Holywood, Magherafelt and around Strangford Lough have been named among the `Best Places to Live' in Northern Ireland.
According to The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2021 list, Holywood "seems to be unshiftable as Northern Ireland’s premier address thanks to its unbeatable combination of coast and countryside so close to the centre of Belfast".
The expert judges behind the list considered a wide range of factors including schools, air quality, transport, broadband speeds, culture, green spaces and the health of the high street.
The team look for improving towns, villages or city centres, for attractive, well designed homes and locations bursting with community spirit.
On Holywood, the judges said "(the) sandy beach has taken over from the high street as the star attraction, and the coast path has been heaven for dog-walkers, joggers and cyclists.
"Highlights include swimming and sailing in Belfast Lough, panoramic dog walks in Redburn Country Park and the lively and unusually attractive high street".
They were also impressed with the convenient transport links, the quality of schools and the golf club, where Rory McIlroy cut his teeth.
The average house sale was found to be £174,950 while the average rental per month is £695.
Magherafelt in Co Derry came in at second as it was found to be a "supremely practical choice for families”, thanks to its convenient central location, rapidly improving town centre and excellent schools.
Judges were also impressed by the sports facilities at Meadowbank Multi-Sports Arena and Moyola Park Golf Club, one of the best courses in Northern Ireland, and the choice of hairdressers, beauty salons and coffee shops in the centre.
In third place came Strangford Lough.
Judges said: "Live in Strangford, Portaferry or any of the villages around this beautiful island-studded lough and you’ve got unbeatable wildlife and scenery on the doorstep - and it’s even better if you can get out on the water."
They also liked the excellent restaurants in Strangford, including the Lobster Pot, the Artisan Cookhouse and The Cuan.
Helen Davies, The Times and Sunday Times Property Editor said: "The pandemic has taught us just how much we rely on our homes, our communities and our surroundings.
"With working from home now common, it’s no surprise that many of us are reassessing our priorities and thinking hard about where we really want to live".
Ms Davies added: "Our focus for this year has been community, countryside and convenience.
"It hasn’t been a year for big cities or small villages.
"Instead it is small towns that have shone: big enough to have everything you need within walking distance and small enough for everyone to feel connected".
