Best Places To Live In UK
Whether you are a country bumpkin or a city slicker, the UK has it all in bucketloads. There really is something for everyone, no matter your budget, location needs, or housing preference. Do you want somewhere within commuting distance to London? Somewhere with top schools in the surrounding area? Or perhaps somewhere with more cows than people? I’ve got it all covered in this list of the best places to live in the UK, with 10 different regions for you to choose from in no particular order.
1. Best Places To Live In UK: London
Victoria Park
Home to 213 acres of magnificent park, Victoria Park is perfect for those who want both busy city living and the comfort of the countryside. Located in Hackney, this tight-knit community will immediately welcome you as though you’ve been there your whole life. London may be among the most expensive places to live in the UK but it also boasts the highest disposable income!
2. Best Places To Live In UK: South East
St Albans
If you want somewhere that’s within commuting distance to London but has all the qualities of a quintessential British town, then I present you with St Albans. It’s a deeply historic town with a wealth of cute independent shops and rich culture. St Albans also has some of the top prep schools in the southeast such as Beechwood Park.
3. Best Places To Live In UK: Midlands
Uppingham
This pretty little market town is filled with old stone buildings, gorgeous green spaces, period houses, a charming high street, and overwhelmingly friendly locals. It is home to Uppingham School (alumni of which includes Stephen Fry himself), a boarding school with a fantastic reputation. The average price for a property in Uppingham is £317,928 and detached houses sell for around £381,322. Doesn’t sound too bad to me.
4. Best Places To Live In UK: North West
Bollington
Known among its residents as “Happy Valley“, the small town of Bollington is located about three miles north of Macclesfield, 18 miles south east of Manchester. It is an artistic but entirely unpretentious town with many a cute street to stroll down. Bollington also has a vast array of pubs and restaurants to choose from so it’s great for those who love some hearty grub!
5. Best Places To Live In UK: North and North East
Howardian Hills
Old fashioned but by no means boring, Howardian Hills is a fantastic option for those who love to get lost in the beauty of nature. 15 miles north of York, it is an area of outstanding natural beauty and especially ideal if you like smart country living. It is famous for its gastropubs, restaurants and cafes, as well as it’s fancy clothing shops. More on the posh side but one of the best places to live in the UK nevertheless.
6. Best Places To Live In UK: South West
Cheltenham
On the doorstep of the Cotswolds and home to some of the best schools, shopping, and countryside in the UK, Cheltenham is a town that really does have it all. There are festivals aplenty and a bustling social scene which is impressive given its size. It’s much more than just a day-at-the-races!
7. Best Places To Live In UK: East
Norwich
Norwich is a city in England's Norfolk County. It has more cobbled streets than you can possibly imagine and is home to 33 medieval churches (more than any other city in northern Europe)! Norwich has some beautiful alfresco dining venues and is most definitely one of the best places to live in the UK if you’re all about fun, friendliness, and creativity!
8. Best Places To Live In UK: Scotland
Leith
Leith is a buzzing port district, home to hip creatives and longtime locals. It is right on the Northerly edge of Edinburgh so if you fancy a cheeky day trip, you don’t have far to go! Hailed as the hidden gem of Scotland, it’s no wonder more and more people are choosing to live there. Seafood bistros and traditional pubs adorn the lively waterfront, I’m almost tempted to up sticks and move here myself!
9. Best Places To Live In UK: Wales
Tenby
This glorious little seaside town has earned itself a reputation as one of the most charming towns in Wales, and for good reason! Choc-full of sandy beaches and quirky restaurants, this town may be small but it has plenty to offer. From the historic ruins of Tenby Castle to the exhibits on display at the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, Tenby is the perfect escape from cosmopolitan living.
10. Best Places To Live In UK: Northern Ireland
Ballycastle
Rounding off our list, we have Ballycastle, a small town in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. With unbeatable local produce and a delightful market, this friendly, foodie harbour town is without a doubt one of the best places to live in the UK. It is situated only 11 miles from the Giant’s Causeway and housing prices are an average of just £114,168.
