The North of England – revered for its stunning landscapes, rich history, bustling markets, great local food, and the humour and friendliness of its people – is dotted with fascinating places. From quaint villages to glamorous spa towns and bustling cities that still preserve their medieval heritage, the North is every bit as interesting and attractive as the southern parts of the country.
As a diverse area that’s not short on stunning period homes constructed over the centuries from the Golden Ages of English Architecture, the North is certainly not lacking in property appeal. The following suggestions are not just great places to live in but in equal measure some of the most appealing locations in the country.
Harrogate
This Yorkshire town's streets are lined with boutique shops and fabulous independent cafes and restaurants. Local landmarks include the Royal Pump Room Museum, which pays homage to its spa heritage, and Betty’s – an iconic Swiss-influenced tea room that serves as the North of England’s forerunner to The Ivy. Speaking of the spa, the Turkish Baths in town have been one of its biggest attractions for the last two centuries. They offer annual memberships and treatment packages to immerse oneself fully in modern Spa Town culture.
With plenty of green spaces such as The Stray and Valley Gardens to enjoy during the summer and excellent housing options through a blend of grand Victorian terraces, cottages, and modern apartments, the town provides for all manner of buyer tastes. Harrogate is incredibly well connected, with regular trains to Leeds and York both of which are within half an hour’s distance, making it ideal for commuters seeking to build a balanced life in one of the most popular towns in the North of England.
Newcastle
On the banks of the River Tyne, this Northern powerhouse affectionately known to locals as “The Toon”, is a well-developed urban centre that hung on to its heritage and historical charm. The Tyne Bridge and the modern Sage Gateshead reflect a blend of historic buildings and architecture, with many medieval structures still serving as the boundaries for the city centre, and Regency-era architecture resplendent throughout much of the city.
Living options are abundant with stylish developments like the Quayside Lofts, alongside traditional terraced homes in areas like Jesmond and Heaton. The city’s transport infrastructure is well-served by a metro system that connects surrounding suburbs and a direct rail link to London, as well as the airport. Newcastle is made even more special by its residents, known in England as “Geordies”, who are amongst the friendliest people in the country, much appreciated for their great sense of humour and hospitality.
York
Steeped in history, York is very much the place where the past meets the present. The iconic York Minster dominates the skyline, while cobbled streets like The Shambles transport visitors back in time to the Middle Ages, with ghostly book shops, delicious hole-in-the-wall style pubs, and restaurants that are always teeming with locals and tourists. The city is a beautiful mesh of architectural styles from all periods, with the medieval, Georgian, and Victorian era designs added together to create a stunning patchwork of living history wherever one sets foot.
Properties in York range from period townhouses and converted apartments within the city walls, to more spacious family homes in suburbs like Fulford and Haxby. The city’s proximity to both the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors makes it particularly appealing to nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in this stunning part of the country. Excellent rail connections to London and Edinburgh make York a practical choice for professionals seeking a well-connected home.
Chester
From the imposing city walls to the stunning Chester Cathedral, Chester is brimming with architectural marvels. The Rows, a unique system of medieval covered walkways, house a variety of shops, stores, and restaurants, infusing the city with a unique identity and structure that feels very much lost in time around other settlements across the country.
From charming period homes within the city centre, modern riverside apartments, and spacious family properties in surrounding villages, Chester delivers high-quality housing for residents, and excellent transport links, including rail connections to Liverpool, Manchester, and London. Chester’s timeless charm as a medieval city centre holds undeniable appeal as a place to live in the North of England.
The Wolds
The Yorkshire Wolds, a landscape of rolling hills and outstanding scenic beauty, offers a more peaceful, retreat lifestyle that marks a dramatic departure from some of the more urban selections on our list. Villages such as Beverley and Pocklington are particularly popular, with a mix of historical charm and rustic appeal, as well as easy access to the likes of the Wolds Way, for those wishing to experience the area's scenic delights.
From traditional stone cottages to plenty of newly built homes, often surrounded by stunning countryside, housing options in this more sparsely populated part of the country are certainly not limited. The area maintains a strong sense of community despite the slower pace of life, making it an attractive prospect for families and retirees alike. Though heavily rural, the Wolds is a charming place to move and experience the natural wonders of the North of England in all its rugged glory.
Lake Windermere
The mighty heart of the Lake District, Lake Windemere is a protected area within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The lake itself provides endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming if one is willing to brave the chilly mountain waters, whilst the nearby Fells offer excellent hiking trails.
Picturesque villages such as Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside are brimming with independent shops, cosy cafes, and welcoming pubs. The area is served by a wide range of property styles, from luxurious lakeside homes with private jetties to quaint stone cottages, found at the foot of the surrounding Fells. While the region is undeniably tranquil, it also offers excellent connectivity through rail links to cities like Manchester, making it far more viable to live in than some may expect.
The North of England offers an exceptional quality of life, with each location boasting unique appeal and character. Whether you’re drawn to the historic streets of York, the scenic beauty of Lake Windermere, or, the unique approach of Newcastle, the living potential here cannot be overstated. The fact that it remains so sparsely populated in some areas no doubt continues to add to its appeal, and may even be considered an advantage by current residents and, those looking to move to these charming parts in the future.
