Richmond has been named the happiest place to live in the country in a national survey by property website Rightmove.
The survey, which polled over 26,000 people, asked residents how they feel about their area based on 13 happiness factors.
These include things like the club-together community spirit of a local area, having green space on the doorstep, or the sense of belonging in a local community.
It’s the first time anywhere in London has come top of the survey since it was launched 12 years ago.
The news has been welcomed by Be Richmond, the town’s Business Improvement District (BID): “We are incredibly proud to see this wonderful place presented with the accolade it deserves,” said Lou Abbotts, Be Richmond’s Chief Operating Officer.
“Aside from the beautiful natural assets of parkland and the river Thames with far reaching views into the city, it is a bustling town centre full of a mix of boutiques and big-name stores to be discovered in the lanes and on the High Street.
“With Scotts, the Ivy, Megan's and Gails it has all the Chelsea eateries with the feel of Surrey.
“Family and community events and activities like the free Christmas pop ups, wellbeing walks and the annual mass paddle boarding litter pick all add to Richmond’s strong sense of community.
“It’s easy to see how it really is one of the happiest places to live, work and explore,” she added.
News of Richmond’s success was also welcomed by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan.
“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,” he said.
Be Richmond is the Business Improvement District (BID) for Richmond town centre. Its purpose is to represent and support Richmond BID levy payers, and to promote Richmond town centre as a great place to live, work and explore.
