The UK stock market has undergone significant changes over the past decade. From Brexit and the pandemic to rising interest rates and global economic uncertainty, many stocks struggled. But some didn’t just survive—they grew stronger and outperformed the market.
In this blog, you’ll explore the top-performing UK stocks of the last decade, what made them so successful, and how you can learn from them for smarter investing.
Why Look at the Last Decade?
- Shows long-term success, not short-term luck
- Helps spot reliable and resilient companies
- Highlights which sectors consistently perform
- Gives ideas for future investment decisions
- Great for beginners and seasoned investors alike
What Makes a Stock a Top Performer?
We looked at:
- 10-year share price growth
- Total return, including dividends
- Resilience during market downturns
- Business model and future potential
Top 10 Best-performing UK Stocks
These are not ranked by short-term hype, but by steady, proven performance over the past decade.
1. AstraZeneca (AZN)
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Why it performed well:
- Global leader in life-saving medicines
- Major player in vaccine production
- Strong research pipeline
- Consistent dividend payout
Key point: One of the UK’s most trusted and valuable companies.
2. Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust (SMT)
Industry: Investment Trust
Why it performed well:
- Early investor in big tech names like Tesla and Amazon
- High global exposure
- Focus on growth and innovation
Key point: Took bold risks that paid off over time.
3. Diageo (DGE)
Industry: Consumer Goods (Alcohol)
Why it performed well:
- Owns top brands like Guinness and Johnnie Walker
- Global sales and expansion in new markets
- Stable demand across regions
Key point: A luxury drinks powerhouse with a global footprint.
4. Games Workshop (GAW)
Industry: Retail & Leisure
Why it performed well:
- Loyal customer base
- Strong online sales
- Profitable licensing deals
Key point: A Niche business that turned passion into profit.
5. Halma (HLMA)
Industry: Technology & Safety
Why it performed well:
- Focus on health, safety, and environmental tech
- Regular acquisitions to fuel growth
- Low competition in its niche
Key point: A “hidden gem” that quietly keeps winning.
6. RELX (REL)
Industry: Information & Analytics
Why it performed well:
- Shifted from print to digital
- Strong recurring revenue
- Serves the law, science, and education sectors
Key point: Adapted early to digital trends and never looked back.
7. JD Sports Fashion (JD)
Industry: Retail
Why it performed well:
- Youth-focused branding
- Strong online presence
- Global partnerships with Nike and Adidas
Key point: Mastered the sportswear boom, especially with Gen Z.
8. London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG)
Industry: Financial Services
Why it performed well:
- Bought Refinitiv for data services
- Global stock market infrastructure
- Strong demand for financial data
Key point: Evolved from stock exchange to tech-driven data firm.
9. Unilever (ULVR)
Industry: Consumer Goods
Why it performed well:
- Owns daily-use brands like Dove, Lipton, and Surf
- Long history of steady growth
- Demand in both developed and emerging markets
Key point: Known for reliability and brand trust.
10. Ocado Group (OCDO)
Industry: Retail Technology
Why it performed well:
- Focused on grocery automation
- Partnered with global retailers
- Boomed during COVID-driven online shopping
Key point: Transformed grocery delivery using advanced tech.
Industries That Dominated the Decade
These sectors led UK markets:
- Healthcare – Critical during the pandemic
- Technology – Huge digital growth
- Consumer Goods – Trust in daily products
- Retail & E-commerce – Shift to online shopping
- Data & Analytics – Strong global demand
Key Lessons for Investors
1. Play the long game
- Long-term investments yield better returns than short-term trends.
2. Adapt or get left behind
- The top stocks adapted to tech, markets, and customer needs.
3. Brand power is real
- Customers trust brands that deliver consistently.
4. Global strategy works
- Most top performers expanded beyond the UK early on.
Thinking of Investing or Attending a UK Investor Event?
Want to learn more, meet market experts, or find guidance on your investing journey? There are many investment expos and finance events in the UK that you can attend.
Explore upcoming UK investing events and book tickets now by visiting:
Top Websites to Follow for UK Stock Insights
Here are some trusted sites that publish regular updates and analysis on UK stock performance:
- This Is Money – https://www.thisismoney.co.uk
- FT Adviser – https://www.ftadviser.com
- Citywire Money – https://citywire.com