With a rich history, beautiful landscapes, market towns, and picturesque villages, Warwickshire offers the perfect balance of a peaceful rural life whilst being within easy reach of larger urban areas such as Birmingham, Oxford Coventry, and even London. Often referred to as the ‘Heart of England’ its central location borders other midland counties such as Staffordshire and Leicestershire to the north and stretching down to Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire to the south.
From the historic Warwick Castle and the birthplace of a certain William Shakespeare in Stratford-upon-Avon to a buzzing food and arts scene, Warwickshire boasts a wealth of cultural, leisure, and historical attractions that make it an ideal place to put down roots and enjoy its restful rolling countryside.
Here are some of the best-rated places to live if you’re thinking of moving to the area.
Warwick
The county town of Warwick – famed for its historic castle – dates back to 1088 and effortlessly combines a sense of timelessness with a lively centre that offers many independent shops, traditional pubs, and high-quality restaurants.
The town is unavoidably attractive and the historic buildings are framed perfectly with the surrounding Warwickshire countryside providing ample opportunities for walks, bike rides, and other outdoor activities.
House prices sit comfortably above the national average, reflecting the appeal of the area and the property mix. Warwick provides options for every market, whether apartment living, family detached or semi-detached homes, or smaller terrace and cottage properties. There are also some sympathetic newer developments all within easy reach of the town centre. Its mix of excellent local amenities such as high-performing schools, parks, and leisure facilities as well as its well-regarded university draws in buyers seeking a safe environment to raise a family.
As with many of the larger towns in the county, Warwick is excellently located, just 40 minutes from Birmingham and 1 hour 20 minutes to London by train from Warwick Parkway station. With ample road links to other urban areas, Warwick is very convenient for commuters.
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Arrow
Just a mile south of Alcester is the Village of Arrow. Thrillingly, this rural, riverside gem will soon be home to the first castle built in the UK for over a century. Oversley Castle is a thrilling and innovative architectural triumph that sympathetically looks to the past for inspiration while driving a new future for the possibilities of a modern home. And it is suitably breathtaking to reflect the surroundings, too.
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Whichford
Over 1000 years of history are connected to the stunning south Warwickshire village of Whichford. The records in the Domesday book refer to settlements there since at least the 6th Century and landmarks such as the Grade II-listed Church of St Michael and the mediaeval Whichford House are an eye-catching reminder of the prestige that this location has been afforded for a very long time.
In the modern day, property here is nothing short of exceptional. As you would expect, the clamour and demand for this area are experiencing a renaissance over the last five years and it is simple to see why.
It would also be remiss not to mention the artisan pottery scene established here in the mid-1970s by Jim & Dominique Keeling. Their hand-thrown and high-quality terracotta flower pot designs are now internationally renowned and loved by homeowners and tastemakers all over the world.
This quaint corner of England is also just 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Heathrow airport.
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Stratford upon Avon
No place is more synonymous with the world’s most famous playwright than Stratford upon Avon. The birthplace of William Shakespeare, the locale is one of the most historic and well-known medieval market towns in the UK and as a result, has been impeccably preserved. Indeed, it is staggering to think that were The Bard to walk the streets of Stratford upon Avon in 2025, he would recognise many of the buildings, despite the 800 years that have passed. Considering its cultural significance, Stratford is a relatively small town compared to its neighbours, with a population of around 30,000. That combined with the locality’s cobbled streets, Tudor buildings, and scenic river views make it a picturesque place to call home.
Replete with historical and cultural landmarks, a thriving arts scene, local schools, pubs, restaurants, and cafés to suit all tastes, living in Stratford on Avon is an exquisite option. Add in direct train links to Birmingham and London and easy motorway access and it may be the most perfect one available.
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Leamington Spa
The historic town of Leamington Spa offers an enviable blend of charm and convenience, mixed with a rich cultural scene and a lively town centre. Architecturally, its grandeur speaks to the historic wealth of the locale that thrived in the 1800s as a result of its spa waters, believed to bring medicinal qualities. Indeed, the crescent-like Parade in the centre of the town wouldn’t look out of place in London as the impressive bright white buildings make it feel like a capital city.
Centrally, you’re likely to find smart apartment-living, offering fantastic views of the River Leam. However, the main attraction for home seekers here has to be found in the wonderful locations of Binswood Avenue, Beauchamp Avenue, and Northumberland Road. This is where the Regency style and Stucco-fronted Victorian Villas of the area take centre stage with all their superbly-appointed allure.
In keeping with many spa towns across the country, Leamington Spa has an impressive selection of restaurants, cafés, and independent shops, creating a lively social scene as well as some beautiful parks, including Jephson Gardens, which provide a peaceful retreat right in the heart of the town.
Like its other Warwickshire neighbours, transport connections are excellent with good links to Birmingham and London as well as closer-by Warwick and Coventry.
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Ilmington
If you’re looking for tranquil village life, the picturesque Ilmington in the southwest of the county is hard to beat. Just eight miles from Stratford upon Avon and fewer still from the market town of Chipping Campden, Ilmington offers the perfect balance of village living, whilst still being in easy reach of some of the county’s larger towns.
As well as chocolate-box cottages at every turn and breathtaking views to nourish the soul, there are also some culinary standouts to experience alongside these vistas. The Howard Arms on Lower Green here is a 400 year-old Michelin Guide-recommended pub, restaurant, and bed & breakfast created from beautiful golden stone. If you are searching for a real community connection in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty then this location must be considered.
With great shopping options, schools, and transport connections, Ilmington is family-focused with an enchanting history. The wonderful village shop staffed by 120 volunteers acts as testament to this quaint yet active way of life in a thriving town.
Warwickshire is effortlessly beautiful and served by a diverse range of places to live, including the bustling historic towns of Leamington Spa, Stratford upon Avon, Warwick, and the peaceful village of llmington. The county oozes culture, history, green spaces, and excellent transport links to major cities. If you want to feel part of a thriving community or ease yourself into village life, Warwickshire could provide exactly what you are looking for.
