Malmesbury, a small town in north Wiltshire on the edge of the Cotswolds, has been named one of the best places to live in the UK. The Sunday Times declared it the best place to live in the south-west of England for 2026.
Community and Independent Shops at the Heart
Residents are central to the town's appeal, with a strong sense of community, independent businesses run by locals, and events that bring people together. The high street features colourful bunting and classic shop fronts, creating a calm atmosphere.
Sam Wright, who works at independent toy store The Little Loft, said: "It's really nice, it's like a little community, and it's almost like a little village, but bigger. You walk past, and everyone knows everyone. The shopkeepers will be at their doors saying, 'Morning'. It's really pretty, and I feel a little bit proud to say this is my place."
Local Businesses and Activities
Most shops in Malmesbury are independent. Sam described summer evenings: "We'll go and get fish and chips from the shop, and then by the bowls club there's a bit where you can get in the water. So we sit there, eat them, and the kids get in the water. Then we walk back past the ice cream parlour, and get an ice cream."
Other businesses include family-run butcher and deli Michael's, florist Persephone Violet, bookshop Barn Owl Books, pizzeria The Bird Cage, gelato shop The Cosy Cone, Jackclaws Coffee House, and Lally's Tea Rooms.
Events and Community Life
Charlotte at Barn Owl Books said: "There's always lots going on, it's really bustling. It's just a really lovely place to raise the kids, and it's local to everywhere, really, with a nice little community. We help out lots in the local community and host book clubs."
She added: "The Old Bell has the themed bar, and they do quizzes, along with the local pubs, the local boxing club had a festival on, and there's the history society, so there's always so much going on, and something for everyone."
