Experience the UK’s ‘Happiest City’ from Norfolk’s Finest Country Retreat
Norwich has officially been named the Best Place to Live in the UK for 2026
It’s no surprise to those of us who call Norfolk home, but the rest of the country is finally catching on: Norwich has officially been named the Best Place to Live in the UK for 2026 by The Sunday Times.
Why did this "Fine City" take the top spot? The findings paint a beautiful picture of a community defined by much more than just economics. Here at Barnham Broom, we are perfectly placed on the doorstep of this award-winning city, and we’ve been reflecting on how Norwich’s unique sense of joy flows right into the heart of the Norfolk countryside.
The Sunday Times highlighted that Norwich’s happiness stems from its "green conscience" and a deep-rooted sense of identity. It is a place that feels alive, filled with secret gardens and winding riverside paths. This Victorian love for greenery is best preserved at the Plantation Gardens, a restored "Gothic Fountain" quarry garden that offers a sunken sanctuary just moments from the city centre.
For history lovers, this spirit is also felt at the iconic Norwich Castle. Having recently completed its massive "Royal Palace Reborn" restoration, the Keep has returned to its 12th-century glory. Visitors can now walk the battlements to experience the city's medieval heart just as royalty once did, bridging the gap between the city's ancient roots and its elegant Victorian heritage.
The recent study found that residents cherish the city’s "relaxed vibe" and "proximity to the countryside." This commitment to a slower, more sustainable way of living is a common thread throughout the county. One of the biggest contributors to this is the Norfolk Broads National Park. Known as the "Venice of the East," the Broads offer a tranquil escape where you can swap the car for a boat to spot rare marsh harriers or otters.
At Barnham Broom, we embody this balance. Located just a short drive from the city’s historic cobblestones, our resort is set within 300 acres of stunning parkland. You can spend your morning exploring the award-winning Norwich Market or the majestic Cathedral, and your afternoon listening to the gentle flow of the River Yare from our terrace.
Norwich was praised for its thriving independent scene and "fantastic pubs."
With events like Norwich Food Week (where we were proud to showcase our own Farm-to-Fork menus), the city has become a true gastronomic destination.
Popular spots like Brix & Bones for open-fire cooking or the innovative, self-service wine experience at The Wallow show why the city's food and drink scene is currently the envy of the East.
We bring that same spirit of local excellence to our dining. From refined, seasonal dishes in The Brasserie to a relaxed local ale in our Sports Bar, we celebrate the incredible produce of the Norfolk soil.
What the Sunday Times report identifies as a "small-town feel" is actually Norwich’s greatest strength: its accessibility. Unlike the anonymous rush of larger metropolitan hubs, Norwich is a city of "ten-minute walks." You can move from the medieval splendour of the Elm Hill cobblestones to a contemporary Cathedral Quarter in moments.
This lack of "commuter friction" creates a relaxed headspace that is rare in modern UK cities; it’s a place where people still have the time to stop, talk, and appreciate their surroundings.
A City Built for People
As Holly Bamford, head of marketing at Visit Norwich, recently noted: “Norwich has long been a city that quietly does things differently… it’s wonderful to see it recognised on a national stage.” Norwich BID is a not-for-profit organisation that represents businesses in the area. “Our role is to champion that momentum [in the city], supporting businesses and ensuring Norwich continues to grow as a place people not only love to live in, but are inspired to visit and invest in.”
If you’re looking to understand why Norwich has been voted the best place to put down roots, come and stay with us. Experience the warmth, the greenery, and the relaxed pace that have put our fine city on the map.
Discover your own slice of happiness. Book your stay at Barnham Broom today.
