A new study has placed Warwick as one of the least stressed places in England.

The list, which was topped by Surrey Heath, was compiled by residential rehab provider Abbeycarefoundation.com.

The study looked at 'key metrics' that could consider to stress levels in all local authorities in England and placed Warwick at number eight.

Factors included the percentage of smokers, anxiety levels, pay, working hours and amount of physical activity.

The foundation said the metrics were chosen due to the impacts that they have on a person's wellbeing.

Each factor was given a score which was then added up to give a total score on the stress index - the lower the score the less stressed an area is. 

Warwick was given a score of 72.7, compared to Surrey Heath's 68.0.

The findings said: "Warwick is famous for its magnificent castle, superb specialist and independent shops and historic charm.

advertisement

"Warwick maintains a high life satisfaction and low levels of anxiety reported. Residents have a high weekly median wage that can help those cope with higher costs of living.

"With only 45 per cent having never worked from home and low levels of inactivity, people who live in Warwick may have less stress due to better mental and physical health."

The Top 10:

1. Surrey Heath
2. Lichfield, Staffordshire
3. Dartford, Kent 
4. Rochford, Essex 
5. St Albans, Hertfordshire 
6. Sevenoaks - Kent 
7. Tandridge, Surrey 
8. Warwick, Warwickshire  
9. Waverly, Surrey 
10. Basingstoke and Deane, Hampshire  

A spokesperson from the Abbeycarefoundation.com commented: "Modern life has become fast-paced, expensive and oftentimes complicated. These additional stressors can have many adverse impacts on our mental and physical health.

"Reports have shown that increased stress can cause many people to smoke, drink and take less care of their bodies.

"Therefore, it's important to manage our stress wherever possible to improve overall quality of life.  

The research shows a clear correlation of how location, job and personal health can impact mental and physical health. Those with higher wages and better work-life balances will often feel less stress due to having more free time to spend with friends and family, and the ability to also engage in hobbies that they enjoy and find pleasure in outside of their career. "