This recognition aligns with findings from a recent Residents Survey, which showed that 84 percent of respondents are satisfied with their local area, and 90 percent believe that people from different backgrounds get along well in the community
Tower Hamlets has earned recognition as the 33rd best place to live in the UK, according to a recent ranking by The Times. This achievement also positions Tower Hamlets as the highest-ranking area in east London, a distinction that highlights its unique appeal and vibrant community. Often described as offering “the best of London in one borough,” Tower Hamlets combines rich cultural diversity, historic landmarks, economic vitality, and a strong sense of community.
The borough is home to world-class destinations such as the Tower of London, the Young V&A Museum, and the Museum of London Docklands. It also boasts one of the UK’s strongest economic outputs, with Canary Wharf as a financial hub and thriving markets like Brick Lane and Columbia Road drawing locals and tourists alike. With a population that reflects London’s rich history and multicultural fabric, Tower Hamlets has become a sought-after place to live, work, and visit.
Executive Mayor Lutfur Rahman welcomed the news with enthusiasm, stating, “News that Tower Hamlets is the best place to live in East London, and one of the best locations in the UK, comes as no surprise. More people want to live, work, visit, and study in Tower Hamlets than ever before and be part of our thriving community. With our rich history and incredible diversity, our excellent schools, fantastic green spaces, iconic landmarks, and over 300,000 people working in our borough, we are a global destination for tourism and business providing the third-largest economic output in the UK. That’s why we are both the fastest-growing and most densely populated place in the country.”
This recognition aligns with findings from a recent Residents Survey, which showed that 84 percent of respondents are satisfied with their local area, and 90 percent believe that people from different backgrounds get along well in the community. The council’s focus on cohesive and inclusive community development has been instrumental in creating a borough where diversity thrives.
The Times’ rankings were based on a variety of data points, including education, parks and open spaces, healthcare, and crime. Tower Hamlets scored highly in several categories, further affirming its appeal. In education, the borough received a score of five, reflecting the percentage of schools rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. This achievement follows the borough’s Children’s Services being rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted in January 2024. The report highlighted the timely and effective support provided to children, with staff demonstrating ambition for young residents to reach their full potential. As a result, Tower Hamlets’ Children’s Services now rank among the top 20 percent across local authorities in the UK.
In the area of parks and green spaces, Tower Hamlets scored an impressive 52, based on the number of Green Flag parks per 10,000 people. The borough’s 14 Green Flag-awarded parks include the renowned Victoria Park, which consistently earns People’s Choice recognition as one of the top ten parks in the country. The council’s commitment to maintaining high-quality open spaces is evident, with 81 percent of residents expressing satisfaction with the borough’s parks in the latest survey.
Tower Hamlets also excelled in fostering social enterprises and community initiatives. The borough’s score in the community interest companies category reflects its robust social economy, which includes approximately 1,300 voluntary and community sector organizations. Recent council initiatives, such as the Social Enterprise Project, are set to invest £80,000 to support the development of 50 Community Interest Companies, demonstrating the borough’s dedication to innovation and social progress.
In terms of heritage, Tower Hamlets’ abundance of listed buildings adds to its charm. With 13 Grade I buildings, including the iconic Tower of London and Christ Church Spitalfields, and around 2,000 Grade II structures, the borough’s architectural significance is undeniable. The restoration of the Grade II-listed former Royal London Hospital into the new Town Hall in Whitechapel stands as a testament to the council’s commitment to preserving its historical assets.
Healthcare in Tower Hamlets was also ranked positively, reflecting the collaborative efforts of the council’s public health services and the NHS. Tower Hamlets Council has pioneered several initiatives to support residents, including providing universal free school meals for primary and secondary school children, saving families £550 per year per child. Other notable efforts include restoring the Education Maintenance Allowance and providing over 2,350 grants to support young people in college and university.
The council is now proposing to become the first in England to offer school uniform grants to children whose parents earn less than £50,350, further cementing its commitment to reducing financial barriers for families. This proposal is set to be presented to Full Council next month.
Tower Hamlets’ recognition as one of the best places to live in the UK reflects the borough’s dedication to fostering a thriving, inclusive, and dynamic community. From its outstanding schools and green spaces to its cultural landmarks and innovative social policies, Tower Hamlets continues to set a benchmark for urban living.
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