Why Jack Grealish and celebrities love Barnt Green as local boasts 'we could be in Knightsbridge'

It's the leafy Midlands village that has long been a haven for footballers seeking refuge in their grand mansions, far from the clamouring fans eager for a signature or a snapshot.

The village of Barnt Green has been home to former Albion and Villa manager Ron Atkinson for many years, with other notable residents including ex-Blues player Demarai Gray and Liam Ridgewell, who has ties to all three local clubs.

Celebrities like singer Jamelia and Gymshark's multi-millionaire founder Ben Francis have also enjoyed the tranquillity of this Worcestershire enclave.

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Yet, it's England's sensation, dubbed the "Brumtown Baggio" Jack Grealish, who's really turned heads here. He is often the talk of the town.

A drive into Barnt Green quickly reveals why it's a magnet for the wealthy and celebrated. Approaching the village centre, you're likely to spot flashy sports cars and Range Rovers speeding along the lanes, flanked by opulent homes with price tags soaring into the millions.

The picturesque high street on Hewell Road boasts a charming selection of independent shops, a post office, Tesco Express, a cafe, and a recently launched pizza place, where the owner busily polishes tables for the afternoon customers.

St Andrew's Church of England School and a quaint park can be found in the village, which is also situated next to the Lickey Hills, offering hundreds of acres of woodland for leisurely strolls.

The snapshot views of Worcestershire's countryside peeking through the houses make it easy to forget you're just about 25 minutes by train away from birmingham -city-centre>Birmingham city centre.

As for pubs, the locals are spoilt for choice between the Victoria Inn and Barnt Green Inn. A staff member at the latter let slip that Jack Grealish had once graced them with his presence for a drink, though not recently - an understandable absence since his move.

Residents enjoy the perks of the friendly community in Barnt Green, picturesque rural landscapes, and a newly opened restaurant.

Daniel Abel, expressing his thoughts on life in the village: "There's lots of cockapoos, discussions about which is better between the Barnt Green Inn and The Vic, arguments about whether horse riders should pick up their poo but, all in all, very pleasant."

"People are friendly, there are great places to walk, good transport and it's a pretty great place to live."

"Lovely village. Friendly people," chimed in Jacqui Hurcombe. "Beautiful location with amazing woodland for walks, running and the kids to explore and enjoy too."

Another resident, Eleanor Neale, praised the village: "Has some great walks, and everything you could want from a village."

"I have lived in Barnt Green the whole 24 years of my life, great people too.."

One local enthused: "Lovely locals, great walks not too far from the city but also far enough to get some peace."

"We have a deli." We could be in Knightsbridge."

Described as 'hugely popular', Worcestershire's rural spots like Barnt Green are attracting buyers in droves, drawn by the lure of green spaces, sizeable gardens, and extra space, a trend that has surged.

Arden Estate Agents report: "Barnt Green is a hugely popular little village to the north-east of Bromsgrove in Worcestershire."

"To the north-west is Lickey Hills and to the east, the two Bittell reservoirs lovely destinations for a walk or a spot for watersport."

"The landscape gives the area a fantastic rural feel, despite the convenience of being just ten minutes from Birmingham."

"Typical tenants in the village are commuting professionals and families, both preferring to live in the hub of the village given the excellent transport links and amenities."

"Rental prices have seen a slight increase since the recession ended and we would expect to see this continue in line with national averages."