The Cotswolds has long been a popular spot for the rich and famous, with the likes of The Beckhams, Kate Moss and even King Charles III calling it home at various points over the years.
Soon to join the glitzy set, however, are none other than pop royalty Beyonce and Jay-Z, who are reportedly in the final stages of buying 58 acres of land on the outskirts of Wigginton.
Their arrival will, no doubt, cement the Cotswolds as one of the UK’s hottest property spots – and will likely send already astronomical prices skyrocketing.
But those wanting to live among the A-lister set need not dig too deep into their pockets to get a slice of ‘The Good Life’.
Over the past few years, an alternative spot has started to catch the attention of buyers – in particular, families – seeking to swap pokey urban dwellings for more spacious abodes.
They’re heading to the ‘Notswolds’ – a part of the Midlands encompassing Rutland and parts of Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire.
‘Where the Cotswolds represent a very well-trodden path out of London and into the country, the “Notswolds” is a hidden gem which has all the benefits of the Cotswolds without the price tag,’ says Joy Brankin-Frisby, associate partner at estate agents Fisher German.
‘The two areas offer similar things: idyllic towns, fantastic schools, stunning countryside and quick access to London.’
The one big difference between the regions is house prices: according to Rightmove, the average home in the Cotswolds sells for approximately £440,038, with detached properties averaging at £661,447.
That said, some of the most expensive areas have homes changing hands for eight figures.
In the past year, properties such as Harford Manor, 28 miles from Central London, have been listed for as much as £28,000,000.
By contrast, the most expensive ‘Notswolds’ county, Rutland, has an average property price of £338,000, according to the ONS, while the least expensive has an average property price of £239,000.
James Abbott, head of office and residential at Savills Stamford, says: ‘The area is blessed by beautiful countryside, attractive villages and lovely market towns. Georgian Stamford was England’s first urban Conservation Area, and is the home of Burghley House.
‘Rutland, England’s smallest county, with Northamptonshire, also has the same Cotswold ironstone look to its chocolate-box houses, while Rutland Water is a huge draw for sailors, anglers, cyclists and runners.
‘The schooling (with good state, preparatory, independent and grammar options) drives buyer demand, while the commuter links (with three lines all about an hour from London, or Cambridge) make it a viable base to combine family, work and lifestyle decisions.’
But where to buy? Here are some of the best homes on the market in the Notswolds.
Sitting under a Collyweston roof, this charming end-of-terrace stone cottage has three good-sized bedrooms, a sitting room with an open fire, and even an additional two storey barn.
Ketton itself has myriad lovely walks through the surrounding wooded countryside, as well as a good primary school, a village pub, and sports facilities.
In the historic village of Barnwell, this impressive four-bedroom family home offers idyllic countryside liiving, with multiple patio areas for alfresco dining and abundant gardens.
It also falls in an excellent catchment area: Grantham Grammar Schools are just ten miles away, Bourne Grammar School 11 miles away, and Witham on the Hill Prep School 16 miles away for younger children.
This contemporary, five-bedroom, three-storey detached house is a perfect fit for a growing family. Sitting in the heart of Hartwell, it also offers unbridled access to the thriving village community, with its picture perfect village shop, community centre, recreation ground and pub, Rose and Crown.
For prospective parents, there is a CofE primary school in the village, as well as Northampton High School for Girls and Boys respective under 10 miles away.
Dating back to the 1800s, this Grade-II listed, ironstone barn conversion is a true gem. Located in the charming village of Market Harborough, the property offers a unique blend of traditional charm with modern living.
The house boasts four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two reception rooms. There is also an additional annex, comprising a kitchen, shower-room and a first-floor bedroom.
With four bedrooms (one of which is ensuite) and generous living space, this spacious, modern home offers prospective families ample room in the sought-after village of Oakham.
With four bedrooms (one of which is ensuite) and generous living space, this spacious, modern home offers prospective families ample room in the sought-after village of Oakham.
The property is also well-primed for hosting, with a large conservatory, private garden and patio area.
Families also have the benefit of amenities right on their doorstep: the house is just a short walk from several local amenities, including a coffee shop, supermarkets and Oakham Station.
This thoughtfully converted chapel has five bedrooms, south-facing private gardens and a stylish kitchen ideal for entertaining.
The property is located in the thriving Rutland village of Barrowden, which has a pub overlooking the village green, stone buildings, a church and village hall.
The market town of Uppingham is also five miles away, where butchers, bakers, delicatessens, pubs, cafes and restaurants can be found, as well as a famed Friday market.
With stunning views from both the front and back of the property, this family home epitomises idyllic countryside living.
The property itself has three double bedrooms, one of which has an ensure shower room, and there is a front aspect reception with a feature fireplace.
Located on Grantham Lane, just outside Empingham, the property enjoys easy access to charming Stamford, via the A1, as well as popular reservoir Rutland Water.
With more contemporary furnishings in a countryside location, this four-bedroom detached house has a double garage, private gardens and off-street parking.
Hartwell itself has a lovely village pub and community centre, and the village CofE primary school was ranked the ninth best primary school in the country by the Times.
Set within a generous plot of land in the popular village of Burton, this four to five-bedroom property is spacious and bright, with a family room, dining room and lounge.
The local primary school is a stone’s throw away and commuter links are in close proximity, providing a happy balance of convenience and tranquillity amid the semi-rural Burton-on-the-Wolds.
Perfectly positioned in the ever sought-after Great Houghton, this fantastic three-bedroom house has been looked after by the same family for the past 60 years, and has just recently come onto the market.
In addition to the generously sized bedrooms, there is ample off-road parking, a beautifully maintained garden, as well as a garage with an adjoining workshop.
This detached five-bed family home is located within the quiet cul-de-sac of Norton. With far-reaching countryside views, as well as well-tended gardens, it offers a peaceful oasis in the heart of the country.
It also boasts a spacious dual-aspect sitting room, as well as a single garage and a grave driveway.
