The picturesque Yorkshire market town of Skipton has been officially named the happiest place to live in Great Britain for 2024. This coveted title comes from the annual Happy at Home Index compiled by the property portal Rightmove, which surveyed thousands of residents about their local areas.
What Makes Skipton So Special?
Nestled on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and often called the 'gateway to the Dales', Skipton scored exceptionally highly in several key areas. Access to nature and green spaces was a major factor, with the town offering immediate proximity to stunning countryside. The friendliness of the local community and excellent access to essential services like schools and doctors also contributed significantly to its top ranking.
This marks the first time Skipton has claimed the number one spot in the 14-year history of the Rightmove index, having previously placed second in 2020 and sixth in 2023. The town's charm is amplified by landmarks such as its well-preserved medieval castle and the scenic Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which winds through the centre.
Community Spirit and Affordable Living
The survey revealed that residents feel they can truly be themselves in Skipton, a testament to its strong sense of community. Affordability also plays a crucial role, with the average asking price for a home in the town standing at £326,093. This figure is notably below the current national average of £364,833, making it an attractive proposition for buyers.
Ian Rigarlsford, from the town's largest employer, Skipton Building Society, was unsurprised by the accolade. He highlighted the genuine community spirit, stating, "Skipton is a place where community genuinely means something." He praised the remarkable work-life balance the town offers, from lunchtime walks to enjoying the views from the office.
London Boroughs Follow Close Behind
While Skipton took the crown, the 2024 index saw strong performances from two London boroughs. Richmond upon Thames, which previously topped the list in 2022, secured second place. Camden in north London achieved its first-ever podium finish in third place, recognised for its own picturesque canal network and prime green spaces like Regent's Park.
Patrick McCutcheon, a local estate agent, emphasised Skipton's practical advantages alongside its beauty, citing excellent transport links to Leeds, Bradford, and Harrogate. He also painted a vivid picture of the lifestyle, noting, "The historic castle lights up the colourful high street market, while the Leeds & Liverpool canal, Pennine Way and surrounding moors offer endless opportunities."
Skipton's reputation as a desirable place to live is well-established. It was named the best place to live in Britain by the Sunday Times in 2014, and local residents were previously identified as the happiest in the country by the Office for National Statistics in 2017. For trivia enthusiasts, the town is also the birthplace of Tom Spencer, who co-founded the retail giant Marks & Spencer with Michael Marks in 1884.
