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A small town has been named the best place to live in the UK this year. The town, located on the foothills of the Peak District, boasts around 90 independent shops and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.

Marple, a town in the borough of Stockport, Greater Manchester, lies on the River Goyt and provides perfect access to the Peak District. Recent research from Garrington Property Finders named the town as the best place to live in 2026. The research compared nearly 1,450 cities, towns and villages across 18 categories, including crime rates, schools, jobs, the natural environment and value for money.

As reported by Time Out, the survey said: "Despite being just nine miles and around 25 minutes from the bright lights of central Manchester, Marple has an understated charm and calm much like the frequently underestimated Miss Marple, Agatha Christie's much-loved sleuth who was named after the town."

Marple is just a 25-minute direct train journey, or 37 37-minute drive, to Manchester city centre. However, the town offers plenty to locals and visitors without them having to venture to the city.

A retail study from Stockport Council showed that there are 111 retail units in Marple. Of these, roughly 90 are independent traders, meaning they make up an impressive 76% of the retail offering in the town.

There are a range of independent shops across the town, including along the pedestrianised Market Street area. These include boutiques such as Suze Fashion, gift shops such as Marple China Centre, and the popular D&S White Butchers.

Market Street is also home to the Make it Marple street market which features local food, crafts and goods. The market, which prides itself on local and sustainable items, runs between 10am and 2pm every Saturday.

Marple is also known for its strong community spirit and friendly atmosphere. However, house prices in the town sit above the national average at £517,000 - 7% higher than last year.

Marple has a host of positive reviews on TripAdvisor. A number of visitors commented on the variety of shops and attractions available in the town.

John said: "The Townside frier in Marple Bridge is a brilliant Chippy, The Beer Traders is a great pub, also The Hatters is good, as is the Ring O Bells. Whole variety of shops including a bookshop, various charity shops, a good independent cinema to name but a few."

A second visitor wrote: "Marple which is in the borough of Stockport has at least 2 bed and breakfast places and has a village type feel, with lots of restaurants, independent shops and a independent cinema."