HAPPIEST PLACES IN THE UK REVEALED

According to the 2019 World Happiness Report, the UK climbed four points to be in the top 20 at number 15th, alongside Germany (17th), Australia (11th), Sweden (7th) and Finland (1st), despite the report stating that global happiness is on the decline.

Looking into the happiness around the UK, research collated by Forest Holidays reveals the factors and characteristics of what makes a place the happiest, and what people can do to better their mental health ahead of Mental Health Awareness Month.

What Makes Us Happy?

In recent years the science of being happy has been a focal point with more reports being produced annually. Studies show that approximately 40% of our happiness is under our control, while external factors determine the 60%.

There are numerous factors that can influence a person’s happiness:

• Life satisfaction: 90% of people are highly satisfied with their lives right now.
• Good work-life balance: Almost half of Brits feel they have a good work-life balance, even with only 45% being happy about the amount of leisure time they have.
• Time spent outdoors: The majority of people also regularly spend time outdoors, ensuring they spend time in nature regularly.

Regular exercise: Almost 62% of people spending at least 150 minutes a week doing physical activity. Studies show that just 20 minutes of exercise can improve your mood for up to 12 hours while exercising outside has a more significant impact with results including people feeling less tense/angry and more engaged and energised.

Factors Making A Place “Happy”

In the UK, around 69% of people say they feel happy in their neighbourhood, while safety, access to key services, earnings and access to green spaces such as parks and forests are all considered significant attributors.

Those living in Winchester, in the South East, report an elevated sense of overall wellbeing. From the area’s medieval streets to its proximity to sprawling natural landscapes like Blackwood Forest, the area tops the list as the happiest place to live in England.

Lisburn and Castlereagh, in Northern Ireland, boasts high levels of happiness primarily thanks to its low levels of carbon emissions and access to good healthcare.

In Scotland, East Renfrewshire boasts high levels of happiness thanks to low crime levels, high earnings and the fact the area is also surrounded by natural beauty, with several parks and scenic routes to explore.

While in Wales, Monmouthshire boasts high levels of happiness thanks to its location, high life expectancy rates, earnings as well as its low levels of crime and deprivation, while Cardiff ranks 8^th in the top 10.

Happiest Places in the UK