Marple, Gatley and Bramhall named in top 10 best places to live in England and Wales list

Three Stockport district centres, Marple, Gatley and Bramhall, have been named among the top 10 best places to live in England and Wales.

The latest ‘Best Places to Live 2025’ rankings by Garrington Property Finders, celebrate locations that combine quality of life, access to green space, broadband speeds and property value, with three Stockport neighbourhoods all making the top 10.

Garrington is one of the UK’s most established independent property finding companies, and its annual rankings are widely reported as a barometer of up-and-coming, desirable places to live.

The accolade is the latest praise given to Stockport as a great place to live. The town was named the Sunday Times’ Best Place to Live in the North-west in 2024, with The Heatons also making the top 10 in the 2025 ranking.

Leader of Stockport Council, Cllr Mark Hunter said:

“While Stockport town centre continues to make headlines with the biggest town centre regeneration in the country, it’s our district centres that tell the real story of what makes Stockport special.

“I’m absolutely delighted to see Marple, Gatley and Bramhall all ranked in the top 10 best places to live in England and Wales in Garrington’s 2025 report. That’s an extraordinary endorsement of our borough – and a real testament to the strength of our local communities.

“Marple is climbing the national ranks for good reason – its beautiful setting, strong sense of community and the exciting plans for the new Marple Hub are putting it firmly on the map. The Hub will have a huge and lasting impact on the prosperity, health and wellbeing of local people – and shows what’s possible when you back a place to succeed.

“Gatley and Bramhall’s recognition reinforces what so many residents and visitors already know – that these neighbourhoods are thriving, full of life, and rooted in a brilliant mix of people and local pride.

“At a time when many towns are struggling, this kind of national recognition shows that Stockport’s approach – backing local places, investing in community infrastructure, and building for the long term – is delivering real results.

“We’re proud of every corner of this borough. And we’re only just getting started.”