Happiness looks a little different for everyone, but where you live plays a bigger role than most people think.
It’s not just about sunshine and scenery, though those things are certainly important and play a big role. However, it’s also about feeling safe, connected, and like life moves at the right pace for you. The UK has some unexpectedly happy hotspots, from scenic coastal towns to surprisingly upbeat cities. Whether you’re daydreaming about moving or just curious where people seem genuinely content, here are 12 of the happiest places to live in Britain, based on a mix of quality of life, community vibes, and overall satisfaction.
1. Hexham, Northumberland
This market town keeps topping happiness lists, and it’s easy to see why. With stunning countryside on your doorstep and a strong sense of community, Hexham blends charm with calm. It’s got the kind of small-town energy where people actually say hello to each other. Locals rate it highly for safety, access to green space, and general friendliness. It’s not flashy, but it quietly ticks a lot of boxes for a slower, more grounded life. If you want peace without isolation, Hexham delivers.
2. Richmond upon Thames, London
Yes, technically it’s in London, but it barely feels like it. Richmond has river views, leafy parks, and that rare mix of city access with countryside calm. It’s consistently ranked one of the capital’s happiest boroughs, and it’s not hard to see why. You’ve got the Thames path for long walks, decent schools, and pubs that feel like proper community hubs. It’s not the cheapest, but for those who can swing it, it’s city living with a nature-based reset on tap.
3. Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Harrogate has long had a rep for being classy without being snobby. Think spa town meets friendly locals. The streets are clean, the pace is relaxed, and there’s a surprising amount of green space for a town its size. Locals report high satisfaction with everything from local shops to healthcare. Plus, it’s full of independent cafés and some genuinely scenic parks. It’s one of those places that feels polished, but never pretentious.
4. Anglesey, Wales
If coastal living is your thing, Anglesey brings the views without the chaos. This island off the coast of North Wales has become a bit of a happiness hotspot in recent years, thanks to its laid-back pace and natural beauty. There’s something about island life that slows everything down—in a good way. With clean beaches, strong Welsh identity, and a tight-knit community, Anglesey offers peace without total remoteness.
5. St Ives, Cornwall
Famous for its light (artists love it here), St Ives also shines in terms of life satisfaction. It’s stunning, for sure, but it’s also full of culture, creativity, and sea views that don’t get old. Even the town centre feels like a postcard. Despite the tourist buzz in peak months, locals report strong community ties and a decent work-life balance. If you’re after beauty, inspiration, and a pace that doesn’t feel pressured, this one’s worth a look.
6. Altrincham, Greater Manchester
Altrincham’s gone through a serious glow-up in the last decade. What was once a bit of a forgotten market town is now one of the happiest places in the North West, thanks to a booming food scene and community-led transformation. The Altrincham Market revitalisation brought new energy to the town, and it stuck. It’s got that sweet spot of independent spirit and commuter convenience, with a good balance between buzz and space.
7. Llandrindod Wells, Powys
This small Welsh town consistently punches above its weight on the happiness rankings. Maybe it’s the fresh air, maybe it’s the friendliness, but people here really seem to like where they live. It has a relaxed vibe, walkable streets, and a surprising amount of community events for such a small place. It’s not flashy, but that’s kind of the point—it’s easy to feel settled here without needing to “keep up.”
8. Perth, Scotland
Dubbed “the gateway to the Highlands,” Perth gives you that scenic Scotland vibe with urban comforts close by. Locals rate the city for its greenery, cultural scene, and balance between quiet and connection. It’s walkable, full of riverside views, and has an artsy side that adds depth to daily life. Whether you’re here for nature or nice cafés, Perth gives you space to breathe without making you feel isolated.
9. Newbury, Berkshire
Newbury flies under the radar, but locals swear by it. It’s got that polished market town feel, great transport links, and enough countryside charm to make weekends feel like a retreat. Plus, it’s only an hour to London if you need a big-city fix. What really stands out is the balance—good schools, a solid high street, and a general sense of calm that a lot of commuter towns don’t quite pull off. It’s functional, but with personality.
10. Leamington Spa, Warwickshire
With its Regency buildings and indie coffee scene, Leamington has a feel-good vibe that’s hard to fake. It’s walkable, stylish, and full of little pockets of calm, from the gardens to the riverside paths. It’s a favourite for young families, freelancers, and anyone who wants somewhere that’s vibrant but not overwhelming. There’s just enough going on to feel inspired—without the burnout.
11. Salisbury, Wiltshire
Salisbury blends historic charm with modern ease. You’ve got the cathedral, sure, but also indie shops, green space, and a surprising amount of community activity. It’s not just pretty—it’s liveable. Residents often say it feels like a place where time slows down a bit. That’s not code for “boring”—it’s just relaxed in a way that makes day-to-day life feel a little more manageable.
12. Eastbourne, East Sussex
This seaside town has quietly become a wellbeing winner. It’s calmer than Brighton, more affordable than London, and packed with long promenades, rolling hills, and pastel-painted homes that lift the mood. It’s popular with retirees, but younger people are catching on too, thanks to rising creative scenes and that elusive work-life balance. If you’re looking for blue skies and low pressure, Eastbourne keeps showing up as a solid pick.
