Soaked in history and culture, the medieval city of Winchester attracts residents from all walks of life. While commuters can take advantage of its close proximity to London, families with children enjoy its many leisure activities and excellent educational facilities. If you, too, are looking to buy or rent a property in Winchester, here are some of the best living places in and around the city.
Winchester is home to a number of sought-after residential areas, ideal for those who do not want to stray far away from its great amenities:
The Cathedral roads area lies predominantly on the south-western side of Winchester’s iconic Cathedral, and it is often referred to as the “Old City”. Large parts of this area are owned by the nearby Winchester College, making it popular amongst scholars and academics. However, the beautiful historical roads combined with the central location in the heart of Winchester is an attractive offering to anyone.
St Cross is a picturesque neighbourhood nestled alongside the beautiful water meadows of Winchester. Home to some of the most prestigious properties, it offers a selection of historic buildings, some of which boast the views of the magnificent St Faith’s Parish. If that’s not enough, St Cross is an area of stunning natural beauty, with River Itchen, St Catherine’s Hill, and St Cross Park right on your doorstep.
First established in the 1970s, Badger Farm is a large residential area named after a former tenant farmer, William Badger. Benefiting from a lively community and a brilliant selection of local amenities, including shops, cafés, schools, playgrounds, and a surgery, it comes as no surprise that Badger Farm is particularly popular amongst families.
Although small, Hyde is a vibrant community within walking distance of the city centre, as well as the Winnall Moors Nature Reserve and the local football and rugby clubs. The area’s charm, however, lies in its quaint residential streets with a great mix of Victorian terraced homes. Beyond lovely nature walks, Hyde is also home to some of the finest traditional British pubs in Winchester, including The King Alfred and The Hyde Tavern.
Just a 20-minute walk southeast of Hyde lies Fulfood – another small neighbourhood with a fabulous community feel and generously-sized period properties. Fulfood’s excellent location is what makes it particularly attractive to both families and professionals, with Winchester railway station and several well-regarded schools just a stone’s throw away. The annual Charity Ball is also a wonderful local tradition, enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.
Weeke and Bereweeke are two connected areas just a mile north of the city centre. With a vast variety of properties, ranging from Victorian semi-detached and detached homes to brand-new apartments, this thriving community is also well-served by local amenities. Weeke and Bereweeke share multiple nurseries and schools, two parks, the Winchester Racquets and Fitness club, with its great sporting facilities, and a platter of international restaurants and cafés.
If you are someone who prefers a quiet area with a smaller community, while staying close to Winchester’s modern offerings, one of these villages may catch your eye:
Just three miles south of Winchester, Twyford is a quaint village that has maintained its historic 12th century character. Surrounded by green countryside and the water meadows, this lovely residential area is a haven for nature lovers, providing endless opportunities for peaceful walks.
However, that does not mean compromise on convenience – Twyford is well-connected, with direct access to the M3 motorway and the Shawford railway station. Not just that, the village has a good selection of amenities, such as two pubs, a surgery, a post office, and two schools, including the outstanding Twyford school – one of the oldest private boarding and day schools in England.
Just a 10-minute drive north of Winchester, Littleton is one of the most attractive villages in the area, known for its many stables, which are used for racehorse training. Although only home to one pub, the Running Horse, and a limited selection of amenities, the village nonetheless attracts residents thanks to its close-knit community and a delightful range of properties, from 15th century homes to modern houses. The Littleton Millennium Memorial Hall is a noteworthy local gem, serving as a hub for community events and social clubs.
Dating all the way back to Saxon times, Sparsholt is an unspoilt village, located just four miles to the west of Winchester. Regardless of its small population and rural character, Sparsholt boasts some great amenities.
Families in the village can take advantage of the local primary school and the Sparsholt College, sports enthusiasts can watch a game at the Sparsholt Cricket Club, while nature lovers can enjoy the nearby Farley Mount Country Park and the Woodman vineyard. There is also a local post office, a village shop, the Lainston House Country Hotel, and local bus stops for easy links to Winchester.
Each of these vibrant residential areas contribute to Winchester’s reputation as one of Britain’s best cities to live. With a unique historical charm, surrounding natural beauty, excellent educational facilities, and easy access to the capital, the city has plenty to offer.
If you are thinking about relocating to Winchester, our experienced estate agents would be happy to guide you through the available properties for rent and sale!
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