Why Commutable Green Spaces Are the New Property Priority for Young Families

In a post-pandemic world where flexible working has become the norm and outdoor space is no longer a luxury but a lifestyle essential, UK families are rethinking what makes a property ideal. The old trade-off between proximity to city jobs and access to green space is rapidly fading. Today’s buyers want both.

 

Young families, in particular, are placing a growing emphasis on mental well-being, safe environments for children, and community living. Yet, they also need reliable transport links to city hubs for work, school, and convenience. This has led to a rising demand for “commutable green spaces” — areas that combine the serenity of nature with easy access to urban centres.

 

In this blog, we’ll explore why this trend is gaining momentum in 2025, how it’s shaping buyer behaviour, and what it means for sellers in areas like Bracknell and the surrounding towns. For buyers searching for ideal properties in Bracknell, the combination of green living and excellent transport connections offers a highly attractive lifestyle. We’ll dive into the benefits of green space living for families, uncover top local hotspots that tick all the boxes, and show how this evolving priority is influencing the property market across Berkshire.

Why Green Space Has Become a Top Priority for Family Buyers

Over the past few years, the UK property market has witnessed a significant shift in buyer priorities and green space has rapidly moved to the top of the list. According to a recent Zoopla study, searches for “homes near parks” rose by over 80% since 2020, while Google Trends shows a consistent upward trajectory for terms like “green space UK property” and “family homes near nature.”

This change has been largely fuelled by the rise of remote and hybrid working models, giving buyers greater flexibility in where they live. No longer tied to daily city commutes, many young families are now prioritising lifestyle, health, and access to nature over proximity to office hubs.

School preferences also play a crucial role. Families are increasingly favouring catchment areas near nature-integrated primary schools or those that promote outdoor learning aligning with broader wellness and development goals for children.

Rightmove’s 2024 Buyer Behaviour Report also highlights a surge in demand for homes with access to green belts, woodland paths, and local parks, especially among first-time family buyers. This is not just a passing trend; it reflects a long-term mindset shift driven by well-being, sustainability, and quality of life.

For estate agents and sellers, adapting to this new set of buyer expectations means emphasising more than just square footage it means selling a lifestyle. 

 

Understanding the ‘Commutable Green Space’ Concept

The term “commutable green space” is quickly becoming a buzzword in the UK property market but what does it actually mean?

In essence, commutable green spaces refer to residential areas that offer both close proximity to nature and efficient transport connections to major city centres like London, Reading, or Oxford. These locations allow residents to enjoy a peaceful, family-friendly lifestyle surrounded by greenery, without compromising on work-related commute times or access to urban amenities.

These areas typically fall into a few key categories:

• Woodland suburbs – Quiet residential communities nestled near forests or large parks, perfect for outdoor-loving families.

• Park-side developments – New-build or regenerated estates positioned beside established parks or recreational grounds.

• Greenbelt-adjacent towns – Market towns or villages near protected greenbelt land, offering scenic surroundings and space to grow.

For young families, this hybrid setting provides the best of both worlds: children grow up with space to explore and play, while parents retain the convenience of city access via train, bus, or road networks. As property priorities continue to shift in 2025, these in-demand zones are quickly becoming top picks for buyers seeking long-term value and lifestyle balance.

How Families Benefit from Living Near Nature With Easy City Access

The demand for commutable green spaces is not just about aesthetic appeal; it’s driven by a profound shift in how families view their living environments. The benefits of living in these areas go far beyond the physical space of a home, positively impacting health, education, social life, and work-life balance.

Health and Well-being:

For young families, access to green spaces provides a wealth of mental and physical health benefits. Studies have shown that children who spend more time outdoors in natural environments exhibit reduced stress and improved attention spans. Fresh air and space to run and play are invaluable for both children and parents, promoting a more active lifestyle. The calming effects of nature are well-documented, contributing to lower levels of anxiety and better overall mental wellness for the entire family.

Education:

Living near nature also offers a unique educational advantage. Many families are now seeking homes close to schools that promote outdoor learning, such as forest schools or those that integrate nature into their curriculum. These nature-linked schools foster creativity and environmental awareness in children, all while supporting their cognitive and social development. The added bonus? Parents benefit from shorter school runs in more serene, green environments.

Social and Community Life:

Commute-friendly green spaces often foster stronger community bonds. These areas tend to have safer, quieter neighborhoods, with community gardens, local markets, and family-focused activities. Young families often find themselves becoming more socially connected in areas where neighbors prioritize nature, sustainability, and shared community values.

Work-life Balance:

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of commutable green spaces is the balance they offer between work and leisure. For families with dual-income households, having the flexibility to work remotely while living in a green, peaceful area close to transport hubs ensures that parents can enjoy weekends surrounded by nature without sacrificing work commitments during the week. This balance improves overall quality of life, providing both relaxation and convenience.

Best Local Spots for Families Who Want Green Without Losing the City

When it comes to finding the perfect balance of green space and city access, several areas near Bracknell stand out for young families. These locations offer ample outdoor space, excellent schools, and efficient transport links to major city centres like London, all while maintaining a peaceful, suburban charm. Below are five of the top spots to consider for families seeking commutable green spaces:

1. Wokingham

• • Commute time to London: 40 minutes by train to Waterloo

  • Green spaces: Dinton Pastures Country Park, Wokingham Woodlands

  • Schools: Outstanding local schools, including The Holt School and Wokingham Primary

  • Average home price: £475,000 (semi-detached)

• Wokingham is a popular choice for families due to its excellent transport links and scenic parks. The town has a strong sense of community and offers families the chance to live close to nature without being far from London. It’s ideal for those who appreciate outdoor leisure activities and an abundance of green space.

2. Crowthorne

• • Commute time to London: 50 minutes by train to London Waterloo

  • Green spaces: The Look Out Discovery Centre, Crowthorne Woods

  • Schools: Crowthorne Church of England Primary, Edgbarrow School

  • Average home price: £500,000 (detached)

• Nestled next to Swallowfield Park and with easy access to Crowthorne Woods, this village offers a peaceful lifestyle combined with good transport links to London. Crowthorne’s strong community feel and local schools make it a perfect choice for growing families seeking green space and quick city access.

3. Ascot

• • Commute time to London: 50 minutes by train to London Paddington

  • Green spaces: Windsor Great Park, The Savill Garden

  • Schools: Ascot Heath Infant School, Charters School

  • Average home price: £650,000 (semi-detached)

• Known for its famous racecourse, Ascot also offers an abundance of green space for families, including large parks and woodlands. The area is sought after for its excellent schools and well-connected rail routes to London, making it perfect for families seeking both outdoor living and city convenience.

4. Binfield

• Commute time to London: 50 minutes by train to London Waterloo

• Green spaces: Pound Meadow, Hawthorns Park

• Schools: Binfield Primary School, The Royal Holloway University of London School

• Average home price: £460,000 (semi-detached)

• A quiet and family-friendly village, Binfield is a great option for those wanting to live near green belts while remaining close to Bracknell and transport links. It’s a peaceful area with great amenities for young families, including local parks, schools, and easy access to larger towns.

5. Warfield

• • Commute time to London: 55 minutes by train to London Paddington

  • Green spaces: Warfield Park, Bluebell Wood

  • Schools: Warfield Church of England Primary, Ranelagh School

  • Average home price: £525,000 (detached)

• Warfield offers an ideal setting for families seeking more space, green parks, and tranquillity. The area is home to some of the most picturesque green spaces and is conveniently located near transport links. It’s perfect for those looking for a suburban feel while staying within reach of the city.

These areas provide a fantastic mix of family-friendly features, from natural surroundings to top-tier schools and convenient transport routes to the city. Whether you’re looking for a quiet village vibe or a more vibrant suburban setting, these locations near Bracknell tick all the boxes for families who don’t want to compromise on green space or city access.

What This Trend Means for 2025 Buyers and Sellers Alike

As the demand for commutable green spaces continues to surge in 2025, buyers and sellers alike will need to adjust to the changing market dynamics.

For Buyers:

Expect higher competition and rising prices in areas adjacent to green spaces, especially as families seek the balance between nature and proximity to city hubs. With remote working now an established norm, many buyers are more focused on lifestyle factors like access to parks, greenbelts, and outdoor recreation areas. As a result, properties near these sought-after zones will likely see price growth and an increase in demand, with multiple buyers vying for the same homes. Buyers should be prepared to act quickly and make competitive offers to secure properties in these green-rich locations.

For Sellers:

Homes located near parks, woodlands, or nature trails are in an excellent position to command a premium price in the current market. Sellers with properties offering green space views, proximity to walking trails, or easy access to natural reserves should highlight these features in listings, showcasing the benefits of outdoor living. Additionally, emphasizing sustainability, wellness-focused living, and family-friendly amenities will resonate with today’s buyers.

DY Takeaway:

At DY, we specialize in matching families with homes that perfectly fit their lifestyle needs, whether that means easy access to city centres or serene, green surroundings. Our expertise in the evolving property landscape ensures that we help buyers and sellers make the most of this high-demand trend.

 

Green, Connected, and Family-Ready – Your Next Home Awaits

As we’ve seen, the trend of prioritizing commutable green spaces is more than just a passing phase; it’s reshaping the way young families approach property searches in 2025. From better health and well-being to improved work-life balance and social connection, living near nature without sacrificing urban convenience is becoming a top priority for buyers.

This demand for green-adjacent homes will continue to grow, making it essential for both buyers and sellers to understand the long-term value of these areas. For families looking for the perfect home that blends nature with easy city access, this trend is the future.

If you’re searching for trusted estate agents in Bracknell who understand the value of green living combined with strong transport links, our team at DY is here to guide you. We specialize in helping families find homes that match these evolving needs. Explore our listings today and discover the perfect property that’s not only green but also connected and family-ready.