A map showing 11 of the ‘coolest’ places to live in Britain includes a ‘party island‘ and a ‘yummy mummy’ hotspot.
If you’re looking to up sticks and move or you fancy enjoying a staycation in a really trendy area, then these are the places to head to .
Based on education, employment, crime, lifestyle and environment, the Sunday Times has compiled a list of the hottest UK neighbourhoods to reside in.
And number one is Digbeth in Birmingham. According to the guide, the area is ideal for ‘brummie brats’.
Describing the area, the Sunday Times wrote: “The vibe in this graffitied neighbourhood is converted warehouses with a clubbing culture on its doorstep.
“There’s even a touch of glamour: the local production facilities Digbeth Loc Studios is where some of the upcoming Peaky Blinders movie, the Birmingham interwar drama starring Cillian Murphy and Barry Keoghan, was filmed.”
Hoole in Cheshire also made the list. Dubbed ‘Chester’s oldest suburb, Hoole is popular amongst ‘yummy mummies’.
If a party is what you’re after, then head to Port Ellen in Islay. The paper says, the ‘picture perfect’ 25-mile-long Hebridean island is perfect for people looking to socialise as there is several newly refurbished pubs and whisky distilleries to choose from.
Whether you are a fan of the hustle and bustle of city living, or prefer being surrounded by nature, it offers something for everybody.
Praising the area, the Times wrote: “Come for a dram, stay for the dramatic scenery.
“In summertime spy leaping dolphins from the kelp-covered Kilnaughton Bay, overlooked by a ruined chapel, or take in that famous peaty air while fat-biking along Islay’s windswept beaches.
“Once you’ve built up an appetite from hiking along the Three Distilleries Pathway, nab a fish and chip supper from SeaSalt, a bistro and takeaway, or there’s the Machrie, a Michelin Guide-approved hotel.”
The Sunday Times’ 11 Coolest UK postcodes
B9, Digbeth, Birmingham, England
According to the Sunday Times, the area was once known for its illegal squat raves, however these have now been superseded by hip cocktail spots.
BT56, Portrush, Co Antrim, Northern Ireland
Portrush has grown from a humble fishing village to one of the most acclaimed holiday destinations in the country. If you enjoy spending your days surfing in the Atlantic, or cloud-bathing along stunning blue-flag beaches – then this stunning village is for you.
CH2, Hoole, Cheshire, England
If a ‘fiercely independent spirit’ and ‘real community’ vibe is what you’re after, Hoole should be a serious contender. The paper said the area appeals to ‘cool young parents who have fled London for more space and Parent Power-approved state schools’.
RH20, Fittleworth, West Sussex, England
Described as the ‘New Cotswolds’, Fittleworth is a two-hour drive from London and has everything you need to indulge in country comforts — without the crowds of Chipping Norton.
LS28, Farsley, Leeds, England
Farsley is the ideal location for ‘cool dads’. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a hipster, the micro-breweries, sourdough bakehouses and great live music venues on offer will hit the spot.
GL14, Newnham, Gloucestershire, England
This this small town on the banks of the River Severn is emerging as one to watch for foodies in the know.
TR18, Newlyn, Cornwall, England
Newlyn is Cornwall’s largest fishing port. It’s known for its art scene, thanks to the quality of the Cornish light and Aegeanesque beaches.
SA42, Newport, Pembrokeshire, Wales
According to Visit Wales, you can walk from one end of Newport’s compact city centre to the other in little more than 10 minutes – or a lot longer if you stop at the cathedral, museum and art gallery, and traditional covered market.
SE20, Penge, London, England
Described as London’s ‘best kept secret’, Penge has become a popular spot for foodies who don’t want to spend hours queuing for their brunch.
HU1, Hull, East Yorkshire, England
Hull was crowned City of Culture in 2017. If The Deep – Hull’s award-winning aquarium – isn’t for you, head to the old marina for an endless choice of independent eateries.
PA42, Port Ellen, Islay, Scotland
Port Ellen feels miles away from the UK with its stunning, white sandy beaches that could easily compete with the likes of the Caribbean – but it’s the whiskey distilleries that have made this hotspot so desirable.