A charming Hertfordshire town has been crowned the best place to live in a new ranking by estate agent Savills and The Telegraph. Harpenden topped the list of 50 desirable towns, scoring highly on factors such as the proportion of residents in managerial and professional jobs, qualification levels, and health.
The commuter town offers a relaxed pace of life with vast green spaces and a strong community, while being just a direct train journey from London. Its high street remains thriving, featuring independent shops, hairdressers, barbers, restaurants, cafes, and fashion stores.
Douglas Sleaper of Savills recommended visiting Harpenden's "twice-weekly street market, superb range of restaurants, wine bars and leisure facilities." The town also supports young filmmakers through a competition backed by the University of Hertfordshire and the Hertfordshire Film Office.
According to the analysis, 60% of Harpenden's population holds a "level four" qualification, equivalent to a bachelor's degree. The average house price in the town is £950,000, making it one of the most expensive in the UK.
