COUNTRY VIEW 2022: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE FINEST COUNTRY PROPERTY

Welcome to our 2022 edition of Country View, Knight Frank’s flagship publication, dedicated to showcasing the most aspirational country properties and lifestyles from across the UK. I pen this note at a time of what feels like ever-changing landscapes, on all fronts. While we continue to navigate life through the pandemic, the attitudinal change to property continues, with people choosing to invest more in their homes, looking to them more than ever as a place of security and sanctuary. And where better to take sanctuary than in the glorious British countryside? That being said, striking the balance between working from home and the office was particularly topical in the latter stages of 2020, with adequate space for a home office an increasingly important requirement (while proximity to offices remains relevant, but with more flexible boundaries). With good access to affordable mortgages, a shortage of stock and demand continuing, it’s no wonder the country market remains competitive with prices climbing higher – but still offering excellent value compared to London homes. So, what next? That’s what we’ll be exploring in the following pages, but topline – the market looks strong and sustainable. Privacy, tranquillity and space will continue to command premiums, and as inflation rises ever higher, property becomes an increasingly attractive asset.

In this year’s magazine, we explore the rise of multi-generation living – homes that have something for everyone. Speaking of which, we have a bumper array of lifestyle content at your fingertips, from a conversation with joyful home influencer Paula Sutton; regenerative farming with a Knight Frank client; a deep dive into wild swimming; our enduring partnership with Country Life magazine, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, and the timeless icons of country style. After such a successful year, you can also view some of the many properties we have sold and peruse at your leisure what’s available. I hope you enjoy reading this year’s contributions, and you’ll agree that now really is the time to make your country property dreams a reality.

Edward Rook

Head of the National Country Department

Welcome to our 2022 edition of Country View, Knight Frank’s flagship publication, dedicated to showcasing the most aspirational country properties and lifestyles from across the UK. I pen this note at a time of what feels like ever-changing landscapes, on all fronts. While we continue to navigate life through the pandemic, the attitudinal change to property continues, with people choosing to invest more in their homes, looking to them more than ever as a place of security and sanctuary. And where better to take sanctuary than in the glorious British countryside? That being said, striking the balance between working from home and the office was particularly topical in the latter stages of 2020, with adequate space for a home office an increasingly important requirement (while proximity to offices remains relevant, but with more flexible boundaries). With good access to affordable mortgages, a shortage of stock and demand continuing, it’s no wonder the country market remains competitive with prices climbing higher – but still offering excellent value compared to London homes. So, what next? That’s what we’ll be exploring in the following pages, but topline – the market looks strong and sustainable. Privacy, tranquillity and space will continue to command premiums, and as inflation rises ever higher, property becomes an increasingly attractive asset.

In this year’s magazine, we explore the rise of multi-generation living – homes that have something for everyone. Speaking of which, we have a bumper array of lifestyle content at your fingertips, from a conversation with joyful home influencer Paula Sutton; regenerative farming with a Knight Frank client; a deep dive into wild swimming; our enduring partnership with Country Life magazine, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, and the timeless icons of country style. After such a successful year, you can also view some of the many properties we have sold and peruse at your leisure what’s available. I hope you enjoy reading this year’s contributions, and you’ll agree that now really is the time to make your country property dreams a reality.

Edward Rook

Head of the National Country Department