Two Yorkshire Towns Named In The UK’s Top 20 Happiest Places To Live 2025

Two of Yorkshire’s towns have been named as the happiest places to live in the UK. With the aim of exploring what makes a place a joyful place to be, the research considered a range of factors such as access to green spaces, good state schools, affordable housing, and access to quality pubs, restaurants, independent shops and cultural attractions otherwise known as third spaces.

Furniturebox is back with one of their favourite pieces of research — discovering where the happiest places to live in the UK really are. This year, they spoke to 5,000 people across the country to uncover which towns, cities and villages top the list for joy, belonging, and that all-important sense of home.

Interestingly, those at the top of the list aren’t necessarily the most affluent, with cities like Norwich offering the highest proportion of council housing in the UK, highlighting that happiness isn’t defined by wealth, but by quality of life, inclusivity and connection.

Yorkshire’s own, Skipton, Gateway to the Dales, came in an impressive second place with its lively market, historic castle and community spirit. Nestled close to the Yorkshire Dales National Park, Skipton is surrounded by fantastic rolling hills and northern warmth.

Another gem to feature in the Top 20 Friendliest Places is Beverley, coming in at 13th place. This historic East Yorkshire market town is full of charm, with its cobbled streets, Georgian architecture, and thriving sense of community.

Beverley’s bustling Saturday market sits at the heart of the town, drawing locals and visitors alike to browse fresh produce, artisan crafts and local delicacies. The town is also known for its range of independent shops, cafés and restaurants, giving it a lively, creative atmosphere while maintaining its warm, small-town character.

And just a short stroll from the centre lies the stunning Beverley Westwood — acres of open pastureland where residents walk, picnic and watch the cows graze beneath wide East Yorkshire skies. It’s a green space that embodies Beverley’s easy-going charm and connection to nature.

In Beverley, as in Skipton, homes reflect a love of comfort and character — spaces where modern style meets traditional warmth, and where community and belonging remain at the heart of daily life.