Marple, an idyllic town skirting the Peak District has been heralded as one of the 'best places to live' in 2025, according to the annual ranking by Garrington Property Finders. Tucked within the old border lines of Cheshire before joining Greater Manchester in 1974, Marple stands proudly on the Peak Forest Canal banks, drawing walkers and tourists alike to its picturesque locks, famed aqueduct and the historic Roman Lakes.

The scenic canals, stunning walkways and rural surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for the town's tight-knit community, while swift transport links into Manchester further boost the area. Renowned for being amongst the most picturesque and sought-after locales within the borough of Stockport, Marple's charm is further added to with a farmer's market, theatre and independent cinema, reports the Manchester Evening News. Councillor Mark Hunter, leader of Stockport Council, expressed his delight at seeing Marple - and local towns Gatley and Bramhall - all ranked in the top 10 best places to live in England and Wales in Garrington's 2025 report. 

He said: "Marple is climbing the national ranks for good reason – its beautiful setting, strong sense of community."

The average house price in Marple now stands at £496,289, dipping by -3.3% recently.

Despite this, some homes command far higher prices, with £1 million properties not uncommon.

Top places to live in the town include Marple Bridge, Hawk Green - both quiet and scenic - and the bustling high street for easy commuting. 

The local high street offers something for everyone, and stands as a vibrant hub for locals.

Independent clothing boutiques sit alongside pet shops, micro pubs, its own picture house, and a range of cafes and bakeries.

There's even a big summer festival that's usually held in the town - with festivities put on hold this year thanks to the significant regeneration of the 'Marple Community Hub', a £20m project set to replace the beloved historic baths that closed several years ago. 

Featuring a 25-metre, five-lane swimming pool complete with spectator seating and a modern changing village, the project also includes a 60-station fitness suite and a pair of versatile fitness studios.

Besides these sporting attractions, the hub will encompass a new library, health clinic facilities, a community room, café, and meeting areas.

The initiative, approved in March 2023, received its funding through the local government's 'levelling up fund'.

Councillor Hunter was effusive about the upcoming improvements, he said: "The Hub will have a huge and lasting impact on the prosperity, health and wellbeing of local people - and shows what's possible when you back a place to succeed."