The 10 Best Places to Live in the UK in 2025

If your “move to the countryside” Pinterest board is getting more action than your Deliveroo orders, you’re not alone. The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2025 has officially landed—and whether you’re after coastal charm, countryside calm, or commuter cool, this year’s top picks are serving serious lifestyle envy.

Topping the list? Saffron Walden, Essex—a town that’s ditched its stuffy rep for cultural clout, culinary cool and independent spirit. With standout schools, historic good looks, and a high street that’s thriving (not dying), it’s reinvented itself for the modern age—and The Sunday Times has taken notice.

The expert judges behind the guide visited each location IRL, assessing everything from broadband speed and mobile signal (essential in a post-3G world) to community spirit, transport links, and foodie credentials. As Helen Davies, editorial projects director, puts it:

“What we are looking for are towns, villages and cities with strong communities who work hard to make the best of where they live—and play hard too.”

Without further ado, here are the 10 Best Places to Live in the UK in 2025, as named by The Sunday Times:

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1. Saffron Walden, Essex (Overall UK Winner)

A postcard-perfect market town with serious glow-up energy—excellent schools, a buzzy Saturday market, and a food + wine scene to rival the South of France (their words, not ours).

2. Chelmsford, Essex (East of England)

A modern commuter haven with great schools, fast trains and a soon-to-open station serving the Beaulieu Park development. Suburbia, but make it 2025.

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3. Walthamstow, London

Cool without being cold. Think indie shops, brilliant transport, and the new Soho Theatre set to supercharge its creative scene.

4. Ilmington, Warwickshire (Midlands)

Cotswolds-adjacent village vibes, with twin greens, charming pubs, and a community shop run by one in seven locals.

5. Dundrum, Co Down (Northern Ireland)

Views for days (mountains and sea), a booming food scene, and a proper community feel—all just 45 mins from Belfast.

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6. Ilkley, West Yorkshire (North & Northeast)

A former overall winner, Ilkley still shines with excellent schools, easy trains to Leeds, and a town centre that’s full of get-up-and-go.

7. Woolton, Liverpool (Northwest)

Where Lennon met McCartney—now home to family-friendly parks, indie cafés, a top-tier fromagerie, and one very good pub.

8. North Berwick, East Lothian (Scotland)

A repeat favourite for good reason—beaches, boutiques, great schools and a 30-minute train to Edinburgh. Dreamy.

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9. Petersfield, Hampshire (Southeast)

A smartphone-free-school town with a bustling creative scene, community spirit, and rolling South Downs countryside all around.

10. Chew Valley, Somerset (Southwest)

A rural paradise with forward-thinking food and farming. Think natural wine, antibiotic-free milk and farm-to-fork dining—all within reach of Bristol.

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With more new entries than ever before, the 2025 guide spotlights innovation, connection, and value for money—prioritising community over celebrity status. For the full list of 72 winning locations and a breakdown of why they made the cut, visit The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2025.