Two London boroughs from opposite sides of the River Thames have clinched prestigious positions in a major national survey identifying Britain's happiest places to reside. According to the latest Rightmove 'Happy at Home' index for 2025, Richmond upon Thames and Camden have been ranked second and third respectively, marking a significant achievement for the capital.
Green Oases and Vibrant Streets: The Winning Formula
The South West London borough of Richmond upon Thames is a perennial favourite in such rankings, and its second-place finish comes as little surprise to many. The area scored exceptionally highly for its unparalleled access to nature and essential local services, alongside a wealth of restaurants and shops. A key statistic underpinning this success is that nearly 40% of the borough is public open space, encompassing landmarks like Richmond Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, Hampton Court Palace, and Bushy Park.
Amy Reynolds, head of sales at London estate agent Antony Roberts, commented on the area's unique appeal. "Richmond has a rare ability to feel both vibrant and calming at the same time," she said. "You’re never far from green space... yet you still have the cafés, independents, and community hubs that give the area its character. There’s a strong sense of connection here too; people don’t just live in Richmond, they participate in it."
Camden's Surprising Ascent
More unexpected is the strong showing from Camden, which has broken into the top three for the first time in 14 years. This is despite past perceptions of the area regarding safety. The borough's ranking was bolstered by its access to green spaces, quality of local schooling, and its famously vibrant atmosphere, which has attracted numerous celebrities in recent months. Its position highlights a shift in what residents value, balancing urban energy with community and environmental assets.
The National Picture and London's Top Five
The overall winner of this year's index was the North Yorkshire market town of Skipton, praised as a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and for its affordability, allowing residents to live comfortably. However, London's strong performance is notable. The capital's top five happiest places, according to Rightmove, are:
- Richmond upon Thames
- Camden
- Wandsworth
- Merton
- Southwark
For Richmond, this is the second consecutive year it has narrowly missed the top national spot, with its relatively low crime rate cited as another contributing factor to its high score. The results demonstrate that within a major global city, neighbourhoods offering a blend of natural respite, community spirit, and local amenities can provide a deeply satisfying quality of life, rivalling even the most picturesque countryside towns.
