Safe, vibrant, and well-connected communities perfect for raising children
The Thames Valley isn’t just a tech and business hub — it’s a haven for families looking for a better quality of life, top schools, and easy access to London. Whether you’re after riverside charm, green parks, or community spirit, here are the top 5 neighbourhoods families love in the region.
🏡 1. Wokingham
- 🛡️ Safety First: Regularly ranks among the safest towns in the UK
- 🎓 Education: Excellent primary & secondary schools, including Emmbrook and St Crispin’s
- 🌳 Green Space: California Country Park and Dinton Pastures nearby for outdoor fun
- 🚄 Commute: ~1 hour to London Waterloo, great for working parents
- 🏘️ Community Vibe: Family-focused events, farmers’ markets, and friendly neighbours
🏞️ 2. Marlow
- 🌉 Setting: Beautiful riverside town with a strong village feel
- 📚 Schools: Highly rated primaries and access to grammar schools in nearby Bucks
- 🚲 Lifestyle: Active, outdoorsy vibe with rowing, cycling, and family walks
- 🛍️ Amenities: Chic cafés, child-friendly restaurants, and boutique shops
- 🚗 Access: Close to M40 & M4; train to London via Maidenhead or High Wycombe
🏰 3. Windsor
- 👑 Unique Charm: Royal parks, castles, and top-class museums for weekend fun
- 🎓 Education: Home to great state schools and private options like St George’s
- 🏞️ Outdoor Life: Windsor Great Park, Legoland, and The Long Walk for all ages
- 🏘️ Housing: Mix of elegant period homes and modern developments
- 🚉 Connectivity: Two stations with regular service to London Waterloo & Paddington
🌸 4. Henley-on-Thames
- 🛶 Riverside Living: Safe, serene, and full of natural beauty
- 🎓 Education: Strong OFSTED-rated schools and nurseries
- 🎻 Culture: Annual arts festivals, regatta, and local theatre scene
- 🏞️ Walkability: Compact, family-friendly town centre with parks and cafes
- 🚄 Transport: Trains via Twyford to London Paddington (~1 hour)
🏙️ 5. Earley (Near Reading)
- 🏫 Education Hub: Close to Reading University and excellent local schools
- 💷 Value for Money: More affordable housing than central Reading
- 🚸 Family Perks: Parks, play centres, and active neighbourhood associations
- 🚄 Fast Commute: 30–35 minutes to London Paddington from Reading station
- 🛒 Convenience: Large supermarkets, libraries, GP surgeries — all within reach
👨👩👧 Why Families Love These Areas:
- ✅ Low crime rates and strong community support
- ✅ Abundant green spaces and child-friendly amenities
- ✅ Excellent school catchments and after-school activities
- ✅ Good rental and property options in safe, walkable streets
- ✅ Easy commuting for parents with London jobs
📝 Final Word:
If you’re raising a family and working in or around London, Thames Valley offers the perfect middle ground: safe, scenic neighbourhoods with all the benefits of city access and countryside charm.