The UK is home to many charming towns, vibrant cities and picturesque villages, each with its unique appeal and lifestyle offerings. The Sunday Times released its annual Best Places to Live guide for 2024, highlighting the most desirable locations across the UK. From seaside towns to bustling urban areas, this list celebrates the best of Britain. Here, we explore the top ten places from the guide, showcasing what makes them exceptional choices for a new home.
North Berwick, East Lothian
Topping the list as the best place to live in the UK is North Berwick, a beautiful seaside town in East Lothian, Scotland. Known for its stunning coastal views, sandy beaches and charming town centre, North Berwick offers a tranquil yet vibrant lifestyle. The town boasts excellent schools, a variety of independent shops and cafes and a strong sense of community. With its proximity to Edinburgh, North Berwick provides the perfect balance of coastal living and urban convenience, making it an ideal choice for families and professionals alike.
Wivenhoe, Essex (East of England)
Wivenhoe, located in Essex, is a delightful town known for its artistic community and picturesque setting along the River Colne. The town offers a peaceful lifestyle with a variety of local amenities, including independent shops, pubs and cafes. Wivenhoe’s thriving arts scene and excellent transport links to London make it a popular choice for artists, families and commuters seeking a creative and connected community.
Clerkenwell, London
Clerkenwell, situated in central London, is a vibrant neighbourhood celebrated for its rich history and dynamic cultural scene. Known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars and independent boutiques, Clerkenwell offers a lively urban lifestyle with a unique character. The area’s excellent transport links and proximity to major London attractions make it a prime location for professionals and those seeking an exciting city life.
Stirchley, Birmingham (Midlands)
Stirchley, a suburb of Birmingham, is gaining popularity for its community-driven atmosphere and burgeoning food scene. With a mix of independent shops, cafes and breweries, Stirchley offers a vibrant lifestyle with a strong sense of community. The area’s affordable housing and proximity to Birmingham city centre make it an attractive choice for young professionals and families looking for a lively suburban environment.
Portstewart, Co Londonderry (Northern Ireland)
Portstewart, located on the north coast of Northern Ireland, is a charming seaside town known for its stunning beaches and beautiful coastal scenery. The town offers a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, including golfing, surfing and coastal walks. Portstewart’s friendly community and excellent local amenities make it a great choice for families and retirees seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.
Leeds (North & Northeast)
Leeds, a bustling city in West Yorkshire, is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and diverse lifestyle offerings. With a mix of shopping centres, restaurants and cultural attractions, Leeds provides a dynamic urban lifestyle with something for everyone. The city’s excellent transport links and strong job market make it a popular destination for young professionals and families looking for a thriving city with plenty of opportunities.
Stockport, Greater Manchester (Northwest)
Stockport, located in Greater Manchester, is a town that combines historical charm with modern amenities. Known for its excellent schools, parks and community spirit, Stockport offers a family-friendly lifestyle with easy access to Manchester city centre. The town’s affordable housing and range of cultural attractions make it an appealing choice for families and young professionals alike.
West End, Dundee (Scotland)
Dundee’s West End is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and thriving cultural scene. The area offers a lively lifestyle with a mix of independent shops, cafes, and cultural venues. West End’s strong sense of community and proximity to Dundee’s city centre make it a popular choice for students, families and professionals seeking a lively and connected neighbourhood.
Folkestone, Kent (Southeast)
Folkestone, situated on the southeast coast of England, is a charming town known for its creative community and stunning coastal views. The town offers a relaxed lifestyle with a mix of independent shops, art galleries and cultural events. Folkestone’s affordable housing and excellent transport links to London make it an attractive choice for artists, families, and commuters seeking a creative and coastal environment.
Sherborne, Dorset (Southwest)
Sherborne, a historic market town in Dorset, is renowned for its stunning architecture and beautiful countryside surroundings. The town offers a peaceful lifestyle with a range of local amenities, including independent shops, restaurants and cultural attractions. Sherborne’s excellent schools and strong sense of community make it an ideal location for families seeking a picturesque and tranquil environment.
Discover Your Perfect Home with Belvoir
Choosing the right place to live is a significant decision, shaped by personal preferences and lifestyle needs. Whether you’re drawn to the coastal charm of North Berwick, the vibrant community of Stirchley, or the historic allure of Sherborne, each of these top ten locations offers something special. At Belvoir, we are dedicated to helping you find the perfect home in your ideal location. Contact us today to explore properties in these and many other wonderful areas across the UK. Let us help you discover your dream home and start your next chapter in one of the UK’s top places to live.
