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Scenic canal towpath in a UK commuter town, bordered by lush greenery and trees under a clear blue sky – ideal peaceful setting for relocating from city life.

June 2025

May 2025

Join the great escape to the UK’s top commuter towns

Scenic canal towpath in a UK commuter town, bordered by lush greenery and trees under a clear blue sky – ideal peaceful setting for relocating from city life.

Ready to leave the mean city streets and discover some of the best commuter towns and villages in the UK? You’re not alone.

So many are leaving the hustle and grind behind because moving house is no longer about simply upgrading your living space. It’s about your quality of life.

To learn more about the benefits of exiting the rat race, read on and discover why a premium new home could be the best choice for a smooth (and exciting) move.

Where are the best towns and villages to live in the UK?

No matter your country-idyll vision for the future, the UK is home to sought-after commuter villages outside London and an abundance of stunning locations that perfectly combine country living with easy access to city life.

Here are a few of our favourites...

Peaceful UK countryside at sunset with a wooden bench under a tree overlooking golden fields – ideal rural setting for commuter town living and escaping city life.
Peaceful UK countryside at sunset with a wooden bench under a tree overlooking golden fields – ideal rural setting for commuter town living and escaping city life.

Not quite ready for the sticks? Meet Bishops Stortford

For those who want easy access to The Big Smoke, Bishop’s Stortford has long been a favourite commuter town in Hertfordshire that offers excellent links to London.

Nestled north east of London and surrounded by the beautiful Southeast countryside, this market town enjoys a rich history. From historic pubs visited by Samuel Pepys and ancient Norman landmarks to a quaint market square that still holds a weekly market, ‘Stortford’ gives you the best of both.

A new home here also offers effortless access to London Stansted and a wealth of well-known brands that line its vibrant high street. If this sounds like your next dream move, explore our premium news at Charles Church at Stortford Fields.

Southampton marina with yachts and sailboats framed by vibrant flowers and modern high-rise buildings – ideal coastal setting for UK commuter town living.

Find freedom by the coast in Southampton

Dreaming of strolling by rolling ocean waves and then retreating back to your cosy yet stylish new home? Then Ridge Walk at Whiteley Meadows in the village of Curbridge near Southampton may be the place for you.

Nestled to the east of Southampton’s city centre, the rural property market in the Hampshire village of Curbridge is thriving. Along with country parks, nature reserves and the beaches of the Solent on your doorstep, you also have the benefits and amenities of city life close by. With a new home you even have easy access to international travel via Southampton Airport, which is under 20 minutes away by car.

Southampton marina with yachts and sailboats framed by vibrant flowers and modern high-rise buildings – ideal coastal setting for UK commuter town living.
Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian, Scotland – historic medieval landmark with towers and church overlooking a tranquil lake, ideal setting in a UK commuter town.

Call Scotland’s breathtaking scenery home

One of the most beautiful areas of the UK, historic Renfrewshire in Scotland has some of the country’s most famous landmarks, such as Paisley Abbey.

Settled near the banks of the River Clyde, the well-located and popular village of Bishopton has excellent access to all the culture and entertainment of Glasgow's city centre. Perfect for international travel, it’s also an enviable 10-minute drive away from Glasgow Airport.

If the stunning Scottish scenery takes your fancy, you can learn more about finding your happy place at Charles Church @ Dargaval Village.

Box Hill countryside in Surrey with rolling green hills, autumn foliage, and a sunset sky – picturesque UK commuter town ideal for escaping city life.

New countryside living in Surrey

City life has its perks, but it also comes with noise, crowds and that constant hamster-wheel rush. For many, it’s exhausting.

That’s why moving closer to open green space has become such a draw — we’re hungry for a lifestyle focused on connection, calm and enjoying the little things. If that sounds like you, the leafy county of Surrey near London could be your new countryside sanctuary.

Box Hill countryside in Surrey with rolling green hills, autumn foliage, and a sunset sky – picturesque UK commuter town ideal for escaping city life.

Offering you the best of both, the popular village of Windlesham has easy connections to London and Heathrow airport. The famous Ascot racecourse is also moments away, as are family-friendly spots like Windsor Great Park, Legoland and Savill Gardens. Take a look at our development, Crownfield Court, if you want to call green Surrey home.

Enjoy modern benefits with a new home

More than just fresh air and big skies, rural living can give you more for your money in terms of square footage with a more affordable home when compared to its city counterpart.

With a new home, you also have money and time-saving energy efficiency on your side. From argon-filled double glazing to top heating systems and modern insulation, choosing a buy new can save you a holiday-worthy sum each year.

Modern two-storey brick home with white-framed windows, grey tiled roof, and landscaped front garden – ideal property in a sought-after commuter location.

The blank canvas that keeps on giving

From stylish kitchens and open-plan living areas to flexible home office spaces, our heritage of building premium new homes has evolved with modern living in mind.

Built with sustainability at their core, each Charles Church home has touches of luxury, high-energy efficiency and top-quality finishes, such as quartz kitchen splashbacks.

A family-friendly choice that saves you time

Our developments also feature family-focused planning, which gives you a safe neighbourhood to enjoy and peace of mind. And along with our aftercare customer service and warranties, you don’t have any time-worn repairs – just the convenience of a brand-new home.

Ready to find your ideal commuter town?

Discover our collection of premium new homes in commuter towns and villages nationwide that are designed to offer comfort, extra space and a sense of belonging.

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Blogs

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Find your Charles Church sanctuary

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