Vale towns on list of best places in the UK to live
TWO Vale of Glamorgan towns have been named as among the best places to live in the UK in 2020.
Penarth and Cowbridge are two of eight Welsh towns named in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live list.
The guide is compiled using a range of lifestyle criteria including schools, culture, green spaces, health of the high street, and transport.
As well as the location itself, statistics on aspects such as house prices and broadband speed were also taken into account.
Narberth in Pembrokeshire was the Welsh winner.
Cowbridge was named the best place to live in Wales in 2017 and this year it makes a reappearance, although not in the top spot.
Within commuting distance of Cardiff but surrounded by rolling countryside and a short distance to Glamorgan’s Heritage Coast, the market town has long been a popular place to put down roots.
The guide says: Shopping and eating are great incentives for residents of the Vale of Glamorgan and further afield to regularly visit the town. A collection of 53 predominantly independent shops, 21 pubs and 13 restaurants can keep visitors and locals happy for days.
“There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the countryside surrounding the town too and for anyone keen on history, the town lies on the line of a Roman road between Cardiff and Neath.
“According to website coflein.gov.uk excavations have discovered Roman remains within the town, including a possible bath-house and fort.”
It seems that even centuries ago and from another country, people recognised Cowbridge as a great place to settle.
Homes in Cowbridge cost an average of £403,213 according to property portal Zoopla, making it the most expensive place to live of the eight Welsh locations on the list.
Penarth reappears on the list for the second year.
The guide says: “An abundance of parks, attractive Victorian and Edwardian architecture and properties, a pebble beach and independent shops, eateries and schools ensures it continues to grow in popularity with commuters and families looking to escape the capital.
“Just a mile outside Cardiff and the pace of life seems more relaxed, strolling along the promenade to the distinctive art deco pier or past the million-pound properties up on the grassy headland looking out over the Bristol Channel.
“Properties with a prime sea view will always have a hefty price tag, as will the substantial period villas that line the parks, but with the average property price currently listed as £275,000, if views and space are compromised then the town becomes more accessible as a place to live.”
Judges for The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2020 guide travelled thousands of miles around the UK visiting locations and talking to local people.