Moor to sea make Devon a best place to be

Devon is celebrating a double success after Exmouth and Dartmoor were both named among the UK’s best places to live in the the Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026.

The prestigious annual list highlights the most desirable locations across the country — and this year, Devon’s winning mix of coast and countryside has firmly put it in the spotlight.

Exmouth was singled out as one of the South West’s standout seaside towns, with judges praising its growing buzz, strong links to Exeter and its appeal to younger residents looking for coastal living without losing city access. Its two-mile sandy beach, thriving watersports scene and improving town centre were all highlighted as key reasons for its rise.

Meanwhile, Dartmoor earned recognition for its breathtaking landscapes, sense of freedom and strong community spirit. Judges pointed to its unique lifestyle offering — where wild open spaces, outdoor adventure and village life combine to create a truly special place to call home.

Together, the two locations showcase the very best of Devon — from vibrant seaside living to peaceful rural escape — helping cement the county’s reputation as one of the most sought-after places to live in the UK.

The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide is based on a wide range of factors including schools, transport, broadband, culture and community, with judges visiting each location before making their final selections.