Ballycastle crowned Northern Ireland’s best place to live in 2026

Ballycastle on the Antrim coast.

(All photos by local photographer Anne Kelly)

Ballycastle has been named the best place to live in Northern Ireland, with judges praising its powerful sense of community, thriving food scene and stunning coastal setting.

The north Antrim town took the top regional spot in the 2026 edition of The Sunday Times Best Places to Live, standing out for what judges described as its “big, beating heart” — a place where community life is visible everywhere from library meet-ups to grassroots mental health support.

The accolade places Ballycastle firmly among the UK’s most desirable locations, selected from 72 standout places across Britain.

A town defined by community and character

Judges highlighted Ballycastle’s strong sense of belonging as a defining feature, pointing to everyday moments that bring people together.

Community initiatives such as the Solas charity — offering accessible mental health support — sit alongside a lively independent high street and a vibrant pub scene, creating a town that blends warmth with energy.

Its long sandy beach was also singled out as a natural gathering place, drawing dog walkers, birdwatchers and swimmers year-round.

Foodie reputation continues to grow

Ballycastle’s growing reputation as a food destination played a key role in its selection.

The judges credited local favourites including Ursa Minor café — widely regarded as one of the UK’s best bakeries — alongside independent greengrocers and butchers, and producers such as Broughgammon Farm Shop, the North Coast Smokehouse and the Naturally North Coast and Glens Sunday market.

Together, they paint a picture of a town where local produce and independent enterprise are thriving.

Part of a UK-wide celebration of community

The guide, published by The Sunday Times Best Places to Live and sponsored by Lloyds Banking Group, evaluates locations based on factors including schools, transport, broadband, mobile signal, access to green space and the health of the high street.

Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor, said:

“This guide is a great opportunity to highlight the best places in Britain. It is full of places that show that our village, town and city centres can still be full of life, as well as places bursting with natural beauty, culture, connectivity and most importantly a sense of community.

“Our expert team of judges visit every location on the list and talk to the locals to find out what they love about the place they live. These judges have traveled the length and breadth of the UK… selecting the top towns and villages, suburbs and cities for the 2026 guide. One thing all our chosen locations have in common is that the people who live in them are proud to call them home.”

Across the UK, Norwich in Norfolk was named the overall national winner.

Other Northern Ireland locations recognised

Two additional Northern Ireland locations were also featured in the 2026 guide:

• Dundrum, County Down

• Ormeau, Belfast BT7

While not ranked, both were praised for their unique appeal — from Dundrum’s coastal beauty and access to nature, to Ormeau’s rising popularity as a well-connected and character-filled Belfast neighbourhood.

A boost for the north coast

Ballycastle’s recognition reinforces the growing appeal of Northern Ireland’s north coast — not just as a tourist destination, but as a place to put down roots.

With more new entries than ever in this year’s guide, judges emphasised that their focus remains on places with genuine community strength rather than simply high property prices or well-known names.

For Ballycastle, it’s that combination of landscape, local pride and everyday connection that has secured its place at the top.

At a glance

• Ballycastle named Northern Ireland’s best place to live for 2026

• Recognition comes from The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide

• Judges praised strong community spirit and coastal setting

• Town highlighted for food scene, including Ursa Minor café

• Community initiatives like Solas charity noted

• 72 locations selected across the UK in total

• Norwich named overall UK winner

• Dundrum and Ormeau also featured from Northern Ireland

• Judging criteria included schools, transport, broadband and amenities

• Focus placed on community strength over house prices