Day-dreaming of microbreweries that have banned Stella Artois? Can’t get enough of hipster small-plate restaurants or £5 flat whites? Well, fear not – as the coolest UK hotspots have officially been revealed.
While grey skies and sewage-riddle seas don’t exactly sound appealing, the UK is actually a wonderfully diverse nation that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover wanting to melt into the art scene, or a new parent who simply can’t shake off the flannel shirts and over-groomed beards – we’ve got it all.
If you’re looking for someone new to move, The Sunday Times has published its 2025 list of the ‘hottest postcodes’. Some of the contestants may surprise you, but keep an open mind and take a visit to these indie gems before you judge them.
Once an industrial heartland, Digbeth has rebranded itself as Birmingham’s vibrant creative quarter: a bustling neighbourhood filled with quirky shops, independent bars and restaurants, and creative residents (naturally). Only 10 minutes away from Bullring & Grand Central – Birmingham’s landmark shopping centre and culinary hub – Digbeth is the epitome of convenience.
“It has been named the ‘Coolest Neighbourhood in Britain’ by the Sunday Times, hailing the Custard Factory’s cafes, independent shops, cinemas and arts venues, whilst celebrating ‘the best bar snacks in the postcode’ from The Old Crown,” states Visit Birmingham. “At night, Digbeth comes alive with a host of independent bars, restaurants and leisure venues ready to keep residents, visitors and clients entertained, places such as Birdies Bar, The Night Owl and Golf Fang are all night time hotspots that have captured Digbeth’s industrialist charm to create a cool urban feel to its venues.”
Growing from a humble fishing village to one of the most acclaimed holiday destinations in Northern Ireland, it’s no surprise Portrush made the list. If you’re ready to spend your days surfing in the Atlantic, or cloud-bathing along stunning blue-flag beaches – this village is made for you.
“A ten-minute drive away from Portrush is Magheracross Viewpoint, one of the best places for stargazers and northern lights hunters in the UK,” states Sunday Times. “For a different kind of star-spotting, Harry Styles has been known to tee off at the Royal Portrush Golf Club.” Convinced? So are we…
If a ‘fiercely independent spirit’ and ‘real community’ vibe is what you’re after, Hoole should be a serious contender. Often touted as Chester’s ‘oldest suburb’, Hoole features an award-winning shopping district and boasts one of the best coffee scenes in the UK.
“Hoole Village would not be complete without its high street, predominantly located on Faulkner Street and Charles Street,” states Visit Chester and Cheshire. “With the majority of businesses being independent, popular high street businesses include ‘Sarnies’ Sandwich shop, Pioneer Shoe Repairs, Deli Vert café and ‘Fresh of Chester’. Faulkner Street is held in such high esteem that it was even voted as ‘Best British Newcomer’ in the 2015 Great British High Street Awards.”
You can’t mention Fittleworth without bringing up The Swan Inn. This stunning 14th-century coaching inn acts as a cherished community pub, bar, and dining room – and boasts 12 stunning guest rooms, which are all named after iconic British figures who have stayed there in the past, including suffragette organiser Emmeline Pankhurst.
Fittleworth is also an ideal base for those who like to don their Hunter wellies and walk half an hour before checking their phone for the nearest carvery. You’ll get some stunning views of the unspoilt countryside without the crowds of places like the Cotswolds.
“Micro-breweries, sourdough bakehouses and great live music venues — Farsley has all the cultural catnip that hipster dads can’t get enough of,” states the Sunday Times. Just six miles west of Leeds city centre, this indie village has become a haven for those willing to dish out £5 for a flat white or pint even though they’re not in London.
You’re also a mere stone’s throw from the Yorkshire Dales, or historic cities like Harrogate and York. And when you want a trip to the theatre, you can quickly get the acclaimed Alhambra in Bradford.
Located on the west bank of the River Severn, Newnham is a village steeped in history – but it’s its booming culinary scene that’s pushed it into the limelight. Checkout Post if you’re in the area: a restaurant and bottleshop with a rustically minimalist layout that whips up some pretty mouthwatering plates using ingredients from the local Plump Hill Farm.
You’re also a 13-minute drive away from the Forest of Dean, a stunning ancient forest perfect for a day out. Bring a picnic, and make sure you visit the cannop ponds to view some of the local wildlife – including the pretty mandarin ducks.
Move over St Ives, it’s time this arty town got the attention it deserves. As Cornwall’s largest fishing port, it’s only fitting you end your cultural day with a divine seafood platter from Mackerel Sky.
Expect the see the town’s fishy routes wherever you go, even if you’re off to watch the latest Hollywood blockbuster. “For the right kind of screen time visit the Filmhouse, an independent cinema in a converted granite fish cellar that has a bar, restaurant — and no-rustle policy once the film starts,” The Times added.
Newport offers a unique blend of experiences, whether you’re into wildlife spotting at the RSPB Wetlands Reserve or soaking in the history over at Tredegar House, a 17th-century mansion set in a stunning 90-acre park. Its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere, and artsy vibe are often compared to that of Cornwall – just without the swathes of selfie-stick-waving tourists.
Plus, getting around is a doddle. “You can walk from one end of Newport’s compact city centre to the other in little more than 10 minutes – or a lot longer if you stop at the cathedral, museum and art gallery, and traditional covered market,” said Visit Wales.
Described by the Sunday Times as London’s ‘best kept secret’, Penge has become a popular spot for foodies who don’t want to spend hours queuing for their brunch. You can get the full hipster experience here, with coffee roasting classes to a rooftop gallery on the top floors of a car park (on Penge High Street, in case you were wondering).
Only nine miles away from central London, Penge is the very definition of an ‘up and coming place’. It’s perfect for commuters, or those wanting to slowly acclimatise to life out of the Big Smoke.
Despite being crowned City of Culture in 2017, Hull has had to try ultra hard for its glow-up to be acknowledged. If The Deep – Hull’s award-winning aquarium – isn’t for you, head to the old marina for an endless choice of independent eateries. We’re talking small plates, natural wines, and sourdough bakeries.
If you want to learn more about the city, you can now grab a free audio-guided tour of of Hull’s music history, narrated by comedian Lucy Beaumont. You’ll pass iconic sites, including Humber Street and Queen Victoria Square, and hear about some of Hull’s finest musicians.
A postcard-worthy town, Port Ellen lies on the coastline of Islay, just off the west coast of Scotland. It feels miles away from the UK with its white sandy beaches that could easily compete with the likes of the Caribbean – but it’s the whiskey distilleries that have made this hotspot so desirable.
“Hot happenings include the recent resurrection of Port Ellen distillery, a cult whisky-maker closed for more than four decades, now decked out in ultra-modern Scot-Scandi design with unobstructed views across the bay to Carraig Fhada lighthouse,” states Sunday Times.
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