What could be more idyllic than living on a village green?

Originally used as a common land for grazing, greens today are considered the heartbeat of a rural community, providing a perfect spot for village fêtes, cricket matches and picnics.

For homeowners, proximity to a village green is an important selling point. Such properties are few in number and don’t come to the market very often, which means they are likely to attract a premium when they do. This has been particularly the case in recent years when demand for village life has surpassed that for more isolated rural living.

For buyers the appeal is primarily down to the central location, within easy walking distance of the village shop, pub, church and school. An added attraction is that picturesque and well-utilised greens also tend to be surrounded by the best properties in the village, ranging from Tudor cottages to grand Edwardian country homes.