Cowes and Yarmouth have been ranked among the top ten places to live in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight according to Muddy Stilettos.

The women's lifestyle website creates a 'best places to live' list each year for England and breaks it down regionally. 

The 2023 list was revealed towards the end of 2022 and now after votes from Muddy Stilettos readers, the 10 Hampshire and Isle of Wight entrants have been ranked.

Cowes placed eighth in the list, with Yarmouth in tenth, while Winchester was voted as the best overall for the region.

The full lists of all the counties in England can be seen on the Muddy Stilettos website here.

A national winner is set to be revealed on Tuesday, March 28.

What were the 10 best places to live in Hampshire and the IoW?

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight's 10 listed entrants were ranked by Muddy Stilettos voters as follows:

1. Winchester

2. Lymington

3. Southsea

4. Petersfield

5. Hartley Wintney

6. Alresford

7. Romsey

8. Cowes

9. Odiham

10. Yarmouth

In describing Cowes, Muddy Stilettos wrote: "This picturesque maritime town has much more than its historical regatta to recommend it. 

"Cowes has speedy links to the mainland, plenty of pretty Victorian properties and enough bars and restaurants for foodies to sink their teeth into. For those wanting the best of both worlds, it’s one of our top Isle of Wight picks. " 

Meanwhile, in writing about Yarmouth they said: "A gateway to the Isle of Wight – just 40-minutes over the water from Lymington – the picture-perfect harbour town of Yarmouth is a haven for visiting yachties and tourists searching for Enid Blyton-esque family adventures.

"In summer, the sunny, Mediterranean-feeling West Wight coastline with spectacular sunsets, world-class sailing, iconic Needles and fun, fine-dining food scene brings an influx of mainlanders.

"But in the quieter autumn and winter months, locals reclaim their Island. And the mainland – a mere five miles over the water – feels like a world away."

READ MORE: Best things about living on the Isle of Wight