When it comes to choosing where to live in the UK, it’s no longer just about house prices or proximity to a major city. People are looking for places that offer community, character, and a better quality of life. That’s exactly what The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2025 guide sets out to highlight—and this year, Saffron Walden, a market town in Essex, came out on top.
The annual guide assessed 72 locations across the UK, judging them on a wide range of factors, including transport links, schools, broadband speed, culture, green space, and high street vitality. But most importantly, judges looked for places where people are genuinely proud to live, are happy to live there, where there’s a strong community, and where day-to-day life feels that bit more special.
“It is easy to feel overwhelmed by everything going on in the world,” said Helen Davies, editor of the guide. “But there really is so much to celebrate as we look closer to home. One thing all our chosen locations have in common is that the people who live in them are proud to call them home.”
Saffron Walden- The Winner!
Located just 15 miles south of Cambridge, Saffron Walden impressed judges with its beautiful looks, historic character, good schools and modern lifestyle perks. With an average house price of £607,100, it’s not the cheapest location—but its value lies in the blend of heritage, culture, connectivity, and quality of life it offers.
The town is known for its weekly Saturday market, which locals compare to those found in the south of France. With origins dating back to 1141, the market remains a vibrant centre of town life, surrounded by independent shops, historic buildings, and a growing foodie scene. At the heart of the town stands St Mary’s Church, the largest parish church in Essex, and nearby, a town hall dating back to 1761 adds further charm.
Saffron Walden’s excellent schools, including highly rated state options, and commuter links to both London and Cambridge, make it especially appealing for families and professionals relocating to the UK.
Other Standout Locations in 2025
While Saffron Walden took the top spot overall, The Sunday Times also highlighted standout places across each UK region—ranging from peaceful villages to up-and-coming urban neighbourhoods. Here are the regional winners:
London: Walthamstow
Vibrant and proudly working-class, Walthamstow is home to Europe’s longest outdoor market, a lively arts and food scene, and expansive green spaces like the Walthamstow Wetlands and Marshes.
Other places in London named best to live:
- Bloomsbury, WC1
- East Dulwich, SE22
- Stoke Newington, N16
- Telegraph Hill, SE14
- Twickenham, TW1
- Wembley Park, HA9
East of England: Chelmsford, Essex
Chelmsford was praised for its top-performing schools, cultural venues, and strong transport links, including a new Beaulieu Park railway station opening in 2025. Its city centre is also undergoing major redevelopment, adding to its appeal for professionals and families.
Midlands: Ilmington, Warwickshire
A picture-perfect village at the edge of the Cotswolds, Ilmington combines natural beauty with a close-knit community. Think village greens, a 12th-century church, and a volunteer-run shop.
North and North East: Ilkley, West Yorkshire
With access to the Yorkshire Dales, excellent schools, and direct trains to Leeds, Ilkley is ideal for nature lovers who still want urban access. The town’s community spirit and cultural options helped it earn national winner status in 2022.
Northern Ireland: Dundrum, Co Down
Set on the magical Dundrum Bay, this village offers stunning coastal scenery, historic ruins, and a thriving food scene—all within reach of Belfast.
North West: Woolton, Liverpool
Known as the birthplace of the Beatles’ partnership, Woolton is now a family-friendly suburb with great schools, green spaces, and a lively café culture.
Scotland: North Berwick
This seaside town near Edinburgh impressed judges with its independent businesses, schools, and sandy beaches. Its golf courses and natural beauty add to its enduring charm.
South East: Petersfield, Hampshire
Described as buzzing but grounded, Petersfield combines historical character with access to the South Downs National Park, offering the best of both countryside and culture.
South West: Chew Valley, Somerset
Close to Bristol but set in the Mendip Hills, the Chew Valley blends natural beauty with a strong local food scene and a commitment to sustainability.
Wales: Gower Peninsula, Swansea
The UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Gower is known for its rugged coastline, creative communities, and village charm.
How Cornerstone Can Help?
At Cornerstone, we support organisations relocating talent into the UK with expert immigration, relocation, and settling-in services. Whether your team members are moving to Saffron Walden, London, or somewhere in between, we make sure they’re not just moved, but welcomed—into a place they can truly call home.
If you’re moving people into the UK, let’s talk. Our London relocation agency is here to help.