Centring on Stratford-upon-Avon, the south of Warwickshire — known as Shakespeare country — offers picturesque beauty, good value homes, and excellent schools. Trains from Warwick Parkway take an hour and a half to London Marylebone, making the area an option for commuters. Housing stock is varied, from cottages dating back to the 16th century to Victorian terraces, and you can choose from small villages or larger towns like Warwick and Leamington Spa. Warwickshire offers a great deal of history and culture, including its status as the birthplace of Shakespeare, as well as many other leisure opportunities from sport to shopping. A 2013 Living in Warwickshire survey found that 89% of residents were very or fairly satisfied with their local area.