Property: Britain’s Most Desirable Towns, Top 10, Is Yours on the List?

Looking for leafy streets, great schools, and house prices that make your wallet weep? You might already live in one of the most desirable towns in Britain — or be dreaming of making the move.

With help from property pros at Savills, The Telegraph crunched the latest census data and created a list of the UK’s 50 most sought-after spots. The rankings are based on everything from career status and education levels to health stats and — of course — property prices. And yes, a lot of them are in the Southeast - because of London.

But it’s not just about being close to the Big Smoke. Northern gems are creeping up the list, proving you don’t need a season ticket for Thameslink to live somewhere desirable.

So, without further ado, here’s a peek at the top 10 towns where Britain’s movers and shakers are setting up camp (and spending small fortunes on coffee and real estate).

1. Harpenden, Hertfordshire – Average House Price: £913,000

Where affluence meets after-school clubs.

Harpenden isn’t just posh — it’s practically a degree. Literally, 60% of locals have one. With a thriving town centre full of wine bars, restaurants, and a lively street market, it’s a family magnet just 25 miles north of London. You’ve got fast trains, access to the M1 and A1, and every activity under the sun. Locals call it ‘affluent’. Outsiders whisper ‘snobby’. We say: posh with purpose.

2. Cobham, Surrey – Average House Price: £1.4 million

Buying a house you haven’t seen? Must be Cobham.

Yes, it’s eye-wateringly expensive, but that’s not stopping buyers. A picturesque river, a buzzing café scene and leafy surrounds make this the ultimate commuter dream. Buyers here are more “just show me where to sign” than “let’s book a second viewing.”

3. Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire – Average House Price: £1.17 million

High streets are dying, they say. Beaconsfield says: not on my watch.

With great schools, easy access to Heathrow, and shops that survived the pandemic, this market town is thriving. Add in excellent grammar schools and rapid links to London, and you’ve got a recipe for property price rocket fuel.

4. Chorleywood, Hertfordshire – Average House Price: £1.10 million

Welcome to Metroland’s greenest corner.

Chorleywood is on the Metropolitan line and Chiltern Railways, meaning you can be in the city fast, and back to 185 acres of Common land by teatime. Great schools? Tick. Commuter access? Double tick. Tree-hugging locals with dogs named after Shakespeare characters? You bet.

5. Amersham, Buckinghamshire – Average House Price: £717,100

The rural town that still lets you tap your Oyster card.

Amersham hits the sweet spot: a proper market town with countryside on the doorstep and Zone 9 Tube access. It’s ideal for London escapees who still want to flirt with the capital now and then — and send their kids to good schools in the meantime.

6. Hale, Trafford – Average House Price: £857,300

The North’s answer to Chiswick — with bonus grammar schools.

Fancy, leafy, and just 15 minutes from Manchester, Hale is proof that the Southeast doesn’t have a monopoly on desirability. Grammar schools are still a thing here, which pulls in plenty of families. Plus, independent shops, good restaurants, and airport access seal the deal.

7. Esher, Surrey – Average House Price: £1.37 million

Come for the golf, stay for the cinema (and the coffee).

Esher has the energy of a town that refuses to be boring. You’ve got restaurants galore, green space for miles, and a cinema to boot. The high street might not win any heritage awards, but it’s a lively place — especially if you love coffee and brunch.

8. Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire – Average House Price: £1.28 million

Locals call it “GX”. Short for Gorgeous, probably.

This is commuter gold. Picture a village feel, 20-minute train rides to London, and a backdrop of rolling Buckinghamshire countryside. Add Pinewood Studios into the mix and you’ve got a town that’s as photogenic as it is practical. Oh, and the schools? Top-notch.

9. Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire – Average House Price: £774,000

Canals, cafés, and Chiltern walks — what more could you want?

Affectionately known as “Berko”, this pretty market town offers quick commutes to London Euston, charming independent shops, and scenic countryside strolls right out your back door. The canal adds major charm points — and the locals love a paddle.

10. St Albans, Hertfordshire – Average House Price: £660,100

The Queen of Commuter Towns, with a royal price tag to match.

St Albans is more than a postcode for city workers. It’s packed with history (England’s oldest pub, anyone?), beautiful Verulamium Park, and a serious sense of community. Plus, the shops and cafés here actually have character. No wonder it’s a firm family favourite.

Almost Made It: Penarth, Wales

Just south of Cardiff and full of Victorian seaside grandeur, Penarth narrowly missed the top 50. But with a millionaire’s row, a stunning promenade, and one of the UK’s best views across the Bristol Channel, we say: watch this space.

Final Thoughts

So, whether you're living the dream in Harpenden or scrolling Rightmove from your sofa in hope, these towns are proof that when it comes to property, schools, and café culture — Britain’s best towns are firing on all cylinders. Just bring a big deposit and a love of Waitrose.