Here is why Andover isn’t the worst place to live, despite a certain survey’s results. 

A year ago today, we shared that Andover was named one of the worst places in England in an I Live Here survey prompting us to launch our recent Andover Appreciation Campaign. 

Well, the results are out for 2022 and although it’s still ranked as one of the worst places to live in the country the rating is an improvement on last year. 

READ MORE: Andover again ranked among worst places to live in UK

Here are the reasons why we don’t think it should be on the list at all. 

1) Location, location, location

Andover has great transport links, and great amenities, making it a prime location.

It is also a more affordable place to live than the nearby cities of Winchester and Salisbury.

Co-director at Graham and Co estate agency, Wayne Turpin, said: “Andover has sparked a lot of interest. Position-wise, it’s superb for commuting.

“You can park very easily. The sports centre they’ve recently rebuilt is amazing. There’s nothing that you can’t get in the town centre: supermarkets, hardware stores, it’s all there.

"I am proud to live in Andover. I am really pleased to be bringing my family up here."

READ MORE: 'An extremely friendly place': Estate agent on why Andover is a top destination

2) Great places to eat and drink 

There is a great range of coffee shops, pubs, bars, takeaways and restaurants in Andover for you to take your pick from. 

Many are independently owned so you can be sure you’re supporting local businesses.

READ MORE: Independent Coffee shop gets mug-nificent boost

3) It’s a friendly place to live 

There is a great community spirit in Andover, with locals stopping to say hello to one another in the streets. 

Andover mayor Cllr Barbara Long said: “There are lots of people in Andover who go above and beyond to be a good neighbour to someone, and not just someone they know. They hear about someone who is in trouble and they are there to help.”

READ MORE: Town mayor backs Advertiser’s Andover Appreciation Campaign

4) A great range of independent businesses

You don’t need to go far to find your all your daily essentials or unique gifts, and you can support independents at the same time. 

From jewellery businesses to independent opticians, gift shops to grocery shops, Andover has it all!  

READ MORE: Andover jewellery maker set to sparkle as she secures council business grant

5) An impressive history 

Lying amongst the chalk hills on the River Anton, Andover is rich in prehistoric earthworks and burial grounds. 

Its first mention in documented history was in 950 when the Saxon King Edred was recorded to have built his royal hunting lodge there.

The market town was granted the earliest-known charter in 1175. 

To explore this, there is the Andover Museum, which has great reviews on trip advisor.

READ MORE: Lockdown art showcased at Andover museum

6) Beautiful green surroundings 

As well as the history rich setting of Andover itself, the town is close to the North Wessex Downs which is an Area of Outstanding National Beauty recognised nationally. 

Don't forget the Anton Lakes Local Nature Reserve too, a great place to spot unique wildlife. 

Andover council leader Cllr Phil North said: “Despite what a downbeat clickbait website has previously tried to imply, Andover is a fantastic place to live.

“It’s full of trees, open spaces and verge-side wildflowers. It’s got Anton Lakes, Rooksbury Mill and Ladies Walk. The River Anton, Charlton Lakes and easy access to the countryside.”

Andover’s MP Kit Malthouse also highlighted the ‘stunning’ natural landscape around Andover. 

Malthouse said: “We have much to be proud of although this doesn’t happen by accident, and is down to the commitment of generations of Andoverians to their town. Long may it continue.”

READ MORE: Campaigners unveil new sign which offers 'visual marker' of area's protected status