If you want the buzz of London within reach but crave more space, calm and value for money, these ten locations less than an hour away offer the best of both worlds.
London remains one of the most dynamic cities in the world, but not everyone wants to be in the thick of it all the time. Thanks to the green belt, the city’s urban sprawl is contained, creating a natural boundary between city and countryside. Beyond it lie towns that enjoy excellent connections and a quality of life thatโs hard to find in London itself. With the average property price now at ยฃ561,587, the appeal of moving just a few stops further out is clear.
From historic market towns to leafy commuter spots, there are plenty of places within an hour of the city that combine convenience with character โ and a more manageable price tag. They offer good schools, community spirit and a slower pace of life, all while keeping Londonโs theatres, restaurants and offices within easy reach. And if you’re already based in the city, owning a nearby weekend bolthole can be a greener, more affordable alternative to flying off each Friday.
Top 10 commuter towns an hour from London
| Location | Population | Time to London (by train) | Average property price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faversham, Kent | 21,000 | 66 minutes | ยฃ349,000 |
| Hungerford, Berkshire | 6,000 | 50 minutes | ยฃ382,000 |
| Horsham, West Sussex | 51,000 | 55 minutes | ยฃ453,000 |
| Oxted, Surrey | 11,000 | 34 minutes | ยฃ716,000 |
| Guildford, Surrey | 145,000 | 39 minutes | ยฃ616,456 |
| Maidenhead, Berkshire | 70,000 | 34 minutes | ยฃ618,860 |
| Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire | 42,727 | 30 minutes | ยฃ342,134 |
| Harlow, Essex | 95,000 | 30 minutes | ยฃ300,000 |
| Epping, Essex | 133,969 | 36 minutes | ยฃ668,519 |
| Henley-upon-Thames, Oxfordshire | 12,186 | 44 minutes | ยฃ706,133 |
1. Faversham, Kent
A historic market town surrounded by orchards and waterways, Faversham offers an easy-going lifestyle within commuting reach of London. Itโs home to Shepherd Neame, Britainโs oldest independent brewery, and its medieval streets are lined with antique shops, pubs and independent cafรฉs. The Saxon Shore Way and Oare Marshes nature reserve are ideal for long walks, while Whitstableโs coast is just a short drive away. Period cottages start from around ยฃ350,000, with larger family homes climbing to ยฃ450,000 and beyond.
2. Hungerford, Berkshire
In the heart of the North Wessex Downs, Hungerford combines rural tranquillity with strong rail links to London Paddington. The River Kennet, Kennet, Avon Canal and Savernake Forest provide scenic backdrops for walking, cycling and boating. The high street is filled with antique shops, cafรฉs and traditional pubs. Youโll find flats from ยฃ200,000 and character cottages from under ยฃ300,000, making it one of the more affordable commuter towns.
3. Horsham, West Sussex
Set between the North and South Downs, Horsham enjoys both countryside calm and proximity to the south coast. Itโs a prosperous town with low crime rates and excellent amenities, including shops, cinemas and leisure centres. Gatwick Airport is close by, and the train to London Victoria takes under an hour. Expect one-bedroom flats from ยฃ200,000 and semi-detached homes from ยฃ350,000.
4. Oxted, Surrey
Sitting on the edge of the North Downs, Oxted offers the best of both worlds โ rolling countryside and fast access to London Bridge in around half an hour. The townโs greenbelt setting gives it a distinctly rural feel, while the M25 is right on the doorstep. Prices reflect the convenience: expect to pay over ยฃ250,000 for a retirement property and at least ยฃ500,000 for a semi-detached house.
5. Guildford, Surrey
With its cobbled streets, riverside walks and views over the Surrey Hills, Guildford is one of the most sought-after spots in the commuter belt. The townโs historic architecture, shops and lively cultural scene make it ideal for families and professionals alike. Regular trains to Waterloo take under 40 minutes. Flats start well under ยฃ100,000, but semi-detached homes are closer to ยฃ330,000.
6. Maidenhead, Berkshire
The Elizabeth Line has put Maidenhead firmly back on the map for commuters. The direct service to Bond Street takes under an hour, while the townโs Thames-side setting adds lifestyle appeal. Families enjoy riverside parks, cycling routes and weekend walks to nearby Windsor. Apartments start at around ยฃ75,000, while family homes cost from ยฃ500,000.
7. Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire
This friendly market town offers excellent value and a 30-minute train to Euston. The high street brims with independent shops and cafรฉs, while the weekly Charter Market has traded since the 11th century. Nature lovers will appreciate its canal walks and proximity to the Chiltern Hills. One- or two-bedroom properties start from ยฃ130,000, while family homes cost around ยฃ300,000.
8. Harlow, Essex
Bordering Hertfordshireโs countryside, Harlow is evolving fast, with new developments and excellent transport links to London Liverpool Street. Its sculpture trail and public gardens bring creativity to daily life, while local theatres and cafรฉs add a community feel. Prices remain accessible, with small flats from ยฃ170,000 and family houses around ยฃ400,000.
9. Epping, Essex
Best known for its vast ancient forest, Epping combines country life with Central Line convenience. You can step from the woods straight onto the Tube โ and be at Bank station in under 40 minutes. Apartments start from ยฃ150,000, with four-bedroom homes from ยฃ400,000. Itโs a good choice for those who want green space without giving up easy city access.
10. Henley-upon-Thames, Oxfordshire
A classic English riverside town, Henley is famous for its regatta and elegant Georgian streets. The high street is lined with boutiques, cafรฉs and galleries, and the town hosts an exclusive music and arts festival each summer. It may not be the cheapest option, but it offers an enviable lifestyle. One-bedroom homes start at ยฃ280,000, with larger family houses from ยฃ750,000.
Summary
Each of these towns offers a distinct balance of value, character and connectivity. Whether youโre after a permanent move or a weekend retreat, there are plenty of places within an hour of London where you can slow down โ without cutting yourself off.
