Tameside town basks in Sunday Times glow

The Sunday Times has named a Tameside town as one of the Best Places to Live in England for 2025.

Mossley was a finalist in the North West category alongside The Heatons in Stockport, Kirkby Lonsdale in Cumbria, the Cheshire towns of Knutsford and Malpas, Parbold in Lancashire and regional winner Woolton in Liverpool. 

The paper praised Mossley for its “fresh air, awesome scenery, top-class schools plus fast direct trains to Manchester Piccadilly, with a dash of nonconformist creativity thrown into the mix”. 

Local artist Chris Cyprus, whose paintings often depict familiar sights across Mossley told the Reporter: “I guess the advantage from an artist's point of view is it's known as the Town of Three Counties and the close proximity to Manchester centre...'Close enough and far enough away'.  

“As a painter, I like to dip my toe in both post-industrial and urban landscape within a stone's throw of peaceful, rural bliss!” 

The town’s MP Jonathan Reynolds welcomed the accolade, saying: “Great to see this recognition for Mossley. A special place.  

“I particularly think the work of the very many community groups in Mossley should be acknowledged, and the way the town attracts new residents alongside those whose families have lived there for generations.” 

Also delighted with the town's inclusion in the Sunday Times list is Amelia Bayliss, General Manager of Mossley arts venue The Vale, which earned itself a mention in the article: "Part of what makes Mossley such a great place to live is its vibrant creative community.

"Seeing The Vale’s contribution recognised in The Times is a real testament to the incredible people and artists that call The Vale, and Mossley, home.

"We’re proud to be part of a town that champions the arts creativity, and community. If you’ve not visited yet, pop in and see what’s going on – there’s always something to get involved in!"