A pick of the best rental properties for commuters within an hour of London

The launch generated considerable interest across the UK, with Darlington even declaring a public holiday.

The growth of the rail network and subsequent improvements sparked huge change across Great Britain – advancing the industrial revolution and enticing holidaymakers to coastal towns up and down the country (among other benefits).

By the early 1900s the locomotive was also making it easier to travel for work – with the lure of good housing design and more green space encouraging people to seek a home in the suburbs outside of London.

Areas like Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire’s Metroland became popular among those wanting to escape the capital, while Ashford, Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells in Kent and Cobham, Esher, Farnham and Guildford in Surrey also experienced significant growth. As did Winchester in Hampshire.

Nowadays, faster travel times and improved rail networks mean that commuters can cast their net further afield.

The opening of the Elizabeth line, for example, has made towns such as Marlow, Windsor and Henley-on-Thames even more accessible, while Reading has also established itself as a location to watch – once again named by The Sunday Times as one of its best places to live in 2025.

Rental properties are a popular choice for couples and families who want to experience life outside London without committing to a purchase.

According to Savills latest research the average monthly prime rental price for properties within 30 minutes of the capital has increased by 0.4% in the last 12 months, while properties within 60 minutes have seen annual rental growth at an average of 1.7%.

Given the diverse range of locations within the commuter belt there will obviously be variation from county to county – with some annual increases significantly higher.

Family homes with plenty of space both inside and out remain most sought after, while tenants are also picking up on all maintenance issues, so properties need to presented at their best and well looked after.

If you’re looking for somewhere a short distance from London, we’ve handpicked a few of our favourite rental properties within an hour of the capital perfect for a regular commute.