Where are the best places to live in Britain?

The Sunday Times has published its annual list of the best places to live in Britain. So who came out on top?

March 18, 2013

Stamford, Cumbria

Pushed up the leader board by its undeniable beauty, this small town in rural Cumbria has topped this year’s list. The crime rate is very low, unemployment is well below the national average, and a very pretty centre. Many of the residents are young families who have left cities in search of the rural idyll. Stamford has excellent transport links, with trains from nearby Peterborough taking just 55 minutes to get to Kings Cross, London.

Kendal, Cumbria

A tourist favourite, the “gateway to the lakes” has a truly picturesque setting, and unsurprisingly features as one of the best places to live. This famous part of the country does come at a price. Average house price is £211,000, compared to £144,000 nationally. It is also a cultural hub for the area with lots of community activities funded by the Brewery Arts Council.

Wye, Kent

Another rural town, Wye is situated in the beautiful North Downs. Kings Cross station in London is less than an hour away from nearby Ashford International. The village is a conservation area, and prices are fairly reasonable with modern three-bedroom semis from about £175,000.

Thornbury, Gloucestershire

Another historic town, Thornbury dates back to the 11th century and the village church to the 12th. Although feeling rural with many indepent shops residents are just 15 minutes from Bristol and the M4 and M5 leading to London and Birmingham. Prices are not unreasonable with 3 bed semis available for less than £200,000.