01 November 2023 , 19:35
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Channel 4's popular Location, Location, Location sees property experts Kirstie Allsopp and Phil Spencer help first-time buyers find their dream homes in their ideal locations across the UK, and tonight's episode focuses on the county of Berkshire as two young couples hunt for their perfect properties.
Nune and Benoit have set their hearts on moving out of London to the town of Maidenhead, attracted by its house prices, transport links and quieter atmosphere. But what else does Maidenhead have to offer for newcomers? While one visitor brands it 'dead' and another resident says it's 'going downhill', others praise its stunning hidden gem.
Though tucked away on its own island is Boulter's Lock gastro pub which is loved by many (BerkshireLive - Grahame Larter)Earlier this year, a TikTok video went viral online with locals calling the town's McDonald's the 'only good thing' in Maidenhead. Creator Rob Colfer went round the centre asking residents their favourite and least favourite parts about their hometown. "I'm in Maidenhead, but it should be called Maidendead, because it's the driest place in the southeast," he said, adding: "It's also got the Lizzie line, which is only good for getting out of here."
When asked what they like about Maidenhead, one local responded: "There's about six Subways and f*** all else", but another person couldn't name a single thing. "It's definitely going downhill," a man said, and numerous people dubbed McDonald's the best place to go. Rob's Maidenhead clips - which surpassed one million views collectively - racked up comments from Brits arguing about living in Maidenhead, and whether or not it was all that it seemed.
Despite some of the hateful comments, the town can be a really idyllic place to live along the west of the River Thames and there are lots of other restuarants and cafés that offer a handcooked bite to eat - so you don't always have to head to Maccies. The newly developed Maidenhead Waterside Quarter has an authentic Italian eatery called Hoppy Place, and the Norden Farm Arts Centre offers yoga lessons, arts and crafts and theatre productions.
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As well as famously housing the iconic Spice Girls when they first formed the band, Maidenhead hosts a monthly farmers' market, has higher than average salaries, clean air and was named one of the UK's best places to raise a family in 2020. Its crime rates are significantly lower than neighbouring areas, such as Slough and Reading, and it has a stunning hidden gem on the waterfront. The Boathouse at Boulter's Lock is a gastro pub situated on its very own island, Ray Mill, and is rated highly.
It has over 1,500 reviews and four stars on Tripadvisor, and the site ranks Boulter's Lock as the top hidden gem attraction in Maidenhead. One review reads: "This restaurant is in the most incredibly beautiful location - right on the River Thames. It's my first choice for special occasions and also for a lovely treat anytime", while another says: "Great location and view. Friendly and welcoming. Food was excellent with great choice with a excellent drinks menu. Staff went above and beyond and always with a smile."
- Location, Location, Location airs on Channel 4 at 8pm tonight.