Norwich has been named the best place to live in the UK for 2026 by The Sunday Times, praised for its blend of medieval heritage and contemporary cool. The city, which has appeared in all 14 editions of the annual list, was described as a 'creative, cosmopolitan city with a small-town feel'.
Judges highlighted Norwich's urban convenience alongside rural tranquillity, with easy access to The Fens and the eastern coastline. The city is also the UK's first UNESCO City of Literature, boasting numerous theatres, cultural attractions, and a renovated Norman castle.
In second place was Malmesbury in Wiltshire, noted for its healthy high street. Skipton in North Yorkshire took third, described as a market town at the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. The rankings were compiled by a panel of experts who toured locations across the UK, considering factors such as broadband speeds, school standards, and high street vitality.
Average house prices for the winning locations ranged from £252,300 in Ballycastle to £916,900 in London's Richmond. Norwich recorded an average house price of £324,400. Helen Davies, editor of the guide, said the list highlights the wonderful work communities are doing across the country.
