Fountain in the gardens
Fountain in the gardens

Cheltenham: Officially the second best place to live in the UK

Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham has emerged as a premier location for families and professionals seeking a balanced, high-quality lifestyle. Recently recognized by the Sunday Times as the second-best place to live in the UK, this Regency town’s unique attributes make it an attractive proposition for movers.

Since 2013, the Sunday Times has conducted in-depth analyses to determine the best places to live in Britain. This year’s rankings focused heavily on data, evaluating nine key metrics such as education quality, green spaces, cultural offerings, and community engagement.

Sunday Times logo

So which area won?

We didn’t quite nab the top slot. That honour goes to the London borough of Richmond. With good schools, high GP satisfaction and the lowest crime rate in the capital.

But second place is still a great achievement for a town as small as Cheltenham, with our strong performance across these data categories underscoring the town’s appeal as a vibrant and welcoming community.

Here are a few key reasons why Cheltenham is considered the second-best place to live in England.

A Regency Gem with Historic Appeal

Caryatids statuettes in Cheltenham

One of Cheltenham’s defining features is its stunning Regency architecture, which contributes to its status as ‘Britain’s most complete Regency town.’ The town boasts a wealth of listed buildings, from the iconic Pittville Pump Room to the elegant Montpellier district, known for its fluted columns and Caryatids. This historic charm provides a picturesque setting that residents and visitors alike can enjoy.

Award-Winning Green Spaces

Cheltenham is renowned for its beautiful and well-maintained green spaces, which provide ample opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. Seven of the town’s parks and open spaces have achieved prestigious Green Flag status, while Pittville Park’s Green Heritage Site Accreditation highlights its historical significance. The nearby Cotswolds further enhance Cheltenham’s appeal, offering stunning landscapes for hiking, family outings, and scenic retreats.

Cultural Vibrancy and Community Engagement

Cheltenham’s vibrant cultural scene adds to its appeal as a hub for innovation and collaboration. The town hosts a range of high-profile events, including the world’s longest-running literature festival and the renowned Cheltenham Festival at our internationally acclaimed racecourse. This rich festival calendar, combined with a thriving arts and theatre scene, creates a dynamic environment that fosters creativity and engagement. There is always something to see and do in this lively community.

Cheltenham Literature Festival

High-Quality Living and Accessibility

Cheltenham strikes an ideal balance between convenience and tranquillity, offering a wealth of local amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. With an array of independent businesses, shops, and cafes, the town provides an excellent quality of life for professionals and their families. The area is supported by strong educational institutions, including highly rated Ofsted schools and impressive Progress 8 scores.

Additionally, Cheltenham boasts some of the shortest NHS waiting times and highest GP satisfaction rates in England, ensuring quality healthcare for all.

Housing in Cheltenham is also relatively affordable compared to other top-ranked areas, with an average price of £342,000 compared to Richmond’s £748,000.

Commuters in Cheltenham

A Strategic Hub for Commuters

Cheltenham’s strategic location and excellent transport links make it an ideal base for professionals who need access to larger urban centres. The town is just 15 minutes from Gloucester and 50 minutes from Bristol, while Cheltenham Spa train station provides direct access to London and other major cities. Local public transport is efficient and well-connected, making travel within and beyond the town easy and convenient.

Cheltenham’s historic charm, thriving cultural scene, and high standard of living make it one of the UK’s most desirable places to call home. Whether you’re drawn by its award-winning green spaces, excellent schools, or vibrant community spirit, Cheltenham offers something for everyone. Its recognition as one of the best places to live reflects its enduring appeal as a town where families and individuals can thrive

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