Richmond upon Thames named UK's healthiest area
The borough scored lowest for unhealthy habits in a new study by ZAVA.
News London evidence indexOpen analysis ▾
The central claim is attributed to ZAVA's 2026 Healthy Habit Index, but no direct document or statement from ZAVA is quoted.
Higher is stronger
The article clearly separates fact from comment, provides specific figures and dates, and explains why the findings matter to residents.
Higher is stronger
The headline uses positive adjectives like 'healthiest' and 'barely any smokers', which are somewhat sensationalized but broadly supported by the article's content.
Lower is better
Richmond upon Thames has been identified as the UK's healthiest area in the 2026 Healthy Habit Index compiled by ZAVA. The study evaluated five indicators: adult obesity, physical activity levels, smoking rates, alcohol consumption, and the density of fast food outlets near fitness centres. Richmond upon Thames achieved the lowest overall score for unhealthy habits, registering 2.66 out of a possible 10.
Physical Activity and Health Metrics
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Within the study's findings, 75.3 per cent of Richmond's residents indicated they undertake at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week. The prevalence of adult obesity in the borough was recorded at 10.5 per cent, with smoking prevalence at 6.6 per cent. These figures for obesity and smoking were the lowest among the top five areas highlighted in the research.
Other areas featured in the ZAVA study included West Berkshire, which scored 3.64, followed by Oxford with 3.85, South Gloucestershire at 4.12, and Cheshire East with 4.22. Despite an average of four fast food outlets being found within 1km of gyms in Richmond, the report noted the borough's strong performance in physical activity metrics.
Green Spaces and Resident Lifestyle
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ZAVA reported that over half of Richmond's land, approximately 57 per cent, is comprised of more than 100 parks and green spaces. The study also indicated that 45 per cent of residents engage in regular walking. This suggests that many residents have accessible options for exercise, such as walking along the River Thames or within the 2,500-acre Richmond Park, without necessarily needing a gym membership.
Richmond upon Thames was also recognised as London's best place to live in the Sunday Times' 2026 guide, a distinction attributed in part to its village-like atmosphere, riverside location, and proximity to natural environments. Council leader Gareth Roberts stated that the borough's consistent recognition reflects its appeal, citing its natural beauty and amenities.
Questions this report answers
+What is the ZAVA 2026 Healthy Habit Index?
The ZAVA 2026 Healthy Habit Index is a study that ranks areas based on the healthy habits of their residents. It considers factors such as adult obesity, physical activity levels, smoking rates, alcohol consumption, and the number of fast food outlets near gyms.
+What were the key health metrics for Richmond upon Thames?
Richmond upon Thames recorded the lowest unhealthy habits score at 2.66 out of 10. Approximately 75.3 per cent of its residents reported engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly. Adult obesity prevalence was 10.5 per cent, and smoking prevalence was 6.6 per cent.
+How does Richmond upon Thames compare to other areas in the study?
Richmond upon Thames ranked first nationally in the ZAVA study. Other areas that scored well included West Berkshire (3.64), Oxford (3.85), South Gloucestershire (4.12), and Cheshire East (4.22).
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