The Guardian's property gallery rounds up rental homes in English and Scottish cities that offer a chance to "try before you buy" a neighbourhood. Each listing highlights the property's features alongside the appeal of its local area, from parkland and waterfront views to transport links and university proximity.

The selection spans five cities with monthly rents ranging from £950 to £1,750.

– Milton Keynes: one-bed ground-floor flat near the centre and Campbell Park, £1,250 pcm
– Liverpool: two-bed, two-bath flat in the 34-storey Lexington building on Princes Dock, £1,750 pcm
– Norwich: two-bed mid-terrace cottage in Thorpe Hamlet, available from September, £1,200 pcm
– Southampton: three-bed semi-detached house in Shirley, near Southampton Common, £1,750 pcm
– Glasgow: one-bed flat in riverside Thornwood, near Victoria Park, £950 pcm