Thinking About Moving to Fleet?
Fleet is a vibrant town situated in the picturesque county of Hampshire. Whether you’re drawn in by the area’s excellent schools, great transport links, or the abundance of beautiful green spaces, Fleet offers an exceptional quality of life for families and professionals alike.
With a thriving community, and nestled in the Hart district, surrounded by natural beauty, Fleet has become a highly desirable place to live.
Whether you’re looking to move to Fleet, and buy or rent property, this guide will explore why Fleet is desirable, as well as looking into education, amenities, transport connections, and importantly, property prices.
Is Fleet a Good Place to Live?
Absolutely. Fleet combines the best of small-town countryside living with accessibility to larger cities like London and Reading. Its excellent schools make it an attractive option for families, while its natural beauty, exemplified by Fleet Pond – the largest freshwater lake in Hampshire – and the Basingstoke Canal, offers residents an idyllic setting for outdoor activities. The town also benefits from superb transport links, which make commuting easy for professionals working in London or nearby towns.
Key Benefits of Living in Fleet:
- Green Spaces: Access to Fleet Pond, the largest freshwater lake in Hampshire.
- Commuting: Easy access to London via train and proximity to the M3 motorway.
- Schools: High-quality primary and secondary schools.
- Vibrant Community: Active community with events like Fleet Carnival and Fleet Half Marathon.
Beautiful Green Spaces
Fleet Pond is the largest freshwater lake in Hampshire, offering scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and birdwatching spots. Additionally, the town is surrounded by Hartley Wintney and Yateley Common, providing further opportunities for outdoor activities.
Transport Links in Fleet, Hampshire
Fleet offers excellent transport connections for commuters, whether you prefer train or road travel. The town’s mainline railway station provides direct services to London Waterloo in around 45 minutes, making it a prime location for those who work in the capital. It also offers regular services to Basingstoke and Reading.
For car commuters, the M3 motorway provides convenient access to Southampton and London.
Local buses connect Fleet with neighbouring towns like Farnborough, Aldershot, and Basingstoke.
For those who prefer cycling, the town has developed a network of cycle paths, making it easier to explore the area on two wheels.
Education in Fleet, Hampshire
Fleet is home to a range of highly regarded schools, making it a prime location for families. Schools in Fleet have consistently received high Ofsted ratings, reflecting their commitment to providing quality education.
Notable Schools in Fleet:
Fleet Infant School: Rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.
Heatherside Junior School: Well-known for academic excellence.
Calthorpe Park School: A popular secondary school in the area.
Court Moor School: Another top secondary school serving Fleet.
For further education, Farnborough College of Technology is nearby, offering a variety of post-16 and adult education courses.
Strong Community Spirit
Fleet has a vibrant community that takes pride in its local events. The Fleet Carnival and Fleet Food Festival are annual highlights that bring residents together, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for raising a family.
Property Prices in Fleet
According to Rightmove, properties in Fleet had an overall price of £454,300.
Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, Fleet offers a range of properties to suit different budgets and needs. The town’s property market reflects its desirability, with a range of modern homes and charming older properties available.
Average Property Prices in Fleet:
- Detached houses: £693,430
- Semi-detached houses: £465,183
- Flats: £219,504
- Terraced: £375,186
Sold property prices in Fleet over the last year were down 10% compared to the previous year, and 6% down on the peak of £484,649 in 2020.
Renting Property in Fleet, Hampshire
Fleet’s rental market is competitive, with properties ranging from one-bedroom apartments to large family homes. You can expect to pay the following if you’re looking to rent a property in Fleet, Hampshire.
- £1,018 per month for a one-bedroom flat
- £1,215 for a two-bed flat
- £1,386+ per month for three-bed flat
- £1,385+ for a two-bed house
Things to Do in Fleet
Despite its tranquil setting, Fleet has plenty of activities to keep residents entertained. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, Fleet offers something for everyone.
Top Attractions in Fleet:
Fleet Pond: Perfect for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and nature photography.
Edenbrook Country Park: 82 acres of parkland offering a range of amenities, such as beginner and advanced bike trails, skateboarding areas, and many standing waters attracting just some of the following: swallows, barn owls, reed warblers, and even common lizards.
Basingstoke Canal: A scenic spot for cycling or peaceful walks, taking you from Fleet to Basingstoke.
Fleet Carnival: A beloved community event held annually, filled with entertainment for all ages.
Fleet Half Marathon: Popular with fitness enthusiasts from around the region.
Local Restaurants and Cafés: From cosy spots like Café Amici to more eclectic options like Gurkha Square, Fleet’s dining scene is varied and inviting.
For those looking for fitness and leisure, Hart Leisure Centre offers a modern gym, swimming pools, and outdoor sports courts.
Where to Eat and Drink in Fleet, Hampshire
Fleet is home to a fantastic selection of eateries and pubs, offering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cosy café for breakfast, a fine dining restaurant for a special evening, or a traditional pub, Fleet has plenty to offer.
Top Places to Eat in Fleet:
Heron of the Lake
A pub and restaurant situated in a scenic area overlooking Fleet Pond, an ideal spot to socialise, whilst enjoying Mediterranean starters and a steak menu.
Gurkha Square
Known for its authentic flavors and generous portions, this restaurant serves up a variety of traditional dishes, including Nepalese dumplings, curries, and tandoori plates. A specialty is the Chef’s Nepali Shank, a marinated lamb infused with harissa spices.
Trattoria La Casa
A preferred dining spot, Trattoria La Casa offers handmade pastas to wood-fired pizzas. This family-run restaurant delivers fresh, authentic Italian meals.
El Castello
El Castello offers a blend of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, from antipasti to seafood specialties.
Oatsheaf Fleet
For a more traditional pub-style meal, Oatsheaf Fleet offers hearty British classics, from fish and chips to Sunday roasts. The pub has a cosy vibe with comforting log fires, perfect for enjoying comfort food and local ales.
Best Places to Drink in Fleet:
Prince Of Wales
The Prince of Wales is a traditional British pub, offering an extensive menu with grilled dishes, as well as other comfort food from around the world, and at very attractive prices.
The Queens Head
Offering a selection of real ales, craft beers, and a well-stocked wine list, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking a traditional pub atmosphere.
The Exchequer
Nestled just outside Fleet, The Exchequer is a cosy and contemporary country pub that serves high-quality food and local craft beers, cider, and a great selection of wines. Their large garden is ideal for warmer months.
The Falkners Arms
The Falkners Arms offers an extensive range of beers, ciders, and spirits. With live music events and a large beer garden, it’s a popular spot for socializing.
The Tweseldown
The Tweseldown offers craft cocktails alongside classic beers and wines. Their spacious beer garden and friendly vibe make it a favorite for casual evenings with friends.
Final Thoughts on Living in Fleet
Fleet offers the best of both: the peace and quiet of the Hampshire local countryside, combined with easy access to London. Offering an exceptional quality of life for families, professionals, and retirees alike, it’s no wonder more people are choosing to call Fleet home.
Whether you’re looking to buy or rent a property in Fleet, our estate agents in Fleet are here to help you find the perfect home. You can also take advantage of our free property valuation services if you’re thinking about selling.