So, you’re looking to buy a house in Berkshire? Perhaps you’re a first-time buyer on an exciting journey to homeownership, or maybe you’re looking to buy a second property to grow your family’s wealth.
Whatever your reason for wanting to move, Berkshire has some fantastic locations. As an experienced mortgage broker and adviser in Berkshire, it’s safe to say that we have a fair bit of knowledge on the county’s mortgage market.
Whether you’re hunting for a stylish apartment in one of the bustling towns or a countryside cottage, this guide will help you explore where to live in Berkshire.
Why choose Berkshire?
Berkshire is a county with something for everyone. It is famously known as the Royal County of Berkshire, thanks to its connection to the Royal Family and being home to Windsor Castle.
With excellent schools, leisure facilities, and a rich cultural scene, Berkshire is not only a beautiful county but also a place where families, professionals, and retirees can thrive.
For starters, Berkshire is well-connected, with easy access to London and other major cities. For commuters, there are various direct services to Paddington and the Elizabeth Line. Meanwhile, for drivers, there’s the M4 national motorway network, which takes you west to Bristol and South Wales or east to London.
But wherever you choose to live in Berkshire, you are never too far from the stunning countryside. The rolling hills of The North Wessex Downs (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) and the picturesque River Thames span throughout Berkshire and beyond, offering dog walkers, families and nature enthusiasts a chance to explore and enjoy many outdoor pursuits.
Is Berkshire a good place to live for families?
From Wokingham to Twyford, Berkshire has plenty of lively towns and villages with excellent schools, low crime rates, strong community spirit, and local amenities, making it a great place for families to settle down.
Berkshire is home to some of the top schools in the UK, including Lowbrook Academy Primary School in Maidenhead, Reading School, and Eton College in Windsor.
Top best places to live in Berkshire
1) Windsor
Windsor is synonymous with royalty and charm. Home to the iconic Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor is a beautiful town filled with cobbled streets, boutique shops, and riverside walks. Families are drawn to the schools, while professionals enjoy the convenient transport links to London.
Windsor is ideal for families, professionals, and history buffs.
See our mortgage services in Windsor.
2) Ascot
Ascot is more than just horseracing. Yes, it has the highly rated Royal Ascot, where thousands of people gather to enjoy warm days, vibrant outfits, and social gatherings, but it is also home to some great schools and amenities.
Ascot has plenty to offer in the housing market, from luxury detached homes and modern new builds to grand country estates. According to Rightmove, house prices in Ascot start at around £500,000, with detached homes reaching over £1 million.
Ascot is a great location for high-net-worth individuals and families.
3) Reading
Reading is Berkshire’s county town and thriving hub for culture and business. It’s home to the award-winning University of Reading, the famous Reading Festival, and The Oracle Shopping Centre, where residents and visitors can enjoy plenty of shopping opportunities. While students and professionals may appreciate Reading’s central location, some families may prefer a little less hustle and bustle in one of Reading’s many suburbs, such as Caversham or Twyford.
Take a look at how we’ve helped a self-employed client buy their first property in Reading.
Regardless of your location, Reading offers plenty of transport options, including buses and trains. The latest addition is the Elizabeth Line, which has direct links to London Paddington and Heathrow Airport.
Reading is a great town for students, young professionals, commuters, and families.
See our mortgage services in Reading.
4) Wokingham
Wokingham is often among the top places to live in the UK and has been previously mentioned as one of the best places to raise children. With brilliant schools, a strong community, and a charming town centre filled with independent shops, it’s ideal for families and professionals alike. Its location offers easy access to London and the nearby countryside for outdoor adventures.
The housing market in Wokingham is popular, with a mix of property types to suit a range of buyers. The average house price in Wokingham is currently around £500,000, with semi-detached homes and flats coming in lower.
Take a look at how we helped our client buy their first home in Wokingham.
Wokingham is an ideal place to live for families and professionals looking for a bit of everything.
See our mortgage services in Wokingham.
5) Donnington, Newbury
Listed in the Muddy Stilettos guide as one of the best places to live in Berkshire, Donnington is a beautiful village in West Berkshire on the edge of Newbury. What makes Donnington truly stand out is its perfect blend of countryside charm and convenient town access. Notable landmarks like Donnington Castle offer cinematic views across Newbury and exciting, nature-filled dog walks, while commuters can get to surrounding towns and cities with easy direct transport links.
For families, Donnington and its surrounding area offer great schools and nurseries, like Mary Hare, the UK’s largest school for deaf pupils.
Donnington is perfect for retirees and families seeking a quieter pace of life.
6) Cookham
Also getting its much-deserved mention in the Muddy Stilettos guide is Cookham, a quirky, cultural village along the River Thames with lots to offer. With art festivals, food spots, indie shopping, stunning landscapes, and nearby Michelin-starred restaurants, Cookham has earned its reputation as one of the most desirable places to live in Berkshire. The village also has Cookham Railway Station with convenient transport links to London and nearby towns.
Cookham has a mix of period homes, riverside properties, traditional cottages, and modern family homes. House prices, which average at around £900,000, certainly reflect the town’s charm.
Cookham is the ideal place for high-end buyers and families looking for a vibrant village.
Moving to Berkshire? Contact our local mortgage brokers
Whether you’re moving from afar or looking to relocate within Royal Berkshire, Simmonds Mortgage Services has the tools and experience to help. We have access to a wide range of mortgage lenders as well as valuable insight into Berkshire’s local market. Give us a call on 01184 693 037 to speak with an adviser, or book online for a time that suits you.
