Best cities to live in the UK 2020

Are you considering a move to a different city? Perhaps you live in a town and want to live in a place that’s bigger and has more to explore or you’re planning a move due to a new job and want to know if a city will work for you.

Cities are fast-changing places, many of them are currently undergoing key regeneration projects which will last for many years and have a huge impact on a city and its appeal. The following list highlights some of the best cities to live in, in the UK, in 2020, why they make such great places to call home and where the best property can be found.

Edinburgh

The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is an elegant and cosmopolitan city, built on the remains of a volcano and only minutes from the coast – it often tops lists and is crowned the best city in the UK.

Edinburgh has a rich history and culture which are celebrated in the many museums and art galleries as well as the festivals such as the International Festival.

The most sought after homes can be found in the New Town conservation area where there are Georgian houses, many of which have been converted into apartments. For large Victorian homes, buyers should look in areas such as Murrayfield.

London

The capital of England is a city that has it all; theatre, music, museums, and restaurants. Cafes, sports facilities and an abundance of green spaces. By nature London is expansive and the different parts of the city are very distinctive.

From warehouse conversions and loft spaces in the East End to the stucco front homes found in central West London such as those in Notting Hill to the varying suburbs – transport connections to places of work will often dictate which areas suit a buyer.

Oxford

Oxford offers an excellent work-life balance, it is a beautiful city filled with historic buildings, most notably the historic buildings that make up Oxford University. Located on the River Thames and with the Oxford canal running through you’re never far from the water and a pretty riverside view and for countryside pursuits, the Cotswold’s are very nearby.

In terms of property for sale in Oxford, the most exclusive residential areas are found in North Central Oxford where there are large period homes on offer, a little further to the north Summertown is also highly desirable.

Bristol

Bristol is a vibrant city, from the historic Georgian homes in Clifton to the graffiti-laden buildings found in Stokes Croft, the large homes on leafy streets and private roads not far from the Downs to the newer apartment buildings found on the harbourside – there is a multitude of property types. 

As a place to live Bristol has excellent schooling options, two universities, a busy nightlife scene, several large shopping centres and access to a broad range of activities. Its cultural heritage and rich history make it all the more exciting and there is a strong sense of community. In recent years Bristol has become increasingly known for its culinary scene.

Bristol offers residents easy access to both the coast, being only a short drive from several seaside locations, and the countryside – the city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes to enjoy. All this whilst not being too remote, there are regular and direct trains from Bristol to nearby Bath, Cardiff and London.  

Some of the most desirable properties in Bristol are found in Clifton, the period homes here boast exquisite architecture and character whilst being located at one of the city’s highest points, many homes also have impressive views.

Cambridge

Beautiful, historic buildings fill Cambridge city centre, at its heart are the various stunning buildings of Cambridge University are set on cobbled streets. Cambridge, though, is a city where old meets new as it fast becomes a large tech industry hub. Silicon Fen is the name that’s been given to the area surrounding Cambridge due to the large number of high tech companies in the area.

Cambridge is an incredibly popular place to live and there is a constant shortage of property for sale. Only 50 miles from London and with a direct train service which takes under an hour into the capital Cambridge is also ideal for those who wish to commute frequently.

Large detached Victorian homes are particularly sought after in Cambridge, there are several conservation areas within the city that have ensured the period homes and areas generally have retained their character. Arts and crafts homes can be found in the Storey’s Way conservation area and the sought after Barrow road is also within a conservation area.

York

York currently has the fastest broadband in the UK, the fibre optic lines that allow for the super connection put York ahead of other UK cities within fibre-optic broadband so far available in very few locations. Science and technology are a large part of the local economy but the job prospects and fast internet are not the only attractions this city has to offer.

The city is incredibly historic and is known for its architecture, the buildings are marvelled at by many visitors year-round. There are also many shops in York, especially independent shops, set within the medieval and Georgian buildings.

As the principal stop on the East Coast Main Line York is the halfway point between Edinburgh and London. From York, you can reach London King’s Cross in under 2 hours.

Property within the city walls is exquisite with fine period architecture. Some of the most desirable homes in York though are found on roads such as St George’s Place, many of the streets running off of Tadcaster Road are sought after places to live.

Where to live in the UK

There are many desirable cities to live in in the UK, each has its own merit and appeal.

People are often driven to move to a new city due to a change in job or relocation of their job – there might even be multiple options to be able to work in a company’s different offices within the UK. 

The way people work becoming more dynamic and companies often have multiple smaller bases of operation across the country there are now more options to live in different locations.

To talk to us about your plans to move and how our services might be of use, contact us.