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Spotlight on Gerrards Cross – our estate agents’ view
Friday, November 18, 2016
Gerrards Cross has a busy high street with a mix of independent shops and high street chains. The railway came to Gerrards Cross in 1906 and the town became known as the ‘Brighton of Bucks,’ reflecting its reputation as a prestigious rural retreat for the upper classes. Now, with direct trains to Birmingham and to London Marylebone in just 18 minutes, Gerrards Cross is commuter heaven, well known for a more relaxed lifestyle and more affordable house prices than London.
Factor in a selection of extremely well regarded state and public schools, and you can see why so many families choose to move here. Local grammar schools include Dr Challoner's, RGS and John Hampden, Beaconsfield High and Chesham Grammar and access to the grammar system maintains an upward pressure on house prices. Independent schools such as Maltman's Green, St Mary's, Gayhurst and Thorpe House add to the excellent options available within Gerrards Cross.
There are many open spaces in Gerrards Cross, including East and West Common which are much loved by residents and extensively used for recreation and dog walking. The children’s playground is always busy and the football pitch is well used at weekends. The Camp, an Iron Age hill-fort, was acquired by Gerrards Cross Parish Council in 1951 for preservation as an Ancient Monument and provides acres of grassland surrounded by mature trees. Neighbouring Bulstrode Park also has historical connections dating back to before the Norman Conquest and together these spaces create a rich habitat for wildlife. Slightly further afield, award-winning parks include Black Park and Burnham Beeches (ancient beech woodlands owned by the Corporation of London with public access).
The town centre has many facilities; a refurbished luxury cinema, library and hotels, namely The Bull and The Ethorpe. It also boasts many quality restaurants, cafes and delicatessen. Top of Tripadvisor’s list is The Three Oaks, a modern gastropub, closely followed by Di Paolo, Luna Rossa, Bawarchi and Thai Rack reflecting the cosmopolitan range on offer.
The distinctive parish church on the A40 is dedicated to St. James and was built in 1861, in yellow brick with a Byzantine style dome, Oriental looking turrets and an Italianate Campanile. In 1969 the singer Lulu married Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees in the church and actress Margaret Rutherford is buried in St James’ churchyard.
Of particular benefit to residents is the Memorial Centre; created to honour the memory of those who died in two World Wars. It has function rooms for public meetings, educational classes and events; tennis and squash courts and acts as a social hub for local residents.
On close inspection, it’s unsurprising that property comes at a premium here. For more information or to see our properties for sale or to let in this exclusive town please visit frostweb.co.uk.
