A pretty market town has been named the most desirable place to live in the UK. Located just a 30-minute train journey from London St Pancras station, the town is thriving with restaurants, wine bars and leisure facilities.
Harpenden, in Hertfordshire, sits around 25 miles north of London and is popular among both commuters and affluent families. According to RightMove, the average house price in the town is £950,000, with detached properties sold for an average of £1,539,306, semi-detached homes going for £872,147 and flats fecthing £390,956. Harpenden attracts families for a number of reasons, including its range of outstanding state schools, green spaces, community spirit and low crime rates.
As reported by The Telegraph, Harpenden also boasts a vibrant town centre, with the streets line with boutiques, cafes and bars. There is also a regular farmers market which offers a range of local produce.
Douglas Sleaper, of Savills, recommends the “twice-weekly street market and a superb range of restaurants, wine bars and leisure facilities”. Meanwhile, Sally Noakes, of Strutt & Parker, notes it ideal location: “The town is flanked – at a good distance away – by both the M1 and A1, which gives you easy links to London in the south and the Midlands.”
There are a number of excellent primary and secondary schools in Harpenden, including Sir John Lawes, St George’s and Roundwood Park School. They were each rated “outstanding” in their most recent Ofsted reports.
Residents also love the town’s traditional high street which homes a variety of supermarkets as well as independent shops. There is also a range of highly-rated eateries, including Bar Azita’s Mediterranean, the Harpenden Arms and The White Horse.
The vibrant farmers’ market is held on the fourth Sunday of every month on Bowers Parade. Local traders sell everything from fruit and vegetables to pastries and plants.
Harpenden Common is a popular space for sport, including Harpenden Cricket Club. Meanwhile, Rothamsted Park has a skate park, playground and local football team.
One Reddit user asked the online community what it was like living in Harpenden. A number of residents have replied, noting the quality of life and range of amenities.
Edward_Strange wrote: “It’s a lovely town, very pleasant with an amazing chippy! The Thameslink, when it works, is an amazing Trainline.”
F-reds added: I grew up in Harpenden, went to school there, worked there and have just started a new life a bit further up the A1 due to personal changes in Sutton. It’s a wonderful little town.”
They continued: “The other poster talking about the chippy is right, Godfrey’s is the best I’ve ever come across whether by the sea side or not, the minted peas and homemade tartare sauce are to die for. It’s got a gym and various other amenities.”