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.