The landscape of Britain's luxury property market is undergoing a dramatic transformation, with new data revealing an extraordinary surge in million-pound home sales. Exclusive analysis has identified a remarkable 60% increase in transactions for properties valued over £1 million across England and Wales.
The New Million-Pound Property Hotspots
While London's affluent neighbourhoods have traditionally dominated the high-end market, the post-pandemic 'race for space' has fundamentally reshaped buyer preferences. The Cotswolds has emerged as the undisputed champion, claiming the top spot with a staggering 55% of all sales surpassing the million-pound threshold in the last year.
Close behind, the Cheshire town of Knutsford secured second place, with an impressive 49% of properties selling for seven figures. Hertfordshire's Harpenden rounded out the top three, establishing itself as a major player in the luxury market.
Beyond the Golden Triangle
This seismic shift signals a move away from the traditional 'golden triangle' of London, Oxford, and Cambridge. The data paints a clear picture of wealthy buyers prioritising larger homes, gardens, and a different quality of life, often facilitated by the widespread adoption of hybrid working models.
Other areas experiencing a significant boom in high-value transactions include the picturesque county of Dorset and the scenic Peak District, confirming that the demand for premium country living is stronger than ever.
What's Driving the Boom?
Several key factors are fuelling this trend:
- Hybrid Working: Reduced need for a daily commute has freed buyers to look beyond city centres.
- Lifestyle Priorities: A heightened desire for green space, larger properties, and a quieter environment.
- Market Confidence: Despite economic headwinds, confidence remains high in the prime property sector.
This analysis underscores a permanent recalibration of the UK's property market, proving that the dream of a million-pound home is now being realised far beyond the capital's postcodes.
