Harrogate crowned happiest place in Britain for third year running

“Harrogate is such a very special place – the great people who live there, the heritage and the history alongside contemporary events too like the Harrogate global Festival and the Great Yorkshire Show”.

Barking and Dagenham ranked the lowest in Rightmove’s survey for the happiest place to live.

Asked what makes him happy in Harrogate, Sir Gary Verity, chief executive of the Welcome to Yorkshire tourism agency, said: “The quality of the gardens and all the planting, which give residents and visitors so much pleasure and, of course, a good cup of tea at Bettys [renowned local tea rooms]”.

Michael Newby, Director of Visit Harrogate said: “This is fantastic news – to come top two years running was great, but to be named the happiest place for a third time is just incredible”.

Tonbridge is officially the happiest place to live in Kent.

Richard Cooper, Conservative leader of Harrogate Borough Council, described the North Yorkshire town as a fantastic place to live.

“As a floral town, we are also extremely lucky to have a significant number of parks and gardens in the immediate vicinity – which are a joy to discover”.

It’s also known for excellent schools and transport links.

Chester’s lofty position in the survey was due to its scenery and attractions, shopping, communities and the fact so many residents said they were proud to call the city their home.

The seaside town of Torquay comes top for activities, compared to the Scottish town of Paisley, which offers the fewest.

House hunters on the lookout for friendly neighbours might want to search for a home in Llandrindod Wells – as the residents say that is where the most polite people live.

The Happy at Home survey’s organisers at Rightmove, point out that property asking prices are higher than the national average.

Participants of the Rightmove poll were asked to consider 12 aspects: decor, space, contentment, value, community, area upkeep, pride, costs, safety, amenities, recreation, and neighbourliness. The moderator will not enter into debate with individual contributors and the moderator’s decision is final.