Posted 1 November 2021 by
Keith OsborneTwo of the world’s most famous university cities have often been compared to each other and thanks to their growing popularity as a place to make a permanent home, those comparisons are now being made about the new housing deveopments being built there.
We take a look at two current, successful schemes which are both close to selling out and ask house-hunters to make their choice about the one that suits them best.
New research from Ocean Finance shows Oxford is one of the top ten coolest places to live in the UK. Based on markets such as yoga studios, farmers’ markets, breweries, boutique cinemas and independent coffee shops, the research showcases the latest appeal of Oxford as a place to live.
Boasting a fascinating heritage, elegant historic architecture, museums and idyllic green parks, residents enjoy the ideal blend of leisure, culture and country pursuits.
Oxford’s thriving high street is home to an excellent selection of leading brand and independent shops along with an eclectic mix of eateries, from cafés and gastro pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants. Additionally, the beautiful Cotswolds, Chiltern Hills and North Wessex Downs are all within easy reach, providing walking routes in some of the UK’s most spectacular landscapes.
Parklands Manor
Parklands Manor is a modern country estate in the Oxfordshire village of Besselsleigh. Set on the site of a former 140-year-old Victorian manor house and school, the development provides an impeccable blend of preservation and conversion with sensitively-designed new build homes – offering a rare opportunity to live on a contemporary country estate in a truly unique setting.
The Victorian-era manor house – formerly Parklands School Campus – has been thoughtfully transformed into a selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments, all sensitively designed in keeping with the building’s original character. A collection of new one- and two-bedroom apartments and three-, four- and five-bedroom family homes sit alongside the manor house. Homes feature high specification luxury fitted kitchens with a separate utility room, generous living areas and a spacious garden.
Surrounded by over 23-acres of charming parkland, homes are perfectly positioned to enjoy the best of country life, with an array of villages, hamlets and small towns just moments away.
Parklands Manor is served exceptionally well for education, residents are within easy access to a selection of traditional primary schools and established independent and preparatory schools to a world-renowned university. The centre of Oxford can be reached in under ten minutes and the capital is an hour away by train.
Now over 90% sold, there is only a handful of four- and five-bedroom houses remaining, all of which are ready to move into this year (2021). Prices start from £715,000. Find out more at www.millgatehomes.co.uk.
The Ocean Finance research reveals Cambridge has taken the number two spot in the company’s round-up of the UK’s coolest cities. With its historic attractions, eclectic shopping and fine dining, Cambridge is becoming a popular spot to place down roots.
Whilst perhaps best known for its university colleges, Cambridge and the surrounding area is home to a number of prestigious educational facilities – both state and independent, including The Perse School and Trumpington Community College. For those commuting into London, fast trains from Cambridge railway station take less than 50 minutes to King’s Cross.
Aura: The Final Chapter
The final collection of homes to launch at Aura: The Final Chapter mark the last opportunity to secure a property at Countryside’s award-winning [https://www.whathouse.com/awards/countryside/] development at Great Kneighton.
With the development now over 90% sold, the last remaining apartments present a unique opportunity for buyers, offering access to beautifully landscaped podium gardens. Alongside planting, walkways and seating areas, the thoughtfully designed gardens provide a charming green outlook for residents.
The properties also boast a privileged location close to the 120-acre Hobson’s Country Park, home to woodland, allotments, ponds, adventure play areas and a 50,000m² bird reserve.
Considered one of the most desirable pockets in which to live in Cambridge, Great Kneighton is renowned for its distinctive mix of striking, contemporary architecture, abundant landscaping, and exceptional facilities and amenities.
The last remaining two-bedroom apartments feature generous open-plan spaces, while sought-after private outside space can be found in the form of either a balcony or large terrace. Located just three miles from the heart of Cambridge, Great Knighton is ideally placed for the best of city and country life. Prices start from £420,000. Find out more at www.countrysideproperties.com.
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