The 10 most relaxing UK towns and cities

Taking time out to de-stress and relax in our lives is important for our wellbeing. After all, stress is unavoidable, so knowing how to deal with it effectively helps us live happier and healthier lives.

Some people find exercise is the best way to calm them, while others prefer cooking, reading a book, or meditating. And, let's face it, the majority of us find holidays pretty relaxing, too. So, if you're looking for a staycation this summer, or you simply want to know if the city you live in is seen to be "relaxing", Supplement Place has used ONS data to rank the top 10 UK town and cities in terms of how "zen" they are.

Ranking the cities out of 10, from least relaxing to most, the researchers took into account happiness, green spaces, anxiety levels and satisfaction in each of the places. Here's where you should head if you're in need of a bit of R&R. 

Here are the top three most relaxing towns and cities:

1. Bournemouth - 7.72/10

Claiming the title of the UK's most relaxing city is Bournemouth, with a score of 7.72. "With so many fantastic beaches within reach, it’s no wonder that the residents of Bournemouth are the most chilled-out in the country," the researchers say. "The town is also home to several public gardens, a delightful seafront, and the unmissable Bournemouth Pier.

"Bournemouth did so well thanks to its high score for life satisfaction and coming top in the country for happiness, while at the same time scoring in the bottom 5 for anxiety levels. It must be all that sea air that keeps the locals so calm!"

2. Reading - 7.14/10 

Next up is Reading, with a score of 7.14. "This large Berkshire town is most widely known for the Reading Festival, one of the biggest festivals in the country," they say. "Reading actually scored the highest in the country for life satisfaction and is also the place with the most searches for ‘yoga’ compared to its population!"

3. Warrington - 6.9/10 

The final podium place goes to Warrington, claiming third place with a score of 6.9. Scoring well across the board, Warrington has earned its place as one of the most chilled places in the country. The town's access to major cities of Machester and Liverpool, but without the hustle and bustle of city life, was considered a factor.

It also has places to relax such as Sankey Balley Park and Walton Hall and Gardens. 

And here's the rest of the top 10:

4. Northampton - 6.68/10

5. Luton - 6.19/10

6. Swindon - 6.16/10

7. Manchester - 6.09/10

8. Southend-on-Sea - 6.01/10

9. York - 5.95/10

10. Leicester - 5.94/10

Read more news and features focused around the UN goal of Good Health and Wellbeing.

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