily accessible by train.
Richmond is one of the most affluent areas in London, so average property prices are around £951,780 – with flats selling at an average price of £569,897 (according to Rightmove data). It’s also considered to be the second safest London borough.
3. Hexham, North East England
Hexham is a market town and civil parish set on the banks of Northumberland’s River Tyne and has a strong community feel.
Despite falling slightly down the list since 2021 when it took first place, Hexham remains popular.
Residents benefit from the town’s abundance of green spaces, including Sele Park, the stunning grounds of Hexham house, and the lush, floral gardens near the town centre. Plus, Hexham’s independent shops, colourful nightlife, and magnificent architecture create a unique culture.
If you like fishing, golf, river walks, art, and cinema, you’ll find all of that here – amongst much more. The Hexham Book Festival and the Hexham Gathering (which celebrates the town’s traditional music and dance) are two annual events you won’t want to miss.
Hexham also has a fascinating history of marauding Vikings and is the gateway to Hadrian’s Wall, which adds to its charm.
The average price for a property in Hexham is around £284,326 and, according to Crime Rate, it’s the second safest small town in Northumberland.
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4. Monmouth, Wales
The picturesque town of Monmouth is located two miles from the English-Welsh border, where the River Monnow joins the River Wye (which is a designated Area of Outstanding National Beauty).
As well as its fabulous country pubs, quaint shops on chocolate-box streets, and the iconic 13th-century gatehouse bridge, Monmouth also has an interesting music scene. Queen, Oasis, and Simple Minds all had connections here, and the town hosts an annual summer music festival.
Monmouth has been named the UK’s first Bee Town, following their excellent work on making the town a better place for these pollinators to live.
A potential drawback to living here is that Monmouth doesn’t have a train station, so residents are reliant on cars and buses to get around.
According to Crime Rate, Monmouth is among the 10 safest small towns in the county of Gwent. Meanwhile, the average price of property in the area is £314,348.
5. Harrogate, Yorkshire and the Humber
Famed for its delicious cream teas, indulgent Turkish baths, well-kept gardens, and relaxing spas, Harrogate is a pretty Yorkshire town located between Leeds, York, and the spectacular Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Evidence of the town’s Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian history can be seen in much of its elegant housing. Harrogate has a buzzing social scene, too, with plenty of theatre shows and live music.
Aside from its neighbouring countryside, Harrogate is home to The Stray, a 200-acre green space with Grade II listed Valley Gardens and amazing blossom trees. Also nearby is the extraordinary RHS Harlow Botanical Gardens.
In 2022, Harrogate was named the safest place in the UK for new families and the average property price currently stands at £379,863.
6. Skipton, Yorkshire and the Humber
Skipton is a market town in the county of North Yorkshire, to the north west of Leeds. With a population of just 15,000, it’s known for its beauty and charming atmosphere.
Considered the ‘Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’, Skipton is popular amongst hikers and cyclists who come here to take in the beauty of the Dales, connect with nature, and stay fit. Though, whatever your fitness level, you’ll have one of the prettiest areas in the country on your doorstep to explore.
Alongside a High Street filled with unique shops, Skipton is famous for its market which runs four days a week and sells a delightful selection of tasty treats, clothing, and crafted gifts – and you’ll get to experience the locals’ friendly nature.
At the end of the High Street, you’ll reach the majestic Skipton Castle. With dungeons, a watch tower, and over 900 years of history, this is one of England’s best-preserved medieval castles.
Skipton’s crime rates are 27% lower than in wider North Yorkshire, and property prices average £252,900 making it one of the more affordable options on this list.
7. Sevenoaks, South East England
Stepping off the train in Sevenoaks, you might be surprised to find such a bucolic oasis just 30 minutes from London Bridge. Due to its great location, lush surroundings, and warm community spirit, this quintessential English town is consistently voted one of the best places to live in the UK.
There’s plenty to do in the surrounding area. History buffs can visit the historic homes of Winston Churchill and Anne Boleyn: the stately Chartwell House and ivy-clad Hever Castle. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot wild fallow deer at Knole Estate or soaring birds of prey at Eagle Heights Wildlife Park. Or why not take a tasting tour of the many scenic wineries nearby?
Though, with plenty to do in the town itself, you won’t have to venture into the surrounding countryside if you don’t want to. There are cultural spots like the Stag, an arts centre complete with a theatre and two cinema screens. There’s also a literary festival each summer, which has boasted fantastic guests like Elizabeth Strout and Dame Harriet Walter.
And with plenty of independent cafes, cosy pubs, and an eclectic mix of eateries, there are plenty of places to catch up with friends – or even make new ones. Average asking price for buyers in Sevenoaks is £881,061, while average monthly rent sits at £2,924.
8. Leigh-on-Sea, East of England
If you feel happiest by the sea, why not consider moving to Leigh-on-Sea? This charming seaside town in Essex has become an increasingly popular place to live, with a steady stream of Londoners relocating here over the years.
Home to bustling bars, characterful coffee shops, and brunch spots set in beachside surroundings, it’s easy to see why this seaside town is one of the happiest places to live – and one of the coolest, too. Among its popular eateries, The Stop the World Cafe is a firm favourite and has won multiple Good Food Awards.
In Old Leigh you can wander along the cobblestone streets of a once busy fishing port, settle down in a cosy pub, stop off at authentic cockle sheds, and gaze out at idyllic sea views.
Train services to London run regularly throughout the day and take between 50 and 70 minutes. Plus, conveniently placed on the London, Tilbury, and Southend line, Leigh-on-Sea has handy links to nearby areas like Southend, Chelmsford, Benfleet, and London Stansted.
The town is ranked among the 10 safest small towns in Essex. Properties here have an average price of £459,790.
9. Cirencester, South West England
Cirencester is a historic market town located in the Cotswolds (which is an Area of Outstanding National Beauty). It’s surrounded by beautiful countryside, including rolling hills, emerald forests, and postcard-worthy villages that dot the landscape.
The town itself has several parks and green spaces – such as Cirencester Park and Abbey Grounds – which provide plenty of opportunity for outdoor activities and connecting with nature.
Cirencester has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several historic buildings, museums, and art galleries. The Corinium Museum houses an extensive collection of Roman artefacts, while the Parish Church of St. John Baptist is one of the largest medieval churches in the country. This cultural heritage provides a strong tether to the past, which can be felt as you stroll through the town and is a source of pride for many residents.
There’s also a lively social scene here, with a range of events held throughout the year – including the Cotswold Show which showcases the best of local food, drink, and crafts.
The town has a low crime rate and is considered a safe place to live. Average property prices are £364,592.
10. Wokingham, South East England
Wokingham is a picturesque market town and civil parish in Berkshire which was reported to have the best living conditions in the UK in 2021.
Community is important here, so whether residents are browsing the independent shops on the high street or going for a stroll in the surrounding countryside, there’s a nice sense of town spirit. With some lovely tea shops, pretty ponds, and Nirvana Spa’s spring water pools, there’ll be plenty to keep you busy.
Those interested in history will appreciate the town’s Tudor past as a silk producer, and you can visit Rose Street where some of the houses involved in this industry still stand.
Wokingham has low crime levels, and average property prices sit at £523,532.
11. Winchester, South East
Set in the heart of Hampshire and offering its residents the best of both city and country life, it’s easy to see why Winchester features on this list. Just an hour from London via train, and with the South Downs National Park on its doorstep, it really caters to everyone.
Foodies will be well served as this is a county well-known for its fresh and tasty local produce. There are frequent food festivals here, too – including the Alresford Watercress Festival in May which hosts an annual Watercress Eating Championship!
Hampshire boasts many charming vineyards – including Hambledon, Exton Park, and Grange – where you can enjoy award-winning sparkling wine.
Winchester is also a city of culture and history. It was England’s capital during the reign of King Alfred ‘The Great’ and you can learn about its fascinating past in the Winchester City Museum and Winchester Cathedral. Winchester’s Great Hall is also home to King Arthur’s famous Round Table.
House prices here sit around £597,365 on average.
12. Stirling, Scotland
If you like city life but would prefer to live somewhere with more of a community feel, then Scotland’s central city of Stirling could be the place for you.
Not only is there no shortage of cultural celebrations and small local fetes throughout the year, but Stirling is also at the heart of Scottish history. This is reflected in some of its top attractions – including The National Wallace Monument, Stirling Castle (which has been attacked or besieged at least 16 times), the Old Town Jail, and The Church of Holy Rude.
If you enjoy being active, you’ll have the choice of an ice rink, climbing wall, two swimming pools, a fully-equipped gym, and ample green spaces.
Located on the River Forth, Stirling is 37 miles northwest of Edinburgh and 26 miles northwest of Glasgow, and its railway station offers easy transport to other Scottish cities.
The average property price in Stirling is £229,607.
A lifetime of magical holidays awaits...
Become an HPB Bondholder and unlock a lifetime of extraordinary holidays. Enjoy not just exceptional facilities – like swimming pools, gyms, and saunas – but breath-taking locations too. From a restored Franciscan friary in beautiful Anglesey, to spectacular clifftop holiday village in Madeira, unforgettable holidays await you year after year. With over 1,500 properties in more than 30 exclusive UK and European destinations, HPB offers a refreshing, stress-free approach to the way you plan and enjoy your breaks.
Your return is in holidays but like most investments, your capital is at risk. You may surrender your investment after two years (subject to deferral), though you will receive less than you invested due to charges and changes in the value of the fund’s assets. Initial payment of £5,000, quarterly fee of under £38 (around £150 annually), can increase in line with but not exceed RPIX, gives access to all HPB holiday homes. For each holiday pay a no-profit user charge covering property maintenance and facility use, average weekly costs around £372 for a studio, £569 for a two-bedroom property. Larger properties also available. After a 25% initial charge your money is invested in a fund of holiday properties and securities, which meets annual charges of 2.5% of net assets, calculated monthly. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited authorised by FCA, registered at HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH. HPB available exclusively through HPBM. Product issued by HPB Assurance Limited, registered in the Isle of Man regulated by FSA. Policyholders not covered by the UK FSCS, but Isle of Man compensation arrangements apply.
13. Stratford-upon-Avon, West Midlands
With over 800 years of history, wandering through the market town of Stratford-upon-Avon can feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Set on the tranquil banks of the River Avon, this picturesque town is home to a large collection of well-preserved Tudor buildings, which add to its timeless charm.
Known for being the birthplace of legendary playwright William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a haven for literature lovers. A trip to his family home, as well as Anne Hathaway’s Cottage (the charming farmhouse where his wife grew up), is an unforgettable rite of passage.
Given its rich cultural heritage, it’s perhaps unsurprising that Stratford-upon-Avon boasts three theatres, providing plenty of options for memorable evenings out. The medieval town also offers excellent shopping and a variety of dining experiences. At Christmas, the streets come alive with over 200 stalls, making it one of the largest and most festive Christmas markets in the West Midlands.
The average property price in Stratford-upon-Avon is £409,333.
14. Horsham, South East England
Sitting pretty on the upper reaches of the River Arun in West Sussex, the town of Horsham was also ranked highly by Rightmove. Its location – 31 miles south of London and 19 miles north of Brighton – which offers excellent rail links, is arguably the one reason for this. But this historic market town has plenty more to offer.
One of Horsham’s most charming streets is the Causeway, home to characterful half-timbered houses, the elegant St Mary’s Church, and a local museum. Strolling down here offers fascinating insights into Horsham’s past. Piries Place, on the flipside, is the modern side of town, boasting an Everyman Cinema and a whole range of buzzing bars and restaurants.
There’s also a bustling market every Saturday where you can try Sussex produce, tuck into food and drink, and pick up souvenirs from local vendors. The surrounding countryside is perfect for walking, and there are many beautiful gardens within easy reach – as well as the South Downs and, of course, the coast.
The average house price is £458,641. While the crime rate is higher than many other towns in West Sussex, it’s still ranked low compared to other local districts in England and Wales.
15. Kendal, North West England
If you’re looking for a mix of town and country, why not think about moving to Kendal in Cumbria? Often called the ‘Gateway to the Lakes’, Kendal offers the luxury of bordering not one but two of the UK’s most magnificent national parks – the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales. And the town’s sloping streets mean that views of lush green meadows are never far away.
There’s plenty to do here all year round; whether you decide to browse the market and boutique shops or delve into Kendals’ rich history that dates back to Roman times with a visit to some of the area’s fantastic museums, castles, and gardens.
Kendal also benefits from fantastic road and rail links that make commuting close by and further afield easy.
The crime rate here is slightly lower than the rest of Cumbria, and sits below the national average. Kendal’s average asking price for properties is £260,374.
16. Kensington and Chelsea, Greater London
Renowned as London’s quintessential affluent borough, Kensington and Chelsea is well-known for the success, sophistication, and charm that its streets attract.
It’s extremely well-connected and takes an average of just 30 minutes to travel into Central London. But it’s also filled with beautiful green spaces and inviting parks, the largest of which is Holland Park – so there are plenty of opportunities to escape the business of city life, too.
Those in need of some retail therapy will be in their element here as the borough is home to Harrods, one of the most famous department stores in the world. Various other shopping hotspots like Sloane Square, Brompton Road, and Kensington High Street are nearby, too.
However, the allure and reputation of Kensington and Chelsea does come at a price. It’s one of London’s most expensive boroughs, with an average property price of £1,891,992. Perhaps surprisingly, Kensington and Chelsea is among the top 10 most dangerous London boroughs and has a crime rate higher than the national average.
17. Chorley, North West England
Chorley, a picturesque market town in Lancashire, boasts beautiful parkland, historic houses, and excellent shopping. Nestled at the foot of the West Pennine Moors, it’s an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The town offers a wealth of exciting events to get involved in, including the award-winning Chorley Flower Show, an annual literary festival, as well as live music and theatre. Plus, for those who’d like to be near the excitement of a big city, you’re less than an hour from Manchester.
Chorley is best known for its popular markets which date back to 1498. Wander through the town centre on a Tuesday and you’ll be able to browse over 100 stalls selling everything from fresh food and clothes to unique crafts. You can also look forward to tucking into Chorley cakes (flat, fruit-filled pastry treats) at the annual Chorley Cake Street Fair. They pair well with a cup of tea!
Average house prices were around £208,393 over the last year.
18. Hove, South East England
If you’ve always dreamt of living by the sea, why not consider moving to Hove in East Sussex? While neighboring Brighton may be more well-known, Hove offers the same beachside charm, but without the crowds. Picture colourful beach huts, pebble beaches, and elegant townhouses.
There’s plenty to do here, too. Visit the family-friendly Hove Museum of Creativity, try your hand at watersports at Hove Lagoon, explore the independent shops and boutiques – or, head to the beach! When it comes to food, there’s a range of lively pubs, snazzy restaurants, and casual cafes to satisfy every diet and preference. If you’re in the mood for a classic seaside treat, enjoy fish and chips followed by a Mr Whippy with a flake.
Plus, with vibrant, energetic Brighton on your doorstep, you’ll also have access to its historic pier, chic Marina, and the winding alleys of The Lanes. But when the hustle and bustle gets too much, you can head back to the calmer, more leisurely feel of upmarket Hove.
Over the past year, house prices in Hove averaged £547,862.
19. Wandsworth, Greater London
If you’re torn between the on-your-doorstep possibilities of a big city and the community feel of a country village, Wandsworth could be a great location for you. Despite its metropolitan location, this London borough is praised by residents for its warm, small-town vibe; scenic riverside location; and fantastic transport links to the rest of the capital and surrounding areas.
But, perhaps most of all, it’s lauded for its bounty of green spaces. As well as gorgeous paths along the River Wandle, residents are a stone’s throw from the wide-open fields of Wandsworth Common and the regal, tree-lined pathways of Battersea Park. Wandsworth is also considered one of the safest inner London Boroughs.
When you aren’t exploring the area’s leafy spaces and quaint high street, all the possibilities of London are at your fingertips. Head to the West End for dinner and a musical, make the most of world-class museums and galleries, or hunt for treasures in the bazaars of Camden and Borough Markets. There are enough unique experiences here to last a lifetime.
Average asking prices for properties in Wandsworth stand at £865,205 – while typical monthly rent is just over three grand.
20. Hitchin, East of England
This picturesque market town in North Hertfordshire is the perfect blend of countryside bliss and thriving community living.
The town centre has an old-world feel, with delightful Tudor revival shopfronts, traditional lamposts, and snaking cobblestone roads. Here, you’ll find a mix of high-street chains and independent boutiques and restaurants – plus the biggest open-air market in the county, which runs four days a week and features over 150 stalls.
The surrounding area is one of vibrant lavender fields, rolling chalk hills, and grassland nature reserves. So whether you want to spot wildlife or get some exercise, there’s plenty of natural scenery on your doorstep. However, hop on a train and you can be in central London in just over half an hour, so you don’t have to sacrifice metropolitan convenience for rural charm.
Average asking price for buyers in Hitchin is £510,612, while average monthly rent sits at £1,730.
A lifetime of magical holidays awaits...
Become an HPB Bondholder and unlock a lifetime of extraordinary holidays. Enjoy not just exceptional facilities – like swimming pools, gyms, and saunas – but breath-taking locations too. From a restored Franciscan friary in beautiful Anglesey, to spectacular clifftop holiday village in Madeira, unforgettable holidays await you year after year. With over 1,500 properties in more than 30 exclusive UK and European destinations, HPB offers a refreshing, stress-free approach to the way you plan and enjoy your breaks.
Your return is in holidays but like most investments, your capital is at risk. You may surrender your investment after two years (subject to deferral), though you will receive less than you invested due to charges and changes in the value of the fund’s assets. Initial payment of £5,000, quarterly fee of under £38 (around £150 annually), can increase in line with but not exceed RPIX, gives access to all HPB holiday homes. For each holiday pay a no-profit user charge covering property maintenance and facility use, average weekly costs around £372 for a studio, £569 for a two-bedroom property. Larger properties also available. After a 25% initial charge your money is invested in a fund of holiday properties and securities, which meets annual charges of 2.5% of net assets, calculated monthly. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited authorised by FCA, registered at HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH. HPB available exclusively through HPBM. Product issued by HPB Assurance Limited, registered in the Isle of Man regulated by FSA. Policyholders not covered by the UK FSCS, but Isle of Man compensation arrangements apply.
Final thoughts…
We hope that you’ve enjoyed this list of the 20 happiest places to live in Great Britain, according to Rightmove’s 2024 Happy at Home Index survey.
Though this list focuses on the survey results, we appreciate that there are lots of other happy places to live and that everyone has different ideas about what they’d be looking for from an area.
For more inspiration for your next move, you might like to check our articles: 14 of the best places to retire in the UK and 9 of the most beautiful places to live in the UK.
Or, if you’re interested in visiting these parts of the country, why not browse UK staycation deals below?
Do you live in any of these areas? Are there any other areas that you’d include on this list? Would you consider moving to any of these areas? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.