With world-class schools, green space and unrivalled links to the capital, Berkshire and Surrey continue to set the pace in the property market
Berkshire draws attention from buyers who value countryside charm, excellent connectivity, and lifestyle benefits. Charles Broadbent-Combe, Head of Sales at Savills Sunningdale, and Emma Creffield, Senior Associate Director at Strutt & Parker Ascot, both see the county as offering a rare combination of appeal.
“Berkshire truly offers the best of both worlds. It’s ideal for families seeking spacious homes and access to nature, while remaining exceptionally well-connected for commuting professionals. Prestigious towns like Ascot and Windsor merge countryside charm with world-class amenities, from Michelin-starred restaurants and polo clubs to the renowned Wentworth Golf Club and top-performing schools.
Emma agrees. “Berkshire has long attracted high-net-worth buyers thanks to its balance of countryside living and prime location just west of London. Being close to Heathrow for those who split their time between the UK and overseas has always added to its appeal. Recent years have only strengthened this, with the arrival of the Elizabeth Line connecting Heathrow and Reading through central London. This has redefined commuting across London and the South East, reducing journey times and creating a reliable travel option – which in turn has attracted buyers to the area.”
Both agree that buyer behaviour is evolving. Charles explains, “Buyer preferences are diverse, meaning no single property type dominates the market. Contemporary homes often appeal to younger families and professionals who value energy efficiency and turnkey living. Meanwhile, expansive country residences, particularly those within prestigious private estates like Wentworth, remain highly sought after by ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking privacy, space and prestige.”
Emma adds: “We’ve seen a clear uptick in activity in areas close to the Elizabeth Line, including Twyford and Maidenhead. Many families now choose these locations because they offer easy access to London – especially those who only need to be in the city three days a week. Increasingly, London families are drawn to Berkshire for more space, excellent schools, and a slower-paced lifestyle, while overseas buyers value the balance between proximity to London and the countryside atmosphere. Demand at the top end of the market remains strong, with notable appetite for prime and super-prime properties.”
Lifestyle is another decisive factor in the county’s appeal. Charles observes, “The influence of lifestyle amenities on buyer decisions is significant. Many buyers are first drawn to the area through word of mouth, often inspired by outstanding schools or sporting facilities recommended by friends and family. These initial impressions frequently evolve into serious interest. World-class golf clubs like Wentworth attract buyers keen to live nearby and pursue their passions. Berkshire is also home to some of the most prestigious polo clubs globally, including the iconic Guards Polo Club in Windsor Great Park.”
Emma expands on this: “Berkshire is a real lifestyle location. The relatively small county offers a huge range of leisure options, from golf courses like Berkshire Golf Club to world-class racing at Ascot. There are also luxurious retreats such as Coworth Park, Pennyhill Park and The Fairmont. Residents are spoiled for choice with Michelin-starred dining at The Fat Duck, Hinds Head and Waterside Inn in Bray, and Woven at Coworth Park. It’s no surprise Berkshire has even attracted the attention of the film industry, with locations such as Dorney Court and The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club featured in productions including Bridgerton, Queen Charlotte, and The Crown.”
Recent transport improvements have further shifted demand. Charles says, “We’ve seen a noticeable rise in buyers who commute to London but are now willing to look further afield, with Windsor, Maidenhead, and Taplow becoming increasingly popular. These Thames-side towns offer an exceptional lifestyle, combining riverside living with outstanding schools and strong community spirit. Their appeal is drawing in buyers who may not have previously considered the area.”
Emma concurs: “The Elizabeth Line has been a game changer. Areas within close proximity to it are seeing strong demand. This trend reflects a shift in priorities — buyers are placing greater value on lifestyle as well as connectivity. There’s growing interest in turnkey properties, particularly those offering modern builds with ample space and high specifications, including amenities like gyms and swimming pools.”
Interest comes from both home and abroad. Charles notes: “Many overseas buyers are familiar with Berkshire, drawn by world-class sporting facilities and iconic events such as Royal Ascot. Education is another major draw, with schools such as Eton College and Wellington College renowned globally. Domestic buyers are drawn by the sense of space, greenery, and lifestyle balance.”
Emma adds: “The international interest tends to come from the Middle East and the United States, particularly families drawn by ACS International School Egham and TASIS. Regardless of origin, buyers continue to value the county’s lifestyle offering.”
Charles closes with: “I think demand will continue to grow along the Elizabeth Line as that location builds its reputation as a commuting hotspot offering a balance between countryside and London connectivity. Regardless of market conditions, the limited supply of first-class properties and tight planning laws mean there will always be strong support for values in the area.”
