Penryn emerges as one of the UK’s premier living destinations, especially in the South West, according to the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide. This coastal town offers a gritty charm compared to its polished neighbor, Falmouth, yet shines through its vibrant energy, creativity, and tight-knit community spirit.
Judges Praise Penryn’s Unique Appeal
Selection criteria prioritize thriving communities over pricey hotspots. Penryn excels with its dynamic local scene, where old workshops, boathouses, and narrow alleys host innovative ventures like pottery studios, art galleries, yoga spaces, and the Cornish Poetry Library. Surrounding waters and countryside invite endless outdoor adventures, while diverse community groups organize sports, activities, and good works.
Penryn runs a little rougher around the edges than neighboring Falmouth, but it compensates fully with energy, creativity, and community. Every old workshop, boathouse, or ope houses a craftsperson or entrepreneur pursuing forward-thinking projects.
Editor’s Insights on Great Places
Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor, emphasizes celebrating local gems amid global challenges. Judges visit each location, speak with residents, and assess factors like schools, transport, housing value, high street vitality, and community pride.
Davies notes: “What makes our guide unique is that we visit all the places we choose and talk to locals to discover real life there. We seek towns, villages, and cities with strong communities that enhance their home through hard work and play. Affordability matters, ensuring value even in pricier areas.”
Past Sunday Times Best Places Winners
Previous honorees include Stamford, Lincolnshire (2013); Skipton, North Yorkshire (2014); Newnham, Cambridge (2015); Winchester, Hampshire (2016); Bristol (2017); York (2018); Salisbury, Wiltshire (2019); Altrincham, Cheshire (2020); Stroud, Gloucestershire (2021); Ilkley, West Yorkshire (2022); Wadhurst, East Sussex (2023); and North Berwick, East Lothian (2024).
