Tiny postcard village crowned BEST place to live in England & Wales ‘where 1st ever cricket match was played’

3. Whitburn, Tyne and Wear

Third place on this year’s list goes to the village of Whitburn, Tyne and Wear.

The North East gem has stunning sandy beaches, and is in easy reach of both Newcastle and Sunderland.

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Whitburn is home to stunning sandy beaches[/caption]

Seals and dolphins can be spotted along the coastline, whilst rare birds circle around its National Trust park.

It performs best for heritage, schools and jobs, with stunning period buildings dating back to the 17th century.

And with average house prices sitting at £328,999, this is by far the cheapest area to live in the top three.