The Essex town of Shenfield has secured a coveted spot as one of the happiest places to reside in the United Kingdom, according to a major new national survey.
A Top Ranking for Happiness
Conducted by Furniturebox, the extensive research polled 5,000 people across the nation to determine the country's top 75 happiest locations. Shenfield in the borough of Brentwood proudly claimed the 63rd position on this prestigious list. The rankings were carefully calculated based on a variety of essential lifestyle factors that contribute to overall well-being.
These critical factors included the natural beauty of the area and its green spaces, the provision of high-quality state schools, the availability of affordable housing, and easy access to excellent pubs, restaurants, independent shops, and cultural attractions.
More Than Just a Commuter Hub
While Shenfield is widely recognised for its superb transport links, including its key position on the Elizabeth Line network providing a direct route into central London, the survey highlights its appeal extends far beyond convenience for commuters.
The area boasts a range of desirable properties, from family homes to luxurious dwellings. The local property market reflects this demand, with some of the most exclusive homes currently commanding prices of up to £2.95 million.
Residents consistently describe Shenfield as a safe and clean environment. Local Daniel Morais confirmed this sentiment, noting the area can be 'quite busy' but that he has 'always felt safe'. He added, 'It's really tidy as well; compared to other places, this one's definitely one of the cleanest.'
A Family-Friendly Community with Local Gems
The town has firmly established itself as a prime location for families. Claudia Hardy, a lifelong Essex resident, told Essex Live, 'I've never felt unsafe here, making this the perfect place to raise a family.' The combination of lovely houses and accessible parks contributes significantly to this family-friendly atmosphere.
Community life is further enriched by a variety of popular pubs and restaurants that are favourites with locals. Establishments such as The Boar's Head, The Green Dragon, The Rose Shenfield, and the Spread Eagle serve as social hubs. The Boar's Head, for instance, enjoys a stellar 4.3 out of five stars on Google from over 1,000 reviews, with one customer praising its 'lovely' and 'really yummy' food.
For many, the town also offers a peaceful retreat from city life. A resident named Chris described Shenfield as a 'lovely' place to live, observing that the High Street is 'fairly quiet', making it an ideal base for those working in London who value a calmer home environment.
