The UK's 10 'cleanest towns' as tidy Brits spend £13m on recycling collections

By Cally Brooks, News Reporter

Pendle in Lancashire takes top spot for the cleanest area in the UK (Image: Getty)

The cleanest areas in the whole of the UK have been ranked and rated - as new data reveals which towns and cities are most likely to keep their areas tidy. Data from councils in the UK revealed which areas are recycling the most, with a total of £13million spent on services in the last 12 months.

Wooden bed makers, Get Laid Beds, found that Brits spent money on bulky waste collections, with mattresses the most popular item being recycled. Sofas come in close second, followed by beds, fridge/freezers and chairs. 

Throughout the last 12 months there were clear peaks and troughs in the UK’s sustainable habits, with December bringing a notable shift, with a 42 percent reduction in recycled items during the festive season compared to the previous month. 

And the data isn't looking good for the south of England, with the top three areas all being located in the north.

Malton in North Yorkshire takes second spot on the list (Image: Getty)

Pendle in Lancashire takes first place, known for its beautiful landscape and rural villages. In January, it also scooped fourth spot in a list of the happiest places to live in the UK. Just weeks later it was also named as one of the top UK spots to relocate for retirement.

Malton follows in second place, a market town in North Yorkshire dubbed an award winning "Food Town" with pastel coloured period properties attracting visitors. The third spot is taken by another Lancashire borough - Hyndburn. The only London borough to make it to the list is Westminster in fifth place.

Ajay Solanki, marketing director at Get Laid Beds said: "It is possible that many households are unsure of the different ways they can recycle their goods. For example, with wooden beds, if the recycle point is far away, you could repurpose the legs and base to heat your home if you own a log burner. This will help keep the house warm in the colder months at a lower cost, helping to save money on your energy bills.  

Westminster is the only London borough to make it onto the list (Image: Getty)

"Reflecting our commitment to responsible waste management, we actively contribute to animal charities by donating bags of sawdust. This byproduct, generated during our wood processing, serves as bedding for guinea pigs, rabbits, and chinchillas, aligning with our dedication to fostering a sustainable community. 

"As you contemplate refreshing your home décor, think beyond discarding items. Explore avenues to donate to goodwill, sell online, or upcycle them into something new."