Ballycastle named best place to live in Northern Ireland

Ballycastle has been crowned the best place to live in Northern Ireland.

The County Antrim seaside town is described as a "blissful base" for families in this year's Sunday Times rankings.

Helens Bay in County Down and Londonderry also feature in the 2022 list.

Expert Judges for The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide 2022 assessed a wide range of factors, from schools, transport and broadband to culture, green spaces and the health of the high street.

They look to "celebrate improving towns, villages or city centres, attractive, well-designed homes and locations bursting with community spirit – which the pandemic has shown to be the most vital quality of all."

Here's what the judges had to say about the top locations in Northern Ireland:

Ballycastle (winner): This unspoilt fishing village is a real coastal town rather than a tourist honeypot, with a strong independent streak and a welcoming atmosphere. There’s a vibrant food scene, with everything from old-fashioned fish and chips at Morton’s by the harbour to tasty sourdough at Ursa Minor bakery. The mile-long beach and beautiful surroundings make it a blissful base for families.

Average house price: £169,000

Growth since 2020: 11%

Londonderry: Reaping the rewards of years of investment and with a fine cultural reputation, this much-improved city stands out as somewhere cool, credible and cheap, with a bright future.

Average house price: £161,000

Growth since 2020: 18%

Helen’s Bay: Natural beauty and an outdoorsy vibe have made this corner of the Gold Coast a magnet for families who flock to its dog-friendly beaches and convenient trains to Belfast.

Average house price: £253,000

Growth since 2020: 26% Ilkley, West Yorkshire, was named the overall Best Place to Live in the UK.

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