A Midlands town has been recognised as one of the best places to live in the region, with experts highlighting that property prices are significantly lower than expected. Market Harborough in Leicestershire was named in the Sunday Times Best Places to Live list for 2026, with a judging panel describing it as a 'lively' town with a strong community spirit.
House Prices 'Far Lower' Than Southern Towns
The panel noted that house prices in Market Harborough are 'far lower' than in similarly well-appointed towns in the south of England. This makes the scenic market town, located just an hour from Birmingham, one of the region's best kept secrets. The town is surrounded by stunning countryside and is within easy reach of major cities like Leicester and Nottingham.
Community Spirit and Amenities Praised
According to the Sunday Times, Market Harborough is not just well-connected with good schools and shops, but also boasts a vibrant community. The panel said: 'You only have to stroll the streets of this lively Leicestershire town to see that this is a place powered by a collective spirit.' Volunteers run events including Parkrun, which attracted 800 participants on Christmas Day, a community theatre and cinema, the Festival of Cycling, and a summer carnival.
Other Midlands Locations Recognised
The Malverns took the overall title for best place to live in the Midlands for 2026, but Market Harborough was among several other praised locations. The Sunday Times list aims to highlight areas that offer a high quality of life, with factors such as schools, shops, transport links, and community activities taken into account.
