The Sunday Times has announced its annual list of the best places to live in the UK in 2024. Has your area made the list?
Luckily, thanks to being part of the Countrywide Group, our brands cover most areas in the UK, meaning that if you fancy exploring any of these places, we can help you. From Scotland to the south of England, we have great properties available with some of our other brands.
The Sunday Times picks its best areas based on several factors including school league tables, shops and local amenities, broadband speeds and transport links. So, let’s take a look at this year's regional winners…
Best in Wales: Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
Claiming the top spot in Wales is Abergavenny, a charming town nestled in the picturesque landscape of Monmouthshire. Residents can enjoy bustling markets, quaint cafes, and local festivals creating a lively ambiance. Surrounded by stunning countryside, including the Brecon Beacons National Park, Abergavenny offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking and cycling. Its excellent schools, like the King Henry VIII School and Deri View Primary School, and convenient transport links to nearby cities, such as Cardiff and Bristol, further enhance its appeal, making Abergavenny an ideal destination for those seeking a balanced lifestyle amidst natural beauty and community spirit.
According to Rightmove, house prices in the area currently sit at £313,153* which is comfortably below the average for Wales and the UK as a whole, making it an affordable option too. If you’re looking to rent here, average rental prices are £1,392 per calendar month (pcm).**
Best in London: Clerkenwell, London
Clerkenwell is London’s winner. This borough stands out as a fantastic place to call home for numerous reasons. Brimming with trendy cafes, an excellent restaurant scene and stylish bars, there's always something new to discover. The area's rich history is evident in its historic buildings, offering a unique blend of traditional charm and edgy, modern flair. Residents benefit from its central location with easy access to all London has to offer. Clerkenwell’s proximity to green spaces, like Spa Fields Park, provides a peaceful escape from city life and with excellent transport links and a thriving creative scene, it is clear to see why it tops The Sunday Times list.
The high quality of living in this area comes at a price. The average price of a property in Clerkenwell is currently £888,921*, which is over £100,000 higher than the average price of a property in London (£778,872). Rents here range from £950 pcm up to £8,000 pcm.*
Best in Southeast England: Folkestone, Kent
Folkestone, situated on the stunning Kent coast, offers wonderful seaside charm and extensive regeneration. With its picturesque harbour, beautiful sandy beaches, and iconic coastal promenade, residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to new shops, restaurants and cafes, thanks to large investment in the town and its amenities. Folkestone has a vibrant arts scene, highlighted by the renowned Creative Quarter, featuring galleries, studios and independent boutiques and its close proximity to the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which provides endless opportunities for outdoor exploring. With excellent transport links to London and Europe via the Channel Tunnel and top-notch schools and amenities, Folkestone offers a perfect balance of coastal beauty, cultural vibrancy, and modern convenience for those seeking an idyllic place to call home.
Properties in Folkestone currently have an average rental price of £1,148 pcm and and average sale’s price of £313,560* making it one of Kent’s more affordable areas.** Nearby towns and cities such as Dartford, Tunbridge Wells and Whitstable are all considerably more expensive than Folkestone. If you have been looking for a property in this area, we have a Bairstow Eves branch that can help you find a new home in and around Folkestone. Take a look at what’s available today.
Best in North and Northeast England: Leeds, Yorkshire
Leeds claims victory in the North and Northeast of England. With a rich industrial history combined with modern developments, Leeds offers a dynamic cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, and diverse culinary options. With its renowned universities and thriving business sector, Leeds provides excellent opportunities for education and employment, especially as more major employers, such as Channel 4 and Sky, flock to the city. With fantastic transport links connecting it to major cities and the stunning Yorkshire Dales nearby, Leeds combines the perks of city living with access to breathtaking natural landscapes, making it an enticing destination for individuals and families seeking an urban lifestyle with a touch of countryside charm.
Average rental prices in Leeds are £1,836 pcm** while house prices currently sit at a very affordable £252,859*, significantly cheaper than other nearby major cities such as Manchester. And if you’re already considering a move here, then our colleagues at Bridgfords will be able to assist. Have a look now and see what’s available.
Best in Southwest England: Sherborne, Dorset
Sherborne holds an undeniable charm that makes it a great place to live. Its rich history is reflected in the stunning architecture including its two castles, quaint streets, and picturesque countryside that surround the town. Residents enjoy a tranquil lifestyle with a perfect balance between rural beauty and urban amenities. Sherborne also boasts excellent schools and recreational opportunities, ensuring a high quality of life for families and individuals alike. Whether strolling through its historic centre, exploring the scenic countryside, or participating in community festivals, Sherborne offers a warm and welcoming environment that makes it truly special.
House prices in Sherborne currently sit at £358,972*, slightly lower than the UK’s national average and significantly lower than other areas of Dorset like Bournemouth, Swanage and Christchurch. Here, average rental prices lie at £1,234 pcm.**
Best in the Midlands: Stirchley, Birmingham
Stirchley is an exceptional place to call home for a whole host of reasons. Its diverse community fosters a welcoming environment for residents of all backgrounds. With this comes vibrant local businesses, including eclectic cafes and independent shops. The area is also renowned for its beautiful parks and green spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and relaxation. Stirchley benefits from excellent transport links, allowing for easy access to Birmingham city centre, making it a great area for commuters.
If you’re looking to rent here, average rental prices are between £350 - £2,400 pcm.* The average price of a property in Stirchley currently sits at £256,670*, which is slightly below the average for Birmingham, making it a very affordable place too. If the vibe you can find in Stirchley is exactly what you’re looking for, then why not start browsing properties with our colleagues at Dixons Estate Agents. Take a look today.
Best in Northwest England: Stockport, Greater Manchester
Stockport is an up-and-coming area that has seen significant improvement and regeneration in recent years. Sitting towards the south of Greater Manchester, Stockport boasts a rich history evident in its impressive architecture and cultural landmarks. The town's thriving economy and proximity to Manchester city centre provide ample job opportunities, while its excellent schools give the town great appeal for families. With its bustling markets, diverse dining options, and vibrant arts scene, Stockport offers endless opportunities for entertainment and leisure.
House prices in Stockport sell for an average of £283,947* so it is a very affordable area and the 4% house price growth since 2021 shows that now is a good time to invest in the area as this number increases. Average rental prices lie around £1,380 pcm.** Want to be part of this growing trend, see what’s available thanks to our Bridgfords branches in and around Manchester. Click to start browsing.
Best in Scotland: West End, Dundee
West End in Dundee takes the victory in Scotland. This neighbourhood is renowned for its stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture, adding character to its tree-lined streets. With a plethora of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and cultural venues, there's always something to explore and enjoy. West End also boasts beautiful green spaces, including Magdalen Green and Riverside Nature Park, perfect for leisurely strolls or outdoor activities. Its proximity to the city centre ensures easy access to amenities and transportation, making it a convenient place to call home.
West End, Dundee is the most affordable place on this list with the properties in the area only costing an average of £169,713*, so if you are looking for an affordable, well-connected, peaceful area, then look no further. And when looking at the average rental prices for the whole of Dundee, you can expect an average of £1,130 pcm.** Dreaming of moving to this part of Scotland? Get in touch with our Dundee colleagues at Slater Hogg & Howison. See what’s available now.
Best in East England: Wivenhoe, Essex
Nestled along the banks of the River Colne in Essex, Wivenhoe boasts picturesque scenery, including quaint cottages, lush greenery, and tranquil waterways. Its rich maritime heritage is evident in the historic waterfront and colourful boats dotting the riverbank. The town's bustling high street offers an array of independent shops, cosy cafes, and welcoming pubs, creating a lively atmosphere for residents to enjoy. The town's proximity to nature reserves and coastal trails provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation and its connections with Colchester opens up new employment opportunities.
The average house prices here currently sit at £403,361* making it one of the more expensive places on this list but with the qualities of the town, you expect a bigger price tag. Here, average rental prices are £1,399 pcm.**
