Large towns and cities across the country have been ranked based on their local, national and international transport links, their download speeds, 5G mobile coverage, availability of co-working spaces and affordability.
The data assessed in the new study by Karas Plating included the number of bus and rail stops per person, airport access and travel times, and the cost-of-living-to-income ratio.
Edinburgh topped the rankings, with Glasgow in second place and London fourth.
There was no place for Manchester in the 36-strong list of the UK’s best-connected towns and cities, though Chester, Blackpool, York, Hartlepool, Hull, Stockton-on-Tees and Durham all made the cut.
Below are the seven best-connected towns and cities in the north of England, according to the study, listed in reverse order.
1. Stockton-on-Tees
Stockton-on-Tees is the 7th best-connected town or city in the north of England, and the 33rd best-connected in the UK as a whole, according to a new study by Karas Plating, with a total score of 23.65. | nuttawutnuy - stock.adobe.com Photo: nuttawutnuy - stock.adobe.com
2. Hull
Hull is the 6th best-connected town or city in the north of England, and the 24th best-connected in the UK as a whole, according to a new study by Karas Plating, with a total score of 31.29. | National World Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
3. Hartlepool
Hartlepool is the 5th best-connected town or city in the north of England, and the 21st best-connected in the UK as a whole, according to a new study by Karas Plating, with a total score of 32.44. | Chris Maddison - stock.adobe.com Photo: Chris Maddison - stock.adobe.com
4. Durham
Durham is the 4th best-connected town or city in the north of England, and the 18th best-connected in the UK as a whole, according to a new study by Karas Plating, with a score of 32.60 | greenbriar52 - stock.adobe.com Photo: greenbriar52 - stock.adobe.com
5. York
York is the 3rd best-connected town or city in the north of England, and the 15th best-connected in the UK as a whole, according to a new study by Karas Plating, with a score of 33.86 | National World Photo: James Hardisty
6. Blackpool
Blackpool is the 2nd best-connected town or city in the north of England, and the 10th best-connected in the UK as a whole, according to a new study by Karas Plating, with a score of 37.48 | Heritage Images via Getty Images Photo: Historic England Archive