Leeds is the best place to live in the north, according to the Sunday Times.
The newspaper’s guide to Britain’s best villages, towns and cities has just been released. Scottish town North Berwick topped the league.
Leeds was hailed as “the best and buzziest city in the north”. York, which topped the national Sunday Times poll six years ago, is nowhere on this year’s list.
However, North Yorkshire does have one representative – Skipton.
“This hearty market town has all you need for a happy life on the edge of the Dales,” say the guide’s authors.
“Crowned by Skipton Castle, built in the 11th century, this market town has a modern vibe, with busy bars and restaurants lining the main street and plenty of artsy events going on.”
It’s bustling shopping scene, including the outdoor market, and food and drink offers make it a great place to go out in. The guide has special mentions for Alexander’s, the Curious Fox, the Cock & Bottle and the Beer Engine.
It says the average house price in Skipton is £327,500.
Just across the North Yorkshire border, Boston Spa also makes the list. The West Yorkshire village, between Tadcaster and Wetherby, has an average property price of £445,000.
“These days, people clamour to live in one of the beautiful, honey-hued homes (many of them listed) clustered around the thriving high street,” the guide says.
“It has buzzy restaurants and bars, upmarket shops, a Costcutter with a deli counter and fine wines, and even a gin distillery.”
And the “wonderful rolling Yorkshire Wolds, one of the region’s best-kept secrets” also get a mention.
Read the full Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2024 here.