Research from property portal Rightmove found the number of would-be buyers currently living in the capital but now considering an escape to the country is up 144 per cent from June to July this year compared to the same period last year. And enquiries about homes in satellite towns are up by 79 per cent. The same pattern was found in major cities across the UK.

Lower prices in the hinterland of London may be one reason for this new-found enthusiasm to leave. But Miles Shipside, Rightmove’s property expert, believes that quality of life is key. ““The lure of a new lifestyle, one that is quieter and has an abundance of beautiful countryside and more outdoor space, has led to more city dwellers choosing to become rural residents,” he said. “We saw a shift as early as April in more people living in cities enquiring about moving out of that city, and this trend has continued.

“The most popular village moves are still within the same region the home-hunters are currently in, as it’s likely they’ll keep their current job but may have the flexibility to commute less often and set up their working space at home.”

“Definitely there has been evidence of a shift from inner city life to village or town locations with green areas and countryside on the doorstep,” said Ben South of Chandlers Independent Property Specialists, which covers the whole of the Home Counties.

“As there is no longer a requirement for a daily commute and an increase in people working from home, prospective purchasers are trading the close proximity to work or station for accommodation to include studies, gardens and a more leafy and less urban environment.