Best Places to Start a Business in the UK
Looking to start a business in the UK? There are many important factors to consider, but none more important than the location. The location you choose will have a direct impact on your success, with some regions being more favourable for entrepreneurs and startups across different industries. With this in mind, this post will look at a few of the best places to start a new business in the UK, whether you’re after a bustling metropolis or countryside setting.
Leeds
Leeds has experienced rapid growth in recent years. The business environment has a strong focus on finance, digital, and creative industries, and it is particularly favourable for startups with a range of networks and funding opportunities. There are also excellent transport links, and you can easily invest in a range of used cars in Leeds should you need to provide your staff with a means of transportation.
Bristol
Bristol is a market best known for the arts and culture sector, but it is also home to industries such as creative media, finance, aerospace, and electronics. It also ranks high for business survival and great broadband coverage, which makes it a smart choice for a new business venture in the southwest. The Bristol Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone aims to help startups grow, which is a useful resource when launching a business in the region.
York
York tops the list for startups in 2025 for things like survival rates over 5 years (45.1% to be exact), which is an important metric to consider as many new businesses do not last this long. It offers a strong foundation for new ventures and a stable economic environment. Home to two universities, York also has a significant recruitment pool - 49% of residents have a degree level qualification or higher, beating both regional and national averages.
Liverpool
A city that embraces creativity and innovation, Liverpool has a thriving creative and digital sector. There is also a range of co-working spaces and funding opportunities, making it a logical place for a new business. Better still, it is one of the more affordable locations on this list for a new business while still being a bustling city (and significantly more affordable than London) and having excellent transport links.
Location is a key consideration when starting a new business, and it will have a direct impact on your success. Therefore, you need to carefully weigh up your options and choose a location that will suit your business. The places on this list are all excellent places to start a new business that could give you the foundation for future success.
