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A children's quality of life survey from Halifax has identified the finest locations across Britain for families looking to settle down, with the leading contenders all hailing from the same region. Drawing on crucial elements including employment opportunities, property size, internet connectivity, traffic levels, and adult wellbeing reports, the research discovered that Scotland dominated the rankings. Whilst the nation secured a commanding presence, there were entries from northern and southern England, yet the top three spots were exclusively claimed by Scottish destinations. Maintaining its position since 2015, it's hardly shocking that Scotland's Orkney Islands have been recognised as Britain's premier family-friendly location. The study highlighted Orkney's impressive employment figures, coupled with minimal crime rates and aspects such as excellent academic performance and intimate primary school class numbers. Discussing the 2019 findings, James Stockan, head of Orkney Islands council, said: "It's very pleasing that Orkney has taken the crown for the best quality of life in the UK. It's down not only to our environment but also to the people who live here, who combine a traditional sense of community with a forward-thinking, self-reliant, ambitious, can-do attitude that makes this a very special place to live and work," The Guardian reports. Located beyond the northern shores of mainland Scotland, the Orkney Islands boast spectacular countryside and panoramic ocean vistas, providing a refreshing escape for residents. Those who make their home in Orkney naturally embrace outdoor living, thanks to the expansive terrain that encourages lengthy rambles and swimming opportunities – from harbour settlements to underwater excursions and nature watching expeditions. The region doesn't just offer stunning natural beauty, but also possesses a fascinating heritage. Orkney overflows with prehistoric landmarks accessible to all visitors, including the World Heritage Site called the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. Additional well-maintained locations feature Taversoe Tuick, a double-level burial mound, alongside an Iron Age defensive structure, Midhowe Broch. Russell Galley, managing director at Halifax, previously commented on Orkney's victory: "With strong education and employment levels, low crime rates and residents loving life, not to mention breathtaking wide open spaces, the Orkney Islands have retained the crown of Britain's best rural place to live," according to Relocate magazine. He added: "The winning formula for quality of life in the countryside seems to consistently include high employment levels and top scores on wellbeing, along with low school class sizes and high average spend per pupil – more than twice the national average." Also featuring in the top three for the best quality of life for families in the UK is the Shetland Islands, also in Scotland. It's understood that these islands boast the highest employment rate in Great Britain, significantly above the average. Joining it at number three are the Western Isles in Scotland, which in the last survey were found to have the highest personal wellbeing rating. This means the average of life satisfaction, wellness and happiness is at an exceptional level compared to other places on the list. The top 10 list includes: 1. Orkney Islands, Scotland 2. Shetland Islands, Scotland 3. Western Isles, Scotland 4. Hambleton, North Yorkshire 5. South Oxfordshire 6. Ribble Valley, Yorkshire 7. West Somerset 8. Mole Valley, Surrey 9. Chilterns 10. West Oxfordshire
