Ilkley, a charming town located near Bradford in West Yorkshire, has been crowned the best place to live in the UK. Surpassing major cities, Ilkley stood out among 70 other locations, securing the top spot.
What makes Ilkley so special? Well, it offers top-class schools, a vibrant high street, excellent rail links, and breathtaking views. The judges were particularly impressed by the wide range of sports clubs available, which provide great opportunities for young people in the town.
The annual guide to the best towns in the UK, compiled by judges at The Sunday Times, also revealed the top places to live in other regions. Crystal Palace was named the best place to live in London, Sevenoaks was deemed the best in Kent, and The Chalke Valley took the top spot in the South East. In the North West, Trawden in Lancashire emerged as the best place to live.
Residents of Ilkley were overjoyed at this fantastic accolade. John Oddy, a partner at Ascentis accountants, expressed his love for the town, saying, “I joke by saying it’s a bit like Royston Vasey, you will never leave. But seriously, it’s a wonderful place. You would not get me out of here with a stick of dynamite.”
Ilkley’s prime location in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside and its proximity to fantastic scenery and walks were highlighted as major advantages. The Yorkshire Dales are just a little over half an hour away, and the Lake District is also within reach. Adding to its appeal, Ilkley is only 15 minutes away from Leeds Bradford airport, making it convenient for families.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ilkley boasts excellent schools that attract families from far and wide. The community spirit is strong, and the town is known for its cleanliness and low crime rates. It’s a place where families feel safe and neighbors look out for each other.
When it comes to sports, Ilkley has a lot to offer. With three cricket clubs, a level five rugby club boasting over 350 members, a fabulous tennis club, and a golf club, it’s difficult to think of a British sport that you can’t enjoy here.
Richard Bradley, chairman of the ‘Friend’s of King’s Hall,’ a theater in the town center, expressed his pride in the town’s achievement. He said, “We have been in the top five on a number of occasions, so it comes as no surprise. It’s a fantastic accolade. It’s a wonderful town to live in and ultimately I am not surprised because the town has so much to offer for the young and old.”
Trevor Yong, a former Londoner who now calls Ilkley home, praises the generosity of its residents and the strong sense of community. As chairman of Ilkley Round Table, he has personally witnessed the kindness and support of the people in Ilkley. The community comes together for various fundraising events, including a beer festival and the Ilkley half marathon, raising nearly £100,000 each year for charitable causes.
In conclusion, Ilkley has rightfully earned its title as the best place to live in the UK. Its natural beauty, excellent schools, strong community spirit, and abundance of recreational activities make it an ideal place to call home. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a sports lover, or someone seeking a safe and welcoming community, Ilkley has something for everyone.
The Places to Live 2022 regional winners:
- East of England, Norwich, Norfolk
- London, Crystal Palace
- Midlands, Uppingham, Rutland
- Northern Ireland, Ballycastle, County Antrim
- North and North East, Slaithwaite, West Yorkshire
- North West, Trawden, Lancashire
- Scotland, Isle of Bute, Argyll
- South East, Sevenoaks, Kent
- South West, The Chalke Valley, Wiltshire
- Wales, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire
