The friendliest places in the UK have been named, based on government data, in a bid to spark debate among Brits about the places they call home. The ranking was compiled by the team behind the National Conversation survey, designed by the University of Oxford, which invites people to rate how lonely they feel, how many neighbours they can trust, and how proud they feel about their hamlet, village, town, or city.
Interactive index and survey
A new interactive index allows people to compare how friendly their local area is compared with others across the country. It also lets Brits have their say on whether the official stats reflect their own experience of where they live.
Brendan Cox, Co-Founder of the Together Coalition, said the current Government stats suggest where the most and least connected areas are, adding: "But we know Government stats are just part of the picture. So whatever you think of your area’s ranking - have your say on what your area is actually like by taking part in the National Conversation."
The 10 friendliest places
Below, in ascending order, are the 10 friendliest places in the UK according to the Government stats cited by Oxford's researchers.
10 - Lewes, East Sussex: Described as a "small town with a big heart", Lewes was built into the slopes of the Ouse Valley. The town boasts quirky shops, a castle, a food and craft market as well as Harvey's Brewery, the oldest independent brewery in Sussex.
9 - Winchester, Hampshire: The city lies on the edge of the South Downs National Park and is the former seat of King Alfred the Great. Sites include Winchester Cathedral and the Great Hall, said to house King Arthur's Round Table.
8 - Rutland: This ceremonial county features rolling hills, picturesque villages and Rutland Water, a man-made lake. Its two towns are Uppingham, which is famous for its antiques and galleries, and the county town, Oakham, that offers a mix of high street and independent shops.
7 - Stroud, Gloucestershire: Stroud lies in the Cotswold Hills and is noted for its steep streets, independent shops and cafes. It has two award-winning markets - the Farmers Market in the Cornhill and the Shambles market. Designer, Jasper Conran, once referred to Stroud as "the Covent Garden of the Cotswolds".
