At the heart of the county, Marlborough remains one of England’s most elegant market towns, with its wide Georgian High Street, smart independent shops and strong sense of community. Surrounding villages such as Ramsbury and Aldbourne are particularly desirable — timeless, friendly and beautifully set amid the open landscapes of the Kennet Valley and Marlborough Downs. This part of Wiltshire attracts those who value space, good schools and an authentic rural atmosphere.

Further south, Salisbury stands apart for its magnificent cathedral and lively cultural scene. Its historic streets, independent cafés and twice-weekly markets offer character without pretension, while the nearby villages of Combe Bissett and Homington deliver the best of both worlds — peaceful valley living within easy reach of the city. To the west, the Nadder Valley and Tisbury have become increasingly sought-after for their unspoilt scenery, good schools and direct rail connection to London Waterloo, drawing those wanting the countryside without sacrificing convenience.

Running through the centre of the county, the Pewsey Vale offers one of Wiltshire’s most evocative settings. Framed by rolling downs and dotted with picturesque hamlets such as The Manningfords, it has long been admired for its beauty, easy access to the Kennet and Avon Canal and the direct London line from Pewsey station — making it an appealing choice for those balancing rural life with city work.

Close to the Hampshire border, The Wallops (Nether, Middle and Over Wallop) embody the best of south Wiltshire village life — graceful period homes, wooded valleys and a strong sense of community within reach of Salisbury and Stockbridge. In the north, Malmesbury, England’s oldest borough, sits above the River Avon with honey-stone streets and an increasingly vibrant local scene. Nearby, Calne combines history with value, offering character homes and good connections to Bath, Chippenham and Swindon.