Research reveals we’re opting for the traditional when it comes to putting down roots
Brits are trading in multi-storey, super-size culture for a taste of The Good Life, much like the characters played by Felicity Kendal and Richard Briers in the 1970s television programme, research published today has revealed.
Online property expert fish4homes (www.fish4homes.co.uk) has unveiled a list of the top ten most searched for towns, based on an analysis of over a million searches* on the site. The trends show today’s homebuyers are increasingly searching for good old-fashioned English towns, in a bid to escape the constant buzz of inner city life.
And surprisingly, hitting top of the towns is sleepy Kingswinford (situated in West Dudley, in the West Midlands), which is a clear hit amongst those searching for a new home.
So what are the typical English traits that today’s house hunters searching for?
Charming and ‘olde-worldy’
Kingswinford, is known for its pretty houses and quiet streets, traditional English pubs and laid-back lifestyle. Charming Cheltenham, sitting at the edge of the Cotswolds, has been the backdrop to a number of quintessentially British films such as Pride & Prejudice, and hosts one of the country’s most famous racing cups.
Culture Vultures’ Favourites
Ledbury has strong literary roots – the ‘Britain In Bloom’ winning town has been home to Elizabeth Browning and poet laureate John Masefield. And “we do like to be beside the seaside” - Hove is a hive of arty activity, with many of the UK’s artists and sculptors heading to the beautiful shores for fresh sea air and inspiration.
Mad dogs and Englishmen
We’re also coveting areas to enjoy the beautiful outdoors on a balmy summers’ day. Pershore, a small market town near Worcestershire, is famous for its plum and pear orchards, and the historical Pershore Abbey mean residents are never short of things to do on a day off. The rural market town of Evesham, home to one of Europe’s largest Abbeys, is a popular narrow boating spot for those looking for some river activity or bank side entertainment.
Hot Spots for Heritage Buffs
- Worcester
- Droitwich
- Brierly Hill
How better to feel more British than settling in a town famous for one of England’s most iconic products – Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce, or for some of the world’s finest china from Royal Worcester. Droitwich’s salt mining history gives current residents the added bonus of a famous Mineral Spa and Brierly Hill’s long heritage of glass and steel production gives it a firm spot in one of Britain’s most famous and prolific industries.
Modern British Icons
Of course, there are always those who would like to escape from London life, but can’t go too far, and one of Britain’s most famous commuter towns, Croydon, also makes an appearance on the list. It may not be a quaint village, but its residents are treated to regular BBC concerts at Fairfield Hall and a thriving theatre and arts scene as well as being situated on the edge of the Green Belt.
Mark Fitzgerald-Cooke, national sales director for fish4homes, says: “For most people looking for a new home, there’s a growing nostalgia for The Good Life as we want to feel part of the community that we live in and have a say in what goes on in the area.
“In fact, our estate agents have noticed a demand for properties situated in the more traditional areas of England and we envisage this trend to continue in the next couple of years. This is especially true as we no longer need to live so close to where we work, and we are increasingly taking the opportunity to enjoy the English countryside.”
For Brits looking for a more English way of life, here are some handy hints from fish4homes to help with the search:
• Read the local newspaper or go to their website to get a good idea of what day-to-day life is like in the town
• Research reviews of local pubs, cafes, shops and restaurants online – or if you have time while visiting properties, stop for a drink in one to soak up the atmosphere
• Check the council’s website to see what current issues are being debated
• Look at the local tourist board’s site, to find out what local exhibitions, fetes and activities are taking place
• Check the local exhibition or concert hall to get clued-up about the cultural scene
• Tap into the local knowledge of local estate agents – ask them what there is to see and do in the area
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