Your Guide to Commuter Towns Offering Connections, Countryside, and Canals
Are you a West Londoner contemplating a move out of the city? If so, Berkshire might be your perfect destination, offering a diverse range of locales from new towns to ancient settlements, Crossrail hotspots to peaceful backwaters. This guide will navigate you through the highlights of Berkshire, providing up-to-date price data and insights to help you make an informed decision.
Bracknell: Affordable Regeneration Zone
Beginning our journey in Bracknell, a town declared a new town in 1949, we find a mix of new developments and a bona fide regeneration zone. Bracknell boasts a brand-new town center, a growing tech sector, and, notably, affordability. With average prices at £410,000, it presents an attractive option for those priced out of London and wealthier areas. Train connections to Paddington in just over 50 minutes and schools with “good” or “outstanding” ratings add to its appeal.
Windsor: A Touch of Royalty
For those seeking a touch of royalty, Windsor stands as an idyllic market town on the River Thames. Steeped in history, Windsor offers great commuter links, quality schools, lush green spaces, and a vibrant dining scene. While average prices are higher at £605,000, the town’s charm, schools’ high ratings, and excellent transport links, including trains to Waterloo in under an hour, make it an appealing choice.
Kintbury: Tranquil Canalside Living
For a more tranquil lifestyle, Kintbury, nestled within the North Wessex Downs, offers a beautiful village experience alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal. Canalside walks, waterside pubs, and a primary school rated “good” by Ofsted create an appealing environment. With its train station and average prices of £474,000, Kintbury attracts those looking for a peaceful retreat within an hour’s travel to London.
Maidenhead: Best Connected and Evolving
Lastly, Maidenhead emerges as a well-connected town that has recently undergone positive transformations. With Crossrail services adding seamless tube access to London’s West End, Maidenhead’s appeal has grown. Despite a drop of five percent in the past year, average prices remain at £605,000, and the town offers plentiful open spaces, ongoing developments, and neighborhoods like Pinkneys Green and Furze Platt to explore.
In conclusion, Berkshire provides a myriad of options catering to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prioritize affordability, regal charm, tranquil canalside living, or excellent connectivity, Berkshire’s commuter towns have something for everyone. As you embark on this journey, consider your priorities, explore the diverse offerings of each town, and find the perfect place to call home.