Horsforth has been ranked as the happiest place to live in Leeds according to a recent survey.
The leafy suburb pipped neighbouring Bramhope, Chapel Allerton and Meanwood to first place in the survey carried out by Furniturebox.
“There’s a real sense of community here,” Lyndsey Acaster, Landlady at The Old King’s Arms pub, was not surprised by the result.
“Everybody looks after each other, and there are loads of lovely independent businesses. I moved here nine years ago, and I’ve never left because it felt so welcoming when we got here.”
The survey ranked areas on characteristics such as open spaces and beauty, quality of schools and availability of housing. Pubs, restaurants, shops and attractions were also taken into consideration.
David Brosnan, Town Councillor for Horsforth, said: “It always seemed to lag behind other areas in Leeds, places like Chapel Allerton and Farsley, but we feel that Horsforth is catching up with those other areas now.
“Horsforth has really bounced back through hospitality, but I think that community vibe that we’ve got here really helps Horsforth to keep climbing up.”
Horsforth boasts a blend of independent shops and cafes, the stunning Japanese Gardens and a museum all within a short walk.
The town is also well-connected to Leeds city, with regular bus routes and a train station.
Keith Pickles, 72, regularly visits Horsforth. He said: “I do a lot of walking through Horsforth, Cookridge and Rawdon, and you are soon out in the Dales. It’s just a nice place to base yourself to access the countryside.”
A spokesperson for Furniturebox said: “The survey shows that the happiest places are not defined by wealth but by the quality of life within them.”
