The Best Cities, Towns & Villages in South East England

Oxford captivates with its stunning university architecture, cobbled lanes, and riverside charm. Explore historic colleges, the Bodleian Library, and punting on the Cherwell for a timeless taste of academic elegance and English tradition.

Brighton blends quirky charm with seaside style. Explore the iconic Pier, wander The Lanes’ indie shops, and admire the exotic Royal Pavilion. With pebbled beaches, vibrant nightlife, and creative spirit, it’s the south coast’s coolest coastal escape.

Portsmouth is a vibrant waterfront city known for its naval history, historic dockyard and lively harbour. It offers museums, shopping, seaside attractions and views across the Solent, with strong links to Britain’s maritime past.

Home to the iconic Windsor Castle, Windsor combines royal heritage with riverside walks, historic streets and lively shops and cafés. Its location beside the Thames and close to London makes it a popular year-round destination.

Canterbury captivates with medieval charm and lively culture. Explore the stunning cathedral, wander cobbled streets of timber-framed houses, and enjoy riverside gardens. With history, shops and cosy pubs, this Kent city offers a timeless appeal.

Framed by the South Downs and the English Channel, Eastbourne is known for its Victorian seafront, pier and nearby chalk cliffs at Beachy Head. It offers beaches, gardens and coastal walks in a relaxed seaside setting.

With its cobbled lanes and medieval charm, Rye is known for historic inns, timber-framed buildings and views across the Romney Marsh. Its galleries, cafés and coastal setting make it one of Sussex’s most picturesque towns.

Known for its medieval streets and historic cathedral, Winchester combines rich heritage with independent shops, riverside walks and a lively cultural scene. Its compact centre and countryside setting make it a popular Hampshire destination.

Known for its historic high street and riverside setting, Guildford combines shopping, theatres and cafés with nearby countryside and the Surrey Hills. Its mix of heritage and modern amenities makes it one of Surrey’s most popular destinations.

Famous for the historic Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court combines riverside walks, green spaces and elegant architecture with easy access to London and the Thames Valley.

Located in the Thames Valley, Reading combines modern shopping, riverside parks and historic landmarks with excellent transport links to London and the South East. It offers a lively yet convenient base close to both countryside and city life.

Set beside the River Thames, Richmond upon Thames is known for its riverside walks, elegant streets and expansive green spaces including Richmond Park. Its blend of village charm and easy access to central London makes it a popular destination year-round.

Southampton is a major south coast city known for its maritime heritage, cruise port and medieval walls. It offers shopping, museums, waterfront parks and easy access to the New Forest and Solent coastline.

Dominated by its impressive castle and cathedral, Arundel is a historic market town known for its medieval streets, riverside walks and independent shops. Its blend of heritage and countryside charm makes it a popular South Downs destination.

Famous for the 1066 Battle of Hastings, Battle is a historic market town centred around Battle Abbey and its battlefield. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it combines medieval heritage with independent shops, cafés and walking trails.

Set on the Sussex coast, Bexhill-on-Sea is known for its seafront promenade, relaxed atmosphere and modernist De La Warr Pavilion. The town combines beaches, cultural events and coastal walks with traditional seaside charm.

Broadstairs charms with sandy bays, cliff-top walks and a picturesque old town. Known as “the Jewel in Thanet”, it’s steeped in Dickensian history, with a lively food scene, beach huts, and sweeping sea views perfect for a classic seaside escape.

Known for its Roman heritage and striking cathedral, Chichester combines historic streets, galleries and markets with easy access to the South Downs and nearby coast. Its blend of culture and countryside makes it a popular Sussex destination.

Known for its historic old town and creative seaside atmosphere, Hastings blends medieval streets, beaches and fishing heritage with galleries, cafés and coastal walks along the Sussex shore.

Known for its modern layout and green spaces, Milton Keynes combines shopping, entertainment and business districts with lakes, parks and cycle routes. Its central location and strong transport links make it a major regional hub.

Known for its racecourse and market-town heritage, Newbury combines historic streets, canals and green spaces with shopping, theatres and countryside nearby. It offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Berkshire.

Set on the Sussex coast, Worthing combines beaches, a lively seafront and independent cafés with easy access to the South Downs. Its mix of coastal charm, green spaces and cultural venues makes it a popular seaside destination.

Folkestone blends seaside charm with a creative edge. Its Harbour Arm, sandy beach and cliff-top walks meet a vibrant Creative Quarter of galleries and cafes, while the Leas promenade and views of the Channel make it a lively yet relaxed coastal escape.

Dover, famed for its White Cliffs, is a historic port town with dramatic coastal views. Highlights include Dover Castle, wartime tunnels and the busy harbour, while the surrounding chalk landscapes and coastal paths offer stunning walks and scenery.

Margate blends vintage seaside fun with modern culture. Its sandy beach, retro amusements and Turner Contemporary gallery draw crowds, while the Old Town offers indie shops, cafes and art spaces, making it a vibrant mix of tradition and creativity.

Whitstable is a lively seaside town on the north Kent coast, known for its harbour, oysters and creative scene. It offers a shingle beach, coastal walks, independent shops and direct rail links to London.

Nestled in the South Downs, Alfriston is a picturesque village known for its historic inns, medieval church and scenic countryside walks. Its cosy atmosphere, independent shops and nearby coastline make it a popular rural retreat.

Set in the Hampshire countryside, Alton is a historic market town known for its Georgian streets, nearby walking trails and literary links to Jane Austen. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular South Downs gateway.

Famous for horse racing and the annual Royal Ascot event, Ascot combines leafy surroundings with elegant hotels, golf courses and countryside estates. Its location offers easy access to Windsor, London and the Surrey Hills.

Surrounded by Buckinghamshire countryside, Aylesbury is a historic market town known for its theatres, parks and traditional town centre. Its central location offers easy access to the Chilterns, Oxford and London.

Located in north Hampshire, Basingstoke combines modern shopping and business districts with parks, museums and nearby countryside. Its strong transport links make it a convenient base between London and the South Coast.

Set in the heart of the New Forest, Beaulieu is known for its historic abbey, riverside setting and the famous National Motor Museum. Surrounded by woodland and heathland, it offers a peaceful countryside escape.

Known for its long seafront and traditional seaside atmosphere, Bognor Regis offers beaches, parks and coastal walks along the South Coast. Its sunny climate and family-friendly feel make it a popular holiday destination.

Surrounded by parks and woodland, Bracknell combines modern shopping and business districts with easy access to the countryside. Its location near Windsor and the Thames Valley makes it a convenient base in the South East.

Located in the heart of the New Forest, Brockenhurst is known for its roaming ponies, woodland walks and village charm. Its relaxed atmosphere and easy access to coast and countryside make it a popular rural retreat.

Set on the River Great Ouse, Buckingham is a historic market town known for its Georgian architecture, riverside walks and independent shops. Its relaxed atmosphere and countryside setting make it a traditional Buckinghamshire destination.

Known as the gateway to the Cotswolds, Burford is famed for its medieval high street, stone cottages and surrounding countryside. Its historic charm and traditional inns make it a popular rural escape.

Set in the Cotswolds, Chipping Norton is known for its stone buildings, countryside surroundings and links to nearby Diddly Squat Farm Shop. Its market-town charm and rural setting make it a popular Oxfordshire retreat.

Set beside the River Thames, Cookham is a picturesque village known for its riverside walks, historic pubs and artistic heritage. Its peaceful setting and countryside charm make it a popular escape near London.

Famous for its sailing heritage and annual regatta, Cowes combines a lively marina, waterfront cafés and historic streets with coastal views and a relaxed island atmosphere.

Deal is a charming seaside town with a pebble beach, historic pier and winding streets of Georgian houses. Its castles, independent shops and cafes give it a relaxed feel, while coastal walks and sea views make it a perfect Kentish escape.

Known for its Georgian streets and historic castle, Farnham combines market-town charm with independent shops, galleries and nearby countryside walks. Its creative atmosphere and green surroundings make it a popular Surrey destination.

Famous for its annual regatta, Henley-on-Thames is a picturesque riverside town known for boating, elegant streets and scenic Thames walks. Its blend of historic charm, cafés and countryside makes it a popular South Oxfordshire destination.

Set between the Chiltern Hills and the Thames Valley, High Wycombe combines a historic market-town centre with modern shopping, theatres and nearby countryside. Its strong transport links make it a convenient South East hub.

Known for its antique shops and canal-side setting, Hungerford is a historic market town surrounded by countryside. Its traditional high street, independent businesses and walking routes give it a relaxed rural character.

Hythe, on Kent’s south coast, is a historic Cinque Port with a pebble beach, canal walks and charming high street. Highlights include the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Saltwood Castle views, and easy access to the scenic Kent Downs and coast.

Set beneath the South Downs, Lewes is a historic market town known for its castle, independent shops and vibrant cultural scene. Its cobbled streets, riverside setting and annual bonfire celebrations give it a distinctive character.

Set at the mouth of the River Arun, Littlehampton is known for its sandy beaches, harbour and family-friendly seaside atmosphere. Its riverside walks and coastal attractions make it a popular South Coast destination.

Lymington is a Georgian market town on the edge of the New Forest, known for its sailing heritage, cobbled streets and waterfront marinas. It offers coastal walks, boutique shops and ferry links to the Isle of Wight.

Lyndhurst is often called the capital of the New Forest, known for its independent shops, cafés and surrounding woodland. It offers easy access to forest walks, cycling routes and free-roaming ponies in the Hampshire countryside.

Set beside the River Thames, Marlow is known for its Georgian streets, riverside walks and vibrant dining scene. Surrounded by countryside, it combines market-town charm with easy access to London and the Chilterns.

Nestled in the South Downs National Park, Midhurst is a historic market town known for its medieval streets, independent shops and surrounding countryside walks. Its rural charm makes it a popular Sussex retreat.

Located at the mouth of the River Ouse, Newhaven is a working port town known for its ferry links, coastal views and nearby nature reserves. It offers easy access to the South Downs and the Sussex coastline.

Known for its long sandy beaches and historic pier, Ryde combines seaside charm with independent shops, cafés and coastal walks. Its ferry links and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular Isle of Wight destination.

Set on the south-east coast of the island, Sandown is known for its sandy beach, traditional pier and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Its coastal walks and family-friendly attractions make it a popular holiday destination.

Known for its sandy beach and charming old village, Shanklin combines seaside attractions, coastal walks and thatched cottages with a relaxed atmosphere on the Isle of Wight’s eastern coast.

Located west of London, Slough is a major business and transport hub with easy access to Windsor, Heathrow and the Thames Valley. Its diverse community and strong connections make it a convenient base in the South East.

Known for its seafront promenade and lively coastal atmosphere, Southsea combines beaches, independent shops and historic attractions with cafés, parks and views across the Solent.

Known for its creative atmosphere and seafront setting, St Leonards-on-Sea blends Victorian architecture, independent shops and galleries with beaches, cafés and a relaxed coastal lifestyle beside neighbouring Hastings.

Set along the River Test, Stockbridge is a picturesque market town known for its traditional pubs, independent shops and chalk stream scenery. Surrounded by countryside, it offers a peaceful Hampshire retreat.

Set beneath steep coastal cliffs, Ventnor is known for its Victorian character, botanical gardens and sheltered beaches. Its mild climate and creative atmosphere give it a distinctive Mediterranean feel.

Best known as the gateway to Blenheim Palace, Woodstock is a picturesque market town with historic streets, independent shops and Cotswold stone buildings. Its elegant character makes it a popular Oxfordshire destination.

Chatham is steeped in naval heritage. The Historic Dockyard showcases warships and maritime history, while the town offers theatres, shopping and links to nearby Rochester’s castle and cathedral, blending culture with waterfront character.

Dungeness is a shingle headland with wide skies, unique wildlife and stark beauty. Known for its lighthouses, nature reserve and quirky cottages, it’s also home to the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway and a dramatic, otherworldly coastal landscape.

Maidstone, the heart of Kent, combines riverside walks, shopping and culture with countryside charm. Explore Leeds Castle, museums, parks and nearby vineyards, making it a perfect base for history, nature and relaxed town life.

New Romney, once a Cinque Port, is now a quaint market town near the coast. With historic churches, cosy pubs and links to the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, it’s a charming gateway to Romney Marsh’s big skies, wildlife and unique landscapes.

Ramsgate is a lively harbour town with a sandy beach, royal marina and stunning Georgian architecture. Its bustling waterfront, coastal walks and café culture blend with rich maritime history, making it a vibrant spot on Kent’s Isle of Thanet.

Rochester, on the River Medway, is rich in history with its Norman castle, grand cathedral and Dickens connections. Its cobbled High Street, lined with independent shops and cafes, adds charm, while festivals and river views make it a cultural gem in Kent

Romney Marsh is a vast, flat landscape of big skies, grazing sheep and winding waterways. Dotted with medieval churches and picturesque villages, it’s a place of tranquillity and wildlife, offering unique walks, cycling and a timeless rural atmosphere.

Sandwich, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England, features timber-framed houses, narrow lanes and historic quayside. With its ancient churches, cosy inns and nearby Sandwich Bay, it’s a charming blend of heritage, riverside views and coastal

Sevenoaks, set amid the Kent Downs, blends a bustling market town with countryside charm. Highlights include Knole Park with its roaming deer, historic houses and nearby gardens, while its shops, cafes and links to London make it both lively and scenic.

Royal Tunbridge Wells is a spa town in west Kent, known for its elegant Georgian architecture, The Pantiles and cultural scene. It offers strong rail links to London, green spaces and access to the High Weald countryside.

Set beside the River Thames, Abingdon-on-Thames is one of England’s oldest market towns, known for its historic streets, riverside walks and traditional pubs. Its relaxed atmosphere and location near Oxford make it a popular Thames Valley destination.

Known for its market-town heritage and famous cross, Banbury combines historic streets, canals and shopping with easy access to the Cotswolds and surrounding countryside. It offers a lively yet traditional North Oxfordshire setting.

Known for the popular Bicester Village shopping destination, Bicester combines modern amenities with historic market-town character. Its location offers easy access to Oxford, the Cotswolds and the wider Thames Valley.

Known for its wartime codebreaking history, Bletchley combines modern amenities with easy access to Milton Keynes and surrounding countryside. It is home to the famous Bletchley Park, a key site in World War II intelligence history.

Set within the New Forest, Burley is a picturesque village known for its woodland surroundings, roaming ponies and traditional cottages. Its peaceful atmosphere and walking trails make it a popular countryside escape.

Set beside the River Thames, Chertsey is known for its riverside walks, abbey heritage and easy access to attractions including Thorpe Park and Brooklands Museum. Its mix of history, green spaces and transport links makes it a popular Surrey destination.

Set at the foot of the Surrey Hills, Dorking is known for its historic streets, antique shops and nearby vineyard and walking routes. Its market-town charm and countryside setting make it a popular Surrey destination.

Set on the edge of Ashdown Forest, East Grinstead is known for its historic high street, timber-framed buildings and nearby countryside walks. Its blend of heritage and green surroundings gives it a relaxed market-town feel.

Famous for the historic Epsom Downs Racecourse and Derby, Epsom combines green open spaces, shopping and leisure facilities with easy access to London and the Surrey countryside.

Surrounded by rolling countryside, Faringdon is a historic market town known for its independent shops, traditional pubs and nearby walking routes. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a charming base for exploring the Vale of White Horse.

Fordingbridge is a historic market town on the edge of the New Forest, known for its medieval seven-arched bridge and riverside setting. It offers easy access to woodland walks, cycling routes and traditional Hampshire countryside.

Nestled in the Chiltern Hills, Great Missenden is known for its historic high street, countryside walks and literary links to Roald Dahl. Its village charm and rural setting make it a popular Buckinghamshire retreat.

Set within the Surrey Hills, Haslemere is known for its historic streets, independent shops and surrounding woodland walks. Its relaxed atmosphere and countryside setting make it a popular South East retreat.

Hayling Island is a Hampshire seaside destination known for its long beaches, watersports and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Popular for sailing, windsurfing and nature walks, it offers easy access to the Solent and nearby south coast attractions.

Set at one of the highest points in Surrey, Hindhead is known for its heathland scenery, woodland walks and views across the Surrey Hills. Its peaceful countryside setting makes it a popular destination for outdoor escapes.

Located at the centre of the island, Newport combines historic streets, shopping and cultural attractions with easy access to the coast and countryside. Its central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the Isle of Wight.

Petersfield is a historic market town in the South Downs National Park, known for its independent shops, Georgian architecture and surrounding countryside. It offers walking routes, traditional pubs and easy rail links to London.

Best known for Petworth House, Petworth is a historic market town with antique shops, galleries and elegant streets. Surrounded by countryside, it offers a refined yet relaxed South Downs atmosphere.

Romsey is a historic Hampshire market town known for its medieval abbey, traditional streets and riverside setting. Close to the New Forest, it offers independent shops, walking routes and easy access to nearby countryside attractions.

Known for its historic high street and market-town charm, Thame combines independent shops, traditional pubs and nearby countryside walks. Its relaxed atmosphere and easy access to Oxford and London make it a popular Oxfordshire destination.

Best known for the grand Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon is a picturesque village surrounded by rolling countryside and vineyards. Its historic character and rural setting make it a popular Buckinghamshire destination.

Surrounded by the Vale of White Horse countryside, Wantage is a historic market town known for its traditional streets, local markets and nearby walking routes. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular Oxfordshire base.

Set beside the River Thames, Weybridge is known for its leafy surroundings, riverside walks and nearby attractions including Brooklands Museum. Its blend of village charm and excellent transport links makes it a popular Surrey destination.

Set on the edge of the Cotswolds, Witney is a historic market town known for its stone buildings, independent shops and nearby countryside walks. Its relaxed atmosphere and easy access to Oxford make it a popular West Oxfordshire base.

Located in north Surrey, Addlestone offers a mix of modern amenities, green spaces and waterside walks along nearby canals and the River Thames. Its convenient location provides easy access to London, Heathrow and the Surrey countryside.

Known as the home of the British Army, Aldershot combines military heritage with parks, theatres and a diverse community. Its location near the Surrey border offers good access to countryside, London and the South East.

Set in the Chiltern Hills, Amersham is known for its historic old town, timber-framed buildings and countryside walks. Its blend of period charm, independent shops and direct links to London make it a popular market-town escape.

Set in the Hampshire countryside, Andover is a historic market town known for its traditional high street, nearby walking routes and easy access to the North Wessex Downs. It offers a relaxed setting with good links across the South of England.

Ashford is a thriving Kent town with excellent rail links. It combines modern shopping at Ashford Designer Outlet with nearby countryside, vineyards and gardens, making it a convenient base for exploring both the county and beyond.

Known for its charming old town and leafy surroundings, Beaconsfield combines historic streets, independent shops and traditional pubs with excellent links to London and the Chiltern countryside.

Located on the eastern coast of the Isle of Wight, Bembridge is known for its beaches, harbour and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Its coastal walks, sailing culture and village charm make it a popular island retreat.

Surrounded by West Sussex countryside, Billingshurst is a traditional village known for its historic character, local shops and easy access to the South Downs. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a peaceful rural base.

Located between the South Downs and the Sussex coast, Burgess Hill combines modern amenities, parks and shopping with easy access to Brighton, London and surrounding countryside. Its convenient location makes it a practical South East base.

Located in north-west Surrey, Camberley combines modern shopping, leisure facilities and green spaces with easy access to the Surrey Hills and London. Its convenient location and nearby woodland give it a balanced urban and countryside feel.

Set in the Chiltern Hills, Chesham is known for its historic streets, surrounding countryside and walking trails. Its blend of market-town character, green spaces and direct links to London gives it a relaxed yet connected feel.

Known for its leafy surroundings and village charm, Cobham combines boutique shops, cafés and riverside walks with easy access to London and the Surrey countryside. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular South East retreat.

Located near Gatwick Airport, Crawley combines modern shopping, parks and business districts with strong transport links across the South East. Its convenient location makes it a major travel and commuter hub.

Known for its railway heritage and science links, Didcot combines modern development with easy access to the Thames Valley countryside. Its strong transport connections make it a convenient base near Oxford and Reading.

Located between Southampton and Winchester, Eastleigh combines parks, shopping and leisure facilities with strong transport links across the South Coast. Its convenient location offers easy access to both countryside and nearby cities.

Surrounded by countryside in Kent, Edenbridge is a traditional market town known for its historic high street, nearby castles and riverside setting. It offers a quieter rural escape with easy access to London and the South East.

Located beside the River Thames, Egham is known for its historic links to the Magna Carta, nearby Royal Holloway College and green open spaces. Its location near Windsor and London makes it a convenient Thames-side destination.

Known for its leafy surroundings and elegant village feel, Esher combines boutique shops, cafés and green spaces with easy access to London, the River Thames and the Surrey countryside.

Fareham is a Hampshire market town between Portsmouth and Southampton, known for Georgian streets, nearby marinas and easy access to the South Downs, the Solent and historic naval attractions along England’s south coast.

Farnborough is a Hampshire town known for the Farnborough International Airshow and its aviation heritage. It offers business hubs, green spaces and fast rail links to London, with museums and landmarks tied to British aerospace history.

Fleet is a leafy Hampshire town known for its lakes, parks and strong commuter links to London. Surrounded by countryside, it offers a relaxed atmosphere, family-friendly spaces and easy access to the Hart countryside and canal walks.

Surrounded by the Ashdown Forest, Forest Row is a village known for its independent cafés, woodland walks and relaxed atmosphere. Its countryside setting and creative community make it a peaceful South East escape.

Surrounded by woodland and green spaces, Gerrards Cross is known for its leafy setting, independent shops and excellent transport links to London. Its mix of village charm and modern amenities makes it a popular commuter town.

Set beside the River Wey, Godalming is a historic market town known for its cobbled streets, independent shops and surrounding countryside. Its relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the Surrey Hills make it a popular rural escape.

Gosport is a historic waterfront town on Portsmouth Harbour, known for its naval heritage, marinas and coastal views. It offers museums, ferry links to Portsmouth and easy access to beaches, forts and Solent sailing routes.

Set in the East Sussex countryside, Hailsham is a traditional market town with historic streets, local markets and easy access to the South Downs and nearby coast. It offers a relaxed base for exploring the surrounding area.

Located at the foot of the South Downs, Hassocks is known for its countryside setting, walking routes and easy access to Brighton and nearby villages. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular Sussex base close to coast and hills.

Havant is a Hampshire market town between Portsmouth and Chichester, known for its historic centre and access to the south coast. It offers nearby beaches, countryside walks and easy links to Hayling Island and the South Downs.

Located in the heart of West Sussex, Haywards Heath combines parks, shopping and modern amenities with strong rail links to London and Brighton. Its convenient location near the South Downs makes it a popular commuter base.

Set beneath the South Downs, Henfield is a charming village known for its independent shops, countryside walks and relaxed rural atmosphere. Its location near Brighton and the Sussex coast makes it a popular South Downs retreat.

Herne Bay is a classic seaside town with a long shingle beach, colourful beach huts and a historic pier. Its seafront promenade, coastal cycle paths and proximity to the Reculver Towers make it a laid-back spot for sea air, heritage and coastal walks.

Hook is a Hampshire village and commuter town known for its countryside setting and fast rail links to London. Surrounded by woodland and farmland, it offers a peaceful atmosphere with easy access to nearby market towns and walking routes.

Known for its historic market square and green spaces, Horsham combines shopping, cafés and cultural venues with easy access to the Sussex countryside. Its lively yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a popular South East destination.

Set beside the River Thames, Hurley is a historic village known for its riverside pubs, countryside walks and medieval heritage. Its peaceful setting and easy access to nearby towns make it a popular rural retreat.

Hythe is a waterside town on Southampton Water, known for its marina, historic pier railway and views across to Southampton. Close to the New Forest, it offers coastal walks, sailing and easy ferry access to the city.

Located just north of Oxford, Kidlington combines village character with convenient access to the city and surrounding countryside. Its green spaces, local amenities and transport links make it a practical Oxfordshire base.

Set between the South Downs and the Sussex coast, Lancing is known for its long beach, coastal walks and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Its convenient location offers easy access to Brighton and surrounding countryside.

Set beside the River Mole, Leatherhead combines market-town character with parks, theatres and easy access to the Surrey Hills. Its convenient location near London and surrounding countryside makes it a popular Surrey base.

New Milton is a Hampshire town between the New Forest and the south coast, known for its relaxed atmosphere and nearby beaches. It offers easy access to woodland walks, coastal scenery and the seaside town of Barton-on-Sea.

Set beside the River Ouzel, Newport Pagnell is a historic market town known for its traditional high street, riverside walks and nearby countryside. Its characterful setting offers a quieter alternative close to Milton Keynes.

Known for its Georgian architecture and market-town charm, Olney offers historic streets, independent shops and riverside walks. Surrounded by countryside, it has a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to Milton Keynes and Northamptonshire.

Set beside the River Thames, Pangbourne is a charming village known for its riverside walks, independent shops and boating culture. Surrounded by countryside, it offers a peaceful setting with easy access to Reading and the Chilterns.

Set at the edge of the South Downs, Polegate is a small town known for its countryside surroundings and easy access to Beachy Head, Eastbourne and scenic walking routes. It offers a quieter base for exploring the Sussex coast and hills.

Set beneath the Chiltern Hills, Princes Risborough is a market town known for its countryside walks, traditional high street and relaxed rural atmosphere. Its location offers easy access to London and the surrounding hills.

Surrounded by the South Downs countryside, Pulborough is known for its riverside scenery, walking routes and nearby nature reserves. Its peaceful atmosphere and rural setting make it a popular West Sussex retreat.

Located in east Surrey, Redhill combines modern amenities, parks and shopping with strong rail links to London and the South East. Its convenient location near the Surrey Hills makes it a practical commuter and travel hub.

Known for its historic high street and green surroundings, Reigate combines independent shops, cafés and nearby countryside walks with easy access to London and the Surrey Hills. Its market-town charm makes it a popular Surrey destination.

Ringwood is a historic market town on the edge of the New Forest, known for its weekly market, traditional pubs and riverside setting. It offers easy access to forest trails, cycling routes and nearby south coast beaches.

Selborne is a picturesque Hampshire village known for its ties to naturalist Gilbert White and its surrounding countryside. It offers historic cottages, scenic walking trails and easy access to the South Downs landscape.

Set beside the River Adur estuary, Shoreham-by-Sea combines beaches, waterfront walks and a relaxed coastal atmosphere with easy access to Brighton and the South Downs. Its mix of maritime heritage and creative culture gives it a distinctive charm.

Nestled beneath the South Downs, Steyning is a historic market town known for its cobbled streets, independent shops and countryside walks. Its traditional character and relaxed atmosphere make it a charming Sussex retreat.

Close to Ascot and Windsor Great Park, Sunninghill is a charming village known for its independent shops, cafés and leafy surroundings. Its relaxed atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular Berkshire retreat.

Located beside the River Thames, Surbiton combines leafy streets, cafés and riverside walks with fast rail links to central London. Its relaxed atmosphere and suburban charm make it a popular South West London base.

Tenterden is a small market town in the Kent Weald, known for its wide High Street, historic buildings and rural setting. Surrounded by rolling countryside, it offers independent shops, pubs and access to the Kent & East Sussex Railway.

Surrounded by Berkshire countryside, Thatcham is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its nature reserves, canals and easy access to the North Wessex Downs. It offers a relaxed setting close to Newbury and the Thames Valley.

Surrounded by the East Sussex countryside, Uckfield is a market town known for its independent shops, riverside walks and easy access to the South Downs and Ashdown Forest. It offers a relaxed base within reach of London and the coast.

Set in the High Weald countryside, Wadhurst is a historic village known for its traditional high street, nearby vineyards and scenic walking routes. Its rural setting and period character make it a peaceful Sussex retreat.

Set beside the River Thames, Wallingford is a historic market town known for its riverside walks, medieval heritage and traditional pubs. Its relaxed atmosphere and countryside setting make it a charming Thames Valley destination.

Located between Portsmouth and the South Downs, Waterlooville combines modern amenities with easy access to countryside walks and the nearby coast. Its convenient location makes it a practical base in south Hampshire.

Westerham is a small historic town in west Kent, set at the edge of the North Downs. Known for its traditional High Street, links to Winston Churchill and nearby countryside, it offers walks, pubs and a village feel.

Surrounded by Buckinghamshire countryside, Winslow is a traditional market town known for its historic streets, independent shops and relaxed rural atmosphere. Its central location offers easy access to nearby towns and countryside walks.

Located in north-west Surrey, Woking combines modern shopping, theatres and green spaces with strong transport links to London and the South East. Its convenient location near the Surrey Hills makes it a popular commuter and business hub.

Known for its historic market-town character, Wokingham combines independent shops, green spaces and modern amenities with easy access to Reading, London and the surrounding countryside. It offers a relaxed yet well-connected setting.

Located on the western coast of the Isle of Wight, Yarmouth is a small harbour town known for its historic pier, sailing culture and coastal walks. Its relaxed atmosphere and waterfront setting make it a charming island escape.

Gravesend, on the Thames, mixes maritime heritage with riverside views. Known for its Pocahontas link and historic town pier, it also offers forts, gardens and multicultural flair, plus fast links to London and Kent’s countryside.

Sittingbourne is a market town in north Kent with strong transport links to London and the coast. It blends retail and industry with nearby countryside, historic Milton Creek and easy access to the North Kent Marshes.

Tonbridge is a historic town in west Kent, centred on its Norman castle and the River Medway. It offers strong rail links to London, riverside walks, schools and easy access to the Kent countryside.

Dartford, on the edge of London, mixes history and modern life. Known for its medieval church, parks and The Orchard Theatre, it also offers shopping at Bluewater nearby and riverside walks, making it a lively gateway between city and Kent countryside.

Sheerness is a coastal town on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent, shaped by its historic dockyard and working port. It offers a shingle beach, seafront walks, maritime heritage and direct rail connections to London.

Set on the River Thames, Maidenhead combines riverside walks, green spaces and modern amenities with easy access to Windsor, the Chilterns and London. Its location makes it a popular base in the Thames Valley.