Best place to have a family in the UK has been named and it's absolutely stunning
From its sweeping landscapes to fantastic employment opportunities, it's no wonder that people living in this Scottish destination are thought to have the best quality of life in the UK
The children's quality of life survey from Halifax has confirmed the top places to live in the UK for those wanting to raise a family, and the top contenders are all in the same area.
Based on key factors such as employment, house size, broadband, traffic, and even adults' reports of well-being, the survey revealed that most of the top places were in fact in Scotland. As the country made a strong showing, there were appearances from across the North and South of England, but the top three destinations all belonged to the Scots.
It comes as no surprise, having held the top spot since 2015, that the Orkney Islands in Scotland are classed as the best place to live with a family in the UK. The survey cited Orkney's high employment rates, alongside its low crime rate and factors like its strong exam results and smaller primary school class sizes.
Speaking about the 2019 results, James Stockan, leader of Orkney Islands council said: “It’s very pleasing that Orkney has taken the crown for the best quality of life in the UK. It’s down not only to our environment but also to the people who live here, who combine a traditional sense of community with a forward-thinking, self-reliant, ambitious, can-do attitude that makes this a very special place to live and work," The Guardian reports.
Situated off the north coast of mainland Scotland, the Orkney Islands are made up of breathtaking countryside and sweeping sea views, offering a breath of fresh air to those that live there. Embracing the great outdoors comes naturally to those settling in Orkney, thanks to its vast landscapes that offer long walks and swims – from port towns to water dives and wildlife tours.
Not only is it home to a beautiful environment, but the area also has a rich history. Orkney is brimming with ancient monuments that anyone can visit, including the World Heritage Site known as the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Other well-preserved sites include Taversoe Tuick, a two-storey burial cairn, as well as an Iron Age tower house, Midhowe Broch.
Russell Galley, managing director at Halifax, previously said on Orkney's win: "With strong education and employment levels, low crime rates and residents loving life, not to mention breathtaking wide open spaces, the Orkney Islands have retained the crown of Britain's best rural place to live," according to Relocate magazine.
He added: "The winning formula for quality of life in the countryside seems to consistently include high employment levels and top scores on wellbeing, along with low school class sizes and high average spend per pupil – more than twice the national average."
Also making the top three list of the best quality of life for families in the UK was the Shetland Islands, also in Scotland. It's believed that these isles have the highest employment rate in Great Britain, coming out significantly higher than average.
Along with it at number three is the Western Isles in Scotland, which in the last survey was revealed to have the highest personal wellbeing rating. This means the average of life satisfaction, wellness and happiness is at an exceeding level compared to other places on the list.
The top 10 list includes:
1. Orkney Islands, Scotland
2. Shetland Islands, Scotland
3. Western Isles, Scotland
4. Hambleton, North Yorkshire
5. South Oxfordshire
6. Ribble Valley, Yorkshire
7. West Somerset
8. Mole Valley, Surrey
9. Chilterns
10. West Oxfordshire