Author: Amaan Salie

With its picturesque streets, stunning countryside and lively community, Chipping Norton is a highly sought-after location for homebuyers. However, navigating the local real estate market can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

In this guide, we’re going to share with you everything you need to know to successfully buy a home in Chipping Norton. From the best suburbs to live in to pro tips and tricks, we cover it all. 

Tip: Planning a move? See our guide on how to pack for a move in 2 weeks or less!

Why Buy a House in Chipping Norton?

Chipping Norton – a charming town in the Cotswolds that boasts stunning countryside, unique local amenities and exciting attractions. From cultural landmarks to outdoor activities, there is always something to see or do in this bustling town. Some of the areas main attractions are:

• Chipping Norton Theatre: An intimate theater that hosts a variety of live performances, from plays to music and comedy shows.
• Chipping Norton Museum: A small museum showcasing the history and culture of Chipping Norton.
• Market Square: A bustling square with a weekly market, independent shops and cafes.
• Rollright Stones: A prehistoric stone circle located just outside of Chipping Norton.
• Cotswold Distillery: A local distillery that produces a range of spirits, including gin, whisky and vodka.

It’s a wonderful place to live if you love the great outdoors, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including hiking, golfing and swimming. 

• Walks/hikes: There are many scenic walking and hiking routes in and around Chipping Norton, including the Cotswold Way, the Oxfordshire Way and the Wychwood Way.
• Cycling: The Cotswold countryside offers plenty of opportunities for cycling, with quiet country lanes and challenging hills.
• Golf: Chipping Norton has a popular golf course, located just outside the town, offering 18 holes and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Horse riding: The area around Chipping Norton is home to several equestrian centres and riding schools, offering lessons and guided rides through the countryside.
• Fishing: There are several fishing lakes and rivers in the Chipping Norton area, offering opportunities to catch a variety of fish, including carp, trout and pike.

The Best Suburbs in Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton is a hidden gem in the heart of Oxfordshire, offering a charming and peaceful countryside lifestyle while still being close to all the amenities and conveniences of a larger town. Despite its small size, Chipping Norton is home to several distinct suburbs and neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. A few examples include:

• Churchill: A popular suburb perfect for families, with spacious homes and plenty of green spaces for children to play. 
• Glyme Close: A newer development that is ideal for young professionals or couples, offering modern and stylish apartments. 
• Enstone Road: A tranquil and leafy suburb that is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. 
• Drummond Road: A picturesque neighborhood with a mix of traditional stone cottages and modern homes. 
• Spring Street: A charming and historic neighborhood that is popular with those who appreciate period architecture and quaint country charm. 

The Property Market in Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton’s real estate market is indeed a competitive and dynamic one, making it one of the most sought-after locations in Oxfordshire. With an ever-increasing demand for housing, it’s not surprising that properties in the area sell at a rapid pace, with many homes receiving multiple offers in a matter of days.

The market is particularly attractive to first-time buyers and families who are seeking a relaxed and peaceful lifestyle in a beautiful location. However, with the high demand, the cost of homes can be on the higher side, making it a challenging area for those on a tight budget.

If you’re thinking of buying in Chipping Norton, it’s essential to work with an experienced local estate agent. A knowledgeable agent can help navigate the nuances and provide insights into the neighborhoods and suburbs. Additionally, it can save you time and money. Agents advise you on factors such as the right time to buy and what type of properties are best suited for your needs. 

With their expertise and industry connections, an agent can give you an edge in the competitive real estate market, and help you secure your dream home in this idyllic location.

Tips and Tricks for Chipping Norton Homebuyers

Buying a home can be complex and sometimes overwhelming.To help make the process smoother and ensure you find the right property for your needs, there are several tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Search early: As mentioned, homes in Chipping Norton can sell fast, so it’s important to start searching early and be ready to move quickly when you find a property you like.
• Get pre-approved for a mortgage: Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can help you narrow down your search to homes that are within your budget, and it can also give you an advantage when making an offer on a property.
• Be flexible: If you’re set on a particular neighbourhood or type of property, you may find yourself competing with other buyers. Being flexible and open to different options can help you find the right home without getting into a bidding war.

Cost of Living in Chipping Norton?

When it comes to the cost of living, Chipping Norton is known to be on the higher end. Groceries and other basic necessities tend to be a bit more expensive than in other parts of the UK. 

However, the city boasts an excellent quality of life, thanks to its abundance of green spaces, great schools and a thriving cultural scene. The benefits of living in this charming town are well worth it!

The Average Cost of Purchasing a House in Chipping Norton

When it comes to housing, the cost can vary depending on the size and type of property you’re looking for. The average cost of a two-bedroom house in the area is around £250,000, while a three-bedroom house can run up to £400,000. 

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, apartments and flats in the area tend to range from £150,000 to £250,000. 

Affordable Areas to Live in Chipping Norton

Once considered a bustling “working town”, Chipping Norton has seen a recent decline in the number of residents who both live and work in the area. In fact, since 2001, this figure has dropped significantly from 50% to a mere 36%. While property prices in Chipping Norton may be on the higher end, there are still some affordable neighbourhoods to consider. 

• Over Norton offers a mix of traditional and modern housing options, as well as easy access to the town centre. 
• Village of Salford has a strong sense of community and plenty of green spaces. 
• Banbury and Witney also offer more affordable housing options while still providing access to Chipping Norton’s amenities and attractions.

The following surrounding areas also offer affordable alternatives:

• Churchill
• Enstone
• Kingham
• Charlbury
• Bledington
• Shipton-under-Wychwood
• Great Rollright

These areas offer a range of housing options, from apartments to townhouses and detached homes, making them accessible to a variety of budgets.

How Wigwam Can Help with Your Move

Moving can be stressful, but with a little help, it doesn’t have to be. 

Van Hire

Say goodbye to the back-breaking hassle of several trips to and from your new home. Our van hire service in Chipping Norton can help make your moving process much easier. Rent a van with us, and find out just how smooth your move can actually be. Moving in Chipping Norton and its surroundings has never been easier. 

We also have an onsite packaging store which you can order packaging supplies from to protect your belongings in transit – and in storage, if that’s where some of your belongings are going.

Man and Van Hire

Whether you’re moving your home or office, our reliable and affordable service is here to make your life easier. Say goodbye to back-breaking labour and hello to a stress-free move with our expert team of movers. 

Renting a storage unit at Wigwam is simple, and with our Man and Van service, transporting your belongings has never been easier. Trust us to get the job done safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A complete guide to buying a house in Chipping Norton, UK. Remember, the process may be a bit daunting, but with the right agent, the right mindset and the right cup of tea, you’ll be settling into your new home in no time.

And remember to make your move an enjoyable and stress-free experience with the help of Wigwam Self Storage! Our knowledgeable staff and efficient systems ensure buying a home in Chipping Norton or your surroundings will not only feel simpler but also rewarding and exciting. 

Don’t box yourself in, contact our Chipping Norton branch today. We can help you by taking some weight off your shoulders!

In Worcestershire, The Basement Project has been a lifeline for young people facing homelessness and crisis since 1998. From their humble beginnings in the basement of a local church, they have grown to provide a comprehensive range of services across the county. 

Wigwam Self Storage is proud to partner with this remarkable organisation, providing storage space for their donated items and equipment. Our partnership is a great example of how businesses and non-profit organisations can collaborate to make a positive difference in their community.

The History of The Basement Project

In 1998, a group of dedicated professionals working with young people in Bromsgrove identified a pressing need for a service aimed at supporting homeless youth in finding accommodation. This led to the formation of the Bromsgrove Youth Homelessness Forum, which eventually gave rise to the Basement Project. The project initially operated from the basement of a local church, which inspired its name. 

Over time, the project has grown and evolved, now offering a more comprehensive range of services covering the entire Worcestershire region. While still headquartered in Bromsgrove, the project now operates from Hanover House on Hanover Street and offers a drop-in service, a food bank, a floating support service, and the Application Station, which assists with job applications, CVs and more.

Addressing the Root Causes of Homelessness: A Holistic Approach

The Basement Project maintains strong connections with other local agencies, support services, and stakeholders to ensure comprehensive assistance for their clients. They work closely with organisations such as St Basils, Redditch Nightstop, Small Talk Counselling, the Care Leavers Team, and Bromsgrove District Housing Trust, among others to ensure comprehensive support for young people in need. A collaborative approach, such as this one, helps create a strong foundation for independence. This holistic approach has been successful in tackling the root causes of crises, such as homelessness and unemployment, by addressing issues ranging from family breakdowns and domestic abuse to financial pressures.

According to Kelly Turner, Community Fundraiser for the Basement Project, mental health is a significant concern, which is why they work closely with a local counselling service to provide counselling when needed. Kelly comments further, “our support is holistic, as our clients are usually experiencing several of these issues at once. Our clients have access to one of our support workers either via the drop-in service or floating support. In the case of family breakdown, they can access our mediation service, where we aim to help resolve any issues that may result in a young person being asked to leave the family home.” 

Measuring the Impact and Celebrating Success

“Everything I lost I have regained again, you helped me gain confidence and independence, and helped me get to a better place.” A youth who benefited from the project.

“I think I have it all under control. Everything is in place and the issues I have are sorted. Just waiting for the baby now really. I’m all settled and can’t thank you enough for your support. I will contact you if I need anything.” A youth who benefited from the project.

The Basement Project has empowered countless young people to bring about meaningful changes in their lives. Through targeted support, individuals have found housing, gained employment opportunities and fostered strong relationships with others, all while promoting positive mental health practices. 

The organisation continually assesses its impact through regular reports to funders, annual reports, client feedback and ongoing progress evaluations. It also hosts forum sessions to give young people a chance to voice their opinions and share their experiences.

Success stories like Stacey’s highlight the transformative impact of their services. Listen to Stacey’s story.

Future Aspirations and Goals

The team behind this worthy organisation envisions a future where young people in Worcestershire have the necessary foundation to achieve independence and manage their tenancies successfully. Their expansion plans include outreach to additional areas within Worcestershire, including Kidderminster.

“We have started to branch out across Worcestershire, so we hope that we will be able to continue this growth and support even more young people in need across the county. This will only be possible with the continued support of the local community, whose help we are forever grateful for. We have already set things in motion by starting drop-ins in Evesham, Malvern and Worcester,” comments Kelly. 

A Closer Look at The Basement Project’s Offerings

Accessible Drop-In Service

The drop-in service at Hanover House is open Monday through Friday, from 12 pm to 4 pm. Here, young people up to 25 years old can discuss their needs with a support worker and receive guidance on the available services. Although walk-ins are welcome, it is advisable to make an appointment by calling 01527 832993. The food bank is also available for those in need.

Essential Food Bank

The Basement Project’s food bank provides crucial support to young people who are struggling financially or waiting for benefit applications to be processed. In some cases, a substantial food parcel can even serve as a temporary solution to extend their stay with friends or family while more suitable accommodation is secured.

Comprehensive Tenancy Support

For young individuals who have secured a tenancy, the Basement Project offers assistance in managing their new living situation. This includes budgeting guidance, help with setting up utilities, benefit applications, job searching, and sourcing furniture and essential appliances.

Empowering Application Station

The Application Station is a recent addition to the project’s services, designed to help young people find employment or educational opportunities. Support is provided in the form of job searching, CV writing, and application assistance.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

The Basement Project acknowledges the significant impact mental health can have on the lives of young people. In response, they work closely with a local counselling service to provide necessary mental health support.

How can you support The Basement Project?

There are several ways to support The Basement Project’s mission:

Volunteering

Volunteer opportunities are available in fundraising, social media support, food bank assistance, office and admin work, and drop-in services. Contact Nina at nina.wilkes@basementproject.org.uk for more information.

Fundraising/Campaigns

Get involved in upcoming fundraising events or support ongoing campaigns like the Wall of Fame campaign. Contact Kelly at kelly.turner@basementproject.org.uk for more details.

General donations

Donate to The Basement Project through their website, in person at Hanover House, or contribute items to their Amazon wishlist. Every donation, whether monetary or in-kind, helps support their vital work.

By spreading the word about The Basement Project and their services, you can help ensure that more young people in need can access the support they deserve. To learn more, visit their website at www.basementproject.org.

Covering over 800 square miles and five counties, the Cotswolds is often thought of as a playground for the affluent and famous. However, beneath the charming surface, opportunities for children and young people are few and far between. In response to the growing need for assistance in the community came The Branch.

Introducing The Branch

The Branch Trust – led by a great team of trustees – works to break the cycle of poverty, isolation, violence, and disadvantage once and for all. Through their innovative response of nurture, training, connection and opportunity, The Branch has become a haven for those in need working with the underlying problems preventing people and families from reaching their potential.

At Wigwam, we are delighted to partner with this inspirational local charity as they come together and build a brighter future for the residents of Chipping Norton. 

Can you imagine spending months in a refuge or escaping domestic abuse with no place to turn? The bravery and courage it takes to pack up one’s life into a few suitcases, leaving behind treasured possessions, friends, and their home is extraordinary and not without struggle. This is where The Branch – and Wigwam – step in.

How it works

When you are in need, The Branch will receive a call from Social Services and arrive within hours to offer support. From practical help to emotional support, and through the wide range of practical courses they offer, The Branch team works to make a meaningful and long-lasting difference in the community.

To help smooth the process, Wigwam provides a safe and secure space to store donations and helps collect and deliver them around town through the use of our van and helpful staff.

From beds and washing machines to furniture and curtains, we are here to ensure that the donations are ready at a moment’s notice. 

The Branch is a source of life and support without barriers or stigma. We at Wigwam are proud to be part of this incredible initiative as they continue to build relationships and resilience and provide the community with the skills to build a legacy that will transform generations to come. 

If you would like to find out more about The Branch, get involved or require assistance, you can visit their website, Instagram page or Facebook page.