Where to move for schools: family-friendly property hotspots across the UK

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

For families seeking more space and a countryside lifestyle without sacrificing culture and amenities, Cheltenham offers the best of both worlds.

"It almost feels like a relaxed London suburb, so those moving from the capital immediately feel at home," says Harry Bethell, Knight Frank's Head of Cheltenham Sales. "Yet if you want to pull on your wellies and be in the heart of the Cotswolds countryside, it's right on your doorstep."

The vibrant town centre is home to a thriving food scene and a strong family-focused community, with a social calendar packed with internationally renowned festivals spanning literature, science and jazz. Properties within the catchments of the area's leading schools are particularly sought after, especially in Lansdown and Montpellier, Leckhampton and Charlton Kings.

"My advice to families is to establish their priorities early, as each neighbourhood has its own distinct character and advantages," says Bethell. "Don't underestimate the importance of community and access to outdoor space, particularly when children are younger."

Schools to consider: Cheltenham offers a strong mix of independent and state options. Leading independent schools include Cheltenham Ladies' College, Dean Close School and Cheltenham College. Highly regarded state schools include Charlton Kings Junior School, Pate's Grammar School, Balcarras School and The High School Leckhampton.

Average house price in Cheltenham: £423,364. Semi-detached homes sold for an average of £439,648, while terraced properties achieved £376,168 and flats £234,565.

Marylebone, London

For families seeking to balance work and family life while remaining exceptionally well connected, Marylebone continues to be one of central London's most attractive neighbourhoods.

"The area is an excellent choice for families seeking both outstanding education and a strong sense of community in central London," says Kimberley Pratt, Sales Manager at Knight Frank's Marylebone office. "Families value the breadth of educational options nearby, from highly regarded state schools to leading independent schools. Beyond academics, Marylebone offers village-like charm, green spaces and a welcoming neighbourhood atmosphere."

Much of that community spirit centres around Marylebone High Street, with its independent boutiques, delis and cafés. Its enviable position between Regent's Park and Hyde Park, together with numerous private garden squares, provides easy access to outdoor space.

Schools to consider: Hampden Gurney CofE Primary School, ranked among the top-performing state primary schools in England by The Times, is one of the highly regarded state options in the area, with other notable choices include The St Marylebone Church of England School. Independent schools include Wetherby Preparatory School, Wetherby Senior School, Queen's College London and Halcyon London International School, alongside the specialist performing arts institution, Sylvia Young Theatre School.

Average house price in Marylebone: £1,724,457. Flats sold for an average of £1,560,754, while terraced properties achieved £2,505,312.

Hampstead, London

With the 800-acre expanse of Hampstead Heath on its doorstep, a charming high street and leafy residential streets, Hampstead consistently ranks among the capital's most sought-after family neighbourhoods.

Places at leading grammar schools such as The Henrietta Barnett School are highly sought after, while the area's strong selection of independent and international schools reflects its global appeal and cosmopolitan community.

"Many families focus on 'The Crofts' - roads such as Hollycroft Avenue, Ferncroft Avenue and Rosecroft Avenue - where well-proportioned semi-detached and detached homes sit within walking distance of some of the area's best schools," says Brookes. "The roads off Fitzjohns Avenue are also popular for their beautiful family homes, while the residential streets opposite Kenwood, including Sheldon Avenue and Stormont Road, remain in particularly high demand."

Schools to consider: Popular state primary schools include Christ Church Primary School, while highly regarded independent options include University College School, South Hampstead High School and King Alfred School. Closer to Highgate, Channing School and Highgate School continue to attract families from around the world. The American School in London, in nearby St John's Wood, is considered one of the country's leading US-curriculum schools, while the Collège Français Bilingue de Londres close by in Kentish Town is amongst the most highly regarded bilingual French schools.

Average house price in Hampstead: £1,449,550. Flats sold for an average of £1,001,532, while terraced properties achieved £2,246,570 and semi-detached homes £3,788,604. *Average house prices shown are according to the Rightmove data over the last year.

Kingston upon Thames, London

This leafy town in London’s Zone 6 offers a noticeably greener, more relaxed side to life in the capital, while still providing excellent transport links, with services to London Waterloo taking around 30 minutes.

For families, the vast open spaces of Richmond Park and Bushy Park are complemented by a thriving town centre, where a mix of high street brands, independent cafés and restaurants provides both convenience and culture.

“Education is a major draw for families to the area. Recent national rankings place the borough among the best-performing in the country, with a wide range of options for families, from prestigious grammar schools to highly regarded independent and state schools,” says Ella Coates, Affiliate Broker at Knight Frank.

The exclusive neighbourhood of Coombe Park is home to some of the capital’s most impressive and prestigious residences, while the residential streets north of Kingston station are favoured for their characterful period properties within walking distance of both the River Thames and Richmond Park.

Schools to consider: The Tiffin Girls’ School consistently ranks among the country’s leading grammar schools, while its brother school, The Tiffin School, and Kingston Grammar School are also highly regarded. Other notable options include Surbiton High School. Outstanding-rated primary schools include Fern Hill Primary School and Coombe Hill Junior School.

Average house price in Kingston upon Thames: £718,468. Flats sell for an average of £445,112, while semi-detached properties achieve an average of £890,827. Terraced homes typically sell for around £738,420.