The Sunday Times has released its much-anticipated Best Places to Live guide for 2026, highlighting the UK’s most desirable locations. Among these, Stroud, a charming town nestled in the Gloucestershire Cotswolds, has been proudly featured.
While Malmesbury in Wiltshire claimed the top spot overall, Stroud stood out as one of eight towns from the south-west region selected for the prestigious list. The town earned praise for its excellent schools, convenient train connections, diverse housing options, and breathtaking walks across its historic commons.
Stroud perfectly blends practical living with natural beauty, making it an attractive location for residents. Local landmarks such as the vibrant Saturday farmers’ market and the newly enhanced food hall at the Five Valleys shopping centre highlight Stroud’s thriving hospitality scene. The town also enjoys a strong sense of community, with numerous events like the food and book festivals and the popular August Yard Trail – a town-wide yard sale – bringing people together throughout the year.
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Housing trends in Stroud remain notable. As of December 2025, the average house price was approximately £333,000, a slight decrease of 1.2% from the previous year. Meanwhile, rental prices have seen an upward trend, climbing 7.1% year-on-year to an average of £1,026 per month, surpassing the regional increase.
Stroud’s recognition in the Sunday Times guide is not new; the town previously topped the list in 2021, reaffirming its status as a highly desirable place to call home.
Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor, commented, “This guide showcases communities across Britain where natural beauty, culture, and connectedness thrive alongside a strong sense of belonging. Our expert judges visit each location and engage with residents to spotlight what makes these places special.”
Kate Townson, Lloyds Bank’s relationship and customer development director, added, “Navigating the housing market can be daunting. Our partnership with The Sunday Times Best Places to Live is designed to provide reliable insights that empower buyers to make confident, well-informed decisions about their future homes.”
Stroud’s inclusion alongside other south-west towns underscores the region’s appeal and diverse lifestyle offerings, making it a standout choice for prospective residents.