Altrincham has been named as the best place to live in the North West of England in a new list from The Sunday Times.
The judges said that the town is “classy, cool and effortlessly comfortable.”
They highlighted the range of independent businesses, places to eat, and the famous Altrincham Market as a draw for people living nearby.
Travel connections to the city centre and proximity to Manchester Airport were also part of the decision.
Councillor Liz Patel said: “I am delighted that our town of Altrincham has been the best place to live in the North West.
“Altrincham, thanks to the work of the Council and its many partners, including the BID and Bruntwood, is a huge success story and goes from strength to strength.
“It’s a wonderful mix of national and independent shops and has a thriving cultural scene, amazing leisure facilities and wonderful bars and restaurants.”
Cllr Patel added that the council is ‘committed’ to developing the other towns in the area.
“Classy, cool and effortlessly comfortable, Alty is a top-notch town brimming with independent businesses and big brands. Now it’s flying even higher.” – The Sunday Times
The Times also highlighted the access to good schools in the area as a key factor in the decision.
Altrincham Grammar School for Girls won the State Secondary School of the Year in the Northwest for Academic Excellence 2026.
Altrincham Grammar School for Boys ranks No 33 in the national selective senior-school rankings, with the all-girls Loreto Grammar School at No 60.
One person commented: “Been in Altrincham for 36 years and can confirm it’s now a great place to live, and has radically improved since the Nick Johnson/Jenny Thompson reinvention of the Market in 2014.
“Prior to this, it had a rather run-down town centre. Since the market reopened the feel-good vibes have spread throughout the town and it’s been completely transformed.”
The other places on the North West list were Aigburth, Didsbury, and the Eden Valley.
Norwich was named the best place to live in the UK on the complete list.
Altrincham has been named as the ‘best place to live’ in the North West of England in a new list from@thetimes.
— Quays News (@QuaysNews) March 25, 2026
The list highlights the town’s range of independent businesses, travel links and access to good schools.
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