We all strive to be happy in life, and although this looks different for everyone, where we live can significantly impact our happiness.
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 with our own.
Here, we’ve explored 20 of the happiest places to live in Great Britain, using Rightmove’s 2024 and 2025 Happy at Home Index surveys (responded to by over 19,000 people). These surveys were based on several 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
- Skipton, Yorkshire and the Humber
- Richmond upon Thames, Greater London
- Camden, Greater London
- Harrogate, Yorkshire and the Humber
- Woodbridge, East of England
- Altrincham, North West England
- Macclesfield, North West England
- Stirling, Scotland
- Cirencester, South West England
- Hexham, North East England
- Monmouth, Wales
- Sevenoaks, South East England
- Leigh-on-Sea, East of England
- Wokingham, South East England
- Winchester, South East England
- Stratford-upon-Avon, West Midlands
- Horsham, South East England
- Kendal, North West England
- Kensington and Chelsea, Greater London
- Chorley, North West England
1. Skipton, Yorkshire and the Humber
Skipton is a market town in the county of North Yorkshire, to the northwest of Leeds. With a population of just over 15,000, it’s known for its beauty and charm.
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 keep active. But, whatever your fitness level, you’ll be able to explore one of the country’s prettiest areas right on your doorstep.
Alongside a High Street filled with unique shops, Skipton’s famous market runs four days a week and sells a delightful selection of tasty treats, clothing, and crafted gifts, where you can mix with friendly locals.
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 rate is 25% lower than in wider North Yorkshire, and house prices average £285,744, making it one of this list’s more affordable options.
2. Richmond upon Thames, Greater London
It’s easy 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 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’re looking for more, central London is easily accessible by train.
Richmond is one of the most affluent areas in London, so average house prices are around £884,335, with flats selling at an average of £537,686 (according to Rightmove data). It’s also considered to be the second safest London borough.
3. Camden, Greater London
Creative, vibrant, and diverse, it’s perhaps no surprise that Camden has landed in third place in Rightmove’s 2025 rankings.
This London borough features renowned locations, including Camden Lock and Stables Market, where you can dive headfirst into bustling street food stalls and vintage clothing shops.
Music lovers can also get acquainted with the legendary Electric Ballroom, which has hosted iconic bands, such as The Clash, The Killers, and Joy Division. And, for literature, history, and art enthusiasts, there’s the Charles Dickens Museum, the Camden People’s Museum and the contemporary Camden Art Centre.
However, this location is more than a tourist hotspot. With 43% green space, residents can escape the dense city feel with strolls around Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill. There really is something for almost everyone in this slice of the capital.
That said, it’s worth noting that Camden’s overall crime rate in 2025 was 35% higher than London’s average. House prices over the last year also average £1,164,221, with a monthly private rent coming in at around £2,743.
4. 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 between Leeds, York, and the spectacular Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Evidence of the town’s Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian history is in much of its elegant housing. Harrogate also has a buzzing social scene, with many theatre shows and live music events.
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 Carr Botanical Gardens.
In 2022, Harrogate was named the safest place in the UK for new families and remains the safest major town in North Yorkshire in 2026. Average house prices currently stand at £402,827.
5. Woodbridge, East of England
Described as one of the ‘gems’ in Suffolk’s crown, Woodbridge is known for its buzz. Praised for its arty, historic atmosphere, this riverside town is a hive of activity while still maintaining 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 spotting the occasional seal!).
Markets are popular in this port and market town, too, and whether you’d like 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 among the top 10 safest small towns in Suffolk, and the average property price is £386,970.
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Your return is in holidays but like most investments your capital is at risk. Initial payment from £5,000 and quarterly fee (under £39) provide access to HPB holiday homes. Initial and ongoing charges. User charges of around £388 for a studio, £597 for a two-bedroom. Surrender possible after two years, you will receive less than you invested. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited, HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH regulated by FCA, FSCS scheme does not apply.
6. Altrincham, North West England
Altrincham is a beautiful modern market town located in Greater Manchester, roughly one mile north of the Cheshire border.
The town is home to a wide range of people, from young families to retired individuals and everyone in between. This means that there’s always something happening – from community events to charity fundraisers and more.
Residents of Altrincham are prided on their friendly and welcoming nature, with numerous clubs, societies, and sports teams open to all.
The town centre is another main draw. The splendid architecture and cobbled streets make it a charming and elegant place to shop and dine, as does its weekly market, where you’ll find fresh local produce and unique handmade items.
Altrincham’s proximity to Manchester also makes it an excellent place to live for those who enjoy big-city entertainment – from world-class museums to music venues and theatres.
But this is a town that values its green spaces, too. It has several lush parks and nature reserves – including Dunham Massey, home to an abundance of wildlife (including deer) and stunning landscapes.
The average house price in Altrincham is £538,225, and it’s generally considered a safe place to live.
7. Macclesfield, North West England
Macclesfield is considered to be a bit of a hidden gem because it’s concealed under the guise of a sleepy market town. But its historic cobbled streets are lined with a network of unique shops, award-winning restaurants, and atmospheric bars and cafes that could arguably rival those in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
A pop-up food hall named the Picturedrome also opened in 2019, and it’s home to someoutstanding kitchens and bars.
Macclesfield has brilliant access to sweeping green spaces, too, as it’s bordered by the Peak District and Cheshire Plain – with Manchester Airport and London easily reachable by train.
The average house price in Macclesfield is £297,267. It’s also important to note that, despite its high ranking on the happiness index, the crime rate in Macclesfield is 14% higher than the Cheshire rate, coming in as the 65th safest medium-sized town in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
8. Stirling, Scotland
If you enjoy city life but would prefer to live somewhere more community-oriented, Scotland’s central city of Stirling could be 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, with its railway station offering easy transport to other Scottish cities.
The average house price in Stirling is £245,773.
9. Cirencester, South West England
Cirencester is a historic market town located in the Cotswolds (which is an Area of Outstanding Natural 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 opportunities for outdoor activities and connecting with nature.
Cirencester has a rich cultural heritage and 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 that 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 £393,999.
10. Hexham, North East England
Hexham is a market town and civil parish on the banks of Northumberland’s River Tyne with 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 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 and more here. 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 house in Hexham is around £299,589, and, according to Crime Rate, it’s the third safest small town in Northumberland.
11. 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 Natural Beauty).
As well as 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 there’s no train station, so residents are reliant on cars and buses.
According to Crime Rate, Monmouth is among the five safest small towns in the county of Gwent. Meanwhile, the average house price in the area is £331,889.
12. 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 UK’s best places to live.
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?
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 featured 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 make new ones. The average asking price for buyers in Sevenoaks is £844,454, while the average monthly rent sits at £1,740.
Discover holidays to treasure
Discover over 1,500 beautiful UK and European holiday homes with Holiday Property Bond. Enjoy wonderful facilities, stunning landscapes, and a lifetime of breaks to treasure.
Your return is in holidays but like most investments your capital is at risk. Initial payment from £5,000 and quarterly fee (under £39) provide access to HPB holiday homes. Initial and ongoing charges. User charges of around £388 for a studio, £597 for a two-bedroom. Surrender possible after two years, you will receive less than you invested. Advertisement by HPB Management Limited, HPB House, Newmarket, CB8 8EH regulated by FCA, FSCS scheme does not apply.
13. Leigh-on-Sea, East of England
If you’re 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 on the London, Tilbury, and Southend line, Leigh-on-Sea links to nearby areas like Southend, Chelmsford, Benfleet, and London Stansted.
The town is ranked among the 10 safest small towns in Essex, and houses have an average price of £450,729.
14. 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 great 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.
History lovers 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 house prices sit at £578,600.
15. 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 is on this list. Just an hour from London via train, and with the South Downs National Park on its doorstep, it 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 £590,454.
16. 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 £430,571.
17. 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 – offers excellent rail links, and is arguably the 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 £440,591. While the crime rate is higher than in many other towns in West Sussex, it’s still ranked low compared to other local districts in England and Wales.
18. Kendal, North West England
If you’re looking for a mix of town and country, why not consider 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 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.
Kendal is the 62nd safest medium-sized town in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, while ranking as the safest in Cumbria. Kendal’s average asking price for houses is £271,140.
19. Kensington and Chelsea, Greater London
Renowned as London’s quintessential affluent borough, Kensington and Chelsea is well-known for its sophistication and charm.
It’s 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 being Holland Park – so there are plenty of opportunities to escape the business of city life.
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 of Kensington and Chelsea does come at a price. It’s one of London’s most expensive boroughs, with an average house price of £2,068,144. Perhaps surprisingly, Kensington and Chelsea is the second most dangerous London borough, with a crime rate higher than the national average.
20. 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, 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, and a popular British heritage snack. They pair well with a cup of tea!
Average house prices have sat around £205,074 over the last year.
Final thoughts…
We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the 20 happiest places to live in Great Britain, according to Rightmove’s Happy at Home Index surveys.
Though the list focuses on the survey results, we appreciate that there are many other happy places to live, and everyone has different ideas about what they’re looking for from an area.
For more inspiration for your next move, you might like to read 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? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
