If you work in London but want to live away from the hustle and bustle, there are plenty of great options available to you. Strike the right balance, and you could be rewarded with a comfortable lifestyle that offers convenient routes to and from the city. Plus, it means you’ll have easy access to urban and rural areas on a weekend too. Affordability, a less intense lifestyle, and access to nature are just some of the key pull factors. For this reason, it’s a common choice for families and young professionals alike.
Here are some of the locations you may want to consider if you’re a prospective homebuyer wanting to live just outside London.
Guildford
Situated beside the Surrey Hills National Landscape, Guildford is perfect for anyone seeking somewhere with plenty of nearby green space. Direct trains to London can take as little as 35 minutes, making it a natural option for commuters looking to live somewhere with a good quality of life.
Top attractions nearby include Wild Wood Adventure, Guildford Castle, and numerous galleries for culture fans. Add in lots of country walking routes and nearby stately homes, and you’re spoilt for choice with fantastic activities to fill your weekends with. Markets, eateries, and several shopping centres also add to the vibrancy of the place.
Stevenage
Not only is Stevenage generally more affordable, but it also has a real sense of place. The old town offers endless charm and has small, independent shops. Meanwhile, you can find plenty of modern amenities in the town.
The commute to London by train takes approximately 30 minutes, making it a go-to commuter town for many young professionals and families wanting a slower pace of life outside the capital. For this reason, buying a new build house in Stevenage is an attractive opportunity for homeownership for many.
St Albans
If you’re looking for somewhere with a rich sense of history plus a wealth of modern amenities for comfortable living, St. Albans is a great choice. Both families and young professionals will feel right at home here.
St. Albans Cathedral and the iconic Clock Tower are staples in the area; meanwhile, Heartwood Forest is perfect for anyone wanting to breathe in some fresh country air. This is one of the closest commuter cities, with direct trains taking just under 20 minutes in some cases.
Reading
Another well-connected city is Reading, with fast and frequent direct trains to and from London taking just under 50 minutes.
Key attractions here include The Oracle shopping centre, the Thames Lido, plenty of green space in the form of Wellington Country Park, and more. There are endless family-friendly days out to be had here.