Rightmove reveals the UK’s popular locations for buyers and renters in 2025 – is YOUR town on the list?

BRITAIN’S property obsession hit new highs in 2025, with new data revealing our most‑wanted postcodes, must‑have features and the dream homes we couldn’t stop clicking.

From the bustling streets of Manchester to the sunny shores of Bournemouth, the nation has been busy scrolling through listings.

But it’s not just about location.

It turns out buyers are desperate for somewhere to park the car, while renters just want to bring their furry friends along.

New figures from property giant Rightmove have lifted the lid on the trends that defined the market this year.

Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, said: “With billions of minutes spent on Rightmove each year, we have a unique window into the nation’s passion for property.

“Our review of the year spotlights some of the most popular trends from the year.

“From coastal escapes to overseas dream homes, this year’s most popular homes show that whether it’s a move or a moment of inspiration, people continue to love picturing their next move.”

Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or just fancy a nosey at how the other half lives, here is everything you need to know.

Where have people been looking?

If you thought everyone was fleeing the cities, think again.

The big metropolises are back in business.

London took the crown as the most-searched-for location in the UK for 2025, proving the capital is still king.

Inside the M25, there is a clear divide between those splashing the cash to buy and those looking to rent.

For buyers it’s all about leafy suburbs.

Wimbledon ace-d the competition to become the most searched spot, followed closely by posh Fulham and family-friendly Chiswick.

For renters it’s all about the commute and the vibe.

The skyscrapers of Canary Wharf topped the rental list, with Clapham and Fulham hot on its heels.

Manchester and Glasgow have also led the way as the most-searched for locations in the UK.

Bristol and Edinburgh also made the top five most searched cities.

And for those who prefer waves to city streets, 2025 was all about the South Coast, says Rightmove.

Bournemouth took the crown as Britain’s most searched coastal hotspot, edging out Eastbourne and Worthing.

The classic seaside town’s sandy beaches, lively pier and fast rail links sealed the deal for sun‑seekers and second‑home hunters alike.

Scarborough, Weymouth, Brighton, Blackpool, Hastings, Southport and Poole also ranked within the top 10.

What have people been looking for?

One of the most revealing aspects of Rightmove’s data is the specific keywords users are typing into search bars.

For homebuyers, practicality is paramount.

The number one most searched-for feature in 2025 was a garage.

This functional requirement beat out “annexe” (second) and “garden” (third), suggesting that storage and parking are currently valued above outdoor leisure space.

Renters, however, are facing a different challenge.

The most used search term for tenants was “pet-friendly”, highlighting the difficulty many face in finding landlords who accept animals.

This was followed by searches for a “garage” and “furnished” properties.

What about life abroad?

For those dreaming of a life abroad, Spain remains the overwhelming favourite, topping the list of most-searched overseas destinations.

It was followed by France and the luxury hub of Dubai, which edged out traditional European favourites like Portugal and Italy.

The allure of international living was epitomized by the most-viewed overseas listings, which ranged from a £105million Venetian-style palace in Cannes to a charming £152,950 estate in Lombardy, Italy – offering a stark contrast in budget but equal measures of escapism.

What homes have people been looking at?

While most users search for practical family homes, thousands spent their time viewing unique, high-value properties.

These were the listings that captured the public imagination in 2025:

1. Conwy, Wales – £875,000

This medieval townhouse made headlines for its high-heeled bathtub, and contains four bedrooms and three bathrooms.

The Grade II Listed Residence situated within the walled section of Conwy town and just a short walk from the impressive castle and historic quayside.

The building of the original single storey house was dendrochronologically dated to the winter of 1441-42, retaining its overall 16th century form with 18th century addition and alteration and listed for its group value within the historical townscape.

2. St. John’s Wood, London – £49,950,000

This striking stucco-fronted freehold house unfolds across five floors and measures 21,659.00 sq. ft.

It contains 10 bedrooms and eight bathrooms with an art deco finish throughout.

The house also features a 10-person passenger lift.

3. Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne – £20,000,000

A Georgian gem in the heart of Newcastle, this historic estate offers a rare blend of elegance and space in one of the city’s most sought-after locations.

The detached residence is set within its own gardens and grounds which extend to just under six acres. 

The property was originally built in the early 19th century and contains 12 bedrooms and eight bathrooms.

4. Glasgow, Scotland – £2,500,000

This spectacular mansion house constructed of dressed stone under a slate roof was designed by Charles Wilson and James Boucher in the 1870s and extends to 12,000 sq ft over four floors.

The building was formerly the Italian consulate, hence its name (originally it was known as Casa d’Italia) and it subsequently served as Glasgow’s register office, hosting countless marriage ceremonies and weddings within its grand interior. 

It contains nine bedrooms and six bathrooms.

5. Cour D’Honneur, Oakham – £6,000,000

This extraordinary Grade I listed mansion near Oakham, set within 67 acres of parkland, combines royal grandeur with historic artistry.

Upon entry you are first met by steps rising from the Great Courtyard to the front doors, once through the doors we are greeted by the grand Tapestry Hall featuring sky high ceilings, luxurious tapestries and an entrance which immerses you in luxury. 

This home contains seven bedrooms and six bathrooms.

6. Mallorca, Spain – £66,336,600

Set in one of Mallorca’s most serene and prestigious enclaves, this newly built estate is a Mediterranean masterpiece.

The complex consists of six independent residences. Three of them are fully finished and ready to be inhabited, while the other three are currently under construction.

In total, the properties offer 29 bedrooms and 32 bathrooms, all en suite, with high-quality finishes and carefully executed design to ensure functionality and privacy.

Each residence also includes spa facilities, such as a jacuzzi and sauna, designed for relaxation and well-being.

7. Lagos, Portugal – £23,598,000

Perched on the ruins of a 16th-century fortress, this extraordinary oceanfront villa in Lagos blends history with modern luxury.

There is sport car access from the mainroad and you can walk within 50 meters to the beach.

This property contains eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms.

8. Corfu, Greece – £12,236,000

Nestled in a sun-kissed olive grove on Corfu’s serene coastline, this seafront estate offers two luxurious villas, an infinity pool, and panoramic Ionian views.

Perched atop the landscape, the estate’s design is a seamless fusion of modern elegance and natural splendor, thoughtfully crafted to amplify the breathtaking vistas that stretch out before it. 

It contains two properties housing seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms in total.

9. Lombardy, Italy – £152,950

Set in the charming hillside village of Plesio, just minutes from Lake Como, this historic estate pairs original stonework and vaulted ceilings with sweeping lake views.

Ideal for those seeking a historical retreat with modern conveniences, this property combines the beauty of traditional craftsmanship with the tranquility of Lake Como living.

It contains three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

10. Cannes, France – £104,880,000

Commanding panoramic views over the Bay of Cannes, Le Palais Vénitien is a 3,000 m² masterpiece of Venetian-inspired architecture.

On 2.5 hectares of grounds, this prestigious estate offers extremely luxurious interiors and an environment of rare elegance, with a lake, a tennis court, isolated woods and a large outdoor swimming pool.

This property boasts nine bedrooms and nine bathrooms.