Belfast has been named the UK’s nosiest city, according to a new study commissioned by Škoda UK.
The research, which surveyed 2,418 adults, set out to identify the nation’s most dedicated “curtain twitchers” and ranked Northern Ireland’s capital in first place, ahead of Worcester and Brighton and Hove.
More than 1 in 3 people across the UK admit to being nosy neighbours, with popular habits including watching deliveries arrive (31%), knowing when next door leaves for work (28%), being able to name their neighbour’s profession (32%) and spotting a new car on the driveway (22%).
Other findings reveal that 14% know which supermarket their neighbours shop at and 9% know their workout schedule.
Evening hours are the most popular for peeking, with 17% saying 6pm to 8pm is their preferred time to snoop. While 56% say nosiness is a national trait, 34% think it has benefits and 62% believe it helps keep neighbourhoods safe.
Curiosity also extends to cars, with 70% of respondents knowing the colour of their neighbour’s vehicle, 45% the make, 35% the model, and 15% the registration number.
Electric vehicles draw particular attention, with 20% of neighbours admiring the environmental benefits, 16% wanting to learn more and 14% impressed by the forward-thinking choice.
Kirsten Stagg, head of marketing at Škoda UK, said: “Nosiness is practically a national sport in Britain.
“Whether it’s a new car on the driveway or a new family moving in, we can’t help but take a peek.
“Our latest campaign taps into that familiar curiosity, showing how the arrival of an all-electric Škoda sparks wild speculation across the neighbourhood before revealing it’s simply an ordinary family embracing something new.
“Being a nosy neighbour isn’t just harmless fun – it helps build safer, more connected communities and even sparks conversations, especially around new technology like electric cars.”
