Altrincham has been judged the best place to live in the North West by The Sunday Times.
The accolade, awarded as part of The Sunday Times’ Best Places to Live 2018 survey to be revealed this Sunday, completes a remarkable turnaround for the town.
The paper hails Altrincham’s “youthful energy” and says it’s “a cool slice of suburbia with big family houses and a new-found buzz”.
It continues: “Alty Market is the centrepiece of a £6m regeneration in the area, with ever-changing food stalls in the grade II listed market building.
“You can linger over coffee and cake, a full meal, a craft ale or glass of wine. Altrincham’s location is perfect for those who crave city life: you can be sipping a beer in central Deansgate within 25 minutes on the tram. If you prefer to stay local, head to Sugo or the Belgian Bar.”
The Sunday Times assesses a wide range of factors, from jobs, schools and broadband speed to culture, community spirit and local shops, in order to compile what it calls the “definitive” list.
Its methodology uses robust statistics combined with the knowledge of an expert panel.
In total, 12 locations in the region are included, with the others being Chester, The Heatons, Heswall, Kirkby Lonsdale, Knutsford, Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter, Castlefield, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Ramsbottom, The Ribble Valley and Saddleworth.
On Sunday, The Sunday Times Best Places to Live in Britain supplement will reveal the overall best place to live in the UK.
“Choosing the right location to put down roots is one of the most important decisions you’ll make,” said Helen Davies, The Sunday Times Home editor.
“Which is why we’re here to help – and what Best Places to Live in Britain is all about. We’re very excited that it is a standalone magazine this year. There is much to celebrate, and Britain is scattered with thriving towns and villages, cool cities and suburbs, though people may be surprised how many traditional favourites haven’t made the cut in 2018.”
