And honestly, it shows
Every now and then, a piece of news pops up that feels like a collective pat on the back. West Devon being recognised as the third friendliest place to live in the UK is exactly that kind of moment. If you live here, you probably smiled and thought, “Well, of course we are.”
This ranking was highlighted by The Guardian and based on the national Community Life Survey. It digs into everyday life, how often neighbours chat, how connected people feel and the pride communities take in their surroundings.
It’s not flashy data, it’s human data. And West Devon shines in it.
A community that actually feels like a community
One of the things that makes West Devon special is how naturally people look out for one another. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee in Okehampton, wandering through Tavistock’s markets, or stopping for a chat in one of the smaller villages, there’s a genuine warmth that’s hard to manufacture.
Local businesses, volunteers, and community groups play a huge part in this. They’re the heartbeat of the borough by keeping traditions alive, supporting local initiatives and making sure newcomers feel welcome rather than lost. It’s the kind of place where you can ask for directions and end up in a ten‑minute conversation about the best walking routes.
Cllr Mandy Ewings put it perfectly: this recognition is “a real credit to the people who make West Devon such a welcoming place.” And she’s right. Friendliness isn’t a policy; it’s a culture.
Why this recognition matters
Being named one of the UK’s friendliest places isn’t just a feel-good headline. It reinforces something important: community spirit is a real asset.
It shapes wellbeing, supports local businesses, and makes the area more attractive to visitors, families, and anyone looking for a slower, more connected way of living.
For people considering a move to Devon, this kind of recognition helps paint a clearer picture of what life here is actually like. Not just beautiful landscapes and heritage sites but a place where people genuinely care.
And with the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape inscription, the spotlight is already on the region. This new accolade adds another layer to West Devon’s story: heritage, beauty and now officially, friendliness.
A well deserved celebration
Awards come and go, but the spirit behind them is what lasts. West Devon didn’t suddenly become friendly, it’s been this way for generations. This recognition simply captures what residents experience every day: kindness, connection and a shared pride in where they live.
So here’s to West Devon, one of the friendliest places in the UK and a community that proves friendliness isn’t just a trait, it’s a way of life.
We can’t not mention our friends in the Isles of Scilly and South Hams who ranked number and 1 and 2! Congratulations!