If the long UK  winters get you down and you want a change of scenery, there’s one stunning European country which has come top of the list as the best place for families to relocate to.

The international health insurance experts at William Russell looked at a number of countries and analysed factors such as childcare, accommodation as well as flights from the UK to find out the most suitable place for families to move to.

Portugal took first place in the ranking, with the experts saying that while it performed well across the board, it “excelled” in financial factors.

“Families in Portugal benefit from affordable childcare, costing 5% of household income on average, and the average monthly cost of essential utilities is very low at £94.

“Additionally, property prices in Portugal are very affordable, with an average apartment price per square metre of £209, while the average cost of a flight from London is just £24, making it easy to stay connected with your extended family back home.”

As well as this, the climate in Portugal is milder making for an easier winter. Although temperatures at night can drop to around 2C, daytime temperatures frequently hover around 20C. 

If Portugal doesn’t take your fancy, you could try the second best location, according to the experts.

Sweden came in second place due to its affordable childcare, averaging 4% of household income, and 10 of the world’s top universities, providing plenty of opportunities for when your children reach adulthood.

Sweden also has one of the lowest average annual hours worked at 1,440.5, meaning you’ll have a better work-life balance than in other countries with more time to spend with your family.