The UK’s happiest city has been named — and it’s an hour away from London

Whether it’s proximity to cultural activities, a sense of local community, or even just your local barista knowing your morning coffee order, many factors might influence how satisfied you feel with your local area.

Now, the world’s top 20 happiest cities have been ranked – and there are two UK offerings on the list.

Naturally, London was nowhere to be seen – but Brighton was crowned 11th place, behind the likes of Abu Dhabi, Medellín, Cape Town, and Mexico City, which placed first, second, third, and fourth, respectively.

Quizzing more than 18,000 people who live in cities across the world, the research was first used to determine the best cities, and as well as affordability, quality of life, food options and walkability, city dwellers were asked about their happiness levels, too.

But what does being content with city living actually mean? The list was determined by the percentage of people who had positive reactions to statements like ‘my city makes me happy’ and ‘I find joy in the everyday experiences my city offers.’

Now, it’s not just Brightonians who are flying the flag for the UK: Glasgow also just about made the list, nestling into the 20th spot.

Things to do in Brighton

Now, whether you’re visiting Brighton for a day trip or planning on going the full hog and setting up shop there, everyone knows that a visit to the pier is essential – even if just for a quick go on the penny falls.

But Brighton is known for its array of brunch options, so before you fill up on candyfloss, check out Café Rust in Brighton, Kemptown and Hove, or its spin-off Rust Oven, which exclusively serves up pastries. We’ll take five croissants to go, please.

If eggs are a non-negotiable for you, then Oeuf (closer to Hove) is a local favourite. The restaurant is equally famous for Frumpets – so much so that there’s even a trademark, comprised of a stack of three French toast-battered crumpets.

Or, if you’re brave enough to do a little bit of a cool dip and sauna, the Luna Hut Sea Lanes and Beach Box Spa aren’t far away.

And, of course, no trip down to Brighton would be complete without a potter around the Lanes, one of the quirkiest parts of the city that dates back to the 16th century.

A short walk away, the North Laine is home to Brighton essentials, including Resident record store, which often hosts live music, and Snoopers Paradise, a vintage shop with 90 stalls under one iconic roof.

Here, you’ll find many an oddity, original editions of The Face magazine, and retro fashion finds in their droves. Plus, there’s a pretty cool photobooth to make a memory of your day.

Locals can’t get enough of this bohemian city either, as over on the r/Brighton Subreddit, @sd-rw previously said that, having moved there a few years ago, they ‘haven’t looked back.’

‘It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,’ they penned, while @gamecatuk said that ‘real Brightonians know the kiss me quick hats, chips and fun-loving visitors is what makes our city tick.’

‘It definitely has a buzz, and being near London offers a lot of opportunities. I’m a proud Brightonian and having lived in Bristol, Exeter and London, nowhere comes close to this unique city: there again, I have salt in my veins,’ they added.

Meanwhile, born and bred Londoner @LordJimsicle moved down in 2016, and has ‘never felt happier.’

They said: ‘I always feel like I’m on holiday here…my happiness here actually makes me dread visiting London.’

Housing in Brighton

When it comes to housing, Brighton does come with a bit of a price tag. According to data from Rightmove, houses here have gone for an average of £475,763 over the last year.

As Zoopla’s House Price Index for September shows, the going rate in August was £271,000 – more than £200,000 cheaper than figures down in the unofficial LGBTQ+ capital of the UK.

That said, if you want to maintain close proximity to Brighton but don’t want to break the bank in the process, there are plenty of slightly more affordable alternatives – from Hastings to Worthing.

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