(Commonwealth) _ Renowned for its prestigious landmarks like London’s largest royal park, Kew Gardens, and Hampton Court Palace, Richmond upon Thames in south-west London now earns the title of “the happiest place to live” in Great Britain, as per property website Rightmove’s “happy at home” index. This 12-year-old index assesses resident sentiments based on 13 key “happiness factors.” Richmond’s ascendancy to the top spot marks a historic milestone for London, marking the first time a locale from the capital has claimed this accolade. This achievement breaks the streak of St Ives in Cornwall and Hexham in Northumberland, which previously held the lead but now stand at ninth and tenth positions, respectively. Residents of Richmond have notably highlighted the borough’s unique attributes, specifically praising its ability to foster a strong sense of belonging and individual expression. The abundant access to nature and lush green spaces has also been a key factor in earning high ratings from residents, further contributing to the borough’s top-ranking position in the happiness index.
Richmond boasts an impressive landscape, with almost half of its area dedicated to parkland, creating a picturesque haven for nature enthusiasts. The borough is adorned with a rich tapestry of natural treasures, featuring renowned destinations like Richmond Park, celebrated for its ancient woodlands and splendid herds of deer. Additionally, Bushy Park, Hampton Court Park, Old Deer Park, Kew Gardens, and the London Wetland Centre in Barnes add further diversity to the borough’s natural offerings. The River Thames meanders gracefully through Richmond, enhancing its allure with over 10 miles of scenic riverbanks. This remarkable natural feature amplifies the borough’s charm and provides a serene backdrop for residents and visitors alike to revel in the beauty of their surroundings. Historically favored by royalty and the affluent, Richmond upon Thames remains an enclave associated with luxury living, reflected in its soaring property prices. The current average home asking price hovers just under £1 million, nearly three times the national average, while the average monthly rent stands at £3,148, as reported by Rightmove.
Dawn Platt, associate director of Chestertons in Richmond, expressed the borough’s comprehensive appeal, citing its blend of nature, educational institutions, entertainment, dining options, vibrant bars, and retail outlets. The added allure of a riverside location and excellent transport connections further elevates Richmond’s desirability, making it a prime choice in London’s real estate landscape. Platt highlighted the borough’s lifestyle offerings, attributing Richmond’s emergence as one of the city’s most coveted locales to its multifaceted appeal and residents’ contentment. The impact of the Apple TV hit, Ted Lasso, showcasing AFC Richmond, has significantly influenced the borough’s standing in the happiness index. The series’ acclaim hasn’t just enhanced Richmond’s reputation but has sparked a surge in tourism, leading to guided tours and the sale of merchandise featuring the fictional football team.
In the latest iteration of Rightmove’s “happy at home” index, which collected insights from over 26,000 respondents, a compelling trend emerged. The study revealed that the sense of pride, belonging, and community plays a pivotal role in cultivating happiness within an area. Interestingly, this sense of community outweighed traditionally significant factors such as access to transportation, educational institutions, and employment opportunities, highlighting its profound impact on residents’ overall satisfaction and contentment within their living environment. Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s property expert, emphasized that this year’s study underscores residents’ enduring appreciation for proximity to green spaces and natural beauty. These elements gained heightened significance during the pandemic, reinforcing their role in contributing to overall happiness and contentment within residential areas.
