For those wanting or needing to move out of London – finding that ideal commuter town can be tricky for any property search especially when trying to factor in budget and so many important non-negotiables. Depending on the family set up there can be childcare to consider, schools, local amenities and of course transport links and the time and cost to commute into London for work.
The home counties of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Surrey and Sussex are extremely popular for commuters as well as Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hampshire and Oxfordshire which with good transport links and reasonable proximity to London can also be worth exploring to get the most for your money.
Here’s a look at some hot spots, hidden gems, up and coming areas and must visit towns that could be your perfect fit for that London life compromise.
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Reading
Reading is a suburban town with a family feel that offers a good range of shops, leisure facilities, schools and plenty of green space as well as its two rivers which are lined with waterfront pubs and restaurants perfect for a summer afternoon.
With the commute to London taking around just 30 minutes – it is a popular choice for those seeking a work life balance for themselves and their family.
Current investments going on in the area are seeing huge improvements to railway links and the town centre as well as lots of new properties on the market.
Reading offers buyers a diverse range of properties from new builds and riverside apartments to Victorian town houses and modern developments.
Romford
Romford is a large commuter town within the London Borough of Havering and within easy travelling distance to some of Essex’s most beautiful countryside. With such a dual aspect location this can be a great place for families to live for the ideal combination of town living within close proximity and easy access to the bright lights of the city.
Romford transport links offer easy to travel distances and quick commutes by train as well as regular buses and access to some great London airports for those that fly regularly.
For families with children there are a number of extremely good state and private primary, secondary school and further education options which can help make it easier when planning for the future. You’ll find plenty of green space to explore including play parks, forests, lakes and country parks for family days out. There’s also no shortage of things to do with tons of shops, restaurants and amenities such as ice skating, cinemas and the popular greyhound track!
Guildford
Located in the heart of Surrey, Guildford is a historic town that features iconic cobbled streets and is home to a 12th century castle keep, a cathedral and museum. Once voted one of the best luxury shopping destinations outside of London this is a great place for those that love some serious retail therapy.
For commuters Guildford is ideally located around 32 miles from central London making it very easy to reach taking around an hour or so by train with the additional benefit of being less than a 40-minute drive to both Heathrow and Gatwick airports.
For families with children the standard of schools in Guildford are extremely high with a wide range of fantastic options available for both private and state education at all ages. There’s endless opportunities to make the most of the great outdoor space here but you’ll also find some fun and quirky things to do to entertain the kids from cinemas, trampoline parks and outdoor swimming pools to llama trekking!
Where Else?
There really are too many to mention but depending what you are looking for, where in London you work and your budget these places may also be worth a look;
- Rayleigh, Essex
- Overtun, Hampshire
- Hatfield, Hertfordshire
- Basildon, Essex
- Slough, Berkshire
- Lewes, Sussex
If you are looking for a property in and around Romford then contact us at Keystone’s Property – Estate Agents Romford to find out how we can help you.