A popular town in County Durham with "some of the cheapest houses in the UK" has been named one of the best places to raise a family, according to new research by the Daily Mail.

It comes as the publisher said it consulted property experts and “reviewed various surveys and statistics to bring you a selection of the best places in the UK to settle as a family.”

The Daily Mail also commented on its list of locations: “Choosing where to buy a home and settle down as a family can be one of life's most important decisions.

“The implications on your finances and family's happiness are huge.

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“From low crime rates to good schools and local amenities, there are so many boxes to tick that it can be hard to know where to start."

It was Darlington that featured among the likes of York, Harrogate and Ripon in North Yorkshire as some of the best places for children to grow up.

Why is Darlington among the UK’s best places to raise a family?

Those hoping to find a new property for their family in Darlington can expect to pay an average house price of £166,197.

The Daily Mail commented: “This market town has some of the cheapest houses in the UK, yet it's brimming with historic character and the Yorkshire Dales, Lake District and North Pennines are all on its doorstep - so perfect for family outings.

“The town is home to some top-ranking primary schools.”

Tips for first-time buyers

Additionally, Carmel College and St John's Church of England Academy are rated “outstanding” by Ofsted, the research shows.

The Daily Mail also highlighted a modern four-bed property described as “perfect” for families which Smiths and Friends Estate Agents currently list at the time of writing.

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On the market for £264,995, the property also has an open-plan kitchen/living and bi-fold doors out to the rear garden.

When it comes to childcare in Darlington, the publisher said parents and carers can expect full-time nursery costs for children aged two and over to be around £249.28 per week and £268.22 for under-twos.

You can see all the best places to raise a family in the UK on the Daily Mail’s website.