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 it is 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.
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 when 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 upon Avon does come at a premium, with house prices above the national average. Add in direct train links to Birmingham and London and easy motorway access, there is a lot to like about living here.
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 a view of the River Leam, but further out there is a reasonable choice of all housing types in suburbs such as Lillington, Whitnash, and Millerton.
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.
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.
With chocolate-box cottages at every turn, amazing views, some great pubs (including the Michelin-rated Fuzzy Duck), and a real community buzz, the location ticks all the boxes for those looking for an easier pace of life. It’s also part of the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Good shopping options, schools, and transport connections are offered in nearby towns should you be able to peel yourself away from Ilmington life and immerse yourself in the local community. There’s even a wonderful village shop staffed by 120 volunteers.
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, and 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.
