Take five | Homes for sale in England’s most sought-after cities
When you start hunting for a new home, there’s often a decision to be made between enjoying extra square footage or having the convenience of nearby amenities. According to our latest Housing Futures survey, 41% of those looking to move in the next five years would most like to live in a city. And for these buyers, amenities certainly come up trumps: sports facilities, a library, and transport links were cited as the most important facilities to be within reasonable walking distance of their new home.
What truly makes a city attractive goes beyond convenience. High-quality schools well‑maintained communal green spaces, lively neighbourhoods, and a sense of community often all play a part in the decision to relocate.
Here we highlight five standout properties in cities across the country that bring together spacious living, top-class amenities, excellent schools and the vibrant local character you’ve been looking for.
1 Marlborough Buildings
Bath, Somerset
This seven-storey, Grade II Listed town house is one of Bath’s most exciting restoration projects in recent years. Originally built in the1780s, this elegant property is the end terrace of 12 stunning town houses facing the Royal Crescent – one of the city’s most famous addresses. Bath is a vibrant city with plenty of independent shops and businesses, and cultural attractions. Not only is the property located on the main line between London, Bristol and Cardiff, making it great for commuting to all three areas - but there are also great road links with the M4 motorway just 10 miles to the north.
33 St. Leonards Road
St. Leonards Road, Exeter
Set in the sought-after St. Leonards, this elegant Georgian family home has the rare advantage of being unlisted. The property is situated off Magdalen Road, known as “The Village”, where there are a great range of local shops, cafes and restaurants. There are many excellent state and independent schools found in Exeter – along with The University of Exeter, which is recognised as one of the best in the country.
16 Emmanuel Road
Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
Found in prime central Cambridge, this beautiful, period town house has been recently refurbished to an exceptional standard. Originally constructed in the 1840s, this elegant property with a private courtyard, is ideally located – offering access to a wide range of amenities. Independent shops, cafes and restaurants fill the city centre as well as the open green spaces of Parker’s Piece and Jesus Green. This particular area has a good selection of independent and state schools nearby, such as Parkside Community College and Mander Portman Woodward.
Walton Well Road
Walton Well Road, Oxford
Well situated in the prime location of Oxford’s Jericho, this four-bedroom stylish house has recently been renovated throughout. Close to the wide range of independent shops, delicatessens, restaurants, artisan bakers and cafes, Walton Well Road places you in the very heart of Oxford’s dynamic cityscape. Just a few minutes’ walk from the property you will find yourself surrounded by the iconic Oxford University colleges and also within catchment of the popular St Philip and James Primary school.
Savoy House
Covent Garden, London
Positioned on the eighth floor of the prestigious 190 Strand development, this exquisite penthouse offers scale, privacy, and an award-winning landscaped terrace in the heart of London. Stroll around Covent Garden and the West End, exploring the best that London has to offer before taking the private lift directly to the penthouse apartment, where you can enjoy panoramic views over one of the best city skylines. This property is in a great location for families, as well having multiple tube stations and “outstanding” rated schools on its doorstep, such as St Clement Danes CofE Primary School and St Josephs Catholic Primary School.