{"id":87170,"date":"2025-05-09T10:57:09","date_gmt":"2025-05-09T10:57:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/87170\/"},"modified":"2025-05-09T10:57:09","modified_gmt":"2025-05-09T10:57:09","slug":"all-the-greater-manchester-towns-named-the-best-places-to-live-by-the-sunday-times","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/87170\/","title":{"rendered":"All the Greater Manchester towns named the Best Places to Live by The Sunday Times"},"content":{"rendered":"

Each year, The Sunday Times releases its eagerly awaited list<\/a> of the Best Places to Live in the UK<\/strong>, and Greater Manchester continues to punch well above its weight. From city-centre cool to charming market towns and green suburban gems, the region has consistently impressed the judges \u2013 and it\u2019s easy to see why.<\/p>\n

As The Sunday Times puts it, Manchester is in the midst of a cultural renaissance<\/a>, and the \u201ccrane count<\/a>\u201d proves it. The city is no longer defined solely by its football and music scene. From its buzzing centre to leafy suburbs and hill-hugging towns, the variety and quality of life on offer here is unmatched.<\/p>\n

So, whether you\u2019re after urban grit and glamour, village charm, or green tranquillity, there\u2019s a place for everyone in Greater Manchester \u2013 and The Sunday Times agrees.<\/p>\n

Factoring in everything from schools and house prices to green space and community spirit, The Sunday Times has shone a spotlight on Greater Manchester\u2019s rising stars and established favourites alike. Here\u2019s a look back at the Greater Manchester towns and neighbourhoods that have earned a coveted spot on the list over the years.<\/p>\n

2025: Mossley and The Heatons<\/strong><\/p>\n

Mossley<\/strong> took centre stage this year as one of the best places to live in the North West. Described as offering \u201caccess to wild countryside and the chance of a wild night out,\u201d the OL3 postcode has become a hotbed for creative non-conformists, good schools, and scenic train commutes into the city. Read the article here<\/a><\/p>\n

Also in 2025, The Heatons<\/strong><\/a> (Moor, Chapel, Norris, and Mersey) were celebrated once again, described collectively as a \u201csuper SK4 suburb.\u201d Straddling the sweet spot between Manchester\u2019s urban core and Stockport\u2019s increasingly trendy scene, The Heatons were lauded for their classic yet increasingly vibrant suburban character. Read more here<\/a><\/p>\n

2024: Stockport and Prestwich<\/strong><\/p>\n

In 2024, Stockport<\/strong><\/a> was crowned The Sunday Times\u2018 Best Place to Live in the North West<\/strong>, dubbed \u201cone of the coolest little corners of the country.\u201d With an ever-evolving town centre, cultural revival, and strong community identity, Stockport proved it\u2019s no longer just a commuter town but a destination in its own right.<\/p>\n

Prestwich<\/strong><\/a> also earned high praise for its combination of green spaces, terraced houses with gardens, and excellent connectivity, all while remaining relatively affordable and creative.<\/p>\n

2022: Ancoats<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ancoats<\/strong><\/a>, once dismissed as a building site with potential, fulfilled its promise and was recognised once more in 2022. Its transformation into a buzzy, modern neighbourhood with canal-side bars, independent food spots, and loft living marked it as a standout city-centre district.<\/p>\n

2020 & 2021: Altrincham<\/strong><\/p>\n

Altrincham<\/strong> topped the entire UK list two years in a row, a remarkable feat. Named Best Place to Live in the UK in both 2020 and 2021, it was praised for reinventing its high street, excellent schools, transport links, and vibrant food and drink scene. It set the benchmark for modern suburban living.<\/p>\n

2019: Levenshulme, Ramsbottom, and Altrincham<\/strong><\/p>\n

In 2019, three Greater Manchester locations made the list.<\/p>\n

Levenshulme<\/strong> was recognised as an up-and-coming suburb with a strong sense of community and a diverse, creative vibe.<\/p>\n

Ramsbottom<\/strong><\/a> impressed with its top-rated schools<\/strong>, independent shops, foodie credentials, and beautiful countryside.<\/p>\n

Altrincham<\/strong> began its reign here, acknowledged for its remarkable revival and community-centric charm.<\/p>\n

2018: The Green Quarter<\/strong><\/p>\n

Manchester\u2019s Green Quarter<\/strong> earned a spot as one of the \u201ccoolest places to live in the UK,\u201d praised as an \u201curban oasis\u201d with affordable homes and proximity to the city. It reflected a new era of city-centre living that combined convenience with calm.<\/p>\n

Ongoing mentions and honourable highlights<\/strong><\/p>\n

Over the years, several other areas have been repeatedly lauded by The Sunday Times:<\/p>\n