If you’ve been wondering whether relocating to the South Hams is a good idea, you’re not alone. More and more people are looking west and asking: Is the South Hams the best place to live in England? Is it the warmest? The prettiest? In short—yes, yes, and yes (depending on what you’re after). Nestled between the rugged edges of Dartmoor and the gentle curves of the South Devon coast, the South Hams offers an exceptional quality of life.
Here’s what makes it so special—and why moving here might just be the best decision you’ll ever make.
1. One of the Warmest Places to Live in the UK
If you’re tired of grey skies and long winters, the South Hams could be your perfect escape. Thanks to its southerly location and maritime climate, it’s one of the warmest and sunniest regions in the UK. Winters are milder, summers longer, and even spring tends to arrive a little earlier. Gardeners love it, and so do those who dream of morning swims and evening walks in the sun.
2. Is the South Hams the Prettiest Part of England? It Just Might Be
Picture postcard villages, rolling hills, wooded valleys, and hidden coves—beauty is everywhere. Whether it’s the estuary views in Salcombe or the dramatic clifftop walks around East Prawle, the landscape is stunning in every direction. The South Hams boasts several designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs), and once you visit, you’ll understand why.
3. Lifestyle: Relaxed, Outdoor-Focused, and Community-Driven
If you’re relocating from a busy city, the change of pace here is noticeable—and very welcome. Life in the South Hams is grounded in community and shaped by the outdoors. Farmers’ markets, coastal walks, sea swims, and local food festivals replace the noise and stress of urban life. People say good morning. Local shopkeepers know your name. I’m forever passing familiar faces on the lanes, and more often than not, we’ll wind down the window for a quick chat—provided there’s no one waiting behind, of course.
4. A Great Place to Relocate—Whether You’re Retiring, Working Remotely, or Raising a Family
Relocating to the South Hams makes sense for a wide range of people. It’s well connected, with trains from Totnes to London Paddington in as little as 2 hours and 45 minutes. There are excellent state and independent schools, thriving creative and entrepreneurial communities, and increasingly strong broadband coverage for remote working.For retirees, the benefits of sea air, access to fresh local food, and a lower-stress lifestyle are hard to beat. The South Hams has even been said to share some characteristics with global “Blue Zones”—regions where people statistically live longer, healthier lives.
5. It’s Not Just Pretty—It’s Practical Too
Yes, it’s beautiful—but it’s also liveable. The region has solid infrastructure, good road links, and strong healthcare access, with three major hospitals in Torbay, Exeter, and Plymouth. There are also well-equipped local health centres in towns like Kingsbridge and Totnes, many with X-ray and urgent care facilities.Meanwhile, the area is rich in independent shops, artisan producers, cafés, wellness studios, and restaurants. Whether you’re into sailing, yoga, wild swimming, or just good food and countryside walks—the South Hams combines rural tranquillity with modern convenience.
6. Still Wondering If the South Hams Is the Best Place to Live in England?
Every move is personal, but for many, the South Hams ticks every box: natural beauty, a mild climate, a strong sense of community, and a slower, more grounded way of life. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a new chapter, or planning your retirement, this part of South Devon is easy to fall in love with.
Thinking of relocating to the South Hams?
As a local property finder, I help people discover exactly the right areas to focus on and help seek out the rearrest of property gems before anyone else —whether you’re dreaming of river views, a tucked-away cottage, or a home with land. If you’d like to explore your options and find your place here, do get in touch.
