A Georgian spa town in North Yorkshire has been highlighted among the best places to live in 2026 – are you thinking of moving soon?
Harrogate, located just over an hour’s drive away from Darlington, was recommended by Muddy Stilettos for its community spirit, high-performing schools, vibrant town centre and “gorgeous” countryside nearby, to name just a few of its standout features.
The lifestyle experts praised it for being “packed with gorgeous period houses” and for its status as the shopping capital of Yorkshire.
They continued: “No wonder young families have long flocked to Harrogate, drawn by leafy parks, great schools and a buzzy town centre that’s bursting with one-off shops, cafés and restaurants. Plus there’s all that gorgeous countryside on your doorstep.”
You can take a look at all of the best places to live in 2026 across Yorkshire and the rest of the UK via the Muddy Stilettos website.
Why is Harrogate one of the UK’s best places to live in 2026?
When it comes to community, the “tight-knit” and “friendly” town welcomes volunteers and strives to “put the fun into fund-raising”.
The lifestyle experts added: “From firework displays to a Winter Ball, check out the latest feel-good events, while Farmers’ Markets are held every second Thursday, and an Artisan Market in Valley Gardens on the first Sunday of the month.
“The Harrogate & District Community Action (HADCA) charity supports local communities to make the district a great place to live and work.
“If you’ve time to spare, there are lots of ways to help, from making tea to becoming an eco-warrior.
“Harrogate Community Radio shares a harmonious spirit through music – if it sounds like something you’d be interested in, they’d love to hear from you.”
For those who are foodies, a move to Harrogate just for the famous Bettys alone is “worth considering,” known for its elegant cakes and pastries, while The Coach & Horses in the town centre offers “perfect” fish pie and is a gastropub “everyone wishes were their local”.
Don’t forget the Michelin-approved Paradise Café at Daleside Nurseries if you want to treat yourself or a loved one to fancy dining.
But what about Harrogate’s shopping scene? It’s said to be flooded with independent businesses around Commercial Street, Cold Bath Road and Kings Road.
Just some shoutouts from Muddy Stilettos go to family-run Ogden of Harrogate Jewellers, Imagined Things Bookshop, Inger & Rae and The Cheeseboard.
Want to know what Harrogate’s best kept secret is? Visit the Victorian Turkish Baths which are fully restored and are a “wonderful place to relax, rejuvenate and soak in the town’s healing waters”.
Someone who recently visited posted in a review on TripAdvisor: “Totally amazing building, friendly staff and very relaxing experience. We were there for 2 hours on a Monday morning and floated out! Well worth a visit.”
Harrogate is also home to many Ofsted outstanding nurseries such as Acorns Playgroup, Tiny Teapots Private Day Nursery and Rigg Farm Montessori.
Meanwhile, other schools which should be on the radar of carers and parents include:
- Ashville College
- Harrogate Ladies College
- Harrogate Grammar School
- St John Fisher Catholic Academy
- St Aidan’s Church of England High School
- Western Primary School
If you’re thinking of buying property in Harrogate, it’s good news as house prices have dropped by 7% in the last year, “so strike while the prices are hot,” advises Muddy Stilettos.
The lifestyle experts revealed: “The average sale price was £377,319 in the last year. Most sales are semi-detached properties, going for an average £375,133, while terraced properties sell for around £286,635.”
Best places to visit in the UK this Autumn
York among UK’s best places to live for 2026 – find out why
Harrogate was in good company in Muddy Stilettos’ official best places to live guide for the year ahead, as York was also named.
They commented: “Why wouldn’t you want to live in this walkable, wonderful city oozing with charm?
Recommended reading:
- North Yorkshire beach with 'scenic charm' named UK's best to visit this autumn
- 'Intriguing' North York Moors village with 'exhilarating' views is 'hidden gem'
“Historic York on the banks of the River Ouse attracts millions of visitors each year, famous for its Minster dominating the skyline, with city walls dating back to a Roman heyday.
“The city has atmospheric streets like the quirky Shambles to explore, but the biggest draw is that it’s a hip, happy and happening place today.
“You’ll never tire of its jaw-dropping ancient architecture juxtaposed by contemporary coffee shops, stylish boutiques, great restaurants and world-renowned museums. And the cherry on the cake? Its devotion to all things chocolate.”
Share