Harpenden
That property prices are well over double the national average in Harpenden signifies one thing above all others: this is a prime commuter town which has seen much of its economic growth and infrastructure developments funded by the proximity of London and the ease of access into the capital.
That’s not to say Harpenden is a dormitory town though: although flanked by its two larger neighbours, Luton and St Albans, it more than holds its own as a centre for leisure activities and good living. The town makes much of the fact that it has resisted the approach of many chain restaurants and stores – it wears the high proportion of independent shops as a badge of honour.
Pretty and green, the town is so close to London and yet far enough away for residents to enjoy pleasant living in a community which has its own special, distinct feel.
What a Property Buying Agent Can Purchase
£750k buys: A four-bedroom detached house in the suburbs.
£1m buys: A three-bedroom detached family house, or a spacious, four-bedroom semi-detached property.
£2m buys: A six-bedroom Grade II detached house with grounds.
Best Hotels in Harpenden
Luton Hoo Hotel and Spa (https://www.lutonhoo.co.uk) offers five star luxurious relaxation in glorious countryside surrounds. Aubrey Park Hotel (https://aubreypark.co.uk) is a hidden haven with wonderfully styled bedrooms and a myriad of extra facilities, with conferencing a speciality. The Silver Cup (https://www.silvercupinharpenden.co.uk) sits right on Harpenden’s famous Common and is an historic inn offering rooms for the night and a varied menu for diners.
Best Restaurants in Harpenden
Lussmans (https://www.lussmanns.com) is a fish and grill restaurant with a fantastic reputation, especially for its relaxed, sustainable approach to dining. Zaza (https://www.zaza.co.uk/restaurants/harpenden) is in an idyllic setting on the High Street and offers a high quality Italian menu. Graffiti (http://graffitirestaurant.co.uk) is a locals’ favourite and it’s not hard to see why, with its fantastic atmosphere and colourful Italian menu.
Best Schools in Harpenden
St George’s School (http://www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk) is, unusually a State day and boarding school, offering education to boys and girls and consistently placed in the top five schools in the county. Aldwickbury School (http://www.aldwickbury.org.uk) offers independent education for boys aged 4 to 13 in a fabulous, historic setting. Berkhamstead School (https://www.berkhamstedschool.org) is a mainstream independent school for pupils aged 11 to 18 with a linked junior school.
Buying Agents Harpenden Fact
The Hot Cross Bun is said to originate in St Albans. Brother Thomas Rocliffe, a 14th century Monk at St Albans Abbey, developed the original recipe and distributed the bun to the local poor on Good Friday, starting in 1381.
How to Get to Harpenden from Central London
Train: 45 mins to London Bridge station
Car: 1 hour 15 mins to central London