Most of us expect a bit of background noise or the odd streetlight outside our window, but in some parts of the country, those everyday disruptions are hard to escape. From constant traffic to bright night skies and neglected buildings, these sensory disturbances can take a real toll on how comfortable a place feels – but one of our very own Greater Manchester towns has been named one of the most peaceful, and it’s a surprising one.
Research shows that these issues don’t just affect day-to-day life; they can have real consequences on well-being. Studies show long-term exposure to noise and light pollution has been linked to increased stress, disrupted sleep, and even heart problems.
It’s not just about comfort, either. The sights and sounds that surround a property can also influence how others see it, making some homes more challenging to sell. To understand where these disruptions are most common, property site Sell House Fast explored which areas of England are most affected by sensory disturbances – and where homeowners are more likely to enjoy a calmer, more peaceful environment.
Looking at noise complaints, light pollution, vacant or derelict buildings, sewage works and greenhouse gas emissions, Sell House Fast created a sensory disturbance index that compares local authorities. Each local authority was given a score for every factor – a higher score means greater exposure to these everyday disruptions.
The 10 areas with the most sensory disturbances
Unsurprisingly, London areas feature heavily in the top spots, taking up 70% of the 10 places with the most sensory disturbances. The likes of Newham, Kensington and Chelsea and Hackney scored most highly, with coastal cities including Portsmouth, Southampton and Liverpool making shocking appearances in the top 10.
Wigan has been named one of the most peaceful place in England
Not everywhere in England feels this hectic. Away from the city lights and constant noise, some areas offer the kind of peace and quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere. These places stand out for their cleaner air, darker skies and calmer streets, the simple qualities that make a home feel like an escape.
Our very own pie capital Wigan was named ninth most peaceful in England, which if we’re honest, is a surprise. Although we have an affection for Wiganers, the accent is pretty stark, and with the Pie-Eaters being passionate rugby and football fans, the ranking comes as somewhat of a shock.
Having said this, there are some gorgeous, peaceful spots within the Wigan borough, including Haigh Hall and Country Park, a lovely canal network, and plenty of countryside providing a rural lifestyle. Wigan came in with just 2.1 noise complaints per 1,000 people, 0.1 sewage works per km2, equalling Shropshire with an overall score of just 3.04.
With Wigan also being a property hotspot this year, it seems like a good bet for those looking to make Greater Manchester home. Wigan came just ahead of Cheshire West and Chester, with the likes of St. Helens, Wokingham and Bromley joining the Greater Manchester town in the rankings.
The 10 most peaceful places in England
Many of the lowest-scoring areas are suburban or rural, where space, greenery, and low population density help minimise sensory pollution. Here’s how they ranked, each with their sensory disturbance score:
- Solihull: 2.28
- Wiltshire: 2.31
- Peterborough: 2.40
- South Gloucestershire: 2.52
- Bromley: 2.73
- St. Helens: 2.77
- Wokingham: 2.96
- Shropshire: 3.04
- Wigan: 3.04
- Cheshire West and Chester: 3.08
