The region is home to many beautiful towns and bustling cities but it is the neighbourhoods of Birmingham and Solihull that dominate the regional list, with places within the Black Country struggling to get a look in.
The regional list forms part of their ‘Top 300 Places to Live in the UK’ series, produced in association with estate agents, Knight Frank.
When making the list, Muddy Stilettos looked at the country’s “loveliest city spots, towns and villages, with the best schools, shopping and pubs.”
In alphabetical order, the top 10 places to live according to Muddy Stilettos in the West Midlands are:
Balsall Common
The small rural village near Solihull was highlighted for its gorgeous parks and walks, abundance of eateries and pubs and close-knit community vibe.
Its close proximity to the stunning National Trust site, Baddeley Clinton in the Forest of Arden was also mentioned.
Earlsdon
Located in Coventry, Muddy Stilettoes described Earlsdon as “vibrant, multicultural and youthful”, noting its family-friendly and studenty atmosphere.
The suburb’s independent food scene, especially FarGo Village, received a special mention in the guide.
Edgbaston
It may be famed for its cricket ground, but Edgbaston was highlighted for its beautiful botanical gardens, multiple top-rated schools and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Despite being a stone’s throw away from Birmingham City Centre, Muddy Stilettoes said: “Leafy Edgbaston is worlds away from busy central Brum”.
Hampton-in-Arden
Describing the quaint village near Solihull, Muddy Stilettos said: “Michelin-starred eats, gorgeous period properties and its own train station put this village firmly on Muddy’s map.”
The village’s iconic destination hotel, Hampton Manor, received a special highlight on the list for its restaurants, scenery and cooking classes.
Harborne
Described as the “cool sister,” this Birmingham suburb was recognised for its chill vibe, monthly market and abundance of highly acclaimed restaurants.
Muddy Stilettos said: “Cool Harborne has seen a revolution in recent years mainly thanks to its awesome foodie scene.
“No shortage of things to do here either. No wonder then it’s part of our Top 300 Places to Live series.”
Kings Heath
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the “up-and-coming” Brummie suburb was recognised for its independent shopping and dining scene, as well as its busy high street and diverse community.
Described as a “veritable melting pot of culture” the guide highlighted how the local community gets behind local businesses, with ample cultural and music events to enjoy.
The guide also featured the fun fact that Anthony Pratt invented the famous board game Cluedo when he was living in Kings Heath!
Moseley
This south Birmingham suburb is home to an award-winning farmers market, music festivals and Michelin-stared dining.
Muddy Stilettoes said: “This trendy neighbourhood rivals the most desirable London suburbs with its excellent foodie scene, independent shops, and buzzy social scene.”
Stirchley
Stirchley’s microbreweries, award-winning bars and eateries and close-knit community helped it earn its spot on the list.
Home to more young people than any other city in Europe, Muddy Stilettoes said is was “no surprise” that it is one of the most happening areas in Birmingham.
Sutton Coldfield
Sutton Coldfield’s combination of luscious green spaces coupled with its cosmopolitan living style secured its place on Muddy Stiletto’s list.
Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe, as well as Sutton’s restaurant quarter, get a special mention in the guide.
The guide also highlights that it is one of the leafiest places in the entire UK, with over half of its total land areas being taken up by green spaces.
Tettenhall
Rounding out the top 10 is this beautiful village just outside of Wolverhampton, home to a thriving high street, pretty coloured Victorian villas and an outdoor community swimming pool.
Praised also for its school options and close proximity to the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Muddy Stilettos described it as “a community-minded village, teaming with independents and great local schools around”.