Saffron Walden Crowned Best Place to Live in the UK
The prestigious title of the UK’s best place to reside has been awarded to Saffron Walden, a historic market town nestled in Essex.
This charming rural town, situated 15 miles south of Cambridge, triumphed over other contenders to claim the top spot in The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Live 2025 guide.
With an average property price of £607,100, Saffron Walden distinguished itself as the overall victor in this year’s rankings.
Historic Charm and Modern Appeal
Saffron Walden boasts a wealth of historic architecture, with St Mary’s Church, Essex’s largest parish church, standing prominently at its heart.
The town’s captivating historic square showcases a town hall dating back to 1761, which underwent significant renovations and expansions in 1879.
Beyond its rich heritage, Saffron Walden offers a contemporary high street, highly-regarded schools, and a bustling market that has been active since 1141. A thriving culinary scene further enhances its appeal. Its picturesque setting and convenient rail links to London, with journey times under an hour, contribute to its growing popularity as a desirable place to live.
Rigorous Evaluation Criteria
The 72 locations assessed were subjected to thorough evaluation based on numerous criteria. These included cultural amenities, transport infrastructure, high street vitality, educational standards, access to green spaces, broadband speeds, and mobile network strength.
Regional Winners Unveiled
While Saffron Walden secured the overall top position, MailOnline presents the ten regional champions, allowing readers to discover if their hometown is featured.
The market square in Saffron Walden, Essex, featuring a town hall built in 1761 (left), an ornate library (centre, with clocktower) and ornamental drinking fountain
The picturesque Essex town of Saffron Walden was the overall winner in this year’s Best Places to Live 2025 report
Residents of the genteel town are close to a number of green spaces, including Bridge End Garden (pictured) with its famous hedge maze
East of England: Chelmsford, Essex
While Saffron Walden was the ultimate victor, Chelmsford emerged as the judges’ second choice for the East of England region.
The city centre is poised for significant redevelopment, with substantial areas slated for transformation into a mixed-use riverside destination.
Chelmsford has undergone considerable change in the past decade, notably with a former car park being replaced by the upscale Bond Street shopping precinct.
Education and Commuter Hub
Essex’s county town is renowned for its esteemed educational establishments, including Chelmsford County High School for Girls (CCHS) and King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS), alongside other high-achieving comprehensive schools.
Chelmsford also boasts cultural attractions such as its medieval cathedral, celebrated for its stained glass, theatres, a racecourse, and parks.
Judges also highlighted the city’s excellent commuter links, providing modern and rapid transport options.
With an average house price of £468,600, Chelmsford is considerably more affordable than its Essex neighbor, Saffron Walden.
The Beaulieu Park development will see a new station in 2025, serving residents of the area recognized as the ‘Great Neighbourhood’ of 2024 by the Academy of Urbanism.
A modern development of commercial and residential buildings overlooking the River Chelmer in Chelmsford city centre
Picturesque buildings line Moulsham Street in the south of Chelmsford
Chelmsford also has a vibrant city centre, with numerous shopping streets and more to come
London: Walthamstow
Once an affluent district in East London, Walthamstow experienced a shift in demographics following the opening of the Old Cambridge train line in 1840. This railway brought an influx of working-class residents, leading to an exodus of wealthier inhabitants.
Walthamstow maintains a strong sense of working-class pride, evident in reactions to the arrival of upscale establishments like Gail’s bakery.
The area presents a blend of traditional and contemporary elements, where traditional pubs and cafes coexist with trendy wine bars and brunch spots.
Walthamstow, meaning ‘the welcome place,’ features Europe’s longest outdoor market on its high street, offering diverse goods from produce to textiles.
Culture and Green Spaces
Recognized as the birthplace of the band East 17 and artist William Morris, who has a dedicated museum, Walthamstow also boasts the newly-reopened Soho Theatre, a cinema, and several popular music venues.
For Londoners seeking natural retreats, Walthamstow provides access to the wetlands area on its western edge, ideal for peaceful walks around reservoirs. Residents also enjoy proximity to Walthamstow Marshes, a haven for urban wildlife, and a regular street food market in Lloyd Park.
The average house price in Walthamstow is £532,800, slightly below the London average.
Waltham Forest Town Hall in Walthamstow, a grade II listed public building in the classical style
Walthamstow residents have access to acres of green space, with the giant wetlands on the west side of the neighbourhood
Bonners fish and chip shop in Walthamstow which features a Banksy artwork of a pelican eating a fish above its sign
Midlands: Ilmington, Warwickshire
Located approximately eight miles south of Stratford-upon-Avon, Ilmington, bordering the Cotswolds, epitomizes rural charm.
Characterized by two village greens, a 12th-century church, and a combination of stone and redbrick buildings, it represents an ideal of countryside beauty.
The parish recorded a population of just 712 in the 2011 census, with most visitors drawn by walking opportunities in the surrounding idyllic landscape.
Situated at the base of Ilmington Downs, the highest point in Warwickshire, the area is known for welcoming pubs and a community-run shop.
Historical Significance and Community Spirit
Ilmington is also home to Ilmington Manor, an Elizabethan manor house built in the 1590s with fifteen acres at the village’s center.
Although the house deteriorated in the 19th century, formal rose and topiary gardens were established in the 1920s, which current owners maintain and occasionally open to the public.
Despite its tranquil ambiance, Ilmington boasts various sports clubs and community groups. The average house price is £458,100.
The Howard Arms in Ilmington, Warwickshire, with colourful hanging baskets on the front of this popular Cotswold pub
A street in the cosy Warwickshire village of Ilmington, which had a population of only 712 in the 2011 census
North and Northeast: Ilkley, West Yorkshire
Prospective homebuyers seeking fresh air may find Ilkley in West Yorkshire appealing.
The town’s moorland scenery is celebrated, inspiring the 1952 song ‘On Ilkla Mooar Baht ‘at’ (‘On Ilkley Moor Without A Hat’ in Yorkshire dialect).
While winters can be bracing, residents can find warmth in inviting pubs or enjoy fish and chips.
Scenic Beauty and Accessibility
Located on the southern fringe of the Yorkshire Dales, Ilkley offers stunning views and convenient transport links to Leeds, Bradford, and Halifax, as well as excellent schools.
Ilkley was previously recognized as the national winner in 2022, with judges citing ‘the fresh air, fantastic scenery, excellent schools and direct trains to Leeds’.
The average house price is £532,200, reflecting high demand, commuter convenience, and its natural allure.
An aerial view of Ilkley, one of the most picturesque towns in West Yorkshire, famous for its natural beauty and its tearooms
Ilkley is known for its famous moorland, which features in an old song called ‘On Ilkley Moor Bar t’At’ (‘on Ilkley Moor without a hat’ in Yorkshire dialect)
The West Yorkshire town also has a picturesque centre, featuring some beautiful historic buildings
Northern Ireland: Dundrum, Co Down
This picturesque village adjoins Dundrum Bay, comprising the Outer Bay and the almost enclosed Inner Bay.
Its breathtaking environment makes it one of Northern Ireland’s most sought-after locations.
Situated around 35 miles south of Belfast, the village is renowned for the ruins of its Anglo-Norman castle, dating back to 1177.
Its circular keep stands elevated on a hilltop overlooking the sea, guarding residents for centuries.
Natural Paradise and Culinary Scene
The Murlough National Nature Reserve, a 6,000-year-old sand dune system, is also easily accessible, creating a haven for hikers and birdwatchers.
Beyond its natural beauty, the area, with an average house price of £222,300, boasts a flourishing food scene with both casual and upscale dining options.
Dundrum stunning setting makes it one of the most desirable settings in all of Northern Ireland
Located approximately 35 miles south of Belfast, the village is best-known for the ruins of its Anglo-Norman castle, which dates back to 1177
Northwest: Woolton, Liverpool
Woolton holds historical significance as the Liverpool suburb where John Lennon and Paul McCartney of The Beatles first met.
Their initial encounter occurred at a village fete at St Peter’s Church, introduced by a mutual friend during Lennon’s performance.
Approximately 70 years later, the village is now filled with trendy coffee shops, fashionable cocktail bars, and excellent local pubs.
Vibrant Village and Academic Excellence
Local schools demonstrate strong academic performance, and the average house price is £281,800.
A shot of the clocktower of St Peter’s Church in Woolton, Liverpool – the site of the first meeting between future Beatles John Lennon and Paul McCartney
A terrace of red brick houses in Woolton, Liverpool, judged the best place to live in the northwest of England
Scotland: North Berwick, East Lothian
North Berwick is a coastal town situated about 20 miles northeast of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital.
In the 19th century, it gained popularity as a sought-after holiday destination due to its two beautiful sandy beaches: East (or Milsey) Bay and West Bay.
Coastal Beauty and High Standards
Scotland’s top-ranked location earned accolades for its exceptional schools, diverse independent businesses, and stunning natural surroundings.
Golf courses at each bay’s end are among the UK’s most scenic, with an average house price of £523,500.
A row of houses line the waterfront on the West Bay beach of North Berwick in Scotland
A aerial view of North Berwick taken from the surrounding hills, showing its picturesque setting
Southeast: Petersfield, Hampshire
Petersfield is a historic market town in Hampshire, nestled in picturesque countryside and recognized as the ‘gateway’ to the South Downs National Park.
Formerly a significant coaching inn stop on the London to Portsmouth route, it has developed into a family-friendly area featuring lively weekly markets.
With approximately 15,000 residents, Petersfield has a vibrant cultural scene, including theatre, music, and art venues.
Cultural Hub and Natural Proximity
It also offers a renovated museum, a Physic Garden, and the impressive Norman church of St Peter’s, with the South Downs conveniently nearby.
With an average house price of £605,100, it is among the most desirable places to live in southeast England.
Petersfield is an ancient market town in Hampshire, situated amid beautiful countryside and known as the ‘gateway’ to the South Downs National Park
Southwest: Chew Valley, Somerset
Chew Valley combines captivating scenery with easy access to the advantages of vibrant Bristol living.
Located only five miles south of Bristol, it is part of the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The area is characterized by beautiful lakes, winding rural roads, and gentle hills.
Local Produce and Urban Access
There is a strong emphasis on local produce, with many regional cafes and restaurants sourcing ingredients from nearby suppliers.
The average house price is £512,500, offering convenient commuting distance to the urban center of Bristol.
An aerial view over Chew Valley Lake, the UK’s fifth-largest artificial lake, in Chew Stoke, Chew Valley, Somerset
Wales: Gower Peninsula, Swansea
The dramatic Gower Peninsula was designated the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956.
Renowned for its rugged coast and beautiful beaches, it stretches for approximately 19 miles.
Commuters benefit from quick access to nearby Swansea, but with such scenic views, leaving may be unappealing.
Natural Beauty and Affordability
The average house price is £310,200, almost half the price of the national winner, Saffron Walden.
Waves roll into Bracelet Bay on the Gower Peninsula, Swansea, with the Mumbles Lighthouse visible in the background