Lifestyle and parent website, Muddy Stilettos has compiled a list of the UK’s best places to live, with towns and villages in Devon appearing 10 times! The full list comprises of 250 UK locations outside of London and have been judged based on their house prices, school and nursery ratings and what eateries and attractions are nearby.
According to the list, here are Devon’s best places to live:
Sidmouth, East Devon
Located along the Jurassic Coast, Muddy Stilettos describes Sidmouth as being a Mecca for tourists, mentioning the region’s top attractions like the Donkey Sanctuary and the nearby Pecorama and World of Country Life. It also talks about the annual Folk Festival which brings visitors from all over to the town.
Exmouth, East Devon
Also in East Devon and close to the county town of Exeter, Exmouth is great for outdoorsy types and those that love watersports say Muddy Stilletos. They recommend the National Trust’s A La Ronde and the Pavilion, as well as World of Country Life and the Exmouth Festival.
Okehampton, Mid-Devon
According to the team at Muddy Stilettos, Okehampton has everything you could want in a rural retreat and is a “wholesome place” for the family. The recently reopened Dartmoor Line is mentioned as a high point for its commuter value too.
Totnes, South Devon
Totnes was also on the list for last year and remains one of Devon’s best loved places because of its trendy and quirky atmosphere. It’s a real haven for vegans and those who love food and drink with a local feel.
Topsham, Mid Devon
Less than five miles from Exeter, this is a great compromise for those of you who want the best of both worlds. The town’s Fore Street is highlighted as a great place to visit with its indie stores, boutiques, galleries and more.
Tavistock, Mid Devon
With an historic pannier market, Tavistock has a great market culture and Muddy Stilettos point out that it is “old fashioned, but in a good way” as well as highlighting the proximity to the Dartmoor National Park and the abundance of Georgian architecture.
Ashburton, Dartmoor
This one has featured in the list since 2020 and is praised for its bustling foodie scene. It is also rated for being a hub for arts and crafts.
Tiverton, Mid Devon
With the Grand Western Canal, Tiverton is a picturesque place to be and the canal, along with the castle and the abundance of walks is what draws the Muddy Stilettos team in.
Kingsbridge, South Devon
This small town has been in the Muddy Stiletto’s Top Places to Live list for the past three years, proving its popularity. The highstreet and beautiful nearby beaches, as well as being a cheaper alternative to Salcombe are all what makes this town special.
St Leonards, Exeter
This area of Exeter is another one that has featured on the list before. According to Muddy Stilettos, it offers the London look for a fraction of the price.
You can find out more about Muddy Stiletto’s ratings and see the full list here.