For renters looking beyond Newbury town centre, Thatcham and Hungerford offer two attractive but quite different choices.
Thatcham combines convenient transport links with plenty of everyday amenities and a good choice of residential areas. Hungerford offers the character of a traditional market town, with independent shops, countryside nearby and the Kennet and Avon Canal running through the area.
Both can work well for commuters, families and people relocating to West Berkshire. However, rental availability, prices and competition can vary considerably between individual properties.
This guide from Belvoir Newbury explains what tenants should consider when searching for a home across RG19 and RG17 in 2026.
What is the rental market like in Thatcham and Hungerford?
Rental demand across West Berkshire can be strong, particularly for well-presented homes close to stations, schools and local amenities.
That means it pays to set a realistic budget before beginning a property search. Tenants should consider the monthly rent alongside council tax, energy bills, broadband and other regular household costs.
Actual rents can change quickly and will depend on the size, condition and location of the property. Looking at current listings provides a much more useful picture than relying on an area-wide average alone.
Renting in Thatcham
Thatcham, in the RG19 area, is particularly convenient for people who need access to Newbury, Reading or other employment centres along the railway line.
Homes within easy reach of Thatcham railway station can attract plenty of interest from commuters. Families may look further into the area’s residential neighbourhoods, where houses with additional bedrooms, gardens and parking can be particularly desirable.
Thatcham also offers supermarkets, local shops, leisure facilities and green spaces, giving tenants many of the practical benefits of a larger town without being in central Newbury.
Renting in Hungerford
Hungerford offers a different lifestyle. The historic town centre, independent businesses and surrounding countryside give it a more rural feel, while the railway station keeps larger towns and employment centres accessible.
Rental stock can be more limited than in larger towns, so tenants with very specific requirements may need to allow more time for their search.
Two and three-bedroom homes can appeal to couples and families, while larger properties around RG17 may suit households looking for more space and access to the countryside.
Understand the full cost of renting
Monthly rent is only one part of a tenant’s budget.
Before applying for a property, renters should consider council tax, utilities, broadband, contents insurance and commuting costs. Where a property has a lower EPC rating, its likely heating costs may also be worth considering.
The tenancy deposit is another upfront cost. In England, most tenancy deposits are capped at five weeks’ rent where the annual rent is below £50,000, with a six-week cap applying above that level.
Holding deposits are generally limited to one week’s rent.
Tenants shouldn’t normally be charged fees for routine activities such as referencing, inventories or setting up a tenancy. There are limited circumstances where permitted payments can apply, so any costs should be explained clearly before money changes hands.
Know your rights as a tenant
Rental legislation in England has undergone significant reform, so tenants should make sure the information they rely on reflects the rules actually in force when their tenancy begins.
Understand how the tenancy can end
Since 1 May 2026, assured periodic tenancies have replaced assured shorthold tenancies and Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions have been abolished.
Tenants should receive clear information explaining their tenancy and should understand what notice they need to provide if they decide to leave.
If a landlord wants possession, they must follow the appropriate legal process. A tenant doesn’t have to leave simply because they have been informally asked to do so.
Anyone unsure about a possession notice should seek independent housing or legal advice rather than ignoring it.
Check how rent increases work
There are rules governing how and when rent can be increased.
Tenants should receive the required notice of a proposed increase and may have options to challenge a rent they believe is above the appropriate market level.
Keeping copies of the tenancy paperwork and any correspondence concerning rent changes can make the process much easier if questions arise later.
Make sure the deposit is protected
For most private tenancies where a deposit is taken, the landlord or agent must protect it through a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme within the legal deadline.
The tenant should also receive information explaining which scheme holds or protects the deposit and how it can be recovered at the end of the tenancy.
How to prepare for a rental application
Good rental properties can attract several applicants, so getting organised before beginning the search can make the process smoother.
Prepare your documents
A letting agent may need to check identity, income, employment and previous rental history as part of the referencing process.
Having suitable documents readily available can prevent unnecessary delays once the right home is found.
Tenants may also need to complete a Right to Rent check before starting a tenancy in England.
Work out what really matters
A clear list of requirements can make a property search much more efficient.
For a commuter, walking distance to Thatcham or Hungerford station might take priority. A family may place more importance on bedroom numbers, outside space or access to schools. Someone working from home may need an additional room and reliable broadband.
Separating genuine requirements from features that would simply be nice to have makes it easier to react when a suitable property becomes available.
Don’t rush the viewing
Competition shouldn’t stop tenants from checking a property carefully.
Look at the general condition of the home, storage, heating, windows and signs of damp or unresolved maintenance. Ask what is included with the property and check practical details such as parking arrangements.
The EPC can also provide useful information about the property’s energy performance and recommended improvements.
What to expect before moving in
Before the tenancy starts, tenants should receive the relevant paperwork and safety information for the property.
Depending on the home and its facilities, this can include an EPC, gas safety information and details about the tenancy deposit.
It is also sensible to check the inventory carefully. Photographs and written descriptions should accurately record the property’s condition at the beginning of the tenancy.
If something isn’t right, raising it promptly creates a clear record and can help avoid disagreements when the tenancy eventually ends.
Thatcham or Hungerford: Which could suit you?
Neither location is automatically the better choice. It depends on what the tenant needs from their next home.
Thatcham may appeal to renters who prioritise everyday convenience, transport connections and a wider choice of residential property. Hungerford may suit those looking for a smaller market-town atmosphere, access to countryside and plenty of local character.
Looking at both areas can be worthwhile for tenants who have some flexibility. Expanding a search slightly can sometimes reveal a better property, more space or a location that hadn’t initially been considered.
Find a rental home with Belvoir Newbury
Finding the right rental isn’t simply about choosing a property. Tenants also need clear information, properly managed paperwork and someone they can contact when questions arise.
Belvoir Newbury helps renters search for homes across Newbury, Thatcham, Hungerford and the surrounding West Berkshire area.
Tenants can explore available properties or contact the local Belvoir Newbury team to discuss what they’re looking for.
For homeowners considering letting a property in the area, Belvoir also offers rental valuations to help establish its current market value. Book your valuation today.