I live in England’s most desirable village—and there isn’t a single empty shop

The UK is home to countless villages that I love to visit, whether that’s the Cotswolds or just around the corner in Tring. But my favourite village happens to be where I reside, Cookham in Berkshire, on the Buckinghamshire border. The picturesque village was featured in The Sunday Times Best Places to Live 2026 guide, one of only 11 locations in the South East to make the final cut.

It’s easy to see why, too, with impressive local amenities and a rich heritage. Cookham is a beautiful village, and there’s plenty to do and see, even if you’re visiting for a few hours.

Cookham’s history

Cookham may look quintessentially English today, but its story stretches back more than a thousand years.

The village was recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086 as Cocheham, by which time the settlement already had villagers, mills, fisheries, and extensive woodland.

Excavations over the years have uncovered evidence suggesting the eighth-century religious community may have operated as an early centre of care for the sick, with discoveries including human remains, buildings and wells.

So, while it has a modern reputation for busy pubs and plenty of eateries, it was once an important religious and economic centre.

Things to do in Cookham

Riverside walks

One of the biggest attractions of living in Cookham, and why I love it so much, is undoubtedly the River Thames.

A stroll towards Bourne End or towards the Lock is a lovely walk, especially on a warm summer’s day. For longer walks, the surrounding countryside opens up towards Cookham Moor, Cock Marsh and Winter Hill.

It is so easy to access the nature that gives Cookham much of its appeal as a place to live.

Cookham’s artistic heritage is another reason it stands apart. The village was the lifelong inspiration of British artist Sir Stanley Spencer, who was born here in 1891. He described the village as a “Village in Heaven”, and its streets, landscapes and residents became central to his work.

The Stanley Spencer gallery, housed in the former Methodist chapel, celebrates his connection with the village and provides an opportunity to see the place through his eyes as one of Britain’s most distinctive artists.

Pick your own at Copas Farms

For a taste of the countryside that goes beyond simply looking at it, Copas Farms PYO is a brilliant local attraction. The pick-your-own farm is a popular day out, picking seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Food and drink

Cookham punches above its weight when it comes to places to eat and drink, with so many to choose from.

At the centre of the village is Bel & The Dragon, a historic coaching inn on the High Street. The building’s history is part of its appeal, as it is over 600 years old.

It has incredible food, like its delicious Sunday roast dinner, or its pizza truck in the back garden.

The Ferry is another notable destination, situated right on the Thames, offering a variety of different food from fish to pizza to burgers. There’s nothing more relaxing than sipping a drink on the terrace, watching the boats drive by.

For a more traditional pub atmosphere, Kings Arms Cookham is right on the high street, while The White Oak and The Old Swan Uppers are other options to explore.

Coffee and daytime stops are covered too, with independent shops including Parea Artisan Cafe & Delisserie and the Teapot Tea Shop, one of my favourite picks.

For residents, this variety helps give Cookham a genuine village community feel. You can have breakfast locally, walk beside the river, meet friends for lunch and finish the day in a pub without ever having to leave the village.

I guess that’s why Cookham has an average house price of £866,722, with the current most expensive house on the market for a whopping £5 million.

Nearby attractions

Living in Cookham also means having some of the Thames Valley’s best-known attractions within easy reach.

Cliveden is nearby, offering extensive National Trust gardens where I spent a lot of my time. Its impressive grounds are perfect for exploring, with gorgeous views over the nearby villages and towns.

The Chiltern countryside also provides countless walking opportunities, while neighbouring Marlow and Maidenhead offer additional shops, restaurants and amenities.

For families, walkers, commuters, and anyone wanting a quieter pace without being completely cut off from larger towns, that balance is a significant part of Cookham’s appeal.