_Spotlight on: Living in Ascot
Who lives there?
Fast trains to London and excellent schooling mean that Ascot appeals to a broad demographic. Residents can be young families and professionals working in the capital, through to empty nesters who have downsized from larger country homes in the area. The end result is a wonderful cosmopolitan mix.
What makes it so unique?
Ascot is a small lively town that consistently attracts those seeking a family-friendly five-star lifestyle; much of which is attributed to the world class sporting venues, culinary delights, boutique retail, excellent schooling and a fast commute back to the capital.
Ascot residents can also enjoy some superb surrounding countryside including the attractions of Windsor Great Park, Virginia Water Lake and Chobham Common, all of which are just on the doorstep.
A quick history lesson:
Ascot was originally a village called East Cote meaning Eastern Cottage from the old English Estcota and lies just six miles from Windsor Castle. The bustling town of Windsor lies on the River Thames and is of course home to Windsor Castle, a residence of the Royal Family, built by William The Conqueror in the 11th century. Runnymede is also just 13 miles away and renowned for its association with the sealing of the Magna Carta.
Our area:
The area is well known for its polo and horse-racing pedigree and famous as the location of Ascot Racecourse, home of the prestigious Royal Ascot meeting; without doubt the world's most famous race meeting, steeped in history dating back to 1711.
Most commercial development has grown up around it and today Ascot has many independent shops, restaurants and cafes. In addition, regeneration plans are afoot to further enhance the already vibrant High Street.
Eating, drinking & shopping:
Ascot has a butcher, a baker, cafes, pubs and restaurants in the High Street and the nearby Drawing Room & The Barn at Coworth Park Hotel.
The town also boasts several small independent restaurants such as Ascot Grill opposite our office where the salmon special is a particular favourite. The town also has a popular Farmers’ Market, which runs every third Sunday of the month.
The town is home to a good choice of independent shops, boutiques, supermarkets and high street names. MacLaren, Rolls Royce and Land Rover all have prestigious dealerships in Ascot.
Sunninghill has a number of hidden gems in terms of restaurants such as La Cloche as well as boutique shops and the town also hosts an annual Victorian Street Fayre. Ascot is of course also just a short drive to the gastronomic hub of Bray with its two three-star Michelin establishments, The Fat Duck and The Waterside Inn.
Let us entertain you:
As well as Royal Ascot we have the world renowned golf courses of Wentworth, Sunningdale and Swinley Forest. In addition we have Guards Polo Club, home of the Cartier Queen’s Cup and Bentley Motors Royal Windsor Cup, which was founded in 1955 with HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh as President.
For the young at heart:
We are very lucky to have Legoland, Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures close by.
Property profile:
We have it all; from stately homes to stylish ultra-modern apartments, Ascot offers character and luxury alike. We regularly market properties in Warfield and Windlesham offering character and acreage, which contrasts nicely to the more modern properties often found in South Ascot and Sunningdale. Our highly desirable area provides the backdrop to some of the most exclusive property outside London.
Local learning:
We are very fortunate to have a fantastic selection of schooling in the local area including Lambrook, St Mary’s, Papplewick, St. Georges, Charters, Hall Grove, Eton and Wellington College. Ascot is also close to two international schools – ACS Egham and TASIS in Thorpe.
London calling:
Approximately 30 miles from central London, Ascot is very well connected. The train to London Waterloo is around 55 minutes, with the M25 and M3 easily accessible. Heathrow (T5) and Gatwick airports are just 11 and 40 miles away respectively.
Edward Shaw is the Office Head at the Knight Frank’s Ascot office. If you are considering buying, selling or moving to the area speak to a member of our team to see how we can help.