Property for sale in Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset
Are you looking for a property for sale in Hampshire, Wiltshire, or Dorset? Property finder Daniel Rowland discusses what makes these counties so desirable.
From historic towns and picturesque villages to stunning coastal and countryside settings, whether you’re seeking a family home, a second property, or a lifestyle change, these areas provide an excellent quality of life.
The appeal of Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Dorset
These three counties offer an abundance of character and charm. From the historic cities of Winchester in Hampshire and Salisbury in Wiltshire to quaint villages with vibrant communities and beautiful architecture, the area caters to a wide range of preferences.
Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning landscapes, with two National Parks—The South Downs and the New Forest.
The South Downs stretches from Itchen Valley in Hampshire to Beachy Head in East Sussex. The New Forest, located in Hampshire and Wiltshire, is a vast area of forest, pasture, and heathland.
There are also three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – Dorset AONB, The Cranborne Chase, and the North Wessex Downs. In addition, the Dorset coastline from Poole Harbour to Lyme Regis, known as the Jurassic Coast, is designated a World Heritage Site.
The motivations for moving to these regions vary widely. Some are downsizing, others are leaving London for a better work-life balance, and many are looking for a second home that offers a contrast to their main residence.
The diversity of locations and property types means there is something for everyone.
The best locations for second homes
Those looking for a second home often seek a complete change of environment. Many buyers are moving from urban settings and looking for peace, space, and access to nature. The South Downs and New Forest National Parks are particularly attractive for this reason.
Areas such as Cranborne Chase AONB which straddles Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire offer excellent value for money. They provide picturesque stone-built villages, strong communities, and excellent walking routes.
Buyers willing to explore beyond the more established hotspots can find properties that provide both privacy and character.
For those drawn to the water, options include the sandy beaches of Sandbanks and Canford Cliffs in Dorset. Also popular are the sailing communities of Chichester Harbour, or the renowned fishing spots of Hampshire’s Test Valley. The availability of leisure activities—whether it’s sailing, fishing, or simply enjoying coastal living—is a key factor for many second-home buyers.
Why Hampshire is ideal for families relocating from London
Families relocating from London often look for property for sale in Hampshire due to the county’s easy access to the capital which remains a priority for many. Train connections from key locations such as Winchester and Petersfield offer commutes of around an hour.
Winchester, in particular, is a sought-after small city that provides an excellent lifestyle.
It has outstanding schools, a thriving cultural scene, and a historic charm.
Petersfield, slightly less well known but equally appealing, sits in the heart of the South Downs and offers a more rural feel while still maintaining strong transport links.
Considering a move further afield?
With more people working remotely or commuting less frequently, there is now greater flexibility in location choices.
The traditional one-hour commute rule is no longer as rigid, and buyers are increasingly open to properties that offer a two-hour journey time to London.
This shift has made areas such as the New Forest, Branksome Park, and Canford Cliffs more appealing. Buyers are attracted by the rural or coastal lifestyle, with access to nature, beaches, and open spaces.
Alternatively, the villages surrounding Salisbury provide more affordable options compared to the premium prices of Winchester, offering a compelling balance between location and budget.
This opens up an array of options for homebuyers looking for property for sale in Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Dorset.
Advice for buying coastal property
The allure of coastal living is undeniable, but it comes at a price. Waterfront properties often carry a significant premium, as demonstrated by a knockdown chalet in Sandbanks that sold for £13.5 million in 2023.
For those considering a coastal purchase, it’s essential to be realistic about budgets and priorities. Location, setting, and views should take precedence, as these are the elements that cannot be changed.
While interiors can always be updated, the surrounding environment is what makes a coastal property truly special.
Buyers should remain flexible on less critical aspects while focusing on securing the best possible location.
Help to find property for sale in Hampshire, Wiltshire, and Dorset
For those unfamiliar with these wonderful counties, finding the right location requires careful research and local expertise. Understanding the motivation behind a move helps refine the search, whether it’s schools, transport links, access to sports clubs, or lifestyle preferences.
Garrington offers orientation tours to assist clients in exploring potential areas. These tailored visits allow buyers to experience different communities, visit schools, restaurants, and other key amenities, and gain a deeper understanding of what each location has to offer.
This hands-on approach ensures buyers make informed decisions based on their personal needs and aspirations.
If you’re looking for a property for sale in Hampshire, Wiltshire, or Dorset as a primary residence or a second home and would like to find out more about what these counties have to offer, please do get in touch to discuss your plans without obligation.
