Ashburton named as one of the Best Places to Live in the South West

Ashburton, a historic town nestled on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park, has been named among the top 10 best places to live in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live in the South West. Ashburton also claimed 8^th place in the Muddy Stilettos' 2025 'Top 300 Best Places to Live' guide.

The picturesque Chew Valley in Somerset came out top this year, with judges praising the areas stunning rural charm combined with innovative local enterprises, making it a top destination for those seeking countryside living with modern convenience.

The comprehensive guide features seven other standout locations in the South West:

• Ashburton, Devon

• Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire

• Hotwells and Cliftonwood, Bristol

• Malmesbury, Wiltshire

• Penryn, Cornwall

• Sherborne, Dorset

• Southbourne, Dorset

The annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide evaluates locations based on a variety of factors including schools, transport links, broadband speeds, culture, access to green spaces, and the vibrancy of the local community. This year’s edition introduces more new entries than ever before, signalling a shift towards celebrating fresh, thriving communities over traditionally well-known but high-priced areas.

Helen Davies, editorial projects director at The Sunday Times, said: “It is easy to feel overwhelmed by everything going on in the world, but there really is so much to celebrate as we look closer to home. From small gestures that lift the everyday to larger initiatives that strengthen communities, our guide highlights places where people work hard to make life better for everyone.”

The guide says of Ashburton: 'Once known for being the HQ of the Monster Raving Loony Party, today’s Ashburton is a more sensible - and special - place. The setting on the southern fringe of Dartmoor is beautiful. The historic town centre is a colourful, atmospheric delight and its exceptional range of independent shops means you need never go elsewhere for provisions. Downsizers who flock here can spend their days yomping across the moor or wild swimming in the River Dart, and their evenings doing yoga or watching films in the cosy community cinema. For families, there’s a wide choice of schools, a skate park and open-air swimming pool along with the comfort that comes from living a healthy outdoor lifestyle in a town that’s surprisingly well connected.'

Known as the gateway to southern Dartmoor, Ashburton offers residents and visitors a charming mix of independent shops, eateries, and cultural experiences. Its strategic location just off the Devon Expressway provides convenient access to nearby cities, while maintaining the tranquillity and appeal of a small town.

In addition to Ashburton's recognition, Dartmoor National Park has been celebrated for its breathtaking sunsets. AutoTrader created a survey of over 50 spots across the country, with Dartmoor ranking 5^th as best place to watch a sunset. Locations such as Haytor Rocks have been highlighted as perfect spots to witness the sun setting over the moorlands, offering panoramic views that attract both locals and tourists.

These stunning vistas contribute to Dartmoor's reputation as a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to capture the beauty of the English countryside.

The combination of Ashburton's vibrant community and the natural splendour of Dartmoor's landscapes, especially during sunset, proves the areas appeal as one of Devon's most desirable places to live and visit.

For the full Sunday Times list, visit https://www.thetimes.com/best-places-to-live

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