HOLYWOOD is one of the best places to live in Northern Ireland, according to an annual nationwide barometer on who is happiest in their home town.
The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide chose the Belfast suburb alongside Portstewart as the most enviable postcode behind this year’s ultimate regional winner, Dundrum, near Newcastle.
The award involves judges’ assessments of factors from schools to transport, broadband speeds and mobile signal, to culture, as well as access to green spaces and the health of the high street.
As always, the judges looked for thriving locations with a strong sense of community rather than famous names with high house prices.
Adjudictors said: “Belfast’s unrivalled super-suburb offers thoroughly desirable houses up and down the property ladder and an aspirational way of life, all within easy reach of the entertainment and enterprise of Belfast.”
They acknowledged however, that Holywood comes with a high price tag.
“It’s an expensive choice, and the social scene – centred on golf, more golf, tennis, sailing and a smattering of top-notch restaurants – points to the fact that this is where Northern Ireland’s smartest set likes to pitch camp.
“But you get what you pay for, with a lifestyle that’s second to none and an attractive town centre with aspirational schools, decent shops and restaurants and attractive houses,” added the judges.
One resident, Christine Creighton, a former councillor on Ards and North Down council agreed, stating Holywood is a ‘fabulous’ place to live, with great hospitality venues within great surroundings.
“Holywood is a fabulous place to live and work, with great transport links, woodland and coastal walks.
“It has a vintage and pre-loved clothing hotspot with a strong community spirit, and a wealth of award-winning cafes and restaurants,” she said.
