Dartmoor ‘magical playground’ named among South West’s best places to live in 2026 guide

Dartmoor has been recognised as one of the best places to live in the South West in the 2026 guide compiled by The Sunday Times.

The national newspaper’s annual Best Places to Live list highlights locations across the UK based on factors including schools, transport, broadband, culture, green spaces and the strength of local high streets. 

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The guide is published online and in print as a special supplement.

Judges described Dartmoor as “the country’s most magical outdoor playground,” pointing to its dramatic landscapes, historic villages and strong communities.

Among the towns singled out were Chagford and Ashburton. 

Chagford was praised as “pretty, arty and community-minded,” with good pubs, local shops, allotments, a primary school and an open-air swimming pool.

Ashburton was noted for being “younger, busier and better connected,” thanks to its proximity to the A38, as well as its lively town centre offering independent shops selling local food, vintage clothing, comics and musical instruments.

Dartmoor was one of several South West locations included in the guide, alongside places in Dorset, Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Bristol. 

The regional winner for 2026 was Malmesbury, while Norwich was named the overall best place to live in the UK.

Helen Davies, editorial projects director and guide editor, said the list aims to highlight communities where people are proud to live.

“This guide is a great opportunity to highlight the best places in Britain,” she said. 

“One thing all our chosen locations have in common is that the people who live in them are proud to call them home.”

She added that judges travel widely to assess each location in person and speak to residents about local life.

The guide focuses on thriving communities rather than simply areas with high property prices. 

New entries feature heavily in this year’s list, reflecting changing patterns of where people want to live.

Across the South West, other locations highlighted included Exmouth and the Cornish towns of Falmouth and Penryn.

Judges said Exmouth is attracting a younger population thanks to rail links to Exeter and its long sandy beach, while Falmouth and Penryn were praised for combining the energy of a university town with the character of a working port and seaside resort.

In total, 72 locations across the UK were selected for the 2026 guide, covering places from large cities to small rural communities.

The Best Places to Live list is based on a wide range of data and on-the-ground assessments, including mobile signal, amenities, housing, community spirit and environmental quality.

The recognition places Dartmoor alongside some of the country’s most desirable locations, highlighting the national appeal of its landscape, villages and way of life.