Two Welsh villages among the ‘most desirable’ in Britain
TWO Welsh villages have been named in a list of 48 deemed to be the poshest in Britain.
Using exclusive research provided by upmarket estate agent Savills, The Telegraph Money named the most desirable villages based on the combination of highest house prices, best lifestyle amenities, connectivity and aesthetic appeal.
And the two Welsh locations included in the list were both in south Wales – Llancarfan, in Vale of Glamorgan, and Shirenewton, Monmouthshire.
It’s not the first time Shirenewton has appeared in this annual list of the best rural “hotspot” village locations, and Llancarfan is known locally as a hidden
gem, so it’s not a shock to see it appearing among the 48 locations.
The Telegraph said: “Finding the perfect village that combines both chocolate-box appeal with necessary amenities on the doorstep too can be tricky. From rolling hills and winding roads, a healthy choice of local pubs and restaurants, plus good travel connections and impressive schools, there are so many factors to consider
– and that’s before you even think about the area’s property prices.”
During the pandemic, city dwellers flocked to the countryside in search of green open spaces to make lockdowns more tolerable.
However, Frances McDonald, director of research at Savills, says search criteria has “shifted” in the past 18 months as workers have returned to the office.
“Our latest research indicates that proximity to a train station, place of work and family has become much more important for those searching for a new home.
“While still important to some now, pandemic-buyer wish lists favoured proximity to parks, shops, and local pubs and restaurants.”
When it comes to Llancarfan, if you can find it – nestled within a hidden Vale of Glamorgan valley a couple of miles north of Rhoose – visiting the village feels like stepping back in time and adds to its charm.
Combine this with its quaint 12thcentury church and popular community pub, and the village was always going to be a strong contender to be added to the list.
The average house price now stands at £592,974.
As for Shirenewtown, there’s a trio of main reasons why the village is included in the list: the Severn Estuary views, its famous Christingle service, and yoga. The Telegraph said: “Shirenewton is in between the Usk and Wye valleys.”
The average house price in and around the village is £556,956 according to The Telegraph.