The village of Histon, located just outside Cambridge, is drawing Londoners seeking a quieter life. With its annual food festival, thatched cottages, and strong community spirit, it offers an appealing escape from the capital. According to Verona Frankish, CEO of Yopa, around 1,300 people move from London to South Cambridgeshire each year, driven by the desire for more space and better value for money, even if it means a longer commute.
Why Londoners Are Moving to Histon
Frankish notes that demand is particularly strong from boroughs such as Enfield, Barnet, Wandsworth, and Lambeth, with additional interest from Southwark, Newham, and Haringey. Villages like Histon keep buyers within easy reach of Cambridge's thriving jobs market, making them increasingly desirable destinations for those looking to leave London.
House Prices in Histon
Properties in Histon command high prices due to its proximity to Cambridge. Over the past year, the average home sold for £505,652, well above the national average of £373,971. Detached houses averaged £682,143, while terraced properties were cheaper at £330,000. Prices have risen 10% compared to 2025.
Things to Do in Histon
Despite its small size, Histon offers traditional village amenities. Pubs like The Boot and The Red Lion, the latter crowned CAMRA's Pub of the Year in 2017, provide local charm. Stir Histon serves brunch daily, with options from bacon baps to full English breakfasts, plus freshly baked sourdough and strawberry viennoiserie. The Histon and Impington Feast Festival, held June 27 to July 5 this year, features live music and food stalls, raising funds for the community—£4,700 in 2025.
Transport Links
Histon's appeal lies in its accessibility. It is just north of Cambridge, a 25-minute drive to the city centre, or a 33-minute bus ride on the number 8. Cycling takes about 30 minutes. For London commuters, Cambridge North station is a 12-minute drive or 19-minute bike ride away, with Great Northern trains reaching King's Cross in 56 minutes.
Things to Do in Cambridge
Cambridge boasts a vibrant pub scene, including The Eagle, where DNA was announced, and the Devonshire Arms, linked to the Windrush Generation. Mill Road offers over 30 independent eateries, from Greek pastries at Mill Mediterranean Coffee Spot to Chinese cuisine at Noodles Plus, with no chain restaurants in sight.
