Rural property prices are at an all-time high, as more Brits swapped city life for country living in lockdown.
In fact, according to the 2021 Rural Property Report by Coulters Property, houses in rural areas have risen by 20.8% in the last five years — a 3.3% higher increase than in urban areas. We might be spending more time at home, but lockdown has sparked rural relocations, giving many the chance to reconsider where to live.
Their research found that Harborough in Leicestershire is one of the most expensive rural areas to reside, with the average house price reaching £328,172 in 2020. In second and third place came East Northamptonshire and Rutland in the East Midlands, respectively, due to their sharp rise in property prices.
"Over the last year, we've seen an increasing amount of people relocating from cities to the countryside, due to factors such as more green space, fresher air and a slower pace of life," say Coulters Property.
"We've conducted research using ONS data to reveal the difference between average property prices in rural areas compared to their urban counterparts, to reveal if there is such a thing as a rural premium."
Take a look at the areas where rural prices have risen the most...
10 rural areas with the biggest property price increase in the UK
- Harborough (33.6% five year price increase)
- East Northamptonshire (32.8%)
- Rutland (31.7%)
- Hinckley and Bosworth (31.3%)
- High Peak (30.3%)
- Mendip (30.3%)
- Swale (30.2%)
- Staffordshire Moorlands (30.2%)
- Derbyshire Dales (30.2%)
- Forest of Dean (29.6%)
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8 stylish garden parasols, umbrellas and bases to enjoy this summer – including a £30 designer collab
Staycation Vintage Parasols Pavilion-Portico Blush Parasol
We love the chic, vintage look of this striped garden parasol. It's been constructed with a solid beechwood pole (FSC-certified) and a water-resistant, UVF50+ canvas canopy.
The multi-position tilt function means you can stay shaded through the day, without uprooting the entire parasol. It also comes with a handy carry bag in matching fabric
Who says parasol bases have to be boring? This super stylish number from Dunelm is weighty enough to support your umbrella while still adding some charming vintage appeal with its pretty scallop design.
Add a harmonious pop of colour with this zesty green tasseled parasol, with a delicate dappled print. Its ergonomic pulley system with a swivel handle makes putting it up and down a breeze, too.
Habitat x Scion Garden Parasol
An exclusive collaboration with quirky designers Scion, this pretty parasol features a whimsical floral print and tassels that will lend a relaxed, jolly feel to any garden.
Plus, it's adjustable and tilts so you can stay shaded as the sun moves throughout the day.
This striped parasol, complete with a fringe edging, will make a fun addition to any garden. Designed for ease, it has a push-up mechanism for a simple setup. Please note, the base is available to purchase separately.
Add shade to your next alfresco lunch or dinner with Rowen & Wren's vintage-inspired design, hand-made in small batches.
In a subtle pink, it features a tactile lined cover, antique brass hardware, and a traditional pulley rope and pin system for a timeless, heritage feel.
No parasol hole in your garden furniture set? No problem. This contemporary-style overhanging umbrella will sit neatly next to your table, while holding its canopy overhead.
This parasol is best suited to small-to-medium tables; we tried it with our 10-seater setup and a few seats at the end didn't get the full benefit.
Our writer found the parasol easy to set up within about 15 minutes, and they earned multiple compliments on its smart looks from guests. The crank handle works smoothly, and the parasol has UV30+ coating for a little extra sun protection.
The Happy Place Handmade Patio Parasol
Resplendent in fringing and tassels, this handmade garden parasol brings Balinese artistry to your garden. There are lots of well-considered details to enjoy here, including a durian wood pole.
This parasol would add a relaxed yet celebratory feel to any garden party or alfresco event – assuming you're happy to share the shade.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
