Pain-free commuting

KEEN TO MOVE, NOT KEEN ON THE JOURNEY? RUTH BLOOMFIELD PICKS THE BEST TOWNS WITHIN 45 MINUTES OF LONDON

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Properties in the Home Counties have a reputation for being forbiddingly expensive, but there are some excellent choices which offer you journey times as short as 23 minutes and prices starting at £350,000. Who says you can't have it all?

WINDSOR, BERKSHIRE Why we love it: Given its regal heritage, this Thames-side town is not nearly as expensive as you might expect. Benefits include a range of shops, restaurants and cafés, as well as an annual music and literary festival. The grand expanses of the Great Park provide ample open space. Nicola Thornton, a senior negotiator at The Frost Partnership, says buyers will find the best value if they are prepared to make a longer walk to the town centre and station. She suggests looking in Dedworth or Clewer Green.

Any shortcomings? Rammed with tourists.

Average prices: Buyers spent an average of £564,469 in the past year, with terraced houses costing just over £600,000.

Fast trains: From 29 minutes to Paddington.

Best schools: Most primary schools are rated good by Ofsted. Upton Court Grammar School and Eden Girls' School are rated outstanding.