A picturesque market town located in North Yorkshire, surrounded by some of the finest countryside in the region, has been declared the happiest place to reside in Britain.
Praised for its abundant access to nature, green spaces, friendly community, and excellent schools, Skipton has claimed the top spot in property website Rightmove’s 14th annual Happy at Home Index. Following closely in second place for the second consecutive year is Richmond-upon-Thames in London.
With a population of 15,000, Skipton is renowned as the southern gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and historically flourished as a hub for sheep and wool trading. Leading Rightmove’s list of the happiest areas this year, Skipton has significantly climbed the ranks, securing the top position after placing second in 2020 and sixth in the previous year’s study.
Patrick McCutcheon, representing Yorkshire estate agent Dacre, Son & Hartley, commented on Skipton’s allure, stating, “Skipton offers an ideal living environment with immediate access to The Dales and a stunning setting amidst the region’s finest countryside, all just over an hour away from The Lake District.”
McCutcheon added, “Accessibility to major cities like Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate, and Manchester via the M65, as well as the convenience of regular train services to London Kings Cross from the town’s station, further enhance Skipton’s appeal. The town’s vibrant market street, illuminated by the historic castle, combined with the nearby Leeds Liverpool canal, Pennine Way, and surrounding moors, provide endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as challenging walks, road and mountain biking.”
According to Rightmove, Skipton’s residents rated the town highly for its welcoming community and affordability, with the average home price standing at £326,093, below the national average of £364,833. Despite its top ranking, Skipton scored lower in terms of employment opportunities, desirable jobs, and proximity to friends and family.
Colleen Babcock, Rightmove’s property expert, emphasized the significance of various factors contributing to happiness in residential areas. She mentioned, “Our annual study acknowledges the diverse elements that influence our contentment with our living environment, including our neighbors, green spaces, and access to essential services. People consider more than just the property itself when choosing a place to live. Proximity to nature, friendly neighbors, and the ability to be oneself are crucial factors. Skipton’s recognition in this year’s study is well-deserved, given its consistent high rankings in previous assessments.”
Richmond upon Thames and Camden secured the second and third positions, respectively, with both areas lauded for their access to nature, essential services, restaurants, and shops. Stirling was identified as the happiest place to live in Scotland, while Anglesey claimed the top spot as the best place to reside in Wales this year.
On a broader scale, residents in South West England emerged as the happiest by region, while the East Midlands reported the lowest levels of contentment. The study by Rightmove highlighted that overall, more individuals in Britain express happiness rather than dissatisfaction with their residential locations. Furthermore, the research revealed that individuals living in rural settings were more likely to report contentment compared to urban and suburban dwellers. Proximity to rivers, the sea, woodland areas, and age were also identified as influential factors on happiness levels in residential areas.
Top 10 Happiest Places to Live in the UK
1. Skipton
Average house price – £326,093
Average monthly rent – £1,038
2. Richmond upon Thames
Average house price – £942,522
Average monthly rent – £3,189
3. Camden
Average house price – £1,036,768
Average monthly rent – £3,523
4. Harrogate
Average house price – £394,355
Average monthly rent – £1,535
5. Woodbridge
Average house price – £462,734
Average monthly rent – £1,309
6. Altrincham
Average house price – £643,244
Average monthly rent – £2,968
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