Edinburgh has claimed the title of the healthiest UK city, according to new research from ZAVA

The city’s abundance of green spaces, combined with low pollution levels, has contributed to its top ranking, making it an ideal environment for healthy living.

With an impressive 1,765 parks dotted throughout the city - equivalent to 3.43 per 1,000 residents - the Scottish city offers 75% more parks per capita than second place Bristol.

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Some of the most famous green spaces in the city include the Princes Street Gardens and Holyrood Park that offer residents and visitors alike stunning natural surroundings. Edinburgh earned an impressive score of 8.49 out of 10.

Previously named the best city in the by Time Out magazine in 2022, more than 49% of the city is made up of green spaces, compared to just 23% in London.

Edinburgh is also a hub for health-conscious living, with 0.98 health-focused stores per 1,000 people, 22% more than Glasgow. Although there are fewer gyms, the city’s extensive parkland and the high density of health-related stores and businesses make it a wellness haven.

More than two million visitors descend upon the city annually to mix with a population of more than half a million residents. The city is famous for its vibrant cultural scene that pairs perfectly with more than 900 years of history.

A great spot for a winter weekend away, the city is perfect for keeping your steps up while exploring all those incredible outdoor spaces.

According to the data, the city of Bristol secures second place with a score of 8.36 out of 10, offering 431 parks (0.89 per 1,000 people). While this is significantly fewer than Edinburgh’s, the city compensates with 0.51 walking trails per 1,000 people, more than 70% higher than London (0.14).

Bristol is also home to a thriving fitness culture, with 170 gyms providing plenty of options for residents to stay active and healthy.

Glasgow ranks third with a score of 8.20 of 10, standing out for its fitness facilities and green spaces. With 295 gyms (0.46 per 1,000 people), Glasgow boasts 38% more gyms than Edinburgh (183) and 42% more than Bristol (170), making it the most fitness-friendly city in the top three.

The city also offers 863 parks (1.36 per 1,000 people), 53% more than Bristol, providing plenty of outdoor space for residents to enjoy.

Rounding off the list, Swansea ranks 10th with a score of 7.58, offering 88 parks (0.36 per 1,000 people). While this is 85% fewer than cities like Edinburgh (3.43 parks per 1,000 people), Swansea makes up for it with the highest score of 1.11 walking trails per 1,000 people on the list, providing residents with excellent opportunities for walking, running, or cycling in a less crowded, more accessible environment.