Wells has been named one of the best places to live in the UK in 2026, according to lifestyle title Muddy Stilettos.

The acclaimed digital magazine released its annual Top 260 Best Places To Live guide this week, with seven Somerset locations making the cut. Wells was praised for its historic charm, community, top schools, and cultural scene.

The guide describes England's smallest city as a rising hotspot in the South West, with festivals, independent shops and easy access to the Mendip Hills National Landscape.

Wells also scored highly for lifestyle appeal, with highlights including:

• Michelin‑rated restaurants like Root and food experiences from 7B and Goodfellows chefs
• Indie shops such as Amba, Cedar House, and Queen Street Deli
• A packed festival calendar with comedy, food, theatre and literature events
• Strong schooling options including The Blue School and Wells Cathedral School

Muddy Stilettos said: "Wells may be packed with historic buildings – including a 13th‑century cathedral – but it's not stuck in the past. It has a vibrant community, heaps of independent shops and eateries, a thriving cultural scene and excellent schools."

The city's average house price was £354,538 last year, with detached homes reaching £585,000. The nearest train station is Castle Cary, offering links to London Paddington in around 90 minutes.

Wells joins Bruton, Frome, and Chew Magna on this year's Somerset list, as the guide expands to cover new areas including Scotland and Wales.

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• Wells crime hotspots exposed: car parks, clubs and High Street
• A 'Sentimental Journey' with Doris Day at Crandon Springs Care Home

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