HOUSE sales in rural locations such as Knutsford have risen by 164 per cent in the past year, according to north west-based estate agents Gascoigne Halman.

Peter Higham, managing director said: “Our figures and feedback from our network of offices across the region tell us that people are eschewing busy towns in favour of more rural locations.

“Lockdown has forced people to spend considerable amounts of time in their homes, and we know that many have been craving more outdoor space with countryside walks on the doorstep.”

Other popular locations include Wilmslow, which has seen a rise of 45 per cent.

Neighbouring villages Alderley Edge and Prestbury have seen increases in sales of 33 per cent and 15 per cent respectively over the past year.

Peter added: “Many of the home buyers we are speaking to are seeking to become more self-sufficient and move away from the hustle and bustle of living in big towns and cities.

“For those who have decided they can work from home and want to permanently enjoy the benefits of remote working, why not choose a beautiful countryside location?”

“We’re witnessing a boost in the popularity of rural town and village life among our home buyers.

“Our latest sales figures are incredibly buoyant, and really put the beautiful north west countryside on the map for city dwellers looking to adjust their lifestyles.

“Covid-19 isn’t going anywhere soon, and I see this trend continuing well in 2021 and beyond.”