Two Yorkshire Towns Named In 'Happiest’ Places To Live In UK

It’s that time of year again when Rightmove releases its Happiest Places to Live in the UK list. And this year, one spot in Yorkshire has taken silver. That’s right. Yorkshire’s spa town, Harrogate, came in second place in this year’s happiest place to live in Great Britain.

Also making the top 10 after coming first last year is Skipton, also known as the Gateway to the Dales. The list has been done for the last 14 years and is an annual ‘Happy at Home’ index, which explores how people feel about where they live, highlighting the happiest places nationwide.

Thousands of residents across more than 200 locations told the property listing site what they loved about their area, which included the friendliness of their neighbours, job opportunities, access to green spaces, and so much more.

Harrogate is known for its location near the Howardian Hills and the Yorkshire Dales, winning massively on green space and also for its stunning Victorian architecture. Not to mention the now iconic Betty’s Tea Rooms.

Colleen Babcock, a property expert at Rightmove, commented on the list, saying: “The balance between greenery and everyday convenience runs through the wider findings. Even among people who would ideally choose a rural setting, access to amenities, parks and public transport remains important. This year’s results suggest that the places people rate most highly aren’t simply urban or rural, but often bring together some of the best elements of both.”