Buckhurst Hill, a commuter town in Essex's Epping Forest district, was recognised by The Sunday Times in 2023 as one of Britain's finest places to live. Despite its location at the end of the Central line, residents describe the area as feeling like a village, with a peaceful atmosphere and strong community spirit.
During a visit by MyLondon, the streets were notably quiet and many shops were empty, giving the area a "ghost town" feel. However, locals say this tranquility is exactly what makes the town special. The main street, Queens Road, features period properties and cobbled pathways, with independent retailers, hairdressers, and beauty parlours contributing to its character.
Residents Praise Quiet, Low-Crime Environment
Bridget Faid, a local resident, told MyLondon: "I love that it's quiet, because there's a low crime rate and it just feels homely. Everyone knows each other, which makes it a really nice area to live in." Her sentiment was echoed by Alana Vallance, who chose the town to raise her children.
"It's peaceful, and the High Street has a real village essence; everyone says hello to each other! It's perfect for my little one to grow up here," Vallance said. Steven McCann, who moved to the area with his wife to start a family, highlighted the amenities available for his child, including Epping Forest and a nature reserve nearby.
Proximity to Nature and Community Ties
Long-time local Stephanie Boyle appreciates the close access to Epping Forest, saying: "I have a dog, so I know all the dog walkers that go to Epping Forest, which is just so close! I love our tight little community." However, she noted changes to the High Street over time, with a shift towards estate agencies, nail bars, and coffee shops, replacing former variety like pet shops and butchers.
Gill Southall, a resident since the 1950s, acknowledged this transformation but still values living in the area. "Living here is great because of the transport connections, but the shops are fairly average. It's all about trends now - doing your nails, eyelashes - that's not really my generation. But I still enjoy living here, otherwise I wouldn't have stayed all this time," she said.
Village Character Trumps Trendy Shops
While Buckhurst Hill is known for its boutiques and trendy shops, residents say the peaceful, village-style character is what they treasure most. With a strong community spirit and convenient access to both central London and the countryside, many locals are proud to call it home.
