MOST WANTED towns and villages in the Chilterns.
With New Year resolutions still firmly in place Chiltern Relocation has received a number of enquiries from clients wanting to move to the Chilterns which has been classified as An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
What is an AONB?
An area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) is land protected by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act to conserve and enhance its natural beauty.
The Chilterns is one of 46 AONB’s in the UK. Sitting on London’s doorstep it extends 70 km from Henley-on-Thames to Berkhamsted. The Chilterns AONB is characterised by rounded hills, ancient woodland and open downs. The AONB boasts many picturesque brick-and-flint homes in tucked away villages to the more urban towns which also have easy access to open green spaces.
Why do so many want to move to the Chilterns?
The increase in working from home over the last two years has led to life-work balances having shifted. The Chilterns are within easy commuting distance of London, Oxford and other major cities but also have the benefit of being very rural. The gentle rolling hills attract a lot of keen cyclists, walkers and horse riders to the area and there are plenty of golf courses and boating opportunities. Our clients are keen to move to a house (often with character) within a great village community that includes local shops, a doctor’s surgery, local primary schools and of course a local pub.
Where are the ‘most wanted’ towns and villages within the Chilterns and why? This week’s pick includes:
AMERSHAM
Often topping the list of the most desirable places to the live in the UK, Amersham has it all.
- Excellent transport links with both rail and the Metropolitan tube line into the centre of town. Journey times to Marylebone of 33 minutes
- Old Town is bustling with trendy boutiques and cafes, antiques shops and hosts a weekly market
- Brand new multimillion pound leisure centre including choice of swimming pools, a competitive swimming club, sports hall, squash courts and climbing walls
- Excellent schooling both state and private including top rated Dr Challoner’s grammar schools for boys and girls
- Great variety of specialist independent retailers and larger stores such as Waitrose and M&S in the New Town
- Part of the Chiltern cycle path network, with routes passing through picturesque villages such as Coleshill and Winchmore Hill
- Good choice of quality family homes with decent sized gardens
MARLOW
Nestled on the bank of The Thames, Marlow is a very popular destination for all ages.
- The River Thames flows through the heart of the town – ideal for boating activities and riverside walks
- Destination High Street shopping and great choice of independent retailers
- Michelin star Tom Kerridge restaurants and The Ivy and other independent restaurants offer excellent dining options
- Famous annual regatta gives great community feel
- Higginson Park in the centre of town is a big draw for all ages with its large playground and café and extensive green space
- Range of primary schools and the excellent Sir William Borlase Grammar School is in the heart of the town
- Bustling marina at Little Marlow offering sailing and canoeing activities
- Longridge Outdoor adventure centre offering a wide range of water and land-based activities
- Home to Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre providing world class tennis facilities
BERKHAMSTED
A bustling town surrounding by picturesque villages with character housing.
- Picturesque market town offering character properties and a charming High Street
- Excellent transport links – it is a very popular commuter town just 29 minutes to London Euston
- Berkhamsted School offers excellent schooling and the town has many well rated state primary schools
- Famous for its castle ruins the town boasts many other historic buildings
- The Grand Union Canal runs through the town with rowing opportunities
- Thriving sports community with very active cricket, tennis and golf clubs
- Close to The Snow Centre at Hemel offering two indoor ski slopes
- Local cinema on the High Street and choice of independent shops
- Close to National Trust Ashridge Estate with great woodland walks
