Nottinghamshire is a county full of vibrancy, culture, and charm, and in 2025, its neighbourhoods continue to offer a wide variety of lifestyles, from family-friendly suburbs to buzzing city locales and countryside ideals.
If you're considering a move or simply exploring the county, these ten happiest neighbourhoods in and around Birmingham stand out as places where quality of life, community spirit, and happiness truly shine.
If you think we’ve missed somewhere off the list then get in touch at [email protected].
5. Beeston
Muddy Stilettos said: "Beeston is one of the coolest towns on the Nottingham commuter belt. With stylish cafes galore and a great community of families, creatives and students." Beeston is often considered a happy place to live due to its strong community spirit, excellent transport links to Nottingham city centre, a thriving high street with diverse shops, good quality schools, numerous parks and green spaces, and a mix of family-friendly atmosphere with a vibrant student presence, making it a desirable location for people of different life stages. | David Lally Photo: David Lally
6. West Bridgford
West Bridgford is often considered a happy place to live due to its combination of excellent schools, green spaces, a strong community spirit, easy access to major sporting venues like Trent Bridge, a vibrant high street with diverse shops and restaurants, and its close proximity to Nottingham city centre while maintaining a suburban feel, making it particularly attractive for families seeking a high quality of life with good amenities and a relaxed atmosphere. | John Sutton Photo: John Sutton
7. Newark-on-Trent
Newark-on-Trent, often simply referred to as Newark, is a historic market town situated along the River Trent. Its well-preserved market square is flanked by beautiful Georgian and Tudor buildings, making it a wonderful place to explore. The town is perhaps most famous for Newark Castle, a 12th-century fortress with a fascinating history. Visit the Civil War Museum within the castle to learn about the town's role in the English Civil War. In addition to its historical attractions, Newark boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries and theatres showcasing local talent. | David Dixon Photo: David Dixon
8. Kimberley
Kimberley is likely happy to live in Nottinghamshire because it's a growing, well-connected town with good amenities, excellent schools, a strong community feel, and a mix of urban convenience near Nottingham city centre while still having access to nearby countryside, making it a desirable place to live for families and young people, especially with recent investments improving the town's appearance and atmosphere. | Copyright Historic England Archi Photo: Historic England Archive