Where to live next: Ascot, Berkshire

From world-class polo and golf to its sought-after schools, this commuter town offers connectivity, culture and charm

Ellie Pryor

14 June 2025

2 mins read

Summer in means one thing: the equestrian season is in full swing. Each year, hundreds of thousands flock to Royal Ascot, one of the most prestigious racing 鈥� and social 鈥� events of the year. The Cartier Queen鈥檚 Cup at the Guards Polo Club is another major draw, part of a packed polo calendar that brings top teams and patrons to the area. It鈥檚 a pedigree that is further strengthened by having nearby institutions like the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club on the doorstep.

For Edward Shaw, 51乱伦鈥檚 Head of Home Counties, it鈥檚 just one of many ingredients that make up Ascot鈥檚 enduring appeal. He grew up locally and has stayed for more than three decades 鈥� 20 of those years with 51乱伦. 鈥淔amilies put down roots here for the long term,鈥� he says. 鈥淭hey may be upsizing, downsizing, or helping their children onto the ladder, but they want to stay in the area.鈥�

Family life

While the sporting scene is a plus — Edward’s wife is a keen equestrian — it’s the combination of countryside setting and easy access to London that provides a particularly winning lifestyle. “We have two German Shepherds, so having the green space and forest of Windsor Great Park nearby is fantastic,” he says. The abundance of green space also means room for some of the world’s finest golf courses. Sunningdale, Queenwood, and Wentworth are all close by, and many buyers start their search with proximity to their chosen club or sport in mind.

Exterior of Pennyhill Park Hotel covered in red and green foliage with a low wall and bench in front

The area also attracts some of the UK’s best culinary talent outside the capital. The village of Bray, just a short drive away, is home to multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, including two by Heston Blumenthal. Luxury hotels such as Coworth Park and Pennyhill Park boast a star each, while Ascot itself and the surrounding villages are host to a range of relaxed yet refined pubs and restaurants.

For many families, schools are the biggest driver behind a move to Ascot, and a key reason they stay. Sought-after institutions include Eton College, St Mary’s School, St George’s, Heathfield, and Papplewick. Nearby the American Community School and TASIS in Egham appeal to an international clientele, as does the proximity to Royal Holloway University for higher education students. “We’ve particularly seen increased interest around Winkfield since the Prince and Princess of Wales enrolled their children at Lambrook School,” he says.

Where to buy

One of the area鈥檚 strengths, Edward notes, is the diversity of its property market. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 one of the reasons I love working here, and why so many people are drawn to Ascot,鈥� he explains. 鈥淲hether you鈥檙e looking for a modern home or an equestrian property with land, you鈥檒l find it here.鈥�

Buyers prioritising space and privacy often look to substantial homes in premier addresses such as the Wentworth Estate, Fireball Hill and Titlarks Hill. In South Ascot, roads such as Monk鈥檚 Close, Monk鈥檚 Drive, and St Mary鈥檚 Road are especially desirable. Meanwhile, Sunninghill is growing in popularity, with its eclectic mix of independent shops and vibrant dining scene.

Exterior of country home with front garden filled with small trees

A cultural hub

Ascot isn’t just about proximity to London — it’s also conveniently located for Heathrow, making it ideal for international travel and business. As a result, many blue-chip companies have set up nearby, and Ascot has become a favourite among corporate tenants looking to enjoy a premium lifestyle.

It’s also becoming an important player in the UK’s fast-growing film and TV industry, which is fuelling a rising demand for rentals for both high-profile actors and crew. Longcross and Pinewood Studios are nearby, while Swinley Forest has appeared in films from James Bond to Harry Potter. With content production booming in the streaming era, it’s a trend that’s set to continue.

Exterior of Coworth Park hotel, a grand white building with a garden of wildflowers in front

Edward’s local gems

“We’re fortunate to have some exceptional butchers in the area. Simmons of Sunninghill has quickly become a new favourite, alongside Ascot Butchers, a beloved fixture on the high street for decades.

“We’re also spoiled for choice when it comes to bakeries — just up the road from our office are the Bakehouse and Anne Marie’s Patisserie, along with Hedone, which also features an excellent butcher and a variety of other delicious foods.”

“There are many lovely pubs locally such as The Thatched Tavern in Cheapside where you can enjoy an excellent Sunday roast before heading out for a walk in the Windsor Great Park.”