Overton has been crowned one of Hampshire’s most desirable places to live, according to more than 30,000 readers of lifestyle magazine Muddy Stilettos.
The village, set along the River Test, secured sixth place in the magazine’s annual “Top 10 Towns and Villages” list for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Readers cast their votes based on everything from schools and restaurants to cultural life, commuting links, and community spirit.
Muddy Stilettos describes Overton as a “well-kept secret,” with a centre brimming with character: leaning 17th-century timber-framed houses, thatched cottages, quaint terraces, and a sprinkling of modern builds.
The magazine also praises the village’s commuter appeal, with direct trains to London Waterloo taking around 53 minutes.
Overton’s heritage gets a nod too, from its links to Jane Austen—born just up the road in Steventon—to its role in producing Bank of England banknote paper at nearby Laverstoke Mill, now home to the Bombay Sapphire Distillery.
Unlike many villages, Overton has held on to a strong mix of independent shops and services, including a GP surgery, pharmacy, library, butcher, bakery, Post Office, and greengrocer. There’s even a wine merchant, which the magazine calls a “bonus.”
Hero Brown, founder and editor-in-chief of Muddy Stilettos, said the results “give a truly independent view on the towns and villages with the most popular postcodes, schools, restaurants and amenities.”
Also making the top ten were Winchester (2nd), Romsey (5th), Alresford (7th), and Cowes, which took the top spot.