Happiness and life satisfaction can depend on a whole range of factors. Your personal life, work life, financial situation, health and many other aspects have an influence.
Where you live also plays a role. A recent survey actually revealed how people living in different towns in the UK experience varying levels of happiness and life satisfaction.
The 12th annual Happy at Home Index, published in December 2023, showed exactly which areas of the nation have the happiest residents.
More than 26,000 people took part in the Rightmove survey, which considered 13 happiness factors including things like community spirit and green spaces.
Following the results, Rightmove compiled a list of the 10 happiest places in the UK.
Taking the fourth spot on the list was a market town in Berkshire.
Just an hour’s train ride from London Waterloo, Wokingham could be an ideal spot for commuters to live.
It sits about seven miles east-southeast of Reading and four miles west of Bracknell.
Established in Saxon times, Wokingham – not to be confused with Woking in Surrey – has a rich history.
It was granted a town charter in 1583 by Queen Elizabeth I, and during the Tudor period it was a well known producer of silk.
Some of the houses involved in these cottage industries can still be seen in Rose Street.
Later it became known for its role in the brick-making industry, which then gave way to software development, light engineering and service industries.
But what is there to enjoy for visitors?
Visit South East England recommends a variety of shopping, eating out, walks in nature and even a spa.
The website says: “Finchampstead Ridges and Simons Woods is situated in the heart of Wokingham and provides a peaceful experience for visitors.
“Finchampstead Ridges is a beautiful stretch of land, comprising of woodlands and a heather ridge. Simons Wood is nearby, just off Wellingtonia Avenue.
“Both the woods and pond are worth a visit, presenting you with the perfect setting for exceptional nature photographs.
“If you’re looking for a pampering then look no further than Nirvana Spa with 6 pure, natural spring-fed pools, with water clean enough to drink.”
According to Rightmove, properties in Wokingham had an overall average price of £534,089 over the last year, making it a cheaper option for people who work in London.
Commenting on the Happy at Home survey, Rightmove says: “Each year, we ask people to tell us what makes them happy about where they live, and what makes it special.
“Our annual Happy at Home Index, now in its 12th year, helps us understand what really makes the residents of some areas happier than others, as well as the things that make a place feel like home.”
Taking the top spot on the index for the first time was Richmond-Upon-Thames in London, followed by Winchester in Hampshire.
