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Did you know that some of the best cities to live in England for 2025 are not just about history and culture, but also booming job markets, lifestyle upgrades, and world-class amenities? Whether you’re looking for the safest places to live in England, the most affordable towns, or the most vibrant cultural hubs, this video reveals the top 10 cities in England that are truly worth calling home.
From buzzing cosmopolitan hubs like London and Manchester to charming, peaceful cities such as Bath and York, each destination offers unique reasons why it’s among the best places to live in England. We’ll cover factors like cost of living, safety, education, career opportunities, and quality of life so you can make the right choice for your future.
If you’re planning a move, retirement, or simply curious about where life in England is thriving in 2025, this guide to the best cities in England has you covered. 🌍 Don’t miss out—watch till the end to discover which city takes the #1 spot!
👉 Subscribe for more guides on living in England, UK travel tips, and lifestyle insights.
From buzzing cosmopolitan hubs like London and Manchester to charming, peaceful cities such as Bath and York, each destination offers unique reasons why it’s among the best places to live in England. We’ll cover factors like cost of living, safety, education, career opportunities, and quality of life so you can make the right choice for your future.
If you’re planning a move, retirement, or simply curious about where life in England is thriving in 2025, this guide to the best cities in England has you covered. 🌍 Don’t miss out—watch till the end to discover which city takes the #1 spot!
👉 Subscribe for more guides on living in England, UK travel tips, and lifestyle insights.
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LifestyleTranscript
00:00Did you know that over 400,000 people move within the UK every single year?
00:06And most of them are trying to escape one thing, stressful city life.
00:10But here's the shocker, they're not all heading to London.
00:13In fact, some of England's most stunning cities are ones you've probably never even considered.
00:18Forget everything you thought you knew about the best places to live in England.
00:23Because what if I told you that there's a small riverside city where crime rates are among the lowest in the country?
00:28And the locals say they wouldn't live anywhere else?
00:32Or that there's a city with Roman-era architecture, but also some of the happiest residents in the UK?
00:38Most guides will list the usual suspects, London, Manchester, maybe Birmingham.
00:44But those aren't the cities we're talking about today.
00:47Today we're counting down the 10 most beautiful cities to live in England.
00:51And this list is based on more than just looks.
00:53We're talking real-life livability, lifestyle perks, and even scientific studies on well-being and happiness.
01:01So which city is secretly a dream to live in?
01:03And which one ranks number one for pure quality of life?
01:07Stick around, the surprises might just change your entire moving plan.
01:11Number 10, Norwich.
01:13Number 10 on our list is a city many overlook.
01:16But those who discover it rarely want to leave.
01:19Welcome to Norwich, a historic gem tucked away in the east of England.
01:24At first glance, Norwich might seem like a quiet cathedral town.
01:28But don't let its calm exterior fool you.
01:31This city is bursting with creativity, culture, and quality of life.
01:35In fact, Norwich was England's first UNESCO city of literature.
01:40And its streets are alive with writers, artists, and indie bookshops.
01:44The city hosts the Norfolk and Norwich Festival, one of the oldest arts festivals in the UK, drawing talent from across the world.
01:53But it's not just about books and festivals.
01:55Norwich has some of the greenest urban spaces in the UK.
01:59From the tranquil beauty of Eton Park to the scenic walks along the River Wensom, nature here isn't a bonus.
02:06It's a lifestyle.
02:06There's even Mousehold Heath, a vast natural area with panoramic views of the city.
02:12And here's a stat that might surprise you.
02:15Norwich consistently ranks among the top 10 happiest places to live in England, according to Rightmove's annual surveys.
02:22It's a city where people smile at strangers, where the pace is slow enough to breathe, but lively enough to never feel boring.
02:29The locals genuinely love where they live.
02:32With a low crime rate, affordable housing, and a thriving art scene, Norwich is a dream for remote workers, families, and retirees alike.
02:40Plus, it's one of the most walkable cities in the country, meaning your commute might just be a peaceful stroll past medieval buildings and flower-covered pubs.
02:50Think the best of England only exists in big cities.
02:53Norwich quietly proves otherwise.
02:55And that's exactly why it made our list.
02:57Number 9. Durham
02:59Next up, we head to the northeast of England, where a small city sits quietly along the River Ware, yet holds a reputation that rivals any major destination.
03:10This is Durham, and once you see it, you'll understand why it's on our list.
03:14Durham is nothing short of a storybook come to life.
03:17Its skyline is dominated by the breathtaking Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its medieval castle, which now serves as part of the prestigious Durham University.
03:29Strolling through its cobbled streets feels like stepping into another century.
03:33Yet the city is vibrantly alive.
03:35This balance between old and new is what makes Durham so unique.
03:40Despite its ancient roots, Durham boasts a modern quality of life.
03:44The university brings a youthful energy, a range of cultural events, and a diverse food scene.
03:51And with a population under 50,000, it never feels crowded.
03:54Safety is a major plus here.
03:58Durham has one of the lowest crime rates in the region, and residents consistently rate it high for both security and friendliness.
04:05For nature lovers, the nearby Durham Dales offer endless walking and cycling trails, just minutes from your front door.
04:12And here's the kicker.
04:14Durham regularly lands on lists of the best places to live in the UK.
04:17Why? Because it manages to combine beauty, peace, history, and opportunity, all in one.
04:25If you're someone who dreams of a city that's both inspiring and manageable, Durham just might be your future home.
04:32Which city do you think should make the top spot?
04:35Let us know in the comments.
04:37And don't forget to subscribe for the rest of the countdown.
04:40You won't want to miss what's coming next.
04:42Number 8. Exeter
04:43There's something quietly powerful about Exeter.
04:46It doesn't scream for attention like London or Manchester.
04:50It simply exists.
04:52Confident, calm, and completely captivating.
04:55Nestled in the heart of Devon, Exeter sits just a stone's throw from the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor and the golden beaches of the Jurassic Coast.
05:04But this isn't just a pretty place to visit.
05:06People live here for the long haul.
05:09Why?
05:09Because Exeter offers something rare.
05:12Balance.
05:12It's one of the sunniest spots in the UK, a small fact that becomes a big deal when you're tired of grey skies.
05:20The city centre is compact and full of life.
05:23Think farmers' markets, independent cafes, and a blend of ancient Roman walls and modern design.
05:28Exeter doesn't try to be trendy.
05:31It just is.
05:32The economy here is buzzing, thanks in part to Exeter University and the rise of tech and healthcare sectors.
05:40In fact, job satisfaction here outpaces many larger cities and the average commute, usually under 20 minutes.
05:47Imagine finishing work and heading straight to a riverside trail or paddleboarding on the X.
05:53Healthcare is another quiet strength.
05:56With one of the top-performing NHS trusts in the region, residents enjoy a level of care that feels personal, not industrial.
06:03And yet, Exeter remains accessible.
06:06You don't need a six-figure income to own a home here.
06:08The cost of living is reasonable, especially for the quality of life you get in return.
06:14Exeter doesn't just offer you a beautiful place to live.
06:17It gives you space to breathe, time to think, and room to grow, all while being surrounded by history, nature, and sunshine.
06:26This is where life feels lived, not rushed.
06:29Number 7.
06:30York
06:30Some cities impress you.
06:33York charms you.
06:34From the moment you arrive, it wraps you in its story.
06:37Not just through its iconic medieval walls or the towering presence of York Minster,
06:42but through the atmosphere, the people, and the small moments that make life feel better.
06:48York isn't just about history, although you'll find it everywhere, from Roman ruins to Viking heritage.
06:54What makes it one of the most beautiful cities to live in England is how seamlessly that history blends into daily life.
07:02People don't just visit museums here, they walk past them on their way to the coffee shop.
07:07It's the kind of place where kids walk to school past 800-year-old buildings,
07:12where the cobbled streets of the Shambles double as your weekend market route,
07:16and where the River Euse becomes your favourite backdrop for morning jogs or lazy afternoon strolls.
07:21But it's not all quaint charm.
07:24York is one of the most well-connected small cities in the UK.
07:28Trains to London take less than two hours.
07:31Yet the city itself rarely feels rushed.
07:33It scores high on quality-of-life surveys for a reason.
07:37Clean air, low crime, top-performing schools, and a strong sense of community.
07:42People don't just live in York, they belong there.
07:45And perhaps most importantly, it's a city that feels alive without overwhelming you.
07:51The festivals, the food, the arts, they're all here, but on a scale that still feels human.
07:57York doesn't need to be flashy to make you fall in love.
08:00It just needs one walk down its stone lanes at dusk.
08:03And suddenly, you're not just visiting, you're imagining staying.
08:07Number 6. Cambridge
08:09Cambridge. Just the name carries weight.
08:13Intellectual prestige, tradition, and the image of rowers slicing through the River Cam as college spires reflect in the water.
08:21But what's often missed in the glossy brochures is that Cambridge isn't just for students and scholars.
08:25It's a place where daily life feels like a blend of calm intelligence and quiet beauty.
08:32Yes, the University of Cambridge dominates the cityscape.
08:36It's one of the oldest and most respected academic institutions in the world.
08:40But the city itself has grown far beyond the bounds of academia.
08:44It's now a leading tech hub, often called the Silicon Fen, where start-ups and scientific research flourish side by side.
08:52And yet the pace of life here is anything but chaotic.
08:56Cambridge has a rhythm, a gentle, bike-paced kind of flow.
09:00Most residents get around on two wheels, with cycle lanes weaving through green commons, historic streets, and along the riverbanks.
09:07The city feels designed for people, not traffic.
09:12The real beauty of Cambridge lies in its balance.
09:15Art galleries, bookshops, open-air concerts, and botanical gardens offer something for everyone.
09:21And despite its global status, it maintains a strong sense of community.
09:26You'll recognise faces at the market and wave to your neighbours from across the park.
09:31It's also consistently ranked high for education, public health, and environmental quality.
09:36People come here to learn, but they stay to live.
09:40And raise families, start companies, or retire in peace.
09:44Cambridge doesn't shout to get your attention, it doesn't have to.
09:48It's confident, composed, and quietly one of the most desirable cities to live in the entire UK.
09:54And once you've tasted that blend of intellect and liveability, it's hard to imagine settling anywhere else.
10:01Number 5. Oxford
10:02Oxford isn't just a city, it's an atmosphere.
10:05The first time you step into the heart of it, there's this quiet electricity.
10:10The kind that hums through ancient courtyards and spills into cosy cafes.
10:15It's hard to explain, but easy to feel.
10:18Oxford lives and breathes brilliance, but never shouts about it.
10:22Yes, the University of Oxford is the headline.
10:25The oldest university in the English-speaking world.
10:27A place where world leaders, poets, and scientists have walked the same corridors you can pass through on your lunch break.
10:35But Oxford is more than its university.
10:38It's a city of hidden gardens, winding rivers, and neighbourhoods full of character.
10:42Like Jericho, with its artsy vibe and village feel.
10:46Or summer town, perfect for families.
10:49There's a sense of quiet dignity here, where beauty is in the details.
10:53Ivy creeping up sandstone buildings, punts gliding down the Chirwell.
10:58The glow of golden hour light on centuries-old stone.
11:02And yet, Oxford is thoroughly liveable.
11:04It's a small city with the benefits of a big one.
11:07Top-tier schools, an efficient public transport system, rich cultural life, and excellent healthcare.
11:14It's also one of the greenest cities in the UK, both in parks and in mindset.
11:19Sustainability is part of the local fabric.
11:22Real estate? Yes, it's pricey.
11:24But that price reflects demand.
11:27People want to live here, and when you visit, you'll understand why.
11:30Oxford isn't just for the academic elite or tourists on walking tours.
11:35It's for anyone who wants a life filled with inspiration,
11:38surrounded by beauty, and connected to both the past and the future.
11:42Some cities speak to your career, others speak to your heart.
11:46Oxford does both, in a British accent.
11:49Number 4. Bath
11:50There's a certain glow to Bath.
11:53Not just in its honey-coloured stone buildings,
11:55or the way the sun reflects off the hills surrounding the city,
11:58but in how it feels to be there.
12:01This is a place where beauty isn't a bonus.
12:04It's built into the blueprint.
12:06Bath is elegance without the ego.
12:08A compact city that feels more like a timeless retreat than a bustling hub,
12:13yet it offers everything you need, and nothing you don't.
12:16Roman baths, still here, Georgian architecture, every street.
12:21But somehow it doesn't feel stuck in the past.
12:24It feels refined, intentional, like a place that knows exactly what it is.
12:29And people have noticed, Bath consistently ranks among the top cities for quality of life in the UK,
12:34and it's not hard to see why.
12:36Walkability is high, crime is low, and there's an unmistakable wellness vibe to the entire city.
12:43It's not just in the spas, it's in the pace, the parks, the silence you can actually hear.
12:48The city also boasts an impressive cultural life.
12:52Theatre, festivals, independent bookshops, art galleries, all delivered in that signature Bath style,
12:59calm, curated and never overdone.
13:02Nature lovers are spoiled too.
13:04The surrounding Cotswolds offer countryside escapes within minutes.
13:08And while Bath may lean posh, it's also practical.
13:11Strong schools, solid healthcare, and just 90 minutes to London by train.
13:15Bath doesn't try to be everything to everyone.
13:19It simply invites you to slow down, breathe deeper, and enjoy life more deliberately.
13:24It's not flashy, it's not loud.
13:26But if you crave a life with beauty at every corner, and peace at your core,
13:31Bath might be exactly what you've been looking for.
13:34Number 3. Brighton
13:35Brighton isn't just a city, it's a mood, a vibe.
13:39A feeling you catch the second you step onto the pebble beach, or wander through the lanes packed with colour, music and rebellion.
13:47This is where the ordinary gets left behind.
13:49Brighton is unapologetically itself.
13:52It's artistic, eccentric and wildly open-minded.
13:55One minute you're sipping espresso in a retro cafe,
13:59the next you're browsing vintage shops next to a guy playing jazz on a ukulele.
14:03It's weird, in the best way possible.
14:06But beneath the quirky surface lies a very real reason people move here and stay here.
14:12Brighton offers something many bigger cities don't.
14:15Freedom.
14:16Freedom to express, to explore, to live a life that's more about you and less about fitting in.
14:22The city pulses with energy.
14:24Its nightlife is legendary.
14:26Its food scene is booming.
14:27From vegan street eats to beachside fine dining.
14:31And its festivals, constant.
14:33Whether it's pride, art weeks or spontaneous street performances, there's always something happening.
14:39And let's not forget the sea.
14:41Living next to the ocean does something to you.
14:44Calms your mind, lifts your mood.
14:46Studies back it up.
14:48Coastal living has a positive effect on mental health
14:50and Brighton's blend of salt air and sun-kissed charm is hard to beat.
14:54It's also just an hour from London, giving you access to the capital without the chaos.
15:00Brighton isn't for everyone.
15:02And that's the point.
15:04It's for creatives, free thinkers, rule breakers.
15:08People who don't just want to live, they want to live vividly.
15:12If your soul lights up around street art, seagulls and ideas,
15:16Brighton might just be your perfect home.
15:18Number 2.
15:19Chester.
15:20There's something quietly majestic about Chester.
15:22It doesn't shout for attention.
15:25It doesn't need to.
15:27With its ancient city walls, Roman amphitheatre and half-timbered buildings straight out of a fairy tale,
15:33Chester feels like a city suspended in time.
15:36But it's not stuck there.
15:38It's one of the most desirable places to live in England.
15:41And not just because it's beautiful.
15:44Chester has mastered the art of balance.
15:46It's small enough to feel intimate, but full of life.
15:49You'll find gourmet restaurants tucked beside historic pubs,
15:53boutique shops lining the two-tiered rows,
15:56and peaceful riverside walks right in the city centre.
15:59Everything feels carefully arranged, elegant, but never artificial.
16:04This city consistently scores high in resident satisfaction surveys,
16:08and it's easy to see why.
16:10Low crime rates, strong schools, and an emphasis on local businesses
16:14create a feeling of trust and community.
16:16It's the kind of place where neighbours actually know each other,
16:20and where newcomers are welcomed with genuine warmth.
16:24Surrounded by the natural beauty of North Wales and the Cheshire countryside,
16:28Chester also offers that rare gift, beauty inside and out.
16:33Whether you're cycling along the canal, enjoying a slow weekend in Grosvenor Park,
16:38or just admiring the view from the Roman gardens,
16:41Chester never stops being lovely.
16:42And while it may not have the flash of a capital city,
16:46it has something better.
16:48Consistency, character, and calm.
16:51In a world spinning fast, Chester is a pause button,
16:54a place to breathe, a place to build something lasting.
16:58It's not just a city, it's a lifestyle.
17:01Timeless, tranquil, and entirely underrated.
17:03Number one.
17:04Winchester.
17:06And here we are, number one.
17:07Not London, not Manchester, not even Oxford or Cambridge.
17:12It's Winchester, a city that proves true beauty,
17:15doesn't always need a spotlight to shine.
17:17Once the capital of ancient England,
17:19Winchester wears its history like a tailored coat.
17:22Subtle, elegant, and perfectly fitted to modern life.
17:26The towering Winchester Cathedral,
17:28the quiet flow of the River Itchin,
17:30and the timeless Georgian townhouses
17:32create a backdrop so picturesque,
17:34you'd think it was designed for a movie.
17:36But Winchester isn't just a postcard,
17:39it's a powerhouse of liveability.
17:41It ranks at the top of almost every list you can find.
17:44Safety, education, income, life expectancy,
17:48resident happiness.
17:49It's not just good on paper,
17:51it feels good in real life.
17:53Families thrive here,
17:55professionals commute with ease to London,
17:57and retirees find peace in the quiet charm of village life,
18:01all within one compact, walkable city.
18:03The high street is filled with independent shops,
18:07artisan bakeries,
18:08and cafes that feel more like living rooms than businesses.
18:12Festivals light up the year,
18:14from literary events to food fairs,
18:16all with that classic Winchester polish.
18:19And the countryside?
18:21Just minutes away.
18:23You're never far from fields, hills, and hidden trails.
18:26It's the best of England,
18:28all in one place.
18:29It's not the loudest city,
18:31it's not the biggest.
18:33But Winchester is the kind of place you don't just admire,
18:35you trust,
18:36you invest in,
18:37you root yourself in.
18:39It doesn't scream,
18:40look at me.
18:41It simply whispers,
18:42you're home.
18:44And that's why Winchester earns the number one spot,
18:46for being beautiful in all the ways that truly matter.
18:50So which city stole your heart?
18:52Drop it in the comments,
18:53we'd genuinely love to know where you'd pack your bags for.
18:56If you haven't seen our last video,
18:58go check it out.
18:59It's packed with more gems like this.
19:02These videos take a ton of research and love to make,
19:05so if you found value here,
19:06support us by hitting that subscribe button.
19:09It's just one click,
19:10but it means the world to us.
19:12Thanks for watching.
19:14And here's to finding the perfect place to call home.
19:16And here's to find the perfect place to call home.
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