A "charming" market town in the Lake District bursting with history, flavour, and adventure has been named the prettiest place to live in the UK.
From Bath to Caernarfon, Aston & Co Estate and Letting Agents have come up with a list of the top 20 prettiest places to live in the UK.
Introducing the list, the property experts said: "Britain is a pretty amazing place to live, but what made it great in the first place?
"Well, we reckon it might have something to do with its beautiful countryside, charming villages, gorgeous market towns and picturesque cities.
"This selection of the prettiest places to live in the UK will have you dreaming of packing up and moving away."
Prettiest places to live in the UK
The prettiest places to live in the UK, according to Aston & Co, are:
- Ambleside, Cumbria
- Port Isaac, Cornwall
- Caernarfon, North Wales
- Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
- Aysgarth, North Yorkshire
- Burnham Market, Norfolk
- Stamford, Lincolnshire
- Morpeth, Northumberland
- Lavenham, Suffolk
- Cheddar, Somerset
- Alderley Edge, Cheshire
- Lindfield, West Sussex
- Bath, Somerset
- Castle Combe, Wiltshire
- Salcombe, Devon
- Holland Park, London
- Ludlow, Shropshire
- Nuneham Courtenay, South Oxfordshire
- York, North Yorkshire
- Selborne, Hampshire
Why Ambleside is the prettiest place to live in the UK
"The Lake District is undeniably beautiful, and Ambleside is one of the prettiest towns in the national park," Aston & Co explains.
From the views over Windermere to its heritage and culture, there is a lot to like about Ambleside.
The estate agents continue: "Overlooking famous Windermere, the town is full of Lakeland stone houses and charming cafes, shops and restaurants."
House prices in Ambleside
The average house price in Ambleside over the past year is £435,934, according to Rightmove.
The most popular properties in the last 12 months have been terraced houses, selling for an average price of £322,833.
Detached properties sold for an average of £690,000, with flats fetching £304,150.
Rightmove added: "Overall, the historical sold prices in Ambleside over the last year were 19% down on the previous year and 16% down on the 2022 peak of £517,176."
What to do in Ambleside
From Roman forts to wild food, Ambleside is bursting with history, flavour, and adventure.
This bustling market town in the heart of the Lake District offers a blend of heritage, natural beauty, and culture for visitors of all ages.
Here are seven things, according to Visit Lake District, to see and do in Ambleside:
Step into the past at the Armitt Museum
The Armitt Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the arts, heritage, and natural history of the Lake District.
It features rotating exhibitions and a wealth of information about Beatrix Potter, as well as nearby Roman ruins.
Explore Galava Roman Fort
Dating back to AD 120, this historic stone fort once housed 500 Roman soldiers.
Visitors can wander the remains and imagine life during Roman times.
Stroll by Bridge House
One of the most photographed buildings in the Lake District, Bridge House spans Stock Beck in the heart of town.
Built in 1723 and originally used as an apple store, it is now owned by the National Trust.
Catch a film at Zeffirellis
This independent cinema shows films from new and emerging talent, while nearby Fellinis screens art-house releases and hosts live performances.
Enjoy life by the water at Waterhead Pier
Just a short walk from the town centre, Waterhead Pier is a starting point for Windermere Lake Cruises.
Visitors can even hire rowing boats or self-drive power boats before setting off.
Sample Ambleside’s culinary scene
Ambleside offers everything from fine dining and traditional pubs to quirky cafés and international cuisine.
The Old Stamp House is a standout restaurant championing Cumbrian ingredients.
Discover the town’s specialist shops
Ambleside’s independent shops include outdoor clothing retailers and unique gift stores.
It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir or gear up for a day on the fells.
What is your favourite thing to do in Ambleside? Let us know your recommendations in the comments below.
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