The Sunday Times’ Best Place to Live in the UK 2025 emphasizes that quality of life extends beyond conventional metrics such as school performance or broadband speed.
Central to its evaluation is the presence of a strong local community, a factor that significantly influences residential satisfaction and longevity, particularly among renters—69% of whom would choose to remain in an area longer if they perceived a strong sense of community, as highlighted in data from Dataloft.
Additional criteria included effective transport links, cultural accessibility, green spaces, and a vibrant high street. The report showcases diverse regional winners, ranging from the rural charm of Ilmington in the Midlands and coastal North Berwick in Scotland to the urban vibrancy of Walthamstow in London. Among all, Saffron Walden emerged as the overall winner, distinguished by its historic architecture, high-quality state education, rich cultural life, and strong commuter connectivity—factors that collectively underscore its exceptional community fabric and livability.
