In the UK, we’re blessed with cities that are packed to the brim with history, culture, and attractions. This is partly why around 1.2 million people move to the UK from overseas each year.
Whether you’re looking to rent or buy your own home while house prices remain stable, each city has distinct advantages and disadvantages. Which one is right for you depends on what you’re looking for in the place you call home – here are our top picks.
London
As the capital city, London is the heartbeat of the UK, known for its endless career opportunities, world-renowned landmarks and cultural diversity. It’s a city where history intertwines with fresh new attractions as you’re free to explore everything from the British Museum to the West End theatres and sprawling luscious parks.
While London is an excellent choice for many, it comes with a price tag, with rental prices in London the West End theatres, and the sprawling parks. However, living in London comes with a price tag. For example, the average rent in London is £2,627 per month – although this is somewhat balanced by the city’s dynamic job market and unparalleled public transport network.
Bath
Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its stunning Georgian architecture and Roman-built baths. It’s a city steeped in history, offering a slower pace of life compared to the capital. Residents and visitors alike enjoy its compact city centre, excellent educational institutions, and thriving cultural scene.
While getting your hands on a period home might pose a challenge, there are lots of new builds springing up that retain the charm of Bath, including festivals, museums, and art galleries.
Bristol
Bristol stands out for its indie spirit, vibrant music scene, and strong emphasis on sustainability. This city is known for its friendly community, independent businesses, and green spaces. As well as being the place to be for an excellent cup of coffee (or matcha…!), Bristol is also a hub for creative and tech industries.
Manchester
Manchester is a city with a rich industrial heritage and a strong identity in music, arts and sports. While Manchester is best known for its lively nightlife and diverse food scene, it also has a strong economy with digital and creative sectors driving the city’s economic growth.
Liverpool
Liverpool, famed for its maritime history and as the birthplace of The Beatles, offers a rich cultural experience, with more museums and galleries than any UK city outside London. Its historic waterfront, the Albert Dock, and vibrant music scene make it a lively place to live.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city of remarkable landscapes. The historic Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline while you’ll also be able to take in the natural beauty of Arthur’s Seat.
Edinburgh is celebrated for its cultural festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Final thoughts
Each of the cities mentioned above has its unique charm and advantages. Whether the bustling metropolis of London or the historical allure of Edinburgh sounds more appealing, it must be said that the UK offers some of the best places to live, work and explore.
