A recent study has revealed the best places to live in the UK for 2025, providing valuable insights for those seeking a new home or simply curious about the nation’s top locations. The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide has named Saffron Walden as the overall winner, topping a list of 72 locations. This comprehensive guide takes into account factors such as schools, transport, broadband speeds, culture, and access to green spaces. Explore our summary of this fascinating study to discover the most desirable places to call home.
Overall Winner
Saffron Walden in Essex has been crowned the best place to live in the UK. With convenient commuter links to both London and Cambridge, the town boasts stunning looks, excellent state schools, a rich cultural offering, and a thriving food scene. The judges were particularly impressed by how Saffron Walden is reinventing the high street for the 21st century with a blend of chain and independent shops. Locals compare the Saturday market to being in the South of France.
Selection Criteria
- Community Spirit – Judges looked for thriving locations with a strong sense of community rather than famous names with high house prices.
- Value for Money – High house prices were no barrier to inclusion as long as they provide value for money.
- Local Pride – All chosen locations have residents who are proud to call them home.
- Amenities – Factors such as schools, transport links, broadband speeds, and mobile signal were assessed.
- Green Spaces – Access to parks and natural surroundings was a key consideration.
Regional Winners
- East: Chelmsford, Essex – Praised for its excellent schools and transport connections.
- London: Walthamstow – Described as diverse, vibrant, and cool without being frosty.
- Midlands: Ilmington, Warwickshire – A blissful example of village life as it should be, perched on the edge of the Cotswolds.
- North and North East: Ilkley, West Yorkshire – Impressed judges with its community “get up and go” and excellent sporting and cultural opportunities for young people.
- Northern Ireland: Dundrum, Co Down – Described as having a magical setting with a strong food scene and the buzz of Belfast not far away.
- North West: Woolton, Liverpool – A gloriously family-friendly place with excellent schools, parks, and woodland.
- Scotland: North Berwick – Last year’s overall winner takes the top spot in Scotland this year, celebrated for its beaches, quality schools, and thriving independent businesses.
- South East: Petersfield, Hampshire – Always something happening in its historic streets, set against the backdrop of the South Downs countryside.
- South West: The Chew Valley, Somerset – A rural idyll home to an impressive selection of forward-thinking, sustainable rural businesses.
- Wales: Gower Peninsula, Swansea – Cool, creative, and sustainable independent businesses are springing up in villages and hamlets in the wilder corners of the peninsula.
The study highlights a diverse range of locations across the UK that cater to varying lifestyles and preferences. From the island of Tiree in Scotland to the remote Welsh village of Maenclochog, and suburbs of big cities such as Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, and London, there’s something for everyone seeking a new place to call home.