By Guy Burridge
Are you dreaming of a family-friendly home with more space, easy access to London, and a strong community spirit? Look no further! In this Guide to Moving to the Home Counties, we will explore the Home Counties and their charming commuter towns. From picturesque countryside to bustling city and town centres, these areas offer the perfect balance for families seeking an escape from London. So let’s dive in and discover your ideal commuter town in the Home Counties!
We’ll cover:
- The range of city and country living options, with schools, transport links and family-friendly activities.
- Careful research is necessary to choose the right town in the Home Counties for you.
- Commuting to London from the Home Counties is convenient with various transportation options available.
Understanding the Home Counties
The Home Counties, situated in close proximity to London, are renowned for their pleasant landscapes and attractive living options. From the beautiful countryside of Berkshire to the diverse culture of Essex, these areas offer a perfect blend of city and country living. Whether you’re looking for a bustling town with great schools or a small village with a strong community spirit, the Home Counties are sure to have the perfect place for you and your family.
So let’s explore each county in more detail and uncover the unique charm of these family-friendly commuter towns.
Berkshire
Berkshire is a picturesque county known for its beautiful countryside and high-end areas, offering a mix of urban and rural living options. With towns like Reading, Twyford, and Maidenhead boasting quick commutes to London, the county is an attractive option for families and professionals alike. The thriving market town of Twyford, for instance, is renowned for its quintessential Berkshire charm and a good array of amenities and attractions.
However, with high property prices, some towns in the area are considered quite exclusive. Despite the higher price tag, the county’s beautiful countryside, excellent schools, and easy commute to London make it a desirable location for young families looking for a balance between city life and rural living.
Essex
Essex, a county known for its diversity and vibrant culture has a multitude of housing options. The historic market town of Epping, for example, is renowned for its plethora of shops and restaurants.
Contrary to the common perception of Essex as a place for those with a penchant for tanning and tattoos, the county is home to people from all walks of life. So, if you’re looking for a unique and diverse county to call home, Essex might just be the place for you.
Buckinghamshire
Nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque countryside, Buckinghamshire offers a harmonious blend of modern conveniences and rural allure. The county is home to a variety of towns and villages, each with its own unique charm. Take Milton Keynes, for instance. While it may not be the most visually appealing town, it does boast an indoor ski slope for those who enjoy winter sports.
No matter your preference, Buckinghamshire provides a range of options for families and professionals, including outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and local events and festivals. It is also one of only 2 home counties that still retain grammar schools – the other being Kent.
Hertfordshire
Rich in history and picturesque towns, Hertfordshire is home to a variety of housing options and excellent schools. Towns like Borehamwood and Hitchin and the city of St Albans offer a glimpse into the county’s historical significance, while also providing modern amenities and attractions.
Noteworthy landmarks in the area include the Cathedral of St Albans and the Natural History Museum in Tring. With a range of housing options and a strong sense of community, Hertfordshire is an attractive option for families looking to move to the Home Counties.
Kent
Known as the garden of England, Kent provides a balance between suburban and country life. With its good transportation links to London and a variety of family-friendly towns, Kent is an ideal choice for those seeking a quieter life outside the capital.
Royal Tunbridge Wells is a quaint and historic town which offers an exquisite array of high street and independent stores, cafes, restaurants, and bars.
With Faversham being voted the best town to live in Kent, considering factors such as natural beauty, quality of life, architectural beauty, and the cost of family homes, this county offers an attractive mix of charm and convenience.
Surrey
Surrey, often considered the crowning glory of the Home Counties, is a desirable county with picturesque countryside, traditional villages, and excellent schools. Towns like Guildford, Walton, and Cobham offer a relaxed lifestyle for families, with a range of amenities and schools.
Guildford is widely known for its rich historic character and associated architecture. Its cobbled High Street, medieval buildings, and castle are a testament to its long and varied history. With a variety of housing options and easy access to London, Surrey is a popular choice for families looking to move to the Home Counties.
Counties close to London but not bordering the city
The following 4 counties are also close to London but because they do not border the city they are not, technically, “Home” Counties.
East Sussex
Boasting beautiful scenery, charming towns, and a variety of family-friendly activities, East Sussex is an attractive option for families looking to move out of London and offers a range of housing options at significantly lower average prices than counties closer to London.
With attractions such as the South Downs and Seven Sisters coastline, East Sussex provides plenty of opportunities for families to explore and enjoy the great outdoors together.
West Sussex
Offering picturesque countryside and coastal living, West Sussex is home to a variety of towns and villages for families to choose from. It has rolling hills and a seaside landscape, but also the vibrant coastal town of Brighton. However, being on the coast but also easily accessible to London has pushed house prices in Brighton out of the reach of many.
Other more rural parts of West Sussex provide a beautiful backdrop for families looking for a peaceful life outside London.
Oxfordshire
Home to charming market towns, beautiful countryside, and a rich history, Oxfordshire is an attractive option for families looking to move out of London. Towns like Henley-On-Thames are renowned for events such as the Royal Regatta, which takes place each year. And, of course, Oxford itself offers a wide array of arts, culture and entertainment options.
With a range of educational establishments and thriving schools, Oxfordshire offers a perfect blend of town and country living for families.
Bedfordshire
The county of Bedfordshire is bordered by Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire. It is well-known for its picturesque countryside including parts of the Chiltern Hills, the Dunstable Downs and the Greensand Ridge. It’s also home to Woburn Abbey – the well-known safari park – which is a great family day out. It is also home to ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, which houses
Overall Bedfordshire is a great place to live due to it’s good transport links, stunning natural beauty, and quaint little towns and villages.
Read more about moving to the Home Counties and other counties close to London:
| Home Counties | Other Counties near London |
|---|---|
| Hertfordshire | Oxfordshire |
| Buckinghamshire | Leicestershire |
| Berkshire | Northamptonshire |
| Surrey | Cambridgeshire |
| Essex | Bedfordshire |
| Kent | West Sussex |
| East Sussex |
Top Commuter Towns in the Home Counties
Now that we’ve explored the different counties, let’s dive into the top commuter towns in the Home Counties: Beaconsfield, Epping, Guildford, St Albans, and Royal Tunbridge Wells. These towns offer a variety of housing options, excellent schools, and easy access to London, making them some of the most sought-after locations for families.
So let’s take a closer look at each of these towns and discover what makes them the perfect places to call home.
Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire
Located in the picturesque county of Buckinghamshire, Beaconsfield is a thriving town with excellent schools, high property prices, and a beautiful countryside setting. With its proximity to London, the town offers a convenient commute for professionals, while providing a high-quality education for children.
Beaconsfield is an exclusive and desirable location for families looking to settle in the Home Counties, offering many luxurious homes.
Epping, Essex
Epping, a historic market town in Essex, offers a perfect balance between city living and rural charm. With good schools, outdoor activities, and easy access to London via the Central Line, Epping is an attractive option for families looking to move to the Home Counties.
The town boasts various shops and restaurants, and a lower average property value than many other commuter towns, ensuring that families can enjoy a high standard of living while still being within easy reach of the capital.
Guildford, Surrey
Nestled in the heart of Surrey, Guildford offers a harmonious balance between rural and city life. The town is home to exceptional schools, local amenities, and a 40-minute commute to London. With its rich history and picturesque setting, Guildford provides an attractive location for families looking to move to the Home Counties.
St Albans, Hertfordshire
Steeped in history, St Albans is a historic town in Hertfordshire with a range of housing options, excellent schools, and a 20-minute commute to London. The town offers a variety of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks, making it an ideal location for families looking to move to the Home Counties.
With its strong community spirit and easy access to the capital, St Albans is a perfect place to call home. Enjoy free access to various local events that foster a sense of belonging.
Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Royal Tunbridge Wells, a desirable commuter town in Kent, is known for its historic town centre, good schools, and 45-minute commute to London. The town boasts an excellent selection of high street and independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars in the picturesque Pantiles area, making it an attractive option for families looking to move to the Home Counties.
With its rich history and charming atmosphere, Royal Tunbridge Wells is a great place to call home.
Tips for Moving to the Home Counties
Now that we’ve explored the top commuter towns in the Home Counties, let’s focus on some tips for making the move a smooth and successful transition. From choosing the right town to house hunting and adjusting to life outside London, we have the advice you need to start your new life in the Home Counties.
So let’s dive into these essential tips to help you make the move with confidence.
Choosing the Right Town
When choosing the right town in the Home Counties, it’s essential to consider factors such as commute times, schools, local amenities, and housing options. Research different towns and weigh the pros and cons of each area to find the perfect fit for your family.
By considering factors like cost, proximity to transportation, and availability of facilities, you’ll be well on your way to finding your ideal commuter town.
House Hunting in the Home Counties
House hunting in the Home Counties requires research, patience, and flexibility. Start by researching the area, exploring the local schools, amenities, and transport links to get a feel for the community. Don’t forget to consider house prices as well.
Be patient and flexible when viewing properties, as finding the perfect home may take time. Remember, it’s essential to find a home that not only meets your family’s needs but also feels like the perfect place to build lasting memories.
Adjusting to Life Outside London
Adjusting to life outside London may involve embracing a slower pace of life, exploring local attractions, and building a new social network. Engage with your new community by participating in local clubs and organisations, attending community events, and exploring the area’s numerous outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and local events and festivals.
By immersing yourself in your new surroundings, you’ll quickly feel at home.
Family-Friendly Activities in the Home Counties
With an array of family-friendly activities available in the Home Counties, there’s never a dull moment for families looking to enjoy the best of both city and country living. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and local events, there’s something for everyone in the Home Counties.
Let’s explore some of the exciting activities that await you and your family in this beautiful region.
Outdoor Adventures
The Home Counties offer a wealth of outdoor adventures for families to enjoy. Explore picturesque parks, forests, and coastal areas, or participate in sports and recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, horse riding, and golf.
With so much natural beauty and outdoor fun to be had, families can create lasting memories while enjoying the great outdoors and a slower pace of life in the Home Counties.
Cultural Experiences
Cultural experiences abound in the Home Counties, with a variety of historic sites, museums, and galleries to visit. Families can also enjoy local theatre productions and concerts, providing ample opportunities for entertainment and enrichment.
There’s no shortage of cultural experiences to discover in the Home Counties.
Local Events and Festivals
Local events and festivals in the Home Counties offer opportunities for families to engage with their community and enjoy a variety of entertainment options. From music festivals to food and art festivals, there’s always something happening in the Home Counties.
So why not gather the family and explore the exciting events your new community has to offer?
Commuting to London from the Home Counties
For many families moving to the Home Counties, commuting to London remains a reality. But fear not, as the Home Counties offer a range of transportation options and travel times to help you make the most of your daily commute.
Let’s look at the different ways you can commute to London and the average travel times from various towns in the Home Counties.
Transportation Options
Commuting to London from the Home Counties can be accomplished through various modes of transportation, including trains, buses, and driving. Many towns in the Home Counties offer direct rail services to the capital, providing a convenient and efficient commute for professionals.
Consider the available transportation options and choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and needs.
Travel Times
Travel times vary depending on the town and mode of transportation, with some towns offering commutes as short as 20 minutes, while others may take up to an hour or more. When planning your move to the Home Counties, it’s essential to consider the average travel time and cost for each mode of transportation and weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Remember, a shorter commute means more time spent enjoying your new home and community, allowing you to have more space in your daily schedule.
Summary
In conclusion, the Home Counties offer a wealth of opportunities for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London. With picturesque countryside, charming towns, excellent schools, and easy access to the capital, these family-friendly commuter towns provide the perfect balance between town and country living. So why not start your journey today and discover the new life that awaits you in the Home Counties?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main benefits of living in the Home Counties?
Living in the Home Counties offers more space, cheaper housing, regular train services to London, easy access to the countryside, varied job opportunities and good shopping experiences.
This is ideal for those looking for a balance between city and country life. With its close proximity to London, it is easy to access the capital for work or leisure. The cost of living is also lower than in the city, making it a great option for those looking to save money.
How do I choose the right town in the Home Counties?
When choosing a location in the Home Counties, it is important to research factors such as commute times, schools, local amenities, and housing options. These will help you make an informed decision.
What types of outdoor activities are available in the Home Counties?
The Home Counties offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, horse riding, and golf.
What cultural experiences can I expect to find in the Home Counties?
The Home Counties all offer museums, art galleries, theatres, historic sites and monuments to explore and enjoy.
What are the average travel times for commuting to London from the Home Counties?
On average, commuting to London from the Home Counties typically takes between 20 minutes and an hour on the train, depending on the town and mode of transport. Remember though to add travelling time to the station and across London to your workplace. Total commuting time can significantly longer than the train journey if you have to also take the bus or tube to reach your destination.
All prices, data and statistics are correct as of August 2023. Storing.com accepts no responsibility for its accuracy and you should independently check current data.
