Pretty town with ‘scenic view around every corner’ named one of UK’s best places to live | UK

Derbyshire has reaffirmed its reputation as a desirable county, with one of its charming market towns being named among the top places to live in the UK. The prestigious Sunday Times Best Place To Live list has been released for 2025 and presents a list of 72 highly sought-after UK locations.

Wirksworth, one of seven Midlands locations to be featured in the guide released on Friday (March 21), narrowly missed out on being crowned the region’s winner, with Ilmington in Warwickshire taking the top spot. Although the town is frequently visited by motorists traveling along the busy B5023, many may be unaware of the hidden gem – a treasure trove of independent shops, pubs, and restaurants nestled in the historic town. Wirksworth has been aptly described as « quirky » – living up to its nickname of ‘Quirksworth’ – with an « almost-anything-goes » atmosphere, according to The Sunday Times.

The guide states: « Wirksworth more than lives up to its ‘Quirksworth’ nickname. It’s home to a bohemian mix of families, downsizers, and creative types, drawn to its artistic, alternative, community-focused vibe, and a picturesque view around every corner ».

The review continues: « The high street is dotted with trendy independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, a Tuesday market (with a farmers’ market on the first Saturday of the month), and some lively pubs. It’s a magnet for an eclectic mix of families, those seeking a slower pace of life, and creatives drawn by its artsy, alternative, community-focused ethos, not to mention the picturesque scenery at every turn.

« The main street boasts trendy boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, a weekly Tuesday market (with a farmers’ market on the first Saturday of each month), and lively pubs that add to the town’s unique charm ».

With so much to do in one town, it’s clear to see why Wirksworth has made the top tier listings. The Sunday Times write up continued: « The Red Lion, an 18th-century coaching inn, conceals a micropub/record shop, the Feather Star, which hosts synth nights, blues nights and a cheese night every Tuesday. There’s also the Northern Light Cinema, for those who enjoy arthouse movie nights ».

The judges have personally visited each location, evaluating various aspects such as schools, transport, broadband speeds, cultural offerings, access to green spaces, and the vitality of the high street.

Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor, explains: « What sets our guide apart is that we actually visit all the places we select and engage with locals to understand what life is truly like there ».

Davies continued: « This allows us to identify what residents genuinely appreciate about their locales, whether it’s outstanding schools, speedy trains, stunning homes or picturesque countryside.

« In light of the overwhelming global events, it’s comforting to recognise the many things worth celebrating closer to home. From small acts that brighten daily life, like daffodil-filled verges and volunteer-run dementia cafés, to larger initiatives such as repair cafés and new railway stations. »