Ascot, a picturesque town nestled in the county of Berkshire, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, prestigious horse racing events, and affluent lifestyle. This article explores everything you need to know about living in Ascot, covering employment, education, transport links, property information and much more.
Is Ascot a Nice Place to Live?
Ascot is a highly desirable town which offers a high standard of living. Widely regarded as the most luxurious town in Berkshire, Ascot is an affluent area with a range of amenities as well as excellent transport links. Ascot is the setting for one of the world’s most famous racecourses too. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with both Windsor Great Park and Swinley Forest within easy reach. Whilst the town commands high property prices, residents enjoy an enviable way of life.
What Life is Like in Ascot
While many come for a day at the races, those lucky enough to live in Ascot enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with modern luxuries. Residents enjoy clean streets, excellent schools, and a variety of recreational activities. The town features a fantastic selection of high street retailers alongside trendy eateries.
The social scene is vibrant, with upscale dining, charming pubs, and local events which helps to foster a strong community spirit. Convenient access to London and ample green spaces contribute to the fulfilling lifestyle.
Also, the village shops of Sunningdale are just a short distance away, as are the historic sights and cultural attractions of Windsor.
Why Ascot?
Now let’s go into some more detail on the main draws of living in Ascot.
Prestigious Area to Live
One of the main draws of living in Ascot is its prestigious reputation. Known globally for the Royal Ascot horse racing event, the town exudes an air of sophistication and luxury. Many people are attracted to Ascot for its upscale living environment, characterised by grand homes, manicured gardens, and exclusive facilities.
Proximity to London
Ascot’s strategic location offers the best of both worlds: a serene countryside setting with convenient access to London. Located just 25 miles west of the capital, it is an ideal residence for those who work in the city but prefer a more tranquil living environment.
Community and Safety
Ascot is often regarded as one of the nicest places to live in the UK. The town boasts a strong sense of community, low crime rates, and a welcoming atmosphere. Residents enjoy a peaceful and secure environment, making it particularly appealing for families and retirees.
Quality of Life
The quality of life in Ascot is exceptionally high. With an abundance of green spaces, excellent amenities, and a variety of leisure activities, residents can enjoy a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Social Scene
From casual pub gatherings to sophisticated dining experiences and social clubs, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people and engage in community activities.
Ascot Transport Links
Ascot is served by Ascot Train Station, located on the southern side of the town centre. Frequent services run to London Waterloo and London Paddington, which take around an hour, as well as westward to Reading in under 30 minutes. These excellent train links have made Ascot an increasingly popular commuter town.
Bus services in Ascot include the 01 bus to Windsor and the 702 bus to London. For drivers, Ascot offers convenient access to nearby motorways, with the M3, M4, and M25 all within easy reach.
For international travel, Heathrow Airport is conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from Ascot.
Employment Opportunities in Ascot
Ascot offers a variety of employment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and healthcare. The town’s affluent population also creates demand for luxury services, including personal trainers, beauticians, and high-end retail staff.
For those working in London, Ascot provides a convenient commuting option. Regular train services connect Ascot to London Waterloo in just under an hour, making it feasible for residents to work in the city while enjoying a peaceful home life.
The likes of Reading, Slough, and Bracknell are also easily reached from Ascot.
Education and Schools in Ascot
Ascot is blessed with exceptional schools, among the most prestigious in the country. For young families considering a move, Ascot offers an unparalleled standard of education.
While Ascot is renowned for its prestigious private schools, the state education system is also excellent. In fact, Ascot is home to some of the most prestigious and high-performing schools in the country.
Some of the most highly regarded schools in and around Ascot are:
- St Francis Catholic Primary School (rated as ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted)
- Ascot Heath Primary School (rated as ‘good’ by Ofsted)
- Cheapside CofE Primary School (rated as ‘good’ by Ofsted)
- Charters School (rated as ‘good’ by Ofsted)
- Sunningdale School (boys’ boarding prep school for ages between 7 and 13)
- Papplewick School (independent day and boarding prep school for ages between 6 and 13)
- LVS Ascot (private day and boarding school for pupils aged between 4 and 18)
- St George’s School Ascot (independent girls’ boarding and day school for ages 11 to 18)
- St Mary’s School Ascot (Roman Catholic boarding school for girls ages between 11 and 18)
Property in Ascot
In Ascot, you can find a diverse range of properties, including grand detached houses often set on spacious grounds, modern and luxurious apartments, charming townhouses, and quaint cottages, catering to a variety of tastes and lifestyles.
Average Property Prices
According to our data, as of July 2024, the average price of a property in Ascot over the last 12 months was £680,229.
The average price by property type is as follows:
- Detached: £1,104,371
- Semi-detached: £551,420
- Terraced: £472,160
- Flat/apartment: £390,327
There are properties available in Ascot to suit a wide range of budgets and tastes. Explore our properties for sale in Ascot.
Average Rental Prices
According to our data, as of July 2024, the average monthly rental price in Ascot over the last 12 months is £2,367.
The average monthly rental price by property type is as follows:
- Detached: £4,167
- Semi-detached: £2,782
- Terraced: £2,127
- Flat/apartment: £1,774
Explore our properties for rent in Ascot.
Attractions in and Around Ascot
It is fair to say that Ascot is dominated by its magnificent racecourse, drawing up to half a million visitors annually. Ascot Racecourse, positioned prominently at the western end of High Street, is synonymous with world-class horse racing, royalty, and extravagance.
Ascot lies a mere 6 miles from the historic town of Windsor. Windsor Castle, renowned as one of the world’s most iconic attractions, is a must-visit destination.
Nearby, Windsor Great Park spans 4,800 acres of stunning ancient forests, providing an ideal setting for dog walkers, hikers, cyclists, runners, and horse riders alike.
Just a short 15-minute drive from Ascot, The Savill Garden is a breathtaking ornamental garden, offering serene surroundings to explore rare plants gathered from across the globe.
Other attractions in and around Ascot include:
- Luna Cinema
- Theatre Royal Windsor
- Legoland Windsor Resort
- St George’s Chapel
- The Spa at Pennyhill Park
- Thorpe Park Resort
- ODEON Bracknell
The local arts scene is vibrant, with numerous cultural events and activities throughout the year. Residents can enjoy theatre performances, art exhibitions, and music festivals, ensuring there is always something to look forward to.
Shopping Options
Ascot offers a range of shopping options, from quaint local shops to high-end boutiques. Residents can find everything they need, from everyday essentials to luxury goods.
The amenities and facilities in Ascot are primarily located around High Street, featuring familiar names like Costa, Tesco Express, Sainsbury’s, and Argos, along with a variety of cafés and restaurants. Ascot has many highly regarded clothes stores including In Style Ascot, Coco Boutique, Natalia Couture and The Style Story.
The town also hosts regular markets and specialty stores, where residents can purchase fresh produce, artisanal products, and unique gifts.
Ascot is conveniently close to several shopping centres too, including The Lexicon in Bracknell, Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, and The Atrium in Camberley.
Eating and Drinking in Ascot
Ascot boasts a diverse culinary scene with a range of dining options to suit all tastes. From gourmet restaurants to cosy cafés, residents can enjoy a variety of cuisines.
Notable restaurants in the area include:
- Bluebells Restaurant (British and European Michelin restaurant)
- Woven by Adam Smith (British Michelin restaurant)
- Rajbhoog (Indian restaurant)
- La Sorrentina Italian Restaurant
- The Carpenters Arms
- The Thatched Tavern
- Kempton’s at Sunningdale Park
- The Belvedere Arms
- The Barn at Coworth Park
- The Drawing Room at Coworth Park
Pubs and Bars
The town also features several charming pubs and bars, perfect for a casual drink or a night out. Popular spots include The Royal Foresters and The Swinley, both offering a warm atmosphere and a great selection of beverages.
Sport and Leisure in Ascot
Ascot provides numerous opportunities for sports and fitness enthusiasts. The town is home to several gyms, sports clubs, and fitness centres. Popular activities include golf, tennis, and horse riding, with excellent facilities available for each.
Gyms and leisure facilities in Ascot include:
- Fitness Space Ascot
- Charters Leisure Centre
- Grit13
- Gain Line
Ascot and the surrounding areas boast a superb selection of sport clubs, many of which are prestigious.
These clubs include:
- Royal Ascot Golf Club
- Royal Ascot Tennis Club
- Sunningdale Golf Club
- Wentworth Golf Club
- Guards Polo Club
- Lavendar Park Golf Club
Outdoor Opportunities
The surrounding countryside is a major draw for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The scenic beauty and tranquillity of the area make it an ideal location for countryside living.
Ascot is surrounded by beautiful green spaces and nature reserves, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
As well as Windsor Great Park, there is Swinley Heath, which offers extensive trails for hiking, mountain biking and wildlife watching. Ascot Heath is another picturesque area, which is perfect for walking, jogging and picnics.
Cost of Living in Ascot
The cost of living in Ascot is high, reflecting its desirability and exclusivity. Housing in Ascot is particularly expensive, with the average cost of property significantly higher than the national average.
Everyday costs such as groceries are higher compared to other parts of the UK. Utilities and council tax in Ascot are also on the higher end. Despite these high costs, Ascot’s excellent quality of life, top-notch schools, and close proximity to London make it a sought-after location for those who can afford its premium prices.
Crime and Safety
Ascot is known for its low crime rates and is considered a very safe place to live.
The overall crime rate in Sunninghill and Ascot was 45 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023. This is 44% lower than the average Berkshire crime rate.
Broadband Prices
The cost of broadband in Ascot ranges from around £25 to £40 per month depending on the level of service. The average MBPS is 112, which is more than suitable for remote working.
Other Areas of Berkshire to Consider
Berkshire has many other fine areas to live which may be more suited to you depending on your circumstances and preferences.
Windsor
A historic town known for Windsor Castle, offering a rich cultural scene and excellent amenities.
Reading
A bustling town with a vibrant nightlife, extensive shopping options, and excellent transport links. Find out more about what it is like to live in Reading.
Bracknell
A growing town with modern amenities, good schools, and affordable housing options. Find out more about what it is like to live in Bracknell.
Maidenhead
A riverside town offering a mix of urban convenience and scenic beauty, with easy access to London.
Pros and Cons of Living in Ascot
Here are some of the pros and cons of living in Ascot.
Pros
- High quality of life: Excellent amenities, education, and healthcare
- Beautiful surroundings: Abundant green spaces and attractive landscapes
- Strong community: Friendly and welcoming atmosphere
- Proximity to London: Convenient commuting options
Cons
- Cost of living: Higher property prices and living costs compared to other areas
- Limited nightlife: Fewer nightlife options compared to larger towns and cities
- Traffic: Can experience congestion, particularly during events at Ascot Racecourse
Are You Thinking of Moving to Ascot?
Living in Ascot offers a unique blend of luxury, tranquillity, and convenience. With its prestigious reputation, excellent amenities, and beautiful surroundings, it is no wonder that many people are drawn to this charming town.
If you are thinking about moving to the area, our Ascot estate agents can help. We offer a range of services for buyers and tenants, as well as for sellers and landlords.
