Manchester has officially stolen the UK city crown – no apologies to London, Glasgow, or anyone else nursing a bruised civic ego.
But according to the latest Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, our beloved Manchester racked up a mighty 96.30 score for 2025, leaping up to second place and trouncing London in the process.
It’s got locals buzzing, visitors queuing, and pretty much the rest of the country wondering if they should pack up and move north for good.
Manchester’s rise as one of the best cities in the UK
This year, Manchester has leapt from eighth to second position in the UK’s top city rankings, driven by a remarkable buzz around its ever-expanding food and hospitality scene. Internationally renowned chefs are choosing Manchester for new restaurant concepts that were once exclusive to London.
Recent openings like Shaun Moffat’s Winsome and The Bangkok Diners Club at The Edinburgh Castle Pub exemplify the city’s culinary transformation, making it a magnet for foodies and adventurous diners.
Why Manchester tops London as the best city in the UK
Manchester now leads the UK for quality of life, beating out London on categories such as stability, infrastructure, culture, and environment. Its robust job market, world-class universities, and cutting-edge investments in sustainability like its net-zero by 2038 commitment make it attractive for professionals and families alike.
Residents cite Manchester’s modern transport networks including the Bee Network and upcoming high-speed rail links as the city’s top benefit, enhancing connectivity and mobility across the region.
Not only that but Manchester boasts a thriving music and arts scene being home to some of the most legendary music venues. It’s celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and sporting legacy, with two world-famous football clubs and an array of cultural festivals throughout the year.
According to Condé Nast Traveller readers, Manchester has overtaken London and become the nation’s favourite urban destination for 2025. The city’s phenomenal score of 96.30 and its leap up the rankings signal an era where Manchester’s energy, creativity, and friendliness are impossible to ignore.
Whether you’re visiting for the latest restaurant opening, relocating for a new job, or investing in its neighbourhoods, Manchester is now the best city in the UK – more than just a northern powerhouse, it’s a benchmark for city living.