The Six Villages are set in a picturesque location with a '˜genuine smorgasbord' of homes for everyone

Lying between Arundel and Chichester, the villages of Barnham, Eastergate, Westergate, Walberton, Fontwell and Yapton, better known as the Six Villages, are not only picturesque but also popular with families and retirees alike.

According to Clemmie Waddell, negotiator at Henry Adams, Chichester, the Six Villages attract buyers thanks to their proximity to both the South Downs and the sea, their easy transport links to London and along the coast and, last but not least, the number of very good local primary and secondary schools within the area.

Clemmie said: “The Six Villages have also got a lovely community feel, so are great for families looking to get involved.”

She said people choose to live in the area because they are looking for a slightly slower-paced rural life.

“It’s also definitely more affordable than Chichester, so it’s really good for first-time families looking to get on the property ladder.”

Today, the area is popular not only with young families but also retired people who are looking forward to living somewhere they can walk to a country pub, pop round to a range local shops and amenities and be close to their grandchildren.

Clemmie said: “There’s also a great community – Barnham, for example, is fantastic and has a fireworks display, a music festival in the summer and a pub that does lots of local ale festivals. There’s lots going on.”

She said the considerable cross-section of homes ranges from new-build developments to four-bedroom executive homes and ‘great little flats’: “There’s a genuine smorgasbord of properties and something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a starter home or a lovely family home with a garden.”

Prices are equally varied: “Some of the larger homes are up around the million-pound mark but there also flats for just over £190,000 for a-one bed property; however, the majority of homes are around the £250,000 to £450,000 mark.”