Leamington Spa tops the list of the happiest places to live in the West Midlands, according to Rightmove. Discover why this historic spa town is so cherished.

Leamington Spa has been crowned the happiest place to live in the West Midlands in Rightmove’s 2025 “happy at home” index, so I went to see what gives the town its winning edge.

The first thing that stands out is the setting. The wide, tree lined avenues and Regency buildings give the centre a calm, open feel.

Early in the morning, people filter into cafés along the Parade, greeting staff like regulars rather than customers passing through. It feels settled and confident, helped by the clean parks that sit only a short walk from the main shopping streets.

placeholder image — Jephson Gardens March 2025.

Jephson Gardens is the heart of the town. Even on colder days, families, dog walkers, and commuters cut through the paths that run beside the river.

The space feels cared for, and that sense of pride shows up in the tidy flowerbeds, the quiet boating area, and the simple pleasure people take in being outside.

Independent shops fill many of the side streets. You can move from a bakery into a bookshop and then into a small gallery without walking more than a minute or two. It gives the town a pace that feels personal and steady.

Locals say that is what makes it easy to stay here. You do not need to rush. You can get what you need within a short distance. You see the same faces again and again.

Known for its stunning Regency architecture and lush parks, Leamington Spa is a historic spa town that offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. It’s a hub for the gaming industry, earning the nickname “Silicon Spa,” and boasts excellent schools, making it ideal for families. The average commute time to Birmingham by train is around 36 minutes. | gb27photo - stock.adobe.com

Rightmove’s survey highlights access to green space, friendliness, and the feeling of being able to be yourself as key reasons people rate their towns highly. Leamington matches all three. It has space, character, and a community that behaves like it knows its own strengths.

By the afternoon, the pavements are busier, but the town never feels crowded. Students, long time residents, and visitors mix naturally. The riverside stays bright with walkers even as the light drops.

After spending a day there, the ranking makes sense. Leamington Spa does not rely on one single feature. It offers comfort, routine, and a sense of belonging. That seems to be exactly what people are looking for.

The happiest places to live in the West Midlands according to Rightmove are Leamington Spa, Lichfield, Stratford-on-Avon, Shrewsbury and Tamworth.