Is Henley-on-Thames a nice place to live?

Henley-on-Thames is a bustling town surrounded by pleasant villages on the banks of the River Thames in Oxfordshire. Renowned for its historic allure and vibrant cultural scene, this town offers a unique blend of traditional and modern amenities.

Transport links

Henley-on-Thames is well connected via public transport. Train connections via Twyford take passengers to London Paddington, which is around a 40 minute journey, while connections to the M4 and M40 motorways ensure easy and convenient access for commuters.

For those who like to walk or cycle, the Thames Path is a popular and well-known local route.

Schools in Henley-on-Thames

Families living in Henley-on-Thames have access to a range of highly regarded educational institutions.

Emmer Green Primary School is ranked as Outstanding as of its most recent OFSTED report, while Badgemore and Caversham Park Primary School are both well-regarded.

At secondary school level, Gillotts School is a top-performing secondary institution with high academic standards. And for further education, The Henley College is a comprehensive educational hub for residents.

Shopping in Henley-on-Thames

Henley’s high street is a combination of high street brands and unique independent stores that offer a fantastic shopping experience as well as all the essentials. 

For DIY supplies, Robert Dyas on Bell Street is a trusted local enterprise specialising in household and garden products. Asquiths Teddy Bear Shop on Hart Street has been delighting customers since 1984 with its array of teddy bears and collectables. Amber Galleries on Market Place showcases emerging and established artists and is a must-visit for art lovers, and for fashion, the White Stuff, Cara Shoes and Anthony Paul Jewellery are local favourites. 

Best places to eat in Henley-on-Thames

Meanwhile dining options are diverse and offer a wide range of culinary experiences. Shellfish Cow Restaurant is a popular choice for steak and seafood lovers, with a menu that highlights the best of both worlds. The Golden Ball is a British gastropub known for its cosy atmosphere and delicious classic and contemporary menu offerings.

Banana Tree Henley on Hart Street serves up delightful Thai dishes and offers a bottomless brunch, quick lunch, or a full-on feast. The restaurant features hand-picked dishes from Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, and more, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

The Three Horseshoes is another beloved spot, offering traditional British fare in a relaxed bar setting. Al Forno on Reading Road is a small family-run restaurant that serves traditional Italian cuisine, with a wood-burning oven and open grill providing the perfect cooking facilities.

Henley-on-Thames also has a vibrant café culture. Bell Street Baguette is perfect for a quick and tasty takeaway lunch, offering sandwiches, sausage rolls, wraps, and salad boxes. Athlete Services on Greys Road combines top-class bike servicing with a social café area, making it a unique spot for both athletes and coffee lovers.

And the town's dining options are complemented by its lively nightlife. The Angel on the Bridge is Henley's only pub on the Thames, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere with stunning riverside views. It's a popular spot for both locals and visitors, providing a perfect setting to unwind and enjoy a drink.

Leisure, culture and greenery

Green spaces and outdoor activities are abundant - Mill & Marsh Meadows is a large riverside park along the tow path, leading to the River and Rowing Museum which is best known for its Wind in the Willows and Regatta exhibits. The museum offers fascinating insight into the town’s rowing heritage Another family-friendly outdoor spot is Freeman's Meadow, a town green with a children's playground, while Makins Recreation Ground features a skatepark, outdoor gym, and play area.

Henley residents can also take advantage of facilities at Gillotts Leisure centre (which has a pool, amongst other activities), Badgemore Park Gold Club and Henley Tennis Club.

The town’s cultural highlight of course is its pride and joy, the Henley Royal Regatta. The much beloved entry in the town’s social calendar attracts visitors from around the world. And as well as the museum, those curious about Henley’s rowing legacy can even hire boats or take a boat tour to experience it first-hand.

Henley also hosts various events throughout the year, including the Henley Festival, whose 2025 lineup is set to include Diana Ross, Rick Astley and McFly. Another well-liked annual event is the Henley Literary Festival, whose previous line ups have included Jacqueline Wilson, Jodi Picoult, Roddy Doyle and Susie Dent.

Community and Events

Henley-on-Thames is a town with a strong sense of community. Local groups include choirs, orchestras and amateur dramatic societies. The town also hosts regular markets, such as the Charter Market every Thursday in the town centre, the Farmers Market on the 2nd Saturday and 4th Thursday of the month, and the Craft Market on the 4th Sunday of the month.

In summary, living in Henley-on-Thames offers a unique blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and a strong sense of community. With excellent transport links, highly regarded schools, diverse shopping and dining options, abundant green spaces, and a rich cultural scene, Henley-on-Thames is undoubtedly a wonderful place to call home. Whether you are considering moving to the area or simply exploring your options, Henley-on-Thames has something to offer everyone.

House prices in Henley-on-Thames

According to Rightmove, house prices in Henley-On-Thames have averaged £745,337 over the past year. The majority of sales were terraced properties, with an average price of £681,261. Detached properties fetched an average of £1,046,280, while flats sold for around £514,821. Overall, property prices in Henley-On-Thames were 4% lower than the previous year but remained close to the 2022 peak of £740,120.

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