“Demand meant house prices ‘shot up’ faster than the national average,” says Tom Hayman-Joyce, Partner at Hayman-Joyce. “Prices have now started to come down again, but they are still up on their pre-pandemic levels; the sense that the Cotswolds is a desirable place to be has persisted.”
It’s not every day that The Economist turns its attention to the Cotswolds.
In a recent feature exploring how the region has become one of Britain’s most desirable places to live, the publication examined everything from its growing international appeal and changing property market to the lifestyle that continues to attract buyers from across the UK and beyond. As part of the article, Hayman-Joyce Partner Tom Hayman-Joyce was invited to share his perspective on how the local property market has evolved in recent years.
For those of us who live and work here, much of what the article says rings true – but it only tells part of the story.
More than a picture-perfect destination
The Cotswolds has long been admired for its honey-coloured stone villages, rolling countryside and thriving market towns. While those qualities continue to attract visitors, they are only part of what makes this area such a desirable place to call home.
Excellent schools, strong transport links, independent businesses, vibrant communities and an exceptional quality of life all contribute to its enduring appeal. Increasingly, buyers are looking beyond bricks and mortar, seeking places that offer balance, wellbeing and a genuine sense of belonging.
It is this combination that continues to attract interest from across the UK and, increasingly, from overseas.
A market that has evolved
The pandemic undoubtedly reshaped the housing market, and the Cotswolds was no exception.
Demand accelerated rapidly as buyers reassessed where and how they wanted to live, with flexible working allowing many to move away from cities without compromising their careers.
As Tom explains in The Economist, property values rose sharply during this period. While the pace of growth has naturally settled, values remain comfortably above pre-pandemic levels, reflecting the region’s lasting appeal rather than a temporary trend.
Today’s market is more balanced, but demand for well-presented homes in desirable villages remains strong. Buyers continue to value character, lifestyle and location just as highly as square footage.
Local knowledge makes the difference
National headlines help shine a spotlight on the region, but every property market is ultimately local.
Each village has its own character. Buyer demand differs from one location to the next, and understanding pricing, market conditions and what motivates purchasers comes from years of experience on the ground.
At Hayman-Joyce, we have been helping buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants across the North Cotswolds for many years. Our advice is built on local knowledge, trusted relationships and a genuine understanding of the communities we serve.
Looking ahead
The Cotswolds continues to attract attention from around the world, and being featured in The Economist is another reminder of the strength and enduring appeal of the region.
For us, however, it simply reinforces what we’ve always known.
The Cotswolds offers far more than beautiful scenery. It offers an exceptional place to live, work and invest, supported by communities that make the area truly special.
Whether you’re thinking of buying, selling, letting or simply keeping an eye on the market, local expertise remains invaluable. As interest in the Cotswolds continues to grow, understanding the market on the ground has never been more important.
Hayman-Joyce was pleased to contribute local market insight to The Economist’s recent feature exploring the growing appeal of the Cotswolds. You can read the original article on The Economist’s website.