Dozens of towns, villages, cities and even hamlets are all trying to be a happy, welcoming place to live across the UK - but there can only be one true winner.
In December 2025, the Rightmove Happiness Index awarded the Yorkshire town of Skipton the title of the happiest place to live in the UK, bringing an end to the tedious debate.
Rightmove asked thousands of residents how they felt about where they lived, with Skipton scoring high marks for its affordability and being a place where people can “be themselves”.
It's not the first time Skipton has earned high praise; in 2014, it was named the happiest place to live by The Sunday Times.
In 2017, the Office for National Statistics named residents of the Yorkshire town as the happiest in the country.
Ever the curious mind, I wanted to find out what Skipton had to offer that made it such a happy town, or if it was just a tourist fad.
Is Skipton really the happiest town in the UK?
Often branded “the gateway to the Dales”, Skipton offers a unique blend of town life, all while being surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
At first glance, it might seem like any other busy town, but the longer you wander around, the more you notice it holds a charm that can be rare to find in other areas.
Even on the wet winter day I happened to visit, Skipton seemed to sparkle and look almost romantic in a way that would make Paris quiver.
I only had a day to explore everything that Skipton had to offer, so I made sure to explore as much of the town as I could.
From its shops, food, views and attractions, will it all help me find out why the town is supposedly happy?
Shops, shops and more shops
As someone who loves to shop till they drop, I am always searching for a good high street that offers everything you could need or want.
From butchers, charity shops, grocers, boutiques, book shops, fashion and small business collections, Skipton had everything covered.
Its high street has an array of delights, many of which are independent, all with dazzling window displays welcoming customers.
Some of my personal favourite shops I explored were The Geek Side, Out of the Ordinary, and Emma's Apothecary & Home Store.
Skipton’s shopping doesn’t end on the high street, with Craven Court hosting a wide range of tucked-away shops.
The stone building almost has a magical feel, with the many bright shop window displays lighting up the Harry Potter-esque alleyways.
Craven Court added to the charm with mysterious little wooden doors tucked around the shopping centre, egging on my curious mind.
God bless Skipton’s pork pies
Living in Yorkshire, I know how good food is up north, especially when it comes to bakeries and butchers.
Skipton has endless options for places to sit down and enjoy a meal, whether a quick lunch, a tasty dinner or on the go, you can get whatever you want at high quality and affordable prices.
Not in the mood for a large meal, I instead chose to try a pork pie from one of the town's famed butchers.
Heading to the owners of the title of ‘Supreme Pork Pie Champions’, Farmhouse Fare, I opted for a traditional pie.
I’m a big old fan of a pork pie, so I’ve enjoyed my fair share of the treat, but I can’t say I’ve ever had one quite like this.
The pastry was like golden flakes of joy, the meat was beyond perfect, and the taste was like a dream. If I could bottle up the feeling of that first bite, I would. It was amazing.
Of course, I didn’t just eat a pork pie on my visit to Skipton, I obviously had to enjoy a sweet treat (or two) as well.
I’d heard that The Craven Bakery was a popular must-visit among locals, so I knew I had to give it a try. The bakery was like those of days gone past, with plates of cakes making up the window display.
I opted for a rum truffle, and it was stunning, something that I imagine even Paul Hollywood would have to give a nod to.
It was a perfect blend of chocolate with a hint of rum that didn’t make it feel strong or heavy, just perfect.
Merry on down the canal
Skipton has long been praised for its views and beautiful scenery. None more so than the Leeds to Liverpool canal that winds around the town and towards Skipton Castle.
The canal is filled with canalboats available to hire and those offering 30-minute trips along the water.
I, of course, wanted to go on a canal trip, so I paid my £5 (a bargain), hopped in the canal boat, and prepared for my scenic trip through Skipton.
After hearing a quick bit of history of the town from the boat's captain, the 30-minute journey kicked off, taking us through the town and then returning.
For £5, you cannot go wrong; it was so peaceful, calming and lovely to see Skipton from the water.
So, is Skipton really the happiest town in the UK?
Well, the simple answer is yes.
From my visit, I could see no reason why anyone wouldn’t like living in Skipton.
It has the perfect mix of town and nature, all while being within easy reach of metropolises like Leeds and Manchester.
The high street has a charming, almost old-timey feel that can be very hard to find across the UK, as many towns struggle to keep their own alive.
I would almost call Skipton a hidden gem if it weren’t already so widely known.
It’s no surprise that those living in the town are so happy; I would be, too if I had such a charming, delightful place to call home.
Where do you think is the happiest town to live in the UK? Let us know in the comments.
