According to annual rankings by Garrington Property Finders, Marple, an idyllic town that sails through the Peak district, was told in 2025 as one of the “best places to live.” Pushed into the line of Cheshire's old border before joining Greater Manchester in 1974, Marple proudly stands at the banks of the Peak Forest Canal, drawing pedestrians and tourists to the picturesque rocks, the famous aqueducts and historic Roman lakes.
The scenic canals, stunning corridors and country environment provide the perfect backdrop for the town's close-knit community, while the rapid transport link to Manchester further boosts the region. Malpur's charm is being added to farmer markets, theater and independent cinemas, reports Manchester Evening News. In a 2025 report for Garrington, Councillor Mark Hunter, who is the leader of Stockport Council, expressed his delight to see Marple and local towns Gutley and Bramhall, all ranked among the top 10 best places to live in England and Wales.
He said: “Marple is climbing the ranks of its citizens for good reason – its beautiful environment, a strong sense of community.”
The average home price at Marple is currently £496,289, a recent decline of -3.3%.
Nevertheless, some homes command far higher prices, and £1 million real estate is not uncommon.
Top locations in town include Marple Bridge, Hawk Green (both quiet and scenic), and bustling High Street for a quick commute.
The local high street offers something to everyone and stands as a lively hub for the locals.
The independent clothing boutique sits with pet shops, micropubs, their own photo houses, and a variety of cafes and bakeries.
There's even a big summer festival that normally takes place in town – the festival is on hold this year thanks to the substantial revival of Marple Community Hub, a £20 million project to replace the beloved historic bus that was closed a few years ago.
Featuring a 25-meter five-lane swimming pool with spectator seats and a modern changing village, the project also features a 60-station fitness suite and a multi-purpose fitness studio.
In addition to these sports attractions, the hub will include a new library, health clinic facilities, community rooms, cafes and meeting areas.
The initiative, approved in March 2023, received funding through the local government's “Level Up Fund.”
Councillor Hunter has been enthusiastic about future improvements, saying, “The hub will have a major impact on the prosperity, health and well-being of locals, indicating what is possible when we bring back our place to succeed.”
