Cirencester among best places to live in South West
It's the only place in Gloucestershire featured in the Sunday Times list
Last updated 15th Mar 2024
It seems Gloucestershire can lay claim to one of the South West's Best Places to Live, according to an annual list published by the Sunday Times.
Cirencester has been shortlisted for the region, sitting alongside 71 other locations across the UK in the full rundown.
The judges said of the town:
"If you want an authentic Cotswold life, one that offers markets, shops, parks, cafés and a smattering of culture, Cirencester should top your list.
"This ancient market town offers modern comforts and a stellar community spirit. The volunteers who run the heated open-air swimming pool were recognised last year with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
"It’s a hive of sporting activity and Cirencester Park is one the loveliest places to walk the dog, or ride a horse."
It's the only place in Gloucestershire to feature in this year's list.
Sherborne in Dorset was named as the winner for the South West region, with Stockport in Greater Manchester taking the overall title.
The Sunday Times assesses factors from schools to transport, broadband speeds to culture, as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street.
Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor, said:
“What makes our guide unique is that we actually visit all the places we choose and talk to locals to find out what life is really like there.
"That means we can see what people really love about the places they live. That might be fast commutes and high-achieving schools but also clean water to swim in, lively town centres with useful shops, the possibility of earning a living and being part of a friendly community.
“We do consider affordability, though high house prices are no barrier to inclusion- as long as they provide value for money.
"Different people may be looking for different things, but what all our best places have in common is that people love living in them and are proud to call them home.”