Five of the finest waterfront homes for sale now

Being an island nation, we have an affinity with water and it’s never too far away. That’s so good for the soul. Immersing yourself in, or simply being near, water is an instant mood-booster with proven stress-reduction properties.

Many of us pack up our cars and drive away to our favourite coastal resorts around the country to make magical memories. But that experience doesn’t have to be restricted to a fortnight in summer. You could make the British waterside your home, be that full time or as a regular retreat. Maybe you have more exotic ambitions and you love the idea of heading overseas to a beautiful Mediterranean resort to create a second home.

The enduring appeal of waterside living is certainly not waning. Knight Frank’s Head of National Waterfront, Hamish Humfrey reveals, “Despite market fluctuations over the past year, waterfront properties have shown remarkable resilience, exhibiting greater price stability compared to the broader UK market.”

Whether you’re looking for a coastal or riverside retreat, we have a range of impressive waterfront homes available to buy now.

Coastal homes

Recent Knight Frank research shows that homes with sea views have seen a 66% average price uplift in 2024. The sea puts on a show in all weathers and can provide more drama than a Netflix boxset. Life by the coast offers so much potential for activity, fun and relaxation in and out of the water. And these two coastal homes present rare opportunities for a luxurious lifestyle by the water.

Four bedroom home, Trenarren, Cornwall

If escaping the hustle and bustle of modern life holds appeal, this secluded slice of heaven on the Cornish coast is hard to beat. The unique waterfront property sits within the woodlands of Cornwall Wildlife Trust and includes a private harbour, slipway, foreshore, and a pair of deep water moorings.

Only accessible via a quiet woodland pathway or by boat across St Austell Bay, Ropehawn is the definition of a waterside retreat. Originally built in the 17^th century as a base for pilchard fishing, the property was transformed into a tranquil family home when it was reconstructed in the late 1800s.

With inviting outdoor spaces and established gardens, it truly is a haven. A courtyard terrace provides a welcoming nook for summer evening dining, while the self-contained converted boathouse gives extra space to house family or friends, with its own kitchen, shower room and bedroom, and exceptional sea views. There’s plenty to see and do, too. The shore offers a launch into water-drenched adventure, including sailing, kayaking, and swimming. Guide price: £3,500,000

Nine bedroom home, Seaview, Isle of Wight

From a hideaway coastal home to a majestic, historic one. This grand Grade II listed home has 30 acres of land and far-reaching views over the coast. The distinguished architecture reflects its Victorian heritage, yet the interior feels very contemporary with its modern styling.

Each of the nine beautiful bedrooms enjoy coastal views as well as looking out over the impressive, landscaped grounds. A self-contained flat on the first floor is ideal for guests or live-in staff.

Visitors will flock to this magnificent home. Not only is there plenty of space indoors, there’s a vast garden complete with croquet lawn, stabling and swimming pool. That’s before you’ve ventured down the private path to the local beach. Guide price: £3,495,000

Riverside homes

There’s enduring demand for UK riverside property. The average price of a riverside home (excluding London) rose by 30% in the past year. A riverside home benefits from waterfront views and a certain serenity. If you’re a fan of paddleboarding or rowing, this proximity to the water is particularly attractive.

Five bedroom home, Henley on Thames

Marsh Mills Boathouse is the kind of magical riverside home that rarely comes to the market, until now. Originally an early 1900s boathouse, Marsh Mills has been carefully transformed by architects into a spacious and stylish contemporary family home.

Sit back and enjoy fantastic riverside views from various vantage points across the glorious gardens, as well as inside the delightful home. There’s an expansive open-plan living area which leads seamlessly onto a balcony. The principal bedroom also benefits from the waterfront views, as well as an en suite bathroom and dressing room.

Henley’s a desirable, thriving market town known worldwide for its annual regatta. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy riverside living with London and Oxford within relatively easy reach – around an hour away. Offers in excess of £4,500,000

Four bedroom penthouse, Battersea, London SW11

From its seventh floor location within the iconic Battersea Power Station, this unique penthouse has exceptional views of the mighty River Thames and London cityscape. Floor to ceiling windows allow natural light to flood into the apartment as well as maximising the far reaching waterfront views.

The spacious duplex apartment flows beautifully between the high spec kitchen (complete with Miele appliances), to the dining and living spaces. The principal bedroom suite also benefits from those incredible views, as well as a luxurious en suite bathroom and dressing room.

Residents of Switch House West can enjoy an exclusive private roof terrace – the perfect place for sunset cocktails or early morning yoga. There’s also a private garden, swimming pool, spa, gym and residents’ club. Guide price: £6,999,995

International coastal homes

Swap turbulent British seas for sparkling Mediterranean waters. Escape to a European resort and enjoy the sunshine, warm sea and vibrant culture.

Knight Frank’s Head of International Property, Mark Harvey says, “Waterfront living continues to captivate, with its scarcity contributing to desirability and significant returns on investment. This year, global waterfront properties have seen a 49% average price uplift.”

Seven bedroom villa, Théoule-sur-Mer, France

Perched on a private, coastal vantage spot, this exceptional villa on the French Riviera has panoramic views across the inviting Mediterranean Sea.

Live the super desirable Provençal lifestyle in this outstanding home. Swim in the infinity-edge heated pool and relax on one of the many terraces whilst taking in the stunning vistas towards Cannes and the Lerins Islands. The villa’s perfectly equipped for al fresco living and dining. The boundaries between indoors and outdoors blur, encouraging an easy flow between the two. With separate, three bedroom guest accommodation, it’s an exceptional place for social gatherings in the South of France. Price on application

Learn more about our 2024 Waterfront Homes publication.