Best Places to Live in the UK 2025
With a focus on quality of life, community spirit, green spaces, transportation, and cultural vibrancy, The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide identifies the UK's most desirable places to live each year.
In 2025, the list continues to reflect changing trends, showcasing both popular destinations and up-and-coming hotspots. From vibrant cities to charming rural retreats, these places provide residents with an unparalleled blend of lifestyle, convenience, and charm.
| Places | Avg House Price |
| Dundrum, Co Down | £222,300 |
| Chelmsford, Essex | £468,600 |
| Ilmington, Warwickshire | £458,100 |
| Woolton, Liverpool | £281,800 |
| Ilkley, West Yorkshire | £344,820 |
| Walthamstow | £532,800 |
| North Berwick, East Lothian | £523,500 |
| Petersfield, Hampshire | £605,100 |
| Chew Valley, Somerset | £512,500 |
| Gower Peninsula, Swansea | £362158 |
Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2025
Check the list of best places to live in 2025 as per The Sunday Times,
10. Dundrum
The Creative Village A thriving community group, Dundrum is well-known for holding open-mic nights at the Dundrum Inn, art drop-ins, and energetic knitting sessions in the community hub. The outcome of these events is creatively displayed throughout the village through colorful yarn-bombing. Apart from its creative vibe, Dundrum is a sporting city with a wide variety of restaurants and bars. Situated on a forested hill northwest of the village of Newcastle, Dundrum Castle adds to its allure and historical significance. In order to maintain control over the land routes from Drogheda to Downpatrick, the castle was purposefully constructed to dominate Dundrum Bay and restrict access to Lecale.
9. Chelmsford, Essex
The Sunday Times' annual Best Places to Live list crowned Chelmsford the East of England regional winner. Saffron Walden, which was named the greatest location to live in the UK, overtook it, though. Thousands of new homes have been built in Chelmsford, a city that is expanding quickly. Its easy access to London has contributed to its growing appeal, particularly among commuters.
8. Ilmington, Warwickshire
Given its gorgeous location, it is not surprising that Ilmington, Warwickshire, was included in The Times Best Places to Live list. The hamlet is renowned for its rustic charm and stunning scenery. Additionally, it has a strong sense of community, as demonstrated by its volunteer-run village shop, which contributes to the welcoming neighborhood ambiance.
7. Woolton, Liverpool
One of the greatest places to live in the UK is Woolton, a suburb of Liverpool. It provides easy access to Liverpool's downtown and a harmonious blend of urban and country living. The region is renowned for its top-notch educational institutions, wide range of facilities, and vibrant feeling of community.
6. Ilkley, West Yorkshire
Many people consider the quaint West Yorkshire town of Ilkley to be among the greatest places in the UK to live. It is located close to Otley Chevin and provides a beautiful environment with lots of outdoor activities, such as hiking and walking paths. The town boasts a bustling community, top-notch schools, and a range of facilities, including eateries, cafes, and boutique stores.
5. Walthamstow
The Times declared Walthamstow the overall victor. "Diverse, vibrant, and cool without being frosty," the article said, emphasizing how it "encapsulates so much of what's great about the capital." Walthamstow is commended for its independent stores, lively hangouts, lovely parkland, and elegant homes.
4. North Berwick, East Lothian
Recently, North Berwick was voted the UK's greatest location to live. This coastal town in East Lothian is well-known for its clean sea air, strong feeling of community, and friendly attitude, where residents frequently say hello to one another. The town's stunning beaches, bustling High Street, and the ease of having important facilities nearby all contribute to its allure.
3. Petersfield, Hampshire
Petersfield has a thriving musical and artistic scene, highlighted by the Petersfield Musical Festival, a week-long event held every March since 1901. Over the years, many renowned composers and musicians have been associated with the festival. Additionally, music, art, and drama can be enjoyed at Bedales Arts in nearby Steep, further enriching the cultural landscape of the area.
2. Chew Valley, Somerset
Situated under the jurisdiction of several councils, including Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, and Mendip, the Chew Valley in North East Somerset is renowned for its picturesque lake, which is a key landscape feature, a recreational hub, and an internationally recognized site for nature conservation due to its diverse bird species, plants, and insects. The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2025 named the Chew Valley the best place to live in the South West of England.
1. Gower Peninsula, Swansea
The Gower Peninsula in Swansea is one of the most desirable places to live in Wales. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), it features a breathtaking coastline, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches. Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, surrounded by natural beauty and rich historical heritage.
