First up, St Albans. This city is a unicorn. It has a Roman amphitheater, a stunning cathedral, and a train that whisks you to St Pancras in under twenty minutes. You get ancient cobblestones and a buzzing farmer’s market that feels like a scene from a cozy movie.
The high street is packed with indie bookshops and brunch spots that take avocado toast very seriously. For the price of a cramped London flat, you can get a Victorian townhouse with a real garden. That’s not a compromise; that’s an upgrade.
Honestly, the only downside is that you’ll constantly be explaining to your London friends that yes, the commute really is that fast. Let them be jealous.
Kingston Upon Thames: Riverside Bliss (Without the Bank Loan)
If your soul craves water, you need Kingston. It sits right on the Thames, with a huge ancient market square and a park so lovely you’ll want to cry. The train to Waterloo takes about thirty minutes—time enough to finish your podcast or a chapter of your book.
Here’s the secret: Kingston has an incredible selection of state schools, making it a magnet for families. But even if you aren't a parent, the weekend rowing clubs, riverside pubs, and open-air swimming are just pure therapy for the soul. You can basically live a holiday every weekend.
You’ll trade the Soho club scene for a walk along the river with a flat white in hand. Trust me, it’s a better deal, and your stress levels will thank you.
The best places to live in London
