New survey names Northumberland town among 'happiest places to live' in Britain
A Northumberland town has been named one of the happiest places to live in Great Britain.
Hexham takes 10th spot in Rightmove’s annual Happy at Home Index.
It was highly rated for its friendly and polite people and access to nature and green spaces.
Richmond upon Thames is the happiest place to live in Great Britain in 2026, according to the research, despite the average asking price for properties in the area is £1,021,256 – 175% more than the Great Britain average of £371,015.
In second place is Harrogate in Yorkshire and the Humber, and in third place is Cirencester, Gloucestershire in the South West.
Colleen Babcock, Rightmove’s property expert, says: “Richmond stands out for offering a combination many people value: easy access to nature and green spaces, without having to give up local services, places to eat and shop, or employment opportunities.
“That balance between greenery and everyday convenience runs through the wider findings. Even among people who would ideally choose a rural setting, access to amenities, parks and public transport remains important. This year’s results suggest that the places people rate most highly aren’t simply urban or rural, but often bring together some of the best elements of both.”
Here are the 10 happiest places to live in Great Britain for 2026:
1 Richmond upon Thames, Greater London
2 Harrogate, Yorkshire and The Humber
3 Cirencester, South West
4 Monmouth, Wales
5 Hove, South East
6 Chorley North West
7 Skipton, Yorkshire and The Humber
8 Llandrindod Wells, Wales
9 Horsham, South East
10 Hexham, North East