Where to live next: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire
From period homes to riverside properties, Henley-on-Thames offers family-friendly, countryside living within easy reach of the capital
From period homes to riverside properties, Henley-on-Thames offers family-friendly, countryside living within easy reach of the capital
With its picturesque setting on the banks of the River Thames, framed by the bucolic landscape of the Chiltern National Landscape, Henley-on-Thames is a charming market town where a connection to the water is part of everyday life.
Widely regarded as the spiritual home of English rowing, the first Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race was held here in 1829 before relocating to London, with nearby Oxford fittingly claiming victory. The town鈥檚 prestigious institutions, including the world-renowned Leander Club, have produced some of the sport鈥檚 most decorated athletes, among them Sir Steve Redgrave and Sir Matthew Pinsent. Meanwhile, Henley Rowing Club, one of the oldest in the country, continues to nurture talent at a grassroots level.

For those who prefer to enjoy the sport from the riverbank with a glass of Pimm鈥檚 in hand, the Henley Royal Regatta is a highlight of the summer social calendar. It is just one of a number of events that define the town鈥檚 cultural life, alongside the Henley Literary Festival each September, a star-studded line-up at Henley Festival in July and the 80s-themed Rewind Festival in August.
Matt Davies grew up in the area and, after time spent in London, returned to become 糖心传媒鈥檚 Head of Henley Sales. 鈥淚f you鈥檙e coming out of the capital, it is one of the first places that feels truly rural,鈥 he says. 鈥淵et it鈥檚 incredibly well connected, with a welcoming community and a relaxed pace of life. There鈥檚 a great social scene with plenty to do, but if you鈥檙e seeking peace and quiet, you鈥檒l find that here too.鈥
Many of the buyers he encounters are relocating from London in search of space, countryside and a family-friendly atmosphere, while still maintaining ties to the capital. At the same time, strong transport links and Henley’s international reputation attracts a global community. Trains from Henley-on-Thames reach London Paddington in around 45 minutes with a change, while nearby villages such as Shiplake, Wargrave, Caversham and Goring are popular for their direct rail connections into the city.
“As working patterns have evolved, people don’t always need to be in the London office every day,” Davies explains. “Since the opening of the Elizabeth Line, we’ve also seen increased interest in villages such as Waltham St Lawrence and Ruscombe, where buyers can commute via Twyford or Reading without contending with heavy traffic.”
Schooling is another key draw. Highly regarded options include Rupert House School on the private side, alongside strong state provision such as Gillotts School and well-rated primaries including Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School, Trinity Church of England Primary School and Valley Road Primary School.
He highlights that one of the town鈥檚 key strengths is the diversity of its property market, with demand remaining strong due to its broad appeal. 鈥淢uch of the housing stock is made up of beautiful period homes, from Grade II-listed Tudor properties to Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses,鈥 he says. 鈥淏ut there are also smaller pockets where you鈥檒l find newer developments and contemporary homes.鈥
“Many families begin their search on the south side of Henley,” explains Davies. “The roads here are not dissimilar in feel to those in Kew or Chiswick, with attractive period semi-detached and detached houses.” Sought-after addresses include St Mark’s Road, St Andrew’s Road and Hamilton Avenue, where properties typically range from around £1.2 million to £3 million or more, depending on size and condition. Prime locations such as Rotherfield Road and Norman Avenue offer a limited number of larger, higher-value homes.
The north side of town tends to appeal to those downsizing or moving in later life, drawn to the convenience of being within walking distance of Phyllis Court, a private members’ club set within 18 acres of grounds, complete with a grand riverside manor. Some of Henley’s most impressive detached properties can be found along the tree-lined Lambridge Wood Road.
Riverside homes, meanwhile, command a significant premium owing to their rarity and exceptional setting. Whether for paddleboarding, canoeing or simply enjoying uninterrupted views, these properties offer a unique lifestyle. “For the right buyer with a genuine affinity for the water, they can represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Davies adds.
鈥淭he Crooked Billet is a relaxed, eclectic pub with a great live music scene - Kate Winslet even held her wedding reception here.鈥
鈥淎nonymous Coffee is a fantastic independent, family-run speciality roaster that supplies many of the local restaurants.鈥
鈥淚mma The Bakery is exceptional, with queues around the block for its bread and pastries.鈥
Contact our Henley-on-Thames team