Is Chigwell a nice place to live?

Chigwell is a picturesque Essex village that blends historic charms and modern convenience.

 With lush green spaces and a strong sense of community, Chigwell is popular with commuters thanks to its proximity to London which gives easy access to metropolitan life.

If you're considering Chigwell for your next move, check out our area guide to find out more about local amenities, schools in the area and other key attractions to this fantastic location.

Prime location near London

One of the main draws of Chigwell is its unbeatable location.

Nestled in the London Borough of Epping Forest, Chigwell sits on the northeastern edge of Greater London, providing a comfortable compromise between city and countryside. The town is well-connected by the Central Line on the London Underground, allowing easy access to central London in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for commuters who work in the capital but want to enjoy a more relaxed, rural lifestyle at home.

Additionally, the M11 and M25 motorways are within close reach, offering straightforward road connections to other parts of Essex, Hertfordshire, and beyond.

High achieving Chigwell schools

For families, education is a key consideration when choosing a place to live, and Chigwell delivers on this front. The town is in the catchment area for a number of high-performing schools, both state and private, that have been praised by Ofsted. Notable options include Chigwell School, a historic independent school with a reputation for academic excellence and well-rounded extracurricular activities. The school is also known for its picturesque campus, which adds to its appeal, and recent results saw 77% of grades rewarded at a 7, 8 or 9 level.

Other high-achieving local institutions include Limes Farm Junior School and Roding Valley High School, which was ranked 'Good' by Ofsted at its last inspection, while its accompanying sixth form received an Outstanding rating.

Beautiful green spaces

For outdoor enthusiasts, Chigwell is something of a paradise.

With nearby access to Epping Forest, one of the UK's largest spanning 2,400 hectares of ancient woodland and home to trails ideal for walking, cycling and horse riding, it's a haven for nature lovers.

For those looking to get active, Chigwell also has a golf course as well as local sports clubs and gyms, including one on the grounds of the Grade II listed manor house Chigwell Hall. Hainault Forest Country Park is also a short drive away

In addition to Epping Forest, Chigwell boasts several well-maintained parks, golf courses, and sports clubs. Hainault Forest Country Park, a short drive away, provides even more green space for families and nature lovers, featuring walking trails, a petting zoo, and a fishing lake.

For those who enjoy dining and socialising, Chigwell has a range of options from local pubs to upscale restaurants, some of which have earned a reputation for fine dining. The King William IV Pub, for example, is a local favourite with a cozy atmosphere and historic appeal.

Things to do in Chigwell

Chigwell offers a wealth of other attractions besides its local greenery.

From convenient grocery stores to independent boutiques, Chigwell residents have access to everything they need without having to travel far. The nearby town of Loughton offers additional shopping options, including well-known high street brands, supermarkets, and a vibrant selection of cafes, restaurants and pubs.

Amongst them, Ye Olde King's Head, which dates back to the 17th century. Charles Dickens, who frequently visited Chigwell and once described it as 'the greatest place in the world' used the pub as his inspiration for The Maypole in his novel Barnaby Rudge.

Chigwell is also just a short distance from the Westfield Stratford City shopping centre, one of Europe’s largest shopping complexes, offering its own impressive range of retailers, restaurants, and entertainment options.

House prices in Chigwell

Chigwell has a diverse property market, catering to a range of preferences, from modern flats to sprawling family homes. Many properties in Chigwell are luxurious and spacious, with beautiful Georgian and Victorian houses offering historic charm and character. The area is known for its high-end developments, attracting a clientele that includes affluent families and professionals seeking premium real estate.

Recent Rightmove figures stated that Chigwell had a current overall average house price of £548,591 over the last year.. Terraced houses averaged at £ £487,083, while semi-detached properties sold for an average ££615,904 and flats fetching ££371,601.

Is Chigwell a nice place to live?

For many, Chigwell represents the ideal balance between peaceful suburban life and convenient urban access. With its reputable schools, thriving community, beautiful green spaces, and luxurious property market, it’s easy to see why Chigwell is considered one of the most desirable places to live in Essex. Whether you're a professional working in London, a family seeking a safe and community-oriented environment, or a retiree looking for a relaxed pace of life, Chigwell has something to offer.

If you’re contemplating a move, consider taking a stroll through Chigwell’s charming streets and lush landscapes to see if this quaint yet well-connected town could be the right fit for you.