Hertfordshire Property

Buying advice for country property in Hertfordshire

Divided almost perfectly in two by the A1, Hertfordshire is a county that is ever changing. It has diversified as a result of its changing population; what was once home to a majority of Britain’s nobility and aristocracy is now inhabited by affluent city commuters.

In bordering Greater London it is a popular choice for commuters. With a maximum commuting time of one hour and four minutes from Royston, the most northern town in the county, modernisation and redevelopment were inevitable. In this case the need for more housing was remedied by New Towns. Based along the motorway, Stevenage, Letchworth and Welwyn Garden City, have cultivated firm industrial roots. Although the arrival of these economic HQs have significantly reduced unemployment levels, the effect to the landscape is unmistakable.

Schools in the area come with excellent reputations. Highest ranked in terms of GCSE results are the St Albans High School for Girls and the same institution for Boys achieving 100% and 99% grades A* to C respectively. Also highly prestigious are the Haberdasher’s Askes Schools for Boys and Girls in Elstree which also operate well above the national average.

The area furthest west is dominated by the stunning Chiltern Hills which is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With the nearest major road being the M1, the landscapes, particularly in Berkhamstead and surrounding villages, are largely unspoilt. Also benefiting from the stunning views is the popular Champney’s health spa which stands in Wigginton, just west of Tring. With its breathtaking scenery and half-hour journey to Euston, it is an area that has become highly sought after.

In the M1/A1 corridor are the desirable and affluent towns of Harpenden, St Albans and Radlett. The abundance of commons and parkland, as well as Green Belt land surrounding St Albans, ensures they are unaffected by motorway noise and further urban development. However, Harpenden can be affected by aeroplane noise as it is less than 10 miles from Luton airport.

The necessity for commuter towns is obvious in the urbanised section which borders Greater London; however, the area above this, north of the attractive Hertford, is made up predominantly of villages. Despite its rural nature, it is very well connected not only to London but also to the Midlands and the North.

For more information on buying advice and property searching in Hertfordshire, England, contact the Property Vision Hertfordshire property search and advice team.