Best locations to live in Yorkshire

It’s no coincidence that Yorkshire is referred to as God’s own country. Attracting tens of thousands of tourists every year, Yorkshire is charmingly and quintessentially British. Amid the soft rolling of the Yorkshire Dales are quaint towns and big cities that provide you with everything you need.

Yorkshire has also seen plenty of things in its time and has an intriguing history that will interest the keenest of history buffs. Add to that world-class stadiums, museums and great sport, Yorkshire is one of the liveliest (and friendliest) counties in England.

Here are just a few places that people have decided to call home.

Ilkley

The gateway to the Yorkshire Dales offering a quiet way of life, Ilkley boasts all the cosiness and intimacy of a town whilst also enjoying a thriving jobs market for young professionals.

The best thing about Ilkley is its proximity to beautiful landscapes. Just half an hour away from the beginning of the Dales and with the Ilkley Moors looming in the background, dog owners have their pick of the crop when it comes to beautiful long walks. And just a half-hour train ride from Leeds, you get all the perks of living near the big city too.

York

Home to some of the county’s most impressive history, York was a Viking settlement and has plenty of attractions that keep the gruesome story alive. From the York Dungeons to the York Wall, Viking Museum and ghost tours throughout the year, York is charming yet steeped in a dark past.

Today, however, York is a beautiful city that keeps up with the pace of modern-day life. With two universities to its name, as well as a great nightlife, alternative and rock scene, the city has everything for culture vultures. Plus, with more new houses being built in York, it presents an attractive opportunity for first-time buyers.

Sheffield

The birthplace of many of the UK’s most treasured bands, Sheffield is Yorkshire’s city of culture in its own right. 7% of the city is employed within the creative industry, with many lending their talents to the Crucible Theatre, Millennium Gallery or Winter Garden.

Sheffield is a lovely size too. Filled with all the same entertainment, sports and career opportunities as a big city, it’s a lovely, accessible size which affords the place a village-like feel. What’s more, it’s the greenest city in the UK with 80 parks and over 500 green spaces, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Leeds

The biggest city in Yorkshire and home to renowned football, rugby and cricket clubs, Leeds is competitive to its core. A bustling start-up scene makes it attractive to young professionals whilst rent remains affordable. And you can always expect a smile wherever you go – the Leeds folk are a friendly lot!