Oxford's excellent private and state sector schools are a powerful draw for the super wealthy to rent homes here, according to letting agents.

Christopher Way, of agents Carter Jonas, said “Demand for high-quality family homes in central north Oxford centres around private schools such as The Dragon School and Lynams.

“Activity increases at this time of year as tenants want to be in and settled before the start of school term in September.”

According to Mr Way, the most popular are four-to-six-bedroom properties presented to an extremely high standard.

He added: “The majority of tenants are relocating from London or abroad and choose Oxford for the schools but the house they rent here is unlikely to be their only property in the UK.

“Charlbury Road, parts of Woodstock Road, Norham, Bardwell and Bainton Roads are particularly in demand. Typically, this type of premium property will command rental of £5,000-£8,000 per month.”

Frank Webster of Finders Keepers agreed.

He said: “Schooling is key to the decision-making of parents but it doesn’t just include private schools.

“The Cherwell School has a really excellent reputation and has extended its sixth form to accommodate private school pupils who want to do A levels there.

“Oxford High, Wychwood School, Dragon School and Lynams are all big draws too. In many cases one or both parents continue commuting by rail or road to London.

“They probably have a nanny or au pair so require space for them plus visiting relations and friends.

“Many want to be within walking distance of The Dragon School or Oxford High in the so-called Golden Triangle just east of Banbury Road and including Charlbury, Belbroughton, Northmoor and Linton Roads.

“For example, we have a house in Charlbury Road with five bedrooms and three bathrooms, which is on for £3,300 per month.”

Jacqueline Smith of agents John D Wood also reported strong demand from Londoners wishing to rent premium country houses in Oxfordshire.

She said: “They might be looking to buy here eventually but are content to rent in the interim, or are intent on finding the right place for regular weekend use.

“They are normally looking in central or north central Oxford and budgets for this type of house are high – anything up to £10,000 per month.

“But it is not always connected with children’s schooling. Many of our clients want a lovely country house in the pretty part of Oxfordshire.

“They do not want the hassle of the maintenance, so renting is a far more attractive option.”

An example is Gardeners Cottage, a two-bedroom house on the Sarsden Estate near Chipping Norton, available through John D Wood for £1,600 per month.

Contacts: Carter Jonas, 01865 511444 Finders Keepers, 01865 297999 John D. Wood, 01865 311522