Best air quality in UK: Where to live

With many areas in the UK breaching the advised levels of pollution, where can you find the best air quality in UK and where can you live to enjoy cleaner air?

It is proven that air pollution can cause illness, many problems not realised until later in a person’s life.

Air pollution in the UK

Air pollution is measured through various metrics, with Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) emissions being one of the most commonly reported.

While some NO2 is naturally produced by plants, soil, and water at low levels, most of it stems from the burning of fossil fuels, particularly due to vehicle emissions.

It comes as little surprise that coastal and rural areas with reduced traffic tend to record the lowest pollution levels.

Here we explore regions across the UK with exceptional air quality and what makes these places desirable for residents seeking a healthier environment.

The South West

The south-west region of England boasts some of the UK’s best air quality. The prevailing south-westerly winds naturally carry smog and pollutants away, while the sea breeze further improves air conditions.

Elevated terrain and the proximity to vast coastlines also contribute to lower pollution levels here.

Devon

Devon is recognised for its clean air, with areas like Bideford standing out as top destinations.

Bideford, in North Devon, has been highlighted for its excellent air quality, making it appealing to both residents and visitors.

The South Hams district, home to Salcombe, and West Devon reports consistently low pollution levels.

The South Hams area is particularly prized for its sandy beaches and thriving sailing community. Dartmoor National Park, stretching across both South Hams and West Devon, offers a peaceful environment with minimal pollution.

Cornwall

Cornwall, with its expansive coastline, also boasts some of the UK’s cleanest air. Areas like Bude, located on the northern coast, are celebrated for their exceptional air quality.

This is further enhanced by the health benefits of sea air, which is rich in negative hydrogen ions that can aid oxygen absorption.

In addition to its environmental advantages, Cornwall is renowned for its stunning landscapes, with many properties offering views of white sandy beaches and opportunities for water sports like surfing.

Dorset

Dorset is another county that enjoys low pollution levels. Towns like Sandbanks and Poole benefit from the sea air while also being free from nearby motorways, reducing road traffic pollution.

The Purbeck district, part of the Jurassic Coast, stands out for its particularly clean air.

Areas such as Wareham, Swanage, and East Lulworth offer beautiful surroundings, often with views of the Purbeck Hills or the coastline, making them attractive places to live.

The New Forest

The New Forest, which spans Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire, offers a unique mix of heathland, pasture, and woodland. This natural environment is well-shielded from major motorways like the M3, contributing to its cleaner air.

The area is popular with residents seeking a rural lifestyle. Properties here are often surrounded by mature woodlands and heathland, with New Forest ponies roaming nearby.

Coastal properties in the area also benefit from cleaner air and stunning views of the Isle of Wight.

The Cotswolds

The Cotswold district in Gloucestershire, encompassing Tetbury, Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-Wold, and Cirencester, records low pollution levels, making it another attractive option for those prioritising air quality.

Known for its honey-coloured period homes, rolling countryside, and a wealth of dining and cultural attractions, the Cotswolds combines charm with practicality. Southern areas also offer good commuting links to Bath and Bristol.

North Norfolk

Towns like Cromer, Blakeney, and Overstrand benefit from minimal industrial activity and reduced traffic, ensuring clean air.

The northern coastline of Norfolk is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

There are many beautiful towns and villages along the North Norfolk coast and further inland.

The area boasts lovely beaches, and beautiful countryside and marshlands teeming with wildlife.

Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales, located within the Pennines in North Yorkshire, largely falls under the protection of the Yorkshire Dales National Park and boasts exceptional air quality, with its open spaces and limited vehicle congestion.

This picturesque region is distinguished by its expansive pasturelands, intricately divided by historic dry-stone walls.

Properties in the Yorkshire Dales are predominantly situated in charming villages or small clusters of historic homes known as hamlets.

Lake District

Another area celebrated for its pristine environment; the Lake District offers some of the cleanest air in the UK.

Situated in the northwest of England, The Lake District is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic mountains, tranquil lakes, and charming towns and villages.

Scotland

Scotland is home to some of the cleanest air in the UK. This is thanks to its expansive rural landscapes, low population density, and minimal industrial activity in certain regions.

The Highlands, including areas like Fort William and Aviemore, are particularly noted for their pristine air, with pollution levels consistently low.

Coastal regions such as the Isle of Skye and the Outer Hebrides also benefit from fresh sea breezes and limited road traffic.

The Cairngorms National Park, with its vast forests and open spaces, further exemplifies the excellent air quality found in Scotland’s most scenic areas.

Plans to improve air pollution in urban areas

For those unable to relocate to rural or coastal areas, efforts to improve air quality in cities are ongoing. Clean Air Zones (CAZ) have been introduced in cities like Birmingham, Derby, and Southampton, with stricter emissions standards for vehicles.

In London, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has expanded to cover all boroughs, enforcing tighter regulations on exhaust emissions. These measures aim to significantly reduce pollution levels in urban centres.

Property in low-pollution areas

When searching for a home, choosing areas away from major roads and industrial zones is key to enjoying cleaner air.

There are several handy tools online that can help you assess the air pollution in the area you live and those you might be considering moving to, helping home movers establish where they’ll find the best air quality in UK.

If you’re considering a move to a region with low air pollution, Garrington can assist with your property search, offering tailored advice based on your requirements.

Please contact us without obligation to explore how we can help.