Despite having industrial backgrounds, Birmingham and Manchester are in the top-5 of the leafiest cities in the UK.
Telegraph Property used data from Ordnance Survey and Savills to find out the number of gardens, parks, play areas, and other green public spaces in UK cities. This research helped determine what cities, besides London, have the most green space.
Leafy cities with green parks, gardens, and play areas
Despite urban expansion in UK cities, there are still many lush pockets, even in large cities. Nottingham boasts the most leafiness with 18.5% of the city’s area covered in green space.
Following close behind, Birmingham has 367 play areas, 115 parks, and other public green spaces covering 17.8% of the city. Many may find that surprising as it was once a manufacturing powerhouse, however, the city has numerous scenic areas, including leafy neighbourhoods and an impressive canal network.
With 17.3% of the city considered to be green, Glasgow is the UK’s third leafiest city outside of London. Manchester is next with 16.9%. Often remembered for its industrial heritage and factory chimneys, many don’t realise the city boasts 662 parks and green areas.
This research shows Britons don’t necessarily need to live in rural areas to be surrounded by green space. There are numerous green pockets found within some of the UK’s most densely populated cities.
The benefits of living amongst green space
A recent study at Aarhus University, located in Denmark, revealed the psychological benefits of living amongst green surroundings were the same for both those living in rural areas and those in green areas within cities.
Additionally, it was found that children raised in areas that have restricted access to nature were up to 55% more likely to suffer from mental health disorders than those in greener areas.
Living near green space can greatly increase happiness, and many UK cities provide quality access to leafy surroundings with a wide range of play areas, parks, and gardens.
