
Caernarfon named among the happiest places to live in the UK
Introducing the list, the news outlet said: "What makes a place somewhere good to live? Where might we be happiest if we had the choice of going anywhere?
"It's an almost impossible question, as we do not all thrive on the same things, but there are some that are universally agreed to be conducive to cheeriness.
"Our lengthy initial list was the basis for discussion, research and on-the-ground reporting.
"Out of that came our pick of places that generally scored highest as happy places to live.
"There may well be people who disagree with our choices. And I'm afraid we cannot guarantee a joyous life to everyone who lives in any of the places we have featured.
"But one of them could be your happy place."
The Guardian considered several factors when coming up with the list:
The top three happiest places to live in the UK, according to The Guardian, are:
North
South
Midlands
Scotland
Wales
London
"It is difficult, perhaps even impossible, to conjure an image of Caernarfon without the grey stone castle that towers over the town," The Guardian said.
"One of the most historically important buildings of the middle ages, it is where King Charles was invested as the Prince of Wales on 1 July 1969 while the world watched on."
But it's not just the iconic castle that makes Caernarfon one of the best places to live in the UK, but its location as well.
"It is difficult, perhaps even impossible, to conjure an image of Caernarfon without the grey stone castle that towers over the town." (Image: Getty Images) The news outlet continues: "Both the dramatic mountain landscapes of Snowdonia, and the beautiful sandy beaches of the Llŷn Peninsula, are within an hour's drive.
"Although Caernarfon itself has no beach, it is only around seven miles to Dinas Dinlle, a long stretch of sand, more damp and brown than soft and white, with pebbles at the farthest section from the water's edge, but gloriously peaceful.
"The highlight among the beach's smattering of amenities is Braf cafe, offering generous plates of locally sourced fare; Welsh halloumi, Waunfawr mushrooms, and homemade bread."
While the town itself has plenty to offer, from Galeri Caernarfon to its very own holiday park and golf course.
The Guardian explains: "For culture, Galeri Caernarfon houses a cinema, gallery space, and theatre that plays host to music, drama and dance.
"While the cafe has some of the best coffee in town, the real highlight is its terrace, overlooking the harbour, with views across the Menai Strait to Anglesey.
"Cross the bridge on the far side of the harbour, and you'll find an expanse of green grass stretching out towards the water, with a skate park, basketball court, and children's playground.
"There's a holiday park, and a golf course up here, but also plenty of space to take a stroll."
When it comes to the best places to eat in Caenarfon, the news outlet recommended The 16th-century Black Boy Inn, Sheep and Leeks and/or Osteria.
RECOMMENDED READING:
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'Vibrant' seaside town in North Wales among the UK's best to move to in 2025
North Wales seaside town with sandy beaches and scenic views named Britain's cheapest
The Caernarfon Food Festival is also worth a visit, taking place in spring each year.
If you're looking for the best place to buy in the North Wales town, The Guardian suggests Upper Llandwrog, describing it as a "desirable" spot with prices between £340,000 and £395,000.
The news outlet continues: "Closer to town – and the sea – houses on Bangor Road are around £775,000 for a four-bedroom property, or £330,000 for a two-bed bungalow."

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