The UK’s “happiest” place to live has been named, and it’s not in England or Wales. Inverness, in Scotland, has claimed the top spot as the cheeriest place to live in the UK, surpassing cities like Cambridge, Oxford, and Chelmsford. The trend of “soft living,” gaining traction on social media with over 32.8 million views on TikTok under the #softlife hashtag, is credited by hospitality agency Accor for this happiness trend.
Research conducted by Accor identified the top ten happiest cities in the UK based on data from the ONS personal well-being survey. Inverness emerged as the happiest city in Scotland and the UK, scoring 7.83 out of 10 on the happiness index. The city offers a blend of a relaxed lifestyle and a range of attractions making it an excellent place to reside.
Inverness boasts cultural landmarks such as Inverness Castle and Inverness Cathedral, offering a rich historical experience. The city also caters to food enthusiasts with diverse dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants and local eateries. Shopping in Inverness ranges from quaint independent stores in the Old Town to well-known brands in the Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Nature lovers will appreciate Inverness as a gateway to the scenic Scottish Highlands, with its historic castles and picturesque trails. Loch Ness, famous for the legendary Nessie, offers wildlife sightings and serene landscapes. Edinburgh tops the list in Scotland for its green spaces, including public parks like The Meadows and Princes Street Gardens.
For more details on the top ten happiest cities in the UK, visit the Accor website. In addition to Inverness, cities like Preston, Chelmsford, St Albans, and others feature in the ranking. The research sheds light on the importance of factors like lifestyle, attractions, and natural surroundings in determining residents’ happiness levels.