Skipton, a picturesque market town in North Yorkshire, has clinched the top spot as the best place to live in the North and North East of England, according to The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide published on March 20, 2026. This annual guide, which assesses communities across the UK, highlights Skipton’s unique blend of traditional charm, strong community spirit, and modern amenities as reasons for its selection.
The accolade is no small feat—especially considering the competition from 72 locations nationwide. The Sunday Times’ panel of expert judges praised Skipton for its “properly grounded and strongly connected” relationship with the spectacular surrounding landscape. As the so-called "Gateway to the Dales," Skipton sits on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, about 27 miles northwest of Leeds, and is bordered by the River Aire and the historic Leeds and Liverpool Canal. This location not only offers residents and visitors immediate access to breathtaking countryside but also cements the town’s reputation as a base for exploring the region’s natural wonders.
But what truly sets Skipton apart, according to the judges, is its sense of community and the pride its residents take in calling it home. Helen Davies, editorial projects director and editor of The Sunday Times Best Places to Live, explained the ethos behind the guide: “This guide is a great opportunity to highlight the best places in Britain. It is full of places that show that our village, town and city centres can still be full of life, as well as places bursting with natural beauty, culture, connectivity and most importantly a sense of community. One thing all our chosen locations have in common is that the people who live in them are proud to call them home.”
Skipton’s appeal is multifaceted. The town’s thriving independent businesses, good-value housing, and family-friendly amenities have helped it stand out among other contenders. The judges noted that Skipton is “a place where traditional businesses thrive and a haven for families drawn by the excellent schools and affordable property prices.” The average house price in Skipton is £342,600, making it relatively affordable compared to other desirable locations in the region.
The town’s rich history plays a significant role in its character. With roots dating back to at least the Domesday Book of 1086, Skipton’s name—meaning “sheep town”—reflects its longstanding association with sheep farming and wool trading. This heritage is still celebrated today, particularly during regular market days and events like the annual Skipton Sheep Day. At the heart of the town stands Skipton Castle, first built in 1090 and recognized as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. The castle’s protection helped Skipton grow into a thriving market centre, a role it still plays with its bustling high street and frequent markets.
Modern Skipton is no stranger to accolades. It was previously named the best place to live in Britain by The Sunday Times in 2014 and was recognized as having the best high street in Britain by the Academy of Urbanism in 2008. The wider Craven district, of which Skipton is a part, is also noted for high levels of happiness and life satisfaction, according to various studies cited by regional media outlets.
One of the town’s defining features is its strong volunteering culture. The Rotary Club’s annual Eco Day, for example, raises funds for wildlife and nature charities, bringing together diverse groups such as Share Skipton. Share Skipton operates a Library of Things, allowing members to borrow items ranging from disco balls to leaf blowers, and hosts monthly repair cafés. This spirit of cooperation and sustainability is a hallmark of Skipton’s community life and was specifically highlighted by the Sunday Times judges: “The volunteering culture is strong – the local Rotary Club’s annual Eco Day raises funds for wildlife and nature charities, bringing together groups such as Share Skipton, which operates a Library of Things that allows members to borrow anything from a disco ball to a leaf blower and also holds monthly repair cafés.”
For families considering a move, Skipton’s educational offerings are a major draw. The town boasts excellent schools and is known for being a family haven, with popular residential areas such as Gargrave Road, Grassington Road, Raikes Avenue, and Raikes Road all within walking distance to the town centre. Favoured nearby villages include Gargrave and Rylstone, offering additional options for those seeking a quieter rural lifestyle with easy access to Skipton’s amenities.
Transport links are another of Skipton’s strengths. The town enjoys direct rail services to both Leeds and London, making it a convenient choice for commuters and those who desire both rural tranquility and urban connectivity. In addition to strong transport, Skipton offers a wide range of amenities—from schools and cultural venues to cafés, pubs, and independent retailers—ensuring residents rarely need to venture far for what they need.
The Sunday Times guide doesn’t just focus on Skipton. Other locations in North Yorkshire and beyond also received recognition. York, the Howardian Hills, and Saltburn-by-the-Sea were among the region’s other top picks. Each was praised for its unique attributes: York for its historical significance and modern vibrancy, Howardian Hills for its blend of countryside sophistication and Michelin-starred dining, and Saltburn-by-the-Sea for its bracing surf-and-turf lifestyle and enduring northern soul. The average house prices in these areas range from £354,300 in Saltburn-by-the-Sea to £522,100 in the Howardian Hills, reflecting the diversity of lifestyles and budgets across the region.
In compiling the guide, judges assessed a comprehensive set of criteria, including schools, transport links, broadband speeds, mobile signal, access to green spaces, and the health of the high street. This year’s guide, sponsored for the first time by Lloyds Banking Group, was published online on March 20, 2026, with a magazine supplement set to follow on March 22.
While Norwich in Norfolk was named the overall best place to live in the UK, Skipton’s recognition as the best in the North and North East—and third overall—cements its status as a vibrant, welcoming, and enduringly popular community. For those seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, affordability, and a genuine sense of belonging, Skipton stands out as a shining example of what makes British towns so special.