By moving away from London’s hustle and bustle, you can enjoy a balance between working in the office and coming home to a lovely suburban spot less than an hour away
The ongoing cost of living crisis is making London increasingly unaffordable for many – leading to a surge in popularity for commuter towns.
Escaping the city’s hustle and bustle allows for a balanced lifestyle between office work and enjoying a tranquil suburban home less than an hour away.
From St Albans to Horley, there are numerous locations outside of London that are ideal for those seeking a quieter life than the city provides. Additionally, it’s a significant money-saver for many as property prices are generally lower outside the capital.
Considering a move to embrace the commuter lifestyle? Here is a list of some stunning towns and villages that are not only beautiful places to live but also within an hour’s commute.
St Albans
St Albans, often ranked as the top commuter town for London workers, is nestled in Hertfordshire. Frequently voted one of the happiest places to live, this town boasts beautiful countryside surroundings.
Despite commonly being referred to as a town, St Albans is actually a city and its charm led to it replacing Mayfair on a UK edition of Monopoly, reports the Express.
Residents can enjoy remarkable Roman ruins, a stunning cathedral and England’s oldest pub; Ye Olde Fighting Cocks. The cherry on top? A swift 20-minute train ride will get you to London St Pancras.
Lower Sunbury
Lower Sunbury, a quaint village in the commuter town of Sunbury-on-Thames, boasts a delightful riverside vibe. Unlike the bustling Oxford Street, its high street is brimming with charming independent shops and cafes.
When the sun shines, commuters can savour their lunch by the river at the popular The Magpie. On weekends, families can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the stunning Walled Garden in Sunbury Park.
This place is a true commuter haven that offers a much-needed respite from city stress. Just beyond Twickenham, Lower Sunbury is a mere 50 minutes away from central London.
High Wycombe
High Wycombe, tucked away in the picturesque Buckinghamshire countryside, is a lovely area just northwest of London. It’s encircled by the scenic Chiltern Hills and provides plenty of tranquil walking routes for commuters to relax after a day’s work in the capital.
You can amble along the River Wye or explore the 1,500 acres of parkland surrounding the mesmerising Hughenden Manor. And the best part?
It often takes just about 30 minutes to get back to High Wycombe after a day in London.
Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks, situated in neighbouring Kent southeast of London, is another captivating commuter town. Not only is it a lush green belt, but it has also been named as the best place to live in the South East.
Sevenoaks is renowned for its unique shops, Chartwell – the former home of Winston Churchill, and top-tier schools.
The town also features the magnificent Knole Park and House, where deer roam freely and locals relish invigorating walks. It’s an ideal spot for city workers as a quick train ride from London Bridge or Charing Cross will transport you to this scenic town in just 22 minutes.
Woodley
Woodley, situated just outside Reading, is a charming town that’s perfect for commuters. Known for its aviation history, Woodley is nestled in beautiful Berkshire.
If you’re after the convenience of a town with the charm of a quieter, less busy lifestyle, Woodley is a fantastic choice. Enjoy leisurely walks around Lavells Lake, explore Dinton Pastures Country Park and visit nearby Lodge Wood. Plus, it’s quicker to reach from Paddington than travelling from Battersea to Stratford.
Brookmans Park
Another nod for Hertfordshire goes to the enchanting village of Brookmans Park. If you work in the city and enjoy a weekend round of golf, this beautiful spot boasts one of the best courses in the county.
It’s a tranquil haven away from the city hustle, home to the stunning Gobion Woods nature reserve. Plus, it’s just a swift 40-minute journey from Kings Cross to Potters Bar, then another train to Brookmans Park.
Iver
Our final charming commuter town is Iver, nestled in Buckinghamshire and part of the vast Colne Valley Regional Park. This delightful place is surrounded by beautiful green landscapes and houses the renowned Pinewood Studios.
Black Park, which is nearby, is ideal for long dog walks and even has a Go Ape for family fun. Additionally, Iver will soon be linked to the Elizabeth Line, making it even more accessible to the city. Currently, it’s just a 25-minute train ride to London Paddington.
