Top 50 Air Quality In The UK (2025)

Top Best 50 Air Quality In The UK

1. St Andrews, Scotland

St Andrews consistently ranks among the UK’s cleanest air locations. Its seaside position and low population density contribute to exceptionally fresh air. The local government promotes cycling, walking, and electric vehicle use, while the University of St Andrews leads green energy research, further enhancing environmental standards.

2. Inverness, Scotland

Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness enjoys crisp, clean air thanks to minimal industrial activity and vast natural surroundings. Air quality here meets top EU standards, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and retirees seeking a healthy lifestyle near mountains and lochs.

3. Aberystwyth, Wales

Aberystwyth’s coastal winds keep air pollutants to a minimum. The university town invests in sustainable transport and green spaces. Its balance between urban convenience and natural beauty makes it a model for low-emission living in Wales.

4. Truro, Cornwall

Truro’s location in the scenic heart of Cornwall provides a clean-air advantage. With limited heavy industry and strong environmental policies, the city’s air remains among the purest in southern England. Locals enjoy a mix of cultural life and countryside calm.

5. Lerwick, Shetland Islands

As one of the UK’s northernmost towns, Lerwick benefits from fresh North Atlantic winds that disperse pollutants quickly. The community focuses on renewable energy and marine conservation, helping preserve both its natural and atmospheric quality.

6. Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

Kirkwall’s isolated geography ensures consistently low levels of air pollution. The Orkney Islands’ pioneering wind and tidal energy projects contribute to a carbon-light lifestyle. Residents experience some of the cleanest air in the UK all year round.

7. Bangor, Northern Ireland

Bangor enjoys coastal breezes that purify the air, coupled with strong local recycling initiatives and tree-planting schemes. The seaside town is a haven for clean living and offers great health outcomes for its residents.

8. Bath, England

A UNESCO World Heritage city, Bath has combined historical preservation with modern sustainability efforts. Clean-air zones, improved public transport, and pedestrian-friendly streets have all contributed to a measurable drop in pollution levels.

9. Perth, Scotland

Perth’s air quality benefits from both its compact urban design and the surrounding countryside. City officials have implemented clean transport programs, while residents embrace walking and cycling. It’s an eco-conscious community with a refreshing atmosphere.

10. Swansea, Wales

Once industrial, Swansea has transformed into a greener, cleaner city. Coastal winds, emission controls, and investments in electric buses have helped it achieve some of the best air quality readings in Wales.

11. Dumfries, Scotland

Dumfries combines scenic views with impressively clean air. With limited traffic and increasing renewable projects, the town has made significant progress in air pollution control, contributing to residents’ wellbeing.

12. Torquay, England

The English Riviera enjoys mild weather and sea breezes that keep air quality high. Torquay’s tourism-driven economy prioritizes clean beaches, green parks, and environmental awareness.

13. Salisbury, England

Salisbury’s medieval charm blends with modern eco-policies. Its air quality is maintained through traffic management, green corridors, and tree-planting schemes that filter pollutants naturally.

14. Llandudno, Wales

This coastal resort’s location ensures naturally clean air. Llandudno’s focus on green tourism, electric vehicle stations, and low congestion rates make it a standout in environmental health.

15. Fort William, Scotland

Nestled near Ben Nevis, Fort William’s mountainous terrain and sparse population result in some of the UK’s purest air. It’s ideal for hiking, outdoor sports, and sustainable tourism.

16. Hereford, England

Hereford’s commitment to clean transport and limited industrial output keeps pollution low. Surrounded by farmland and forests, it’s one of the healthiest places to breathe in the Midlands.

17. Ely, Cambridgeshire

Ely’s small-town setting and efficient public transport system contribute to exceptional air quality. The area’s expansive wetlands and green fields also act as natural air filters.

18. Oban, Scotland

Oban, a gateway to the Hebrides, is surrounded by sea and forest. The clean maritime breeze keeps pollution levels well below national averages, enhancing both health and tourism.

19. Penzance, Cornwall

Penzance’s sea winds and focus on eco-tourism ensure low pollution levels. The town promotes cycling, walking, and renewable energy, making it a sustainable living destination.

20. Stirling, Scotland

As a historic Scottish city, Stirling’s air quality benefits from conservation policies and green belts. Its mix of medieval charm and environmental innovation creates a refreshing atmosphere.

21. Lancaster, England

Lancaster’s combination of coastal winds and renewable projects has earned it recognition for clean air. Local universities and councils work together on sustainability research and emissions control.

22. Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland

Derry’s air quality has improved remarkably due to reduced vehicle emissions and public awareness campaigns. Its riverside location and low population density contribute to consistently healthy air.

23. Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

With minimal traffic and abundant sea air, Stornoway ranks high for air purity. Renewable energy production and environmental stewardship define this remote island community.

24. Winchester, England

Historic Winchester maintains high air quality through congestion charges and cycling infrastructure. Its proximity to open countryside further boosts its clean-air credentials.

25. York, England

York’s low-emission zones and electric bus systems have transformed the city’s environment. It’s now recognized as one of the UK’s cleanest urban centres with sustainable mobility options.

26. Durham, England

Durham’s university-led green initiatives and traffic management plans keep the air exceptionally clear. The city’s natural landscape helps absorb pollutants effectively.

27. Canterbury, England

Canterbury’s blend of history and sustainability gives it some of the cleanest air in southeast England. Green spaces and low-emission transport play key roles.

28. Lichfield, England

Lichfield’s small population and green environment contribute to consistently good air quality. The town also participates in county-wide climate programs aimed at zero emissions.

29. Newtown, Powys

As a rural Welsh town, Newtown enjoys minimal industrial impact. Clean air, nature reserves, and community green projects make it one of the healthiest towns to live in.

30. Kendal, Cumbria

Nestled near the Lake District, Kendal boasts fresh air and scenic charm. It promotes eco-tourism and public transport alternatives to preserve its environment.

31. Ripon, England

Ripon’s clean air comes from strict emission regulations and the presence of surrounding farmland. It’s known for its peaceful, pollution-free atmosphere.

32. Colwyn Bay, Wales

Coastal winds from the Irish Sea keep Colwyn Bay’s air fresh. The area also benefits from extensive tree planting and low industrial activity.

33. Peebles, Scotland

Peebles offers high air quality due to its rural location and environmental policies. Outdoor recreation thrives here, supported by pristine surroundings.

34. Armagh, Northern Ireland

Armagh’s small size and investment in renewable energy ensure clean air. The town’s green energy programs make it a sustainability leader in Northern Ireland.

35. Hexham, England

Consistently rated among the UK’s best places to live, Hexham also boasts excellent air quality. Low congestion and lush landscapes make it an ideal green retreat.

36. Melrose, Scotland

Melrose’s location in the Scottish Borders provides fresh, clean air year-round. Sustainable tourism and limited pollution sources help it stay environmentally sound.

37. Carmarthen, Wales

Carmarthen’s coastal location and green infrastructure keep its air remarkably clean. The community actively supports eco-friendly projects and clean transport.

38. Beverley, England

Beverley’s historic core is surrounded by open countryside, ensuring clean air circulation. The town’s environmental initiatives promote a low-carbon lifestyle.

39. Alnwick, England

Alnwick’s proximity to Northumberland’s coastline and green expanses ensures consistently clean air. Tourism and conservation efforts keep emissions low.

40. Dunfermline, Scotland

Dunfermline combines modern living with eco-conscious development. The city’s focus on reducing vehicle emissions has led to impressive air quality improvements.

41. Penrith, Cumbria

Penrith’s location near the Lake District provides naturally pure air. The town’s limited industry and clean energy programs support a healthy environment.

42. Newbury, England

Newbury’s clean air stems from efficient transport planning and countryside surroundings. It’s a growing tech hub that’s committed to green growth.

43. Monmouth, Wales

Monmouth benefits from the clean breezes of the Wye Valley. Its compact design encourages walking, reducing the need for polluting transport.

44. Bury St Edmunds, England

This Suffolk market town balances development with green initiatives. Its air remains clean thanks to pedestrian zones and a strong local sustainability strategy.

45. Stranraer, Scotland

Located by the sea, Stranraer’s fresh Atlantic air ensures low pollution. Renewable projects and community tree-planting efforts contribute to its eco-friendly reputation.

46. Skipton, England

Known as the “Gateway to the Dales,” Skipton’s rural charm is complemented by excellent air quality. The town prioritises green living and sustainable growth.

47. Pwllheli, Wales

Pwllheli’s coastal environment benefits from consistent sea winds. Its clean air, beaches, and eco-initiatives attract environmentally conscious visitors.

48. Ayr, Scotland

Ayr’s coastal setting and pollution-control measures result in consistently clean air. The local council supports renewable energy adoption and clean transport systems.

49. Beveridge, England

A small, quiet town surrounded by open land, Beveridge maintains superb air quality. Its commitment to nature preservation keeps pollution low.

50. Thurso, Scotland

As one of the northernmost towns in mainland Britain, Thurso’s air is among the freshest anywhere in the UK. It’s a pioneer in marine energy, reinforcing its green credentials