The two London boroughs from different sides of the river have made their way to the top of the list for their open spaces and overall atmosphere
Two London boroughs have made it to podium spots in Britain’s happiest places to live list, according to Rightmove. The boroughs cover both sides of the river and it is the first time two London areas have made the top spots.
Unsurprisingly, Richmond upon Thames made it to second place as it is often never far from the top of lists ranking the most desirable neighbourhoods in the country. However, the second London borough comes as more of a surprise as it is the first time in 14 years it has made it to the top three.
Richmond upon Thames and Camden, both in London, were placed second and third respectively in Rightmove’s 2025 “happy at home” index. The South West borough of Richmond was ranked highly for its access to nature and essential local services, as well as non-essential amenities such as restaurants and shops.
Richmond continues to thrive due to its natural space, that many residents in London are left without. There’s the renowned Richmond Park, Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, Hampton Court Palace and Bushy Park that help make up the fact that nearly 40 percent of the South West borough is public open space.
It is the second year in a row the area has just fallen short of top spot – and one of the contributing factors is its relatively low crime rate. Although Camden has previously been named one of the most dangerous places to live that has not impacted it’s ranking.
Access to green open spaces is unshockingly a factor that puts it high on the list, as well as schooling. Camden also has a vibrant feel and has welcomed a lot of celebrities in recent months.
Amy Reynolds, head of sales at London-based estate agent Antony Roberts, said: “Richmond has a rare ability to feel both vibrant and calming at the same time.
“I think that balance is a huge part of why people are genuinely happy living here. You’re never far from green space, whether it’s Richmond Park, the towpath, or quiet pockets of nature tucked between neighbourhoods, yet you still have the cafés, independents, and community hubs that give the area its character.”
“There’s a strong sense of connection here too; people don’t just live in Richmond, they participate in it.”
Happiest places to live in London according to Rightmove:
1. Richmond upon Thames
2. Camden
3. Wandsworth
4. Merton
5. Southwark
This year’s top spot was taken by North Yorkshire market town Skipton. It is a gateway to the Yorkshire Dales and has a well-preserved medieval castle overlooking its centre.
Much like the London areas, Skipton was praised for its open green spaces but the affordability of the area helped nab it the top spot with residents feeling they earn enough to live comfortably.
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