The incredible 10 UK towns and islands named the friendliest in the UK

The "friendliest" spots in the country include towns across England and islands about 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall. 07:00, Wed, Aug 19, 2026 The incredible UK towns and islands named the friendliest in the UK The friendliest places in the UK, according to government data, have been named to trigger debate in a National Conversation survey. It is asking Brits how lonely they feel, how many neighbours they trust and how proud they are of where they live. (Image: Getty) The "friendliest" places in the UK have been named in a bid to trigger a debate among Brits about the places they call home. Designed by the University of Oxford, the National Conversation survey is inviting people to rate how lonely they feel, how many neighbours they can trust and how proud they feel about their hamlet, village , town or city . To get Brits talking, the team behind the survey has compiled a ranking of the friendliest spots suggested by current government data. A new interactive index allows people to compare how friendly their local area is compared with others across the country. It also lets Brits have their say on whether the official stats reflect their own experience of where they live. Brendan Cox, Co-Founder of the Together Coalition, said the current Government stats suggest where the most and least connected areas are, adding: "But we know Government stats are just part of the picture. So whatever you think of your area’s ranking - have your say on what your area is actually like by taking part in the National Conversation." Below, in ascending order, are the 10 friendliest places in the UK according to the Government stats cited by Oxford's researchers. 10 - Lewes, East Sussex Described as a "small town with a big heart", Lewes was built into the slopes of the Ouse Valley. The town boasts quirky shops, a castle, a food and a craft market as well as Harvey's Brewery, the oldest independent brewery in Sussex. (Image: Getty) Get the day's biggest headlines in UK and World news and more Invalid email We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy 9 - Winchester, Hampshire The city lies on the edge of the South Downs National Park and is the former seat of King Alfred the Great. Sites include Winchester Cathedral and the Great Hall, said to house King Arthur's Round Table. (Image: Getty) 8 - Rutland This ceremonial county features rolling hills, picturesque villages and Rutland Water, a man-made lake. Its two towns are Uppingham, which is famous for its antiques and galleries, and the county town, Oakham , that offers a mix of high street and independent shops. (Image: Getty) 7 - Stroud, Gloucestershire Stroud lies in the Cotswold Hills and is noted for its steep streets, independent shops and cafes. It has two award-winning markets - the Farmers Market in the Cornhill and the Shambles market. Designer, Jasper Conran, once referred to Stroud as "the Covent Garden of the Cotswolds". (Image: Getty)