10 Compelling Reasons To Move To The Oxfordshire Countryside
Who hasn't dreamed of swapping the noise and chaos of city life for the calm and charm of the English countryside?
If this sounds like you, then Oxfordshire might just be the perfect place to call your new home.
Nestled in Southeast England, this idyllic county is a picture-perfect blend of rolling meadows, quaint villages and historic towns. It’s the kind of place where you can find life feeling a little slower, a little simpler and a whole lot more rewarding — without losing out on any modern city conveniences.
Here are our top 10 reasons to make Oxfordshire your new home.
1. It's an Ideal Location
One of Oxfordshire’s crucial advantages is its enviable location which comes with strategic road and rail links to London and other important cities. Flying in and out is also easy, with a number of airports about an hour or so away.
2. The Safety It Offers
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the crime rate in Oxfordshire is lower than the national average, reflecting the county's commitment to safety. Oxfordshire's tranquil lifestyle and tight-knit communities also contribute to its reputation as a safe place to live.
In rural parts of Oxfordshire, crime rates are even lower, likely due to the absence of a bustling nightlife, which can sometimes lead to disturbances. In urban areas like Oxford City, it's wise to follow standard safety precautions, just as you would in any city.
3. It's Affordable Housing Options
Oxfordshire has something for everyone when it comes to housing—be it a cottage, bungalow, flat or even something more upscale like the quintessential country estate.
If you’re a first-time buyer, there’s good news for you—Oxfordshire boasts of many innovative schemes and new developments designed with affordability in mind. Local councils and housing organisations are also focused on creating opportunities for people to settle in the area without breaking the bank.
4. The Seamless Blend of Country and City Living
Another attractive aspect of Oxfordshire is that it offers the best of both worlds: Vibrant city life in its urban hubs and peaceful, picturesque living in its surrounding villages and countryside.
Apart from Oxford City, surrounding towns and villages, such as Witney, Banbury and Abingdon, offer a slower pace of life without compromising accessibility.
5. Its Proximity to Oxford
Oxfordshire is best known as the home of the University of Oxford, the oldest university in the English-speaking world and one of the most prestigious globally. Its stunning architecture, centuries of history and reputation for academic excellence make it a magnet for brilliant minds and tourists from across the globe.
From ground-breaking research to the incredible stories of its students and alumni, Oxford University plays a massive role in putting Oxfordshire on the map.
6. Employment Opportunities
Oxfordshire's economy is both diverse and dynamic, providing a range of employment opportunities. The county is a hub for education, technology and research sectors. The presence of the University of Oxford also contributes significantly to the local economy.
The county's strategic location and connectivity also make it an attractive base if you're looking to commute to London or other major cities.
7. Access to Healthcare
Oxfordshire also offers you access to outstanding healthcare services. The region is home to some of the UK’s best hospitals, including the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, a major teaching hospital and part of the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The hospital is renowned for its advanced medical care and is a hub for both routine and emergency healthcare.
8. The Presence of Top Schools
If you're moving as a family and education is a top priority, then Oxfordshire doesn't disappoint. The county boasts a mix of several outstanding state and independent schools, including:
- The Cherwell School
- Didcot Girls' School
- Headington School
- Chipping Norton School
- And several others
9. Its Historic Charm and Scenery
Oxfordshire is a place of great history and natural beauty. You can spend your weekends strolling through quaint villages with cobblestone streets and thatched cottages, or down the famous Thames Path, taking in the peaceful views.
Oxfordshire is also dotted with historical gems:
- The Uffington White Horse, which is a prehistoric chalk figure carved into a hillside
- Uffington Castle, which dates back to the Iron Age
- Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill
- Oxford’s Dreaming Spires, the city's iconic skyline
- Dorchester Abbey, a medieval abbey steeped in history
10. The Quality of Life You Can Have
Living in Oxfordshire allows you to enjoy a lifestyle that blends charm, culture and community. Its market towns, like Abingdon, Banbury and Henley-on-Thames, are the heart of life here, offering you a choice of lively markets, boutique shops and cosy cafes.
If you love your food, you can discover the county’s gastro pubs, from village hideaways to Michelin-starred gems like The Nut Tree Inn, where locally-sourced meals are the highlight. For a dose of excitement, you can check out events like the Henley Royal Regatta and the Thame Food Festival.
Tips for Stress-Free Settling In
Make your move to Oxfordshire smoother with these tips:
Search for a Home Early
We recommend scouring online listings to find the best home deals at least two months before moving to Oxfordshire. This will ensure you don't have to rush through the process and settle for a house you're not fully happy with.
Check Out Transportation Links
Find the best route for your daily commute to and from home, whether you’re a student, an employee, or a retiree. This will save you the costly hit-or-miss experiences and help you confidently navigate your new environment.
Explore the Town
Familiarize yourself with your new neighbourhood, the closest shops, banks, hospitals, gyms, restaurants, service providers, etc.
Hire Professionals
Let professionals like Gentlevan Removals handle your packing so you're not overwhelmed by the stress of moving. Our team of removal experts will take care of each aspect — from packing and shipping to even storing — with utmost care.
Build Connections
Attend local events. Being connected with a community can help you integrate more easily into your new environment.
Why Choose Gentlevan Removals?
Moving houses or cities can be stressful. However, you can take advantage of our expertise in removals and choose services based on your requirements and budget.
With our team, you’ll experience:
- Full range of services, including packing, shipping, storage and piano removals within the UK and from the UK across Europe.
- Flexibility and reliability through our diverse fleet
- Utmost professional care from removal experts with over 13 years of experience
- Trustworthy crew vetted through a rigorous screening and training process
- Excellent packing materials and methods to ensure safe and secure handling of bulky and fragile items
- A courteous crew that respects your privacy and needs for a seamless and hassle-free transition
Let Gentlevan Removals provide you with a stress-free experience to help you settle into your new home easily and conveniently. Contact us today for a free online quote.