There’s never been a better time to Live and Work in Norwich

After travelling across the country and exploring the very best our cities, towns and villages have to offer, The Sunday Times’ expert judges have made their decision: Norwich has officially been named the Best Place to Live in the UK for 2026.

Here, everything just works. A compact city where you can get anywhere in 10 minutes, yet vibrant enough to keep you inspired every day. Surrounded by stunning countryside and just a short trip from the coast, Norwich offers the perfect balance between city life and open space.

What truly sets Norwich apart is its people and spirit. With hundreds of independent shops, thriving start-ups, and a deeply rooted creative scene, community here isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a way of life. From baristas who know your order to welcoming cultural spaces, you feel part of something from day one.

Judges described Norwich as a creative, cosmopolitan city with a small-town feel
In 14 editions of the Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide Norwich is the only location to have featured in all
Recognised for its cultural riches and fascinating historical character

This is a fantastic accolade for the city and a strong opportunity to build on its positive national profile.

By sharing and amplifying this news, businesses can help reinforce Norwich’s reputation as a leading destination to live, work, and do business, further supporting efforts to attract investment, increase visitor footfall, and grow the local customer base.

Creative and Cosmopolitan

Norwich is fearlessly independent, a city to find pavements lined with quirky outdoor seating for alfresco dining and drinks. Where cosy city pubs with real fires in winter open secret gardens in summer for local brews, art and gourmet food. See Shakespeare in a monastic cloister, dine in an Art Nouveau arcade with a DJ set or paddle medieval trading routes through the city centre to be at one with nature.

There’s a real buzz here but the pace of life is great and it feels safe because people look out for each other. It’s also surrounded by stunning countryside, has easy access to the Broads, and I can pick up my two children from school and we can be eating fish and chips on the beach in half an hour.
Antonia – WiN Case Study

Vibrant City Centre

Over a full 12-months Norwich presents a diverse calendar of live music, comedy, performance and installation art. Where full-on festivals from science and beer to history and literature- with circus thrown in for good measure, are appealing to all ages. Then there are boundary pushing exhibitions and performances, people dancing in the streets, museum exhibits without glass and culture where you least expect it.

Where Work and Life perfectly co-exist

Norwich is where cobblestone history meets a high-tech future, offering a lifestyle that feels both intimate and expansive. It is a city that replaces the exhausting “hustle” with a meaningful rhythm, where world-class innovation at the Research Park sits just minutes away from medieval lanes and independent spirit. By choosing Norwich you’re adopting a landscape where the Norfolk coast is your weekend refuge and a thriving creative community is your daily backdrop. It is, quite simply, the perfect setting for a life well-lived and a career well-built.

If you’re wondering if relocating to Norwich is the right move… this is your sign to explore what life and work in Norwich could look like for you.

Read the full feature (behind a paywall)