9 Sunniest Places to Live in the UK

Are you thinking of moving to the sunniest place in the UK?

Perhaps you’ve grown tired of the dreary weather and are looking for a change.

Living in the UK, we’re all too familiar with grey skies and drizzly days (even in the summer), so the idea of settling in one of the country’s sunniest spots is a tempting proposition.

Whether it’s for the mental health benefits, the opportunity to enjoy some outdoor activities, or even simply to chase a little extra vitamin D, sunny days make a big difference in our quality of life.

From coastal escapes to charming inland towns, many locations across the UK offer plenty of sunshine – perfect for those craving brighter days and an outdoor lifestyle.

Having personally visited many of these sun-drenched spots, I can attest to the appeal they hold beyond just their weather.

From the laid-back, seaside vibes of the Isle of Wight to the cultural richness of Bournemouth, each location has its unique charm alongside the good weather.

Sunny living doesn’t just mean better weather; it also translates to a healthier, more active lifestyle, with more opportunities for scenic walks, beach days, and community events that come alive in the sunshine.

In this article, I’ll explore the eight sunniest places to live in the UK, looking at their average sunshine hours, the lifestyle they offer residents, and why they’re becoming increasingly popular for those looking to relocate.

Whether you’re considering a coastal retreat or a bustling city with better weather than most, these destinations have something for everyone.

Plus, with improving transport links and a growing trend towards flexible working, relocating to these sunny hotspots might be more achievable than you think!

So, if you are on the hunt for more annual sunshine hours, read on.

This list was compiled by examining climate data from the Met Office (UK Climate Averages) and Weather and Climate websites.

Remember that there will be variations year on year; however, these lovely locations consistently rank among the sunniest in the UK on average.

1. Eastbourne

Eastbourne is a top choice for those looking to live in East Sussex.

Known for its 1,872 hours of annual sunshine, Eastbourne is a popular town in East Sussex that offers locals the best of coastal living alongside a growing arts scene.

Eastbourne’s warmest months fall between July and September.

During this time, you can expect a mean temperature between 16 to 18 °C, with the average maximum temperature reaching 24°C.

Once a retreat for retirees, it’s now a lively community with great restaurants, theatres, and galleries that would please most prospective residents.

The town’s proximity to London makes it an excellent choice for those who commute only a few times a week while enjoying sun-kissed weekends by the sea.

There’s also plenty of action when you have time to spare.

Marine Parade Beach, Eastbourne Pier and the Miniature Steam Railway provide plenty of fun leisure opportunities for all the family, even on those days when the weather is not so nice.

2. Bognor Regis

Bognor Regis’ average annual sunshine of 1,900 hours places it as one of the sunniest places in the UK.

Like many South Coast towns, Bognor experiences an oceanic climate, basking in nearly 1,900 hours of sunshine annually.

Bognor Regis has the highest known annual level of sunshine of any British mainland weather station, resulting in its being named the sunniest town in Britain!

Plus, it is mild, even in winter.

Temperatures recorded at Bognor very rarely fall below −9.4 °C.

Living in Bognor provides residents with a relaxed lifestyle, its stunning beaches and beautiful parks, like Hotham Park, are perfect for outdoor activities in the sun!

The town’s promenade and pier offer locals the traditional British seaside experience, while local amenities include a range of shops, restaurants, and a welcoming community to boot.

3. Chichester

Chichester competes each year to be the sunniest location in the UK.

Chichester often tops the charts as the sunniest city in the UK; the city is bathed in nearly 1,919 hours of sunshine each year.

Plus, although winters can be cold, the minimum temperature recorded in recent years has not dipped below freezing but hovers at around 3-4°C.

This upmarket area, the only city in West Sussex, offers a perfect mix of historic architecture and modern living amenities, plus the nearby South Downs National Park makes it a perfect spot for outdoor lovers.

While property prices are on the higher end, Chichester’s combination of sunshine and countryside makes it well worth considering for those looking to escape the gloomier parts of the UK.

3. Bournemouth, Dorset

Bournemouth is not only one of the sunniest locations on our list but also one of the most popular, thanks in part to its wonderful beach.

With around 1,780 hours of sunshine annually, Bournemouth offers so much more than just good weather.

Sitting at an elevation of 63.75 feet above sea level, Bournemouth has a marine west coast climate, with warm summers for residents to enjoy.

In fact, the city’s yearly average temperature is 11.83ºC, 1.08% higher than the United Kingdom’s average.

This bustling seaside town is known for its miles of golden beaches, thriving nightlife, a strong sense of community and diverse economy, including key sectors like tourism, services, and technology.

Its popularity as a tourist destination means the area is always buzzing with excellent things to do, from coastal walks to shopping and days at the beach, there’s never a dull moment – if you’re unsure of what your day out in Bournemouth holds check out our article packed with 24 amazing things to do!

The local University of Bournemouth ensures that the city enjoys a young vibe, with plenty of opportunities for a good night out for the thousands of students who study here.

Overall, it’s a great place to live,​ so you can really take advantage of its extra sunny days!

4. The Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is a top pick, with an average of 1,924 hours of sunshine annually.

The Isle of Wight often gets crowned as another of the sunniest spots in the UK and for good reason!

The island off of the south coast of England is among the sunniest places in the UK, with an average of 37 hours of sunshine a week compared to the national average of 29.7 hours.

That works out at 1,924 hours of sunlight per year!

July is the sunniest month, boasting 9.5 hours of sunny weather per day.

The best months to visit the Isle of Wight are June, July, August, and September.

These months provide the best beach weather; plenty of sunshine means plenty of chances for sunbathing and perfect swimming conditions with the least chance of rain.

The island’s relaxed pace of life and stunning landscapes, including 57 miles of coastline, make it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a slower, more peaceful lifestyle.

The Isle of Wight’s budding art scene and popular festivals, like the famous Isle of Wight Festival, add to its year-round appeal.

The added bonus is that property prices on the island are generally a third cheaper than those on the mainland UK!

5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire

Those looking for the best place to soak up some sun in Wales should certainly keep Tenby in mind.

Tenby’s standout features include its stunning 3 miles of sandy beaches, which earned it the nickname the “Welsh Riviera,” and the renowned Pembrokeshire Coast Path, both of which are bolstered by an impressive 1,667 hours of annual sunshine!

Tenby’s average weather conditions include an average temperature high of 13.4°C, with an average low of 7.0°C.

Situated on the western edge of the UK, Tenby benefits from a prime location with its naturally sheltered harbour, protected by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Irish Sea.

This coastal town has long attracted settlers thanks to its strategic positioning and tight-knit community, Tenby frequently hosts a range of events, festivals, and cultural activities for locals to enjoy – the sunny weather certainly makes enjoying these much easier!

Despite its modest size, the town offers all the necessary amenities, including shops, restaurants, and good schools, meaning you’ll feel right at home in no time.

6. Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Southend-on-Sea is a great choice for those looking to soak up some sun on the east coast of England.

Close to London but far sunnier than the capital, Southend-on-Sea enjoys around 1,884 hours of sunshine annually, with July, August, and September’s temperatures topping the scale at 21°C, 21°C, and 19°C, respectively!

Southend is well-connected by rail to London, which makes it an attractive prospect for commuters who want a quieter life away from the capital.

The town has seen significant regeneration in recent years, improving its appeal with new developments and attractions.

A real family-friendly location with plenty of green space and sandy beaches, Ofsted has rated many of its schools highly, making it perfect for children of all ages.

Additionally, the cost of living is generally lower than in other popular areas like London, offering better value for those seeking a sunny place to call home.

While it has all the conveniences of a modern town, its seaside location means it retains a relaxed, holiday-like atmosphere.

7. Brighton and Hove, East Sussex

With an average of 1,892 hours of sun each year, Brighton and Hove are a great choice for those who can afford it.

Brighton and Hove, like so many of the south coast locations, has a mild and sunny microclimate compared to the rest of the UK.

These areas, so often packaged together, are favourites among young professionals, artists, and families alike.

Together, they receive 1,892 hours of sunshine each year, significantly higher than the nationwide average (1,403).

Due to its coastal location, the area is a little more sheltered from the heat waves that can sometimes affect the southeast of England, which may be welcomed by many!

That said, in recent years, higher-than-average temperatures have been experienced in the warmer summer months of July and August.

As one of the sunniest cities in the UK, it’s no surprise that Brighton and Hoven are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with the bustling beach and the South Downs National Park nearby for coastal walks, cycling, and picnics

Brighton and Hove also offer locals a blend of beach life, creative spirit, and excellent transport links to London, making it one of the most desirable places to live in the UK.

With its famous pier, one-off shops, and year-round festivals, Brighton and Hove offers far more than just good weather – although the sun is certainly a bonus!

If you want even more details about what makes this area so desirable be sure to check out our in-depth guide to living in Brighton where we picked out 13 great reasons to move here.

8. Isle of Scilly

Isle of Scilly has an average of 1,708 hours of sunshine each year and is a truly unique place to live.

Living on the Isles of Scilly offers a truly unique experience in terms of weather and lifestyle.

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the island’s residents enjoy around 1,708 hours of sunshine annually, significantly more than many other places across the UK.

This abundance of sunshine and relatively mild winters make for pleasant weather conditions without being overly hot, creating an environment where subtropical plants can thrive, yes in the UK!

The island’s landscape is dotted with pristine beaches, clear waters, and lush, flower-filled fields, making it the perfect home for nature lovers and those seeking a slower pace of life.

Despite its beauty, living on the Isles can also be quite remote, and access to the mainland is only possible by ferry or plane.

However, the isolation also fosters a peaceful, relaxed lifestyle that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of larger UK cities – if this sounds appealing to you the Isle of Scilly is well worth considering.

9. Cambridge

Despite not being on the south coast, Cambridge boasts an average of 1,570 hours of sunshine a year.

Let’s take a look at one of the few locations not on the south coast!

The famous city of Cambridge, renowned for its university, “makes the grade” weather-wise, too.

The city experiences around 1,570 hours of sunshine annually, slightly above the UK average, contributing to its generally pleasant weather.

Summers in the city are typically mild, with average temperatures in the low 20°C range, while winters are relatively cold but not too harsh.

Alongside this, the moderate rainfall compared to the rest of the UK, makes outdoor activities like punting on the River Cam or walking through its many parks and green spaces enjoyable for much of the year.

Despite its high property prices, its agreeable weather conditions, cultural and historical heritage, and picturesque scenery combine to make it a very desirable location indeed.

Do you Want to Move to the Sunniest Place in the UK?

Each of our chosen locations has its own special attributes, but they all share one crucial feature: lots of sunshine!

From seaside escapes to cultural cities, these are the best places to soak up the sun while enjoying all that UK living has to offer.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward your dream move to the sunniest place in the UK, White & Company is here to provide top-notch removal services to make the process smooth and hassle-free.

Whether you’re heading to the coast of Eastbourne, the lively streets of Brighton, or any of the other sunniest places in the UK, our experienced team ensures that your belongings will arrive safely and securely, no matter the distance.

With over a century of experience in the removal industry, you can trust us to handle your move with care and precision.

In addition to our standard removal services, White & Company now offers a convenient video survey option.

This allows us to assess your moving needs remotely, providing an accurate and efficient survey from the comfort of your home.

So, why wait? Contact White & Company today or complete our quick online quote form to get started.

Let us help turn your dream into reality with our exceptional removal service.

For your added protection, we are founder members of the removal industry regulators BAR, the British Association of Removers.

But beware, not all removal companies are members of this prestigious regulator. It is easy to find a member company; simply visit the BAR website for confirmation.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.