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Skipton's happiest town recognition sparks surge in housing enquiries

Tuesday, 23 December 2025 09:30

Clifford Gardens

Bellway Homes has reported a significant increase in enquiries at its Skipton development following national recognition of the town as the UK’s happiest place to live.

The Yorkshire division of the housebuilder says interest has risen sharply at its Clifford Gardens development on Carleton Road since the Rightmove survey highlighted Skipton’s appeal.

The development is being built on a 16.5-acre site on the edge of the town and includes a range of house types aimed at both local buyers and those moving into the area.

Melanie Smith, sales director for Bellway Yorkshire, said the recent survey result had a noticeable impact on demand.

She said:

“Clifford Gardens has always held a big appeal to buyers, but it has been astonishing to see the rapid rise in enquiries on the back of the Rightmove poll that places Skipton as the UK’s happiest place to live.

"Hopefully, some of these enquiries will lead to sales in the new year.”

Bellway reports that almost 60 per cent of the 188 homes planned for the development have already been sold, with more than 40 per cent now occupied.

The Rightmove poll placed Skipton at the top of its list, with Harrogate the only other Yorkshire location to feature in the top ten, alongside towns such as Richmond upon Thames, Stirling, Cirencester and Hexham.

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