Oxfordshire has quietly become one of the UK’s most desirable rural locations, attracting high-profile names keen to escape the fast pace of London life.

From musicians and sports stars to television personalities, well-known figures are choosing space, privacy and a slower rhythm of living — and others are following their lead.

Pheasant Retreats, a specialist lettings agency managing high-quality rental homes across West Oxfordshire, has seen a sharp rise in enquiries from tenants relocating out of London. Many are actively seeking countryside homes that offer discretion, character and a sense of exclusivity, with rental budgets regularly exceeding £3,000 per month.

Tenants outside a traditional Cotswold home available through Pheasant Retreats

Lyn Woodcock, Managing Director of Pheasant Retreats, explains:

“Oxfordshire is now the hotbed for celebrity spotting, with many choosing to move away from the fast pace of London to live like the Beckhams. It’s a lifestyle people are actively choosing — space, privacy and a better quality of life.”
Landlord and tenant outside a well-presented Cotswold home managed by Pheasant Retreats

This surge in demand has created a noticeable shortage of available rental properties in desirable rural villages across West Oxfordshire.

Well-presented homes are being snapped up quickly, often by tenants willing to pay a premium to secure the right location.

For property owners, thinking about renting as an option, presents a significant opportunity. With demand outstripping supply and rental values climbing beyond £3,000 per month, rural properties are proving to be a highly attractive investment. Knowing the true rental potential of a home has never been more important.

As more people look to follow the celebrity migration from London to Oxfordshire, the appeal of countryside living — and the chance to live among the rich and famous — shows no sign of slowing down.

If you have a property and thinking of renting,
speak to one of the dedicated members of the team on 01993 772 555