In the last three years, priorities for many have shifted as many now work from an office infrequently or not at all.
As a result, commuter towns have become ever more popular which might explain why this year, Wadhurst, nestled on the Kent-Sussex border, was deemed the best place to live in the UK.
The Sunday Times’s judges described the East Sussex town as having “pretty much everything needed for modern life — in miniature” from its good schools and bustling high street to its stunning scenery and transport links.
The picturesque town is less than an hour’s train ride away from London, plus it’s close to the coast with Hastings Beach just a 45-minute drive away.
Not only that but Bewl Water Park — described on its website as the “ultimate destination” for a family day out — is only a 15-minute trip in the car.
Also nearby is Scotney Castle, a National Trust “fairytale” medieval castle and Victorian country mansion which boasts more than 780 acres of parkland and traditional hop gardens.
There is plenty to do in Wadhurst — which has less than 5,000 inhabitants — for children from the farmers’ market to clubs, classes and a community cinema.
Hannah Risbridger, from the Cygnets to Swans performing art school, told the Times, that her favourite thing about Wadhurst is how it has everything she needs in one place.
She said: “I walk out of my front door and onto the high street and can get everything I need.
“The shops stock amazing food — it’s unbelievable how many different cheeses you can buy. And then I go out through the back gate into [the] beautiful countryside; our top bedroom has views of Bewl Water.”
If considering a move there, it is more expensive than most of the UK on average.
According to Rightmove, house prices are above the average with the average home costing £699,875. Detached properties fetch £1.02million on average.
But for those who instead want to simply visit, the Greyhouse Hotel and the Sussex Pass at the White Hart are two popular places for a meal, tipple or stay.
If you fancy a bite to eat or a coffee during the day, cafes such as the Hatters of Wadhurst, Piccolo Cafe and La Petite France are firm favourites in the town.
Source: express.co.uk