Superb homes in the UK's new £1m postcodes

Amidst the ebb and flow of last year's housing market, new research by Knight Frank sheds light on the emergence of new £1 million property markets in England and Wales. Despite the overarching trend of declining house prices in various regions, 11 areas defied the odds and crossed the £1 million threshold in 2023.

To qualify for the list, a minimum of 20% of property sales had to surpass the £1 million mark in two or more quarters within the year leading up to September 2023.

Notably, the 11 locations cover a broader geographical spread compared to data from mid-2022, indicating a significant shift in demand for homes beyond London, driven partly by affordability and the rise of hybrid working.

James Cleland, head of the Country business at Knight Frank, sheds light on this trend, explaining: “Even though prices have come back since Covid, buyers are having to target better-value markets, which is driving prices higher in locations that were once less popular.”

The list includes the OX44 area of South Oxford and Watlington (OX49) in Oxfordshire, where demand is increasing due to the region's proximity to top schools and its commutability to London. Other picturesque locations such as Ambleside in Lancashire (LA22), Southwold in Suffolk (IP18), Broadway in the Cotswolds (WR12), and the EX3 area of Exeter that includes Topsham have now entered the realm of £1 million markets.

The UK's new £1 million markets

1. Woking (GU23)
2. Ashtead (KT21)
3. Haywards Heath (RH17)
4. Berkhamsted (HP4)
5. Mill Hill (NW7)
6. South Oxford (OX44)
7. Watlington (OX49)
8. Ambleside (LA22)
9. Southwold (IP18)
10. Broadway (WR12)
11. EX3 area of Exeter, including Topsham

Here, we explore five superb homes for sale in these sought-after locations.

4 bedroom house in Ripley, Woking

The main part of this characterful four bedroom cottage is thought to date back to 1600 and, as such, offers plenty of period charm. To the rear of the ground floor is a large drawing room with floor-to-ceiling panes of glass and sliding doors that open on to the extensive gardens. Set on just over two acres, on the grounds, you'll find a tennis court, playhouse, stable and garage with a study/games room above. Guide price: £1,795,000

4 bedroom house in Ashstead, Surrey

Located in a quiet cul-de-sac less than a mile from Ashstead village, this four bedroom home is well-appointed for a family. On the ground floor there's a good-sized kitchen and separate utility room, while outside to the rear of the garden lies a substantial 700 sq ft space that currently serves as a games room, summer house and home office. There's also scope to significantly extend, with planning permission granted for another 1,500 sq ft of accommodation. Guide price: £1,625,000

6 bedroom cottage in Northchurch, Berkhamsted

Willow Cottage is an attractive six bedroom home built around 1929 and later extended into a large family home on just under two acres. There's a cosy and inviting feeling throughout the property, surrounded by beautiful grounds which can be accessed from the lounge, dining room, kitchen and utility. Outside, the heated swimming pool and tennis court feel wonderfully private, surrounded by mature trees and woodland. Offers in excess of: £2,000,000

9 bedroom manor house in Broadway, Gloucestershire

Stanton Court is a Grade II-listed Jacobean manor house built in the Elizabethan style. The current owners have undertaken a comprehensive renovation, restoration and decoration of the property, resulting in a substantial home with exceptional attention to detail. Briefly, the property comprises nine bedrooms, nine bathrooms and several reception rooms, including a billiards room and cinema. There are four large cottages on the estate, while the stunning gardens are the work of Chelsea gold medallist garden designer Rupert Golby. Guide price: £14,000,000

5 bedroom house in Topsham, EX3

This charming, Grade II-listed property is located on sought-after Higher Shapter Street, close to the centre of Topsham. Inside, the home retains its period feel but is equipped with modern comforts. Arranged across three floors, there are multiple areas to entertain, including two sitting rooms and an impressive dining room. Elsewhere, there's a pretty courtyard garden and the added bonus of off street parking. Guide price: £995,000

View the latest country homes for sale across the UK, or contact one of our agents to request a market appraisal