Top 10 UK cities and towns for family-living

Choosing where to raise your family is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. It’s important to find a home in a location that ticks every box, from great schools to local green spaces, and all the everyday essentials on your doorstep.

To help make your search a little easier, we’ve rounded up 10 of the best places to live in the UK for families, based on quality of life, education, local amenities and that all-important sense of community.

1. Telford, Shropshire

Telford is a brilliant place to put down roots. It’s a modern, well-connected town in Shropshire, packed with modern conveniences, including a large shopping centre, leisure parks and top schools, all without the big-city price tag.

Families will love Telford Town Park, a 450-acre green space with huge play areas, nature trails, a splash park and even a high ropes course. There are plenty of options for family days out too, including the nearby Ironbridge Gorge Museum and Hoo Zoo, as well as Telford Ice Rink for rainy days. And with great road and rail links, you can easily get to Birmingham, which makes it a smart choice for commuting parents.

2. Leicester, East Midlands

Leicester is one of the UK’s most welcoming and diverse cities, making it one of the most family-friendly cities in the UK.

There’s always plenty of things to do in Leicester, from hands-on exhibits at the National Space Centre to outdoor cinema nights and family-friendly festivals. Green space? You’ll have plenty, including Abbey Park and Bradgate Park, which are perfect for weekend walks, bike rides and even deer spotting. Plus, Leicester is one of the most affordable cities for families in the UK right now.

3. Chesterfield, Derbyshire

For families looking for affordable homes near nature, Chesterfield is hard to beat. Although known for its crooked spire, it’s the relaxed pace of life with fantastic outdoor access that keeps families here long-term.

Living in Chesterfield means you’re just minutes from the Peak District National Park, so weekend hikes, scenic bike rides and visits to Chatsworth House are right on your doorstep. Back in town, Queen’s Park has an adventure playground, tennis courts and even a miniature train for kids to enjoy. And with well-rated schools and a lower house prices than nearby Sheffield or Derby, it’s a practical and picturesque place to raise a family.

4. Leyland, Lancashire

Located in Lancashire, Leyland is ideal for families wanting a safe, community-first lifestyle with easy access to bigger city amenities.

Worden Park is popular with families as it offers everything from formal gardens to a maze, mini railway and woodland trails. With Preston nearby, you’ve got larger shops and job opportunities within easy reach, making Leyland a top choice for families in Lancashire looking for a quieter pace without losing city connections.

5. Easingwold, North Yorkshire

Easingwold is a picture-perfect market town that offers a peaceful, family orientated lifestyle. It’s known for its great local schools, welcoming community and proximity to the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Families will enjoy a quieter pace of life here, with Saturday markets and community events like the Easingwold Summer of Music which bring everyone together. You’re also just a short drive from York, which is ideal for work, shopping or days out with the kids.

6. Exeter, Devon

Exeter gives you the best of everything, it’s a historic city with a family-friendly feel and easy access to some of the UK’s most beautiful beaches and countryside. It’s perfect for parents who want the energy of a small city, but with fresh air and space for the kids to explore.

You’ve got the River Exe and the Exe Estuary Trail for family bike rides, Dartmoor National Park for big adventures and the Devon coast just down the road for spontaneous beach days. 

And with top-performing schools and a range of children’s clubs and activities, living in Exeter provides plenty of opportunities for kids to grow both in and outside of the classroom.

7. Stokesley, North Yorkshire

Set at the foot of the North York Moors, Stokesley is a great location for families who love the outdoors. Families who live here will enjoy walks by the river, local produce from the market, and have plenty of green space to enjoy, including Stokesley Park.

The town regularly hosts events like markets and summer fairs, which help newcomers feel at home quickly. It’s a great choice for those wanting a peaceful pace of life and to be part of a strong local community.

8. Sprowston, Norfolk

If you’re looking for a family-friendly town with easy access to Norwich, then Sprowston could be the perfect location for your family. It’s a quiet area but boasts all the amenities you could need, including good schools, parks and shops.

Sprowston Recreation Ground is ideal for a family day out, with a playground, sports courts and a nice green space for picnics. The location is also excellent for commuting parents, as you’re just a short drive to Norwich. Families also benefit from being near the Norfolk Broads, giving you access to boat trips, nature walks and waterside pubs for weekend family fun.

9. Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire

Bishop’s Stortford offers a relaxed pace of life with the bonus of being commuter friendly. If you need to travel to London for work, it’s just 40 minutes by train, but when you are home, it’s a world away from the city.

You’ll find a fantastic selection of schools, along with lots of family-friendly activities like the River Stort for cycling or paddle boarding and a great local leisure centre. The town also has a range independent shops, cafés, and green spaces, making it easy to spend the day outdoors.

10.  Longridge, Lancashire

Set on the edge of the Ribble Valley, Longridge is a welcoming Lancashire town that’s perfect for those who love getting outdoors. With access to walking trails, local reservoirs, and the charming Longridge Fell, nature is never far away in Longridge.

Families also enjoy wandering the high street, where there’s a local butcher, handmade gift shops and antique galleries. Schools here are well-rated and there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in local events, which make Longridge a top pick when looking for homes near nature.

Find your family home with Tilia Homes  

If any of these family-friendly towns or cities sound like the perfect place to raise your family, you’re in luck! With thoughtfully designed new build homes available in all these locations, you’ll be sure to find a property that suits your needs.

Ready to start your family’s next chapter? Explore our range of new build homes for sale today and discover your perfect fit in one of our top places to live in the UK for families.