Luton, a Bedfordshire town known for its straw hat manufacturing and airport, has faced renewed scrutiny after being named the 'worst place to live in England' in a 2023 survey by iLivehere. The poll, which received 105,598 votes, saw Luton overtake Peterborough for the unenviable title. In 2024, a similar survey described Luton as 'England's toilet', ranking it 11th among the most 'depressing' towns.
Many residents cite safety concerns, particularly in the town centre at night. Employment issues, coupled with a lack of bars, restaurants and nightclubs, lead to people congregating on the streets. Shelter's 2023 research found over 3,443 homeless people in Luton, the highest rate in the East of England.
However, some locals offer a more balanced view. Agnieszka Cwieluch, manager of Polish Café Smaczek, has lived in Luton for 18 years and believes the town's reputation depends on 'your perception'. She highlights positives such as Warden Hills, Stockwood Park, Wardown House and Wrest Park, which won a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice Award in 2022.
Business owner Lorna Smith, who moved from London two-and-a-half years ago, acknowledges Luton has 'good and bad areas' but insists 'there are worse places to live'. She calls for improved facilities for youths, mental health support and substance abuse services, as well as more bars, restaurants and employment opportunities.
International student Naman Agarwal, from Nepal, agrees Luton is 'not fun' and notes that people in the town centre seem unhappy. Despite the criticisms, Smith remains optimistic, noting that 'some things are starting to happen' and that Luton is 'not a bad place'.
