A Wiltshire town has been named one of the happiest places to live in the UK by a new ranking.

Malmesbury was rated the happiest place to live in Wiltshire and the 13th happiest in the country by a survey carried out by online store Furniturebox.

The study, which included a poll of 5,000 people, also considered the surroundings and green spaces, provision of state schools and housing, and access to pubs, restaurants, independent shops, and cultural attractions.

It ranked Malmesbury number one in Wiltshire while Chippenham came in second place, followed by Marlborough, Royal Wootton Bassett, and Salisbury.

The national ranking was topped by Stratford-upon-Avon.

READ MORE: Town centre bar opens 'with a bang' after empty building renovated

Malmesbury triumphed in Wiltshire thanks to its town centre pubs, shops, and cafes, the scenery of the River Avon, and its highly rated schools.

A Furniturebox spokesperson said: “Malmesbury is the happiest place to live in Wiltshire.

“All 70 places on the list would have been worthy winners and show why the UK is such a wonderful place to live, loved by visitors from all over the world.

“Most of the locations in the top 70 are not the most affluent in their localities and have access to some affordable housing.

“The survey shows that the happiest places are not defined by wealth but by the quality of life within them.”