The enduring image of country life for many city dwellers is being stuck in the middle of nowhere, with an intermittent phone signal, in vast expanses of mud. But is that the whole picture? And, if so, why the recent surge in demand for country homes?
Recent years have seen a rise in younger people moving to the countryside. In 2012, the proportion of sales outside of London among buyers under 50 was 48%. In 2021, that figure grew to 60%.
The effect on rural communities has, in many cases, been transformative. Edward Rook, Head of Knight Frank’s Country Department, says: “With people spending more time in the country, they’ve invested more in their local communities, which has led to better amenities. The countryside is thriving and vibrant, becoming an increasingly attractive life choice.”
If you want tranquillity and no neighbours within sight, you can have it, but country life doesn’t have to mean living in isolation. Here, our local agents share their insights on four locations offering the best of both.
“With people spending more time in the country, they’ve invested more in their local communities, which has led to better amenities. The countryside is thriving and vibrant, becoming an increasingly attractive life choice”
North: York Melissa Lines, Head of Sales, Yorkshire
Just beyond historic York lies the glorious countryside of the North Yorkshire Dales, the Yorkshire Moors and North Yorkshire National Park. Melissa Lines, Head of Sales in Yorkshire, says Thornton-Le-Dale is one of the area’s most sought-after villages. “The thatched cottage by the babbling beck is one of the best-loved sights in the National Park – a real ‘chocolate box’ image – while the A64 links it to the wider metropolitan area”
Malton is another popular location with good rail links to York, where there are direct services to London, Leeds and Edinburgh. Lines also recommends the market town of Knaresborough, four miles east of Harrogate and popular with commuters. “The area has real character: a legendary Tudor prophetess, a once-royal castle, a magnificent viaduct and breathtaking countryside views.”
South: Lymington Toby Turnage, Partner, New Forest, Waterfront and Isle of Wight Sales
With the Solent as a playground for watersport enthusiasts, plus the Jurassic Coast and New Forest to explore, Lymington locals are spoilt for choice. Toby Turnage, Head of Sales in Lymington, has noticed an increase in younger people moving to the area. “Many grew up here, but not everyone has a previous affinity with the area - some look along the stretch of coastline that’s not too far from London. The train takes 1 hour 45 minutes from Brockenhurst to London Waterloo.”
For a waterfront location, Turnage recommends Milford-on-Sea for its primary school, thriving high street and youthful vibe. Lesser-known spots boasting good pubs include East Boldre and Bucklers Hard, while slightly more rural options are Beaulieu and Pilley. “The beauty of living by the New Forest is that it’s protected, so you won’t be surprised by development in that area - though this may constrain plans for your own property renovation.”
“Our clients still need access to the city, be that Cambridge or London, but otherwise, a good pub within walking distance and a shop for essentials are the key necessities.”
Speak to a team member
East: Cambridge Michael Houlden, Head of Sales, Cambridge
Cambridge is steeped in history and also boasts a futuristic science industry, yet in 20 minutes, you can be in glorious countryside. Michael Houldon, Head of Sales in Cambridge, says the school commute is a key consideration for many buyers. “Once children are in those prized establishments, you’ll be here for 10 years.”
He adds: “Our clients still need access to the city, be that Cambridge or London, but otherwise, a good pub within walking distance and a shop for essentials are the key necessities.” Areas to the south and west of Cambridge, such as St Neots, Great Shelford and Royston, appeal greatly to commuters as they have the best transport links to London.
West: Cheshire Andrew Fisher, Head of Sales, Cheshire
Scenic Cheshire has miles of canal waterways and expanses of sublime countryside. Its excellent rail links make it popular with those who work in the city but want to enjoy the best of country life.
Andrew Fisher, Head of Sales in Cheshire, describes Wilmslow and Alderley Edge as the “perfect gateway to the Cheshire countryside and Peak District while still being easily accessible for those who aren’t quite willing to give up the hustle and bustle completely.”
Vibrant Cheshire towns include Macclesfield, Northwich and Nantwich, but if you’re looking for idyllic village life, Fisher recommends Tarporley for its easy access to the Sandstone Trail, voted one of Britain’s Best Walks.
Moving to the country could be the start of a wonderful new chapter. Finding the right property and location that offer you what you need is key; from spaces to work or work out, to facilities for animals or a decent local pub, local Knight Frank teams are here to help.
“Our clients still need access to the city, be that Cambridge or London, but otherwise, a good pub within walking distance and a shop for essentials are the key necessities.”
East: Cambridge Michael Houlden, Head of Sales, Cambridge
Cambridge is steeped in history and also boasts a futuristic science industry, yet in 20 minutes, you can be in glorious countryside. Michael Houldon, Head of Sales in Cambridge, says the school commute is a key consideration for many buyers. “Once children are in those prized establishments, you’ll be here for 10 years.”
He adds: “Our clients still need access to the city, be that Cambridge or London, but otherwise, a good pub within walking distance and a shop for essentials are the key necessities.” Areas to the south and west of Cambridge, such as St Neots, Great Shelford and Royston, appeal greatly to commuters as they have the best transport links to London.
West: Cheshire Andrew Fisher, Head of Sales, Cheshire
Scenic Cheshire has miles of canal waterways and expanses of sublime countryside. Its excellent rail links make it popular with those who work in the city but want to enjoy the best of country life.
Andrew Fisher, Head of Sales in Cheshire, describes Wilmslow and Alderley Edge as the “perfect gateway to the Cheshire countryside and Peak District while still being easily accessible for those who aren’t quite willing to give up the hustle and bustle completely.”
Vibrant Cheshire towns include Macclesfield, Northwich and Nantwich, but if you’re looking for idyllic village life, Fisher recommends Tarporley for its easy access to the Sandstone Trail, voted one of Britain’s Best Walks.
Moving to the country could be the start of a wonderful new chapter. Finding the right property and location that offer you what you need is key; from spaces to work or work out, to facilities for animals or a decent local pub, local Knight Frank teams are here to help.
Speak to a team member