When I moved to Sheffield for university six years ago, I'll be honest – I didn't really know what to expect.
Like many students, I arrived with a couple of suitcases, a room in halls and very little knowledge of the city beyond the fact it had two universities and a lot of hills.
Fast forward six years and things have changed. I've explored more of Sheffield than I ever thought I would, written about it professionally and the more time I spend here, the more convinced I become that it is one of the best places to live in the country.
Sorry, London. Sorry, Manchester. Sorry, Leeds.
You might have bigger skylines, more famous landmarks and better transport links, but when it comes to quality of life, Sheffield wins.
From its parks and museums to its food scene, festivals and sense of community, these are nine reasons why I think Sheffield is the best place to call home.
1. The Peak District is basically your back garden
Let's get the obvious one out of the way first. Few cities can boast a national park on their doorstep, but in Sheffield it's completely possible to finish work and be watching the sunset over the Peaks an hour later. Whether it's a walk around Ladybower, a hike up Mam Tor or a trip to one of the area's many villages, having that access to nature never gets old. The Peaks Bus makes it even easier, meaning you don't even need a car to enjoy it. | Local Library
2. The parks deserve their own list
If Sheffield ever needed proof that it earns its green reputation, its parks would be it. Graves Park, Endcliffe Park, Meersbrook Park, Norfolk Heritage Park, Hillsborough Park – the list goes on. Graves Park probably takes the crown for me thanks to its size, open space and animal farm. Meersbrook Park runs it close for the views alone, while Endcliffe remains one of the city's most-loved green spaces for good reason. The best part is that wherever you live in Sheffield, chances are you're only a short walk from somewhere green. In a city that manages to feel both urban and outdoorsy at the same time, that's something worth celebrating. | Dean Atkins Photography
3. Urban Pitta is ours
I know putting a single takeaway on a list of reasons to live in Sheffield sounds ridiculous, but anyone who has eaten at Urban Pitta will understand. The popular spot has built up a loyal following for a reason and, judging by the queues that often form outside, I'm clearly not alone in my opinion. My boyfriend regularly drives down from York for it, which feels like a fairly strong endorsement. Of course, Sheffield's food scene has far more to offer than pittas. From independent coffee shops and bakeries to award-winning restaurants and street food vendors, there's no shortage of places to eat. But if someone asked me to sum up Sheffield's food scene in one recommendation, Urban Pitta would probably be the first thing out of my mouth. | Iconic Media
4. The city has a buzz without the chaos
Sheffield can pull in thousands of people for a food festival, concert or major event, but somehow it never feels stressful. There's always plenty happening, whether that's in Kelham Island, the city centre or Ecclesall Road, yet the city has managed to hold onto a more relaxed atmosphere than many places of a similar size. It's one of those things that's hard to appreciate until you've experienced somewhere else. Sheffield has the energy of a growing city, but without the feeling that you're constantly fighting your way through it. | National World