The UK has experienced a turbulent few years even post-Covid, from the cost-of-living crisis to ongoing strikes, and the NHS facing ever-growing pressures.
Unsurprisingly, this has led to a dip in mood across the nation, with data from the Office for National Statistics showing Britons are generally unhappier now than they were before the pandemic.
The findings come as part of the latest Annual Population Survey, which takes into account happiness, life satisfaction, anxiety and the feeling that things done in life are worthwhile.
In the period between March 2022 and 2023, people across the UK reported feeling less happy and satisfied but more anxious compared to the previous year.
The data also allows for an overall “happiness score” to be given to individual places up and down the country.
So where are the happiest places to live? In England, the district of North Kesteven in Lincolnshire took the top spot with a score of 8.09 out of 10.
Its main town of Sleaford boasts a modest population of around 17,600 residents.
An ancient market town established in the Iron Age, it remains an interesting place for history buffs as well as tourists who enjoy shopping and eating out.
For those who love the outdoors it is also a beautiful place to stroll, with walks alongside the River Slea and hiking trails in neighbouring woodland areas.
Visit Lincolnshire described Sleaford as a “charming town” that is “nestled” in the heart of Lincolnshire.
It says: “It is a hidden gem that promises a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
“With its rich history, bustling market, eclectic shops, and array of local attractions there’s plenty to see and do.
“Why not take a relaxing stroll beside the River Slea? Sleaford is located on the River Slea and Sleaford Canal which makes for lovely scenic walks.
“There is also plenty of woodland and unspoilt countryside to explore and the nearby villages Ruskington and Heckington are worth the visit for picturesque walking routes and Heckington Windmill – the world’s only eight sail windmill.”
It is also worth a visit for those with an interest in planes and military history.
“For aviation enthusiasts, there’s Cranwell Aviation Centre and RAF Digby Ops Room offering great insight into local and British aviation history,” Visit Lincolnshire adds.
While North Kesteven took the top spot for happiness in England, two places in Scotland actually ranked higher for the whole of the UK.
The Shetland Islands were given the highest happiness rating of 8.22 out of 10.
And second was Na h-Eileanan Siar, in the Outer Hebrides, scoring 8.12.
Other highly ranked places included Pendle in Lancashire, Malvern Hills in Herefordshire and
Torridge in Devon.
The top 10 happiest places in the UK, according to the Office of National Statistics, are:
- Shetland Islands, Northern Isles – 8.22
- Na h-Eileanan Siar, Outer Hebrides – 8.12
- North Kesteven, Lincolnshire – 8.09
- Pendle, Lancashire – 8.06
- Malvern Hills, Herefordshire – 8.06
- Torridge, Devon – 8.05
- Cannock Chase, Staffordshire – 8.04
- Newham, London – 8.00
- Mid Sussex, West Sussex – 7.96
- Mid Ulster, Northern Ireland – 7.95.
