Yahoo News The two Merseyside villages named among the UK's most desirable places to live
Village life is a cornerstone of British culture, with many boasting quintessential features such as thatched roofs, hedge-lined country lanes and open fields.
Given the charm of these locations, it's no wonder more Brits are keen to experience village life and now, property experts from across the nation have given their verdict on the UK's most sought-after villages.
Two villages in Merseyside have been named in the list of the 30 most desirable places to live. Here's the full rundown.
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Hightown, Merseyside
Hightown was recently crowned the UK's top city in a Which? survey. The coastal village of Hightown offers shingle beach strolls and boasts one of the UK's top 50 pubs, The Pheasant Inn.
Peacocks have even been spotted strutting down the village's high street.
Caldy, Merseyside
Caldy in Wirral is renowned for its expansive, private residences and offers visitors stunning vistas of the River Dee and Welsh hills.
Speaking to Mail+, Wirral estate agent, Liam Gretton said: "Often the area is linked to Premier League footballers and celebrities seeking privacy."
In the vicinity, highly esteemed educational institutions include Calday Grange Grammar School, which holds local fame as the alma mater of James Bond actor Daniel Craig.
Roundhay, West Yorkshire
Renowned for its parkland and selection of prestigious properties, Roundhay in West Yorkshire offers fantastic country walks and lakeside picnics. Tom Kirk, CEO at Preston Baker Estate Agent said: "With its excellent schools, thriving local shops and proximity to the vibrant amenities of Oakwood and Moortown, Roundhay provides an enviable lifestyle for families and professionals seeking a peaceful retreat within easy reach of the city.", reports the Mirror.
Dirleton, East Lothian
Originating from the 12th century, Dirleton is known for its historic and picturesque castle. Alongside a rich heritage, the tranquil countryside provides the perfect spot for golf enthusiasts.
Bespoke estate agent Liam Gretton noted that the area attracts a blend of wealthy locals, retirees and holiday homeowners. The firm said: "Prices range from about £400,000 for traditional cottages to over £2.5 million for larger country homes."
Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire
Chipping Norton, home to former Prime Minister David Cameron and Jeremy Clarkson, is as posh as it gets, says Michelle Niziol, director and owner of IMS Property Group. The town itself looks like it's been lifted straight from a postcard, complete with cafes, restaurants and independent shops.
Scarcroft in West Yorkshire
Home to around 1,000 people, Scarcroft is perfect for horse lovers thanks to the Hellwood Racing Stables and a riding centre at Scarcroft Hall. The village itself is only six miles from Leeds city centre and for those who love a cosy pub, the Inn at Scarcroft dates back to 1852.
Newtown Linford, Leicestershire
Newtown Linford has become a hotspot for millionaires. Gated mansions and a private members' club make it ideal for those with a few more coins in the bank.
The village itself is also home to a rare police box. According to Rightmove, most sales over the last year were detached properties and averaged at a price of £1,975,600.
Alderley Edge, Cheshire
Located within the Cheshire Golden Triangle, Alderley Edge has attracted many Premier League footballers, actors and multi-millionaire businesspeople over the years. In fact, it is one of the most expensive and sought-after places to live in the UK outside of London.
Liam Gretton said: "Alderley Edge has become a favourite location to call home by footballers and TV stars for its high-end shops and private homes.
"David and Victoria Beckham have been associated with the area before their move to Spain in 2003."
Haigh, Greater Manchester
Nestled in the Metropolitan Borough of Wigan, Greater Manchester, Haigh is a quaint village and civil parish that offers a posh retreat from the bustling city of Manchester. Despite Wigan's more modest reputation, Haigh boasts historical charm and scenic landscapes, including Greater Manchester's only surviving windmill, making it an idyllic destination for a peaceful day out.
Bishopthorpe, North Yorkshire
Steeped in history and mentioned in the Domesday Book, Bishopthorpe lies just three miles south of York. Tom Kirk, CEO at Preston Baker, highlighted the village's appeal. He said: "The village boasts tree-lined streets, charming cottages, and a vibrant community atmosphere. There are great local amenities including cosy pubs, artisan shops, and scenic riverside walks along the River Ouse."
Abersoch, Gwynedd
On the Llyn peninsula in North Wales, Abersoch is a chic seaside village known for its golden beaches and upscale boutiques. Not only is it home to Wales' most expensive street, Benar Headland, but the area also made headlines last year when a beach hut on its shores fetched a staggering £191,000.
Solva, Pembrokeshire
Solva, an old fishing village in Pembrokeshire, captivates visitors with its picturesque harbour and sandy beach nestled at the mouth of St Brides Bay. The area's houses, celebrated for their vibrant hues, stand alongside boutique gift shops, art galleries, and a traditional general store.
Shalbourne, Wiltshire
Shalbourne, a quaint village tucked away in the North Wessex Downs, boasts a posh community life that includes a cricket club, tennis club and gardening groups. Some parts of the village, such as the thatched-roof houses, date back to the Elizabethan era.
Last year, the average property sold for £839,971.
Beaulieu, Hampshire
As its name suggests, Beaulieu is a beautiful village that houses the 9,000-acre Beaulieu Estate. The 16th-century high street features artisan shops and is conveniently located near both the New Forest and Buckler's Head, a hamlet on the banks of the Beaulieu River.
Elie, Fife
Elie is one of the many harbour villages found in Fife. Its eclectic architecture dating back to the 17th century is complemented by its five beaches.
The numerous restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines for visitors to choose from.
Warkworth, Northumberland
Natural beauty and a fairytale setting sum up the village of Warkworth. The medieval Warkworth Castle frames the high street, which bustles with artisan shops.
Brancepeth, County Durham
Located in a conservation area five miles from Durham, Brancepeth is home to a 12th-century castle, ivy-covered cottages and a golf course designed by the same architect who designed Wentworth.
Ombersley, Worcestershire
Offering a stark contrast to many of the villages on this list with its distinctive black and white timber homes, Ombersley is a prime spot for sweeping views of the Shropshire and Malvern Hills. The surrounding meadows and woodlands are brimming with tranquil country walks that are both genteel and invigorating.
Virginia Water, Surrey
Virginia Water is well-connected to London Waterloo and is famed for its expansive lake, which has been used as a backdrop in various films, including the Harry Potter series. Rumoured to be home to music icon Elton John, property prices in the area can soar from £900,000 to a staggering £15 million.
Liam Gretton said: "The area houses some of the UK's most expensive streets amidst Windsor Great Park."
Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire
Located 33 miles from London in the Misbourne Valley, Great Missenden is steeped in history with its ancient streets, heritage coaching inns, and medieval churches. It's also a haven for fans of beloved childhood tales, being the location of the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre.
Sunningdale, Berkshire
Sunningdale, with its scenic countryside and easy access to London, is a delight. Windsor Great Park and Chobham Common are just a stroll away, and the local community enjoys excellent schools.
Kingham, Oxfordshire
Kingham, nestled in the Cotswolds, offers charm and more. With connections to opera, organic farm produce, and gourmet pub food, it's a delightful place to live.
Daylesford Farm, arguably the country's poshest greengrocer, is nearby. Plus, the train station provides direct links to London, just over an hour away.
Biddestone, Wiltshire
This Saxon village once held the title of 'best kept Wiltshire village'. Francesca Watson, co-founder of Otters Home Search, describes it as "picture perfect".
The village boasts large Cotswold Stone properties around The Green, quaint cottages, an attractive duck pond, the White Horse pub, a generous cricket ground and tennis courts, and a Saxon church.
Shipton Moyne, Gloucestershire
Shipton Moyne is close to the excellent Westonbirt School and Westonbirt Arboretum, not to mention Highgrove House, the country residence of King Charles. The picturesque high street features large country houses and smaller cottages, and the charming Cat and Custard Pot Inn is owned by some of the village residents.
Beckington, Somerset
With its convenient access to Bath, Beckington in Somerset is celebrated for its village pre-school, an Ofsted-Outstanding primary school, and the independent Springmead prep school. The village boasts tennis and cricket clubs along with two reputable pubs.
Llandough, Vale of Glamorgan
Llandough in the Vale of Glamorgan offers a picturesque escape for those yearning for rural allure while still enjoying the convenience of city proximity. Situated near Cardiff, Llandough has emerged as a sought-after spot for city workers.
Home prices in the area span from £300,000 to £1.5 million.
West Kilbride, North Ayrshire
Celebrated as Scotland's 'craft town', West Kilbride is rich in culture and boasts spectacular sea views. "It's a hub of creativity with exhibitions, galleries and studios scattered throughout," says Caryl Spiers, sales manager at Westpoint Homes.
Studland, Dorset
This quaint Dorset village is nestled on a peninsula in the Isle of Purbeck, conveniently located near both Swanage and Corfe Castle. According to Rightmove, average house prices have skyrocketed by 47% over the past year, with the typical home selling for a cool £1.9 million.
Studland is renowned for its expansive sandy beaches and even features a nudist beach for the more adventurous.
Barrington, Cambridgeshire
Situated in South Cambridgeshire, Barrington boasts one of the longest village greens in Europe, spanning 22 acres as per the parish council. The green is encircled by charming thatched cottages and a historic pub, offering an idyllic rural setting.
Plus, it provides an easy commute to the city of Cambridge.
Barston, West Midlands
Just 11 miles from bustling Birmingham, Barston offers the picture-perfect rural lifestyle often depicted in glossy magazines. Framed by the River Blythe, the village is home to numerous historic buildings, including the Church of St Swithin, which dates back to 1721.
A cosy local pub and a tight-knit community are at the heart of this village's appeal.
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