Richmond upon Thames has been voted as the happiest place to live in Great Britain in a recent survey.

The Happy at Home Index asked residents how they feel about their area and was completed this year by over 26,000 people.

This is the first time in 12 years of the Rightmove’s Happy at Home Index that a London location has topped the list.

The second position was secured by Winchester in Hampshire, followed by Monmouth in Wales at the third spot, a first since 2018.

The residents of the Richmond borough, which includes Twickenham, Hampton, and Richmond, expressed a strong sense of belonging and comfort in their community.

They particularly appreciate the access to nature and green spaces, with both Bushy and Richmond Royal Parks located there.

Some of the other key trends that emerged from this year’s report include:

Feeling a sense of pride, belonging and community is most likely to contribute to feeling happy to live in an area, more than having access to things like public transport, schools and job opportunities.

Around one in three (30%) think they would be happier living somewhere else, with the southwest the most popular region this group aspires to move to o

To be happier, move to a bigger home, or a change of lifestyle are some of the most common reasons people want to move home.

Sadiq Khan said: “I’m delighted for Richmond to win this award.

“It has so much of what makes London so special – its access to beautiful green spaces, its real sense of community, and an array of shops, cafes and local culture that makes it stand out.”

Dawn Platt, Associate Director of Chestertons’ Richmond branch, says: “Richmond really has got it all.

“Access to nature, schools, entertainment, good eateries, bars and shops.

“On top of this, the borough benefits from a riverside location and great transport links.

“Thanks to its lifestyle offerings, it’s not difficult to see why Richmond has established itself as one of London’s most sought-after locations nor why residents are happy living here.

“We encounter a lot of house hunters who have always had the goal of living in Richmond one day and once they have moved here, couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.

“Due to its community feel, many see Richmond as an area to settle down long-term.”