WHY?

Enjoy the best of both worlds in this ‘village’ to the south of the city centre, with a lovely community feel and lots of indy shops – yet with everything the World Heritage City of Bath has to offer just a 15-minute walk away. No wonder Bear Flat made it onto The Times‘ list of top places to live in the UK.

EAT

One of Bath’s best restaurants Menu Gordon Jones, laid-back pub The Bear (you can’t miss it, there’s a giant polar bear on top), The Good Bear Cafe and Da Vinci’s Deli are your locals.

SHOP

Silver Bear jewellery and gifts, Julia Davey Ceramics, The Floral Touch florist, plus a Majestic Wine and neighbourhood necessities such as a general store and pharmacy, etc.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

Aside from Bath’s myriad delights? You’re close to the Two Tunnels Greenway, a 12-mile circular cycle route.

AVERAGE HOUSE PRICE

The location and beautiful period properties come at a price. Last year the average house price was £538,616 over the last year. Detached sold for an average of £954,393, terrace £545,525, semis £495,055 and flats £495,055.

HOT PROPERTY

SCHOOLS

You’re spoiled for choice. State options include Ralph Allen School, Hayesfield Girls School, Beechen Cliff (boys) and St Gregory’s Catholic College. Most of the Bath independents are on the doorstep, including the outstanding girls’ schools the Royal High School GDST and the Royal High Prep School GDST; Kingswood Prep & Nursery and Kingswood School; Monkton Combe Senior and Monkton Combe Prep; The Paragon, Prior Park College and Bath Academy. Within easy reach are the Bristol schools like the outstanding Clifton College Prep and Clifton College Upper School. Renowned for its music (and much else), Wells Cathedral School is only about 20 miles to the south west of the city.

BEST KEPT SECRET

This was the original pilgrimage route from Bath Abbey to Wells and Glastonbury.

COMMUTE

Bath Spa to London Paddington from 1 hour 18 mins.

View the full Top 200 Best Places to Live