Tips for Busy Parents

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The best places in the UK to raise a family

Is there a perfect place to bring up kids? From the best schools to the cleanest and safest environment, there are many variables to consider when it comes to finding the house of your dreams.

Schools: Harrogate

A house within the catchment area of an excellent state school will always be a top priority for parents. Recent research by Savills ranked Watford, West Dorset and Hammersmith and Fulham top for schools in the South. However, they also suggest that the North’s “Golden Triangle” of Harrogate, Gateshead and Trafford all offer better value for money for family homes near top schools. Read more

Happiness: Leigh on Sea

This Essex town was recently named as the happiest place in Britain to live by Rightmove.com’s Happy at Home Index. The seaside resort ranked highly for stand-out features, including community spirit, a strong sense of belonging, good access to sports and opportunities to develop skills. Read more

Quality of life: South Oxfordshire

With pretty villages, plenty of green space and friendly neighbourhoods, South Oxfordshire topped a recent poll for quality of life, scoring well for happiness, health and life expectancy. Residents of the region, which includes towns such as Wallingford and Henley-on-Thames, are said to be happy and content, with typically high incomes and a much higher-than-average life expectancy. Read more

Culture: Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital city was recently ranked as the second-most-child-friendly city in Europe, in a recent TripAdvisor survey, only ranking behind Florence. With an abundance of free museums, theatres and galleries, it is easy to navigate and walk around and there is plenty of outdoor space. Read more

Cost of living: Wokingham

According to the Family Hotspot Report, this market town in Berkshire is the best place to raise children. The study looked at affordable homes, local amenities and childcare costs along with other factors, such as safety and green spaces. The report said the average salary there is £27,362 – more than £5,000 above the national average. Read more

Do you have friends who live in these areas? Share this email with them so they know how lucky they are!