The announcement that Saffron Walden has been named the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times has been met with much praise. This Essex town emerged as the number one choice from a pool of 72 locations, spanning from bustling cities to remote villages like Maenclochog in Pembrokeshire. The previous year’s winner, North Berwick in East Lothian, was dethroned by Saffron Walden this time around.
Judges considered various factors in determining the best place to live, such as the quality of schools, transportation options, broadband speeds, mobile connectivity, access to green areas, and the overall charm of the High Street. Bruce King, a 49-year-old representative from Cheffins estate agents, passionately asserted his belief in Saffron Walden being the ultimate destination to call home. He highlighted the town’s vibrant market square, a blend of well-known chains and local businesses, along with the strong sense of community that permeates the area.
For Karen Oakley, a 58-year-old proprietor of Sage and Saffron, the recognition of Saffron Walden as the best place to live resonates deeply with her own experiences. Having established her deli just after the lockdown period, Oakley has witnessed the thriving independent retail scene in the town over the 12 years she has resided there. She noted the remarkable resilience of Saffron Walden’s High Street, which stands out amidst a backdrop of declining shopping districts elsewhere.
The judges lauded Saffron Walden for its picturesque historic aesthetics, top-notch state schools, diverse cultural offerings, and burgeoning culinary landscape. Transforming from a once perceived stuffy and pricey locale, the genteel market town has embraced modernization while preserving its timeless charm. As traditional High Streets face challenges nationwide, Saffron Walden has managed to revitalize its commercial center, catering to contemporary needs and tastes
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