Area Guide – Renting in Malmesbury
A picturesque hilltop town with ancient roots and a lively modern heartbeat, Malmesbury blends historic charm with excellent amenities, top-rated schools, and a thriving sense of community. With beautiful surroundings and great transport links, it’s an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy the best of Cotswold living.
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Overview
As England’s oldest borough, Malmesbury stands out as a town rich in history and character. Set on a hilltop above the River Avon, it enjoys far-reaching views and a striking historic setting.
At the same time, Malmesbury blends heritage with modern living. Medieval buildings line its streets alongside independent shops and welcoming cafés. At the centre of the town, the impressive 12th-century Malmesbury Abbey remains a defining landmark.
As a result, Malmesbury appeals to families, professionals, and anyone seeking an authentic market town lifestyle with a vibrant, contemporary feel.
Transport
Malmesbury enjoys a well-connected location just off the A429 and close to the M4 motorway, making commuting to Bristol, Bath, Swindon, and even London a practical option.
For rail connections, Kemble station is around 15 minutes away by car. From here, direct trains reach London Paddington in approximately 75 minutes. Alternatively, Chippenham and Swindon stations offer more frequent services on the Great Western Main Line.
In addition, local bus routes connect Malmesbury with nearby towns such as Chippenham, Cirencester, and Tetbury.
Property Types
Malmesbury offers a varied mix of property types to suit different lifestyles. These include historic stone cottages, elegant Georgian townhouses, and modern family homes.
In the town centre, period properties provide character and charm. Meanwhile, newer developments on the outskirts offer contemporary living, often alongside open green spaces.
Whether you’re looking for a first home, a larger family property, or something more luxurious, Malmesbury’s housing market delivers plenty of choice.
Schools
Malmesbury provides excellent educational options, making it a popular choice for families. Malmesbury Church of England Primary School and St Joseph’s Primary School are very well regarded locally.
For secondary education, Malmesbury School consistently ranks among the top schools in the county. Rated Outstanding by OFSTED, it offers strong academic results alongside a wide range of extracurricular activities.
In addition, independent schools such as Westonbirt School and others in nearby towns offer further options within easy reach.
Amenities & Lifestyle
Malmesbury boasts a lively and well-supported town centre. Independent shops, boutiques, bakeries, and delis line the High Street. Each week, the Artisan and Farmers Market adds to the town’s appeal.
Furthermore, a wide selection of pubs, restaurants, and cafés makes dining out relaxed and enjoyable. Cultural life also thrives, with the Town Hall hosting a cinema, exhibitions, and live performances throughout the year.
Outdoor living plays a key role in daily life. Riverside walks, local parks, and the surrounding Cotswold countryside provide excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and family time. In addition, sports clubs, a private membership gym, and a leisure centre cater to all ages and fitness levels.
Community
Malmesbury is well known for its strong community feel and inclusive spirit. It hosts a number of annual events that bring people together, such as the Malmesbury Carnival and Festival, which includes parades, music, and local festivities. The Wessex Week celebration honours the town’s Saxon roots, while the town’s eclectic music scene brings a broad range of live music events throughout the year.
Alongside this, numerous clubs, societies, and volunteering opportunities make it easy to get involved. From sports teams to gardening groups and choirs, newcomers often find it easy to settle in and feel at home.
Thinking of Moving to Malmesbury? We Can Help?
If you’re planning a move to Malmesbury or the surrounding villages, we’re here to help you. With our deep local knowledge we can help you find a home that suits your needs, whether you’re new to the area or relocating locally.
Look out for available properties in Malmesbury on our Find A Property page and Rightmove.