Leamington Spa is officially one of the happiest places to live in the UK – again.

Property website Rightmove’s annual Happy at Home Index survey, pitched the Warwickshire town second in the West Midlands and 24^th nationally.

Richmond in south west London was crowned the happiest in the survey of some 26,000 people across the country, ahead of Winchester which claimed second place and Monmouth in Wales which came in third.

Stratford-upon-Avon came fifth in the West Midlands’ list and 48^th nationally, Solihull was seventh in the West Midlands and 68^th nationally and Coventry came in at 13 in the West Midlands’ list and 171^st nationally.

In the East Midlands Leicester was ranked 4^th and nationally it comes in at 159^th with Loughborough 7^th in the area and 164^th nationally.

The annual survey, now in its 12^th year and which was published on December 6, asks people to rate the various aspects of the place they live based on 13 happiness factors. These include community spirit, having green space on the doorstep or the sense of belonging in a local community.

It is not the first time the popular former Spa town of Leamington has been deemed a happy place to live. In 2022 the survey placed it 10^th, the year before it was third and it topped the list in 2017.

So, what is it about Leamington that makes it so special and such a happy place to live?

Sheldon Bosley Knight’s associate director, Andrew James attributed Leamington’s success to a range of factors.

He said: “Quite simply, Leamington has it all. It’s got a fantastic atmosphere, is a great place to live whatever your age, it has excellent transport links, fantastic schools, stunning architecture, some wonderful independent boutiques and a range of high street chains, lots of fabulous bars, restaurants and cafes and of course, plenty of green space.

“There are also loads of things to do – whether you are sporty, into theatre, comedy or film or love your food.

“What really makes it special is the great community spirit – no wonder people are happy to live here!”

Noel Rowley, SBK’s Stratford office sales manager said: “Stratford is a fantastic place. Obviously full of culture but there are a great range of housing styles to suit most budgets. The town has lots to offer no matter what age group you are in and it’s a very pretty town with some beautiful architecture, the river and green spaces.”

Jo Egan, SBK’s Solihull office regional lettings manager said: “Solihull is becoming more and more popular with people who recognise it’s a great place to live, work and play. Great schools, shops and amenities coupled with a good selection of housing options is proving to be a hit with those who want to settle here.

Charis James, SBK’s Coventry office residential sales manager, said: “Coventry has a lot going for it and I’m pleased it’s in the list. It is young at heart, has a great atmosphere and is seeing a huge amount of investment from developers keen to unlock its potential.”