Around London there are miles upon miles of fantastic countryside. Within this green and pleasant land are picturesque and historic villages.
Muddy Stilettos has published its list of the best places to live in the UK. Many of these places are close to London in the Home Counties.
Donnington in Berkshire is on the outskirts of Newbury. It has been described as “a hub of vibrant city life, culture and culinary prowess”.
The ‘tight knit’ settlement is also historic, with its presence dating back to the Domesday Book, compiled in 1086 after William the Conqueror’s Norman invasion. The village also contains a ruined medieval castle and a Strawberry Hill Gothic mansion.
In terms of food, Muddy Stilettos say The Hartley Arms is “a hugely reputable foodie pub”, with an Honesty Café attached. In addition, there is The Greek Table, The Woodspeen and Damson Restaurant.
In addition, there are “glitzy upscale hotels” – The Vineyard and The Retreat at Elcot Park. In terms of shopping, there are ’boutique’ stores, as well as Marks and Spencers and H&M.
Waitrose is two minutes away by car, or you can walk there in 15 minutes. In Donnington there is also a spa and a winery. Within walking distance there is a vet, a local doctor, a pharmacy and a physiotherapist.
House prices are “reasonable”
The majority of these were detached properties, costing around £651,513, the website adds. Meanwhile, terraces sold for an average of £355,000 and semi-finished products for £457,500. A quick search on Rightmove turns up properties valued at £315,000 to as much as £9 million.
There is said to be a “growing family population” in Donnington. Families are apparently well catered for, with “large nurseries”. “Great schools” are also “two for one”.
You don’t have to go to Donnington to see it. For 1798 JMW Turner sketched the ruined gatehouse of Donnington Castle. That piece is now on display at the Tate in London.
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