Slaithwaite named among best places to live – but how do you pronounce it?

Slaithwaite has been named one of the best places to live in the UK in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide – but for many outside Yorkshire, its name remains a challenge.

Despite how it looks, the West Yorkshire village is typically pronounced “Slaw-it” by locals, rather than how it might first appear phonetically.

Now in the national spotlight following its inclusion in The Sunday Times guide, Slaithwaite is gaining attention not just for its name, but for its strong sense of community.

According to The Sunday Times, judges praised the village for its creative spirit and community-driven culture, describing it as a place with “its head in the skies and feet firmly on the ground”.

There is a busy calendar of events throughout the year, including the week-long Moonraking festival celebrating 19th-century smugglers, alongside theatre productions, music groups and community arts.

Local organisations such as the Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra and brass band play a key role in village life, while live comedy and open-mic nights help sustain a lively cultural scene.

The village has become increasingly popular with young families, thanks to facilities including an indoor swimming pool and green spaces such as Spa Park. Its location also offers good access to both Manchester and Leeds, while house prices remain relatively affordable.

The Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide is compiled by expert judges who visit each location and assess factors including schools, transport, amenities and access to green space, with a focus on places where people are proud to call home.