In focus: a guide to Chelmsford

Chelmsford truly offers the best of both worlds. Just half an hour or so from London by train, the city is a commuter’s dream – yet surrounded by picturesque countryside and only a short drive from the Essex coast.

This unique balance has seen it become an attractive choice for buyers of all ages and establish itself as one of the most desirable places to live in the county.

As the birthplace of radio, Chelmsford boasts a rich heritage. Its popularity over the years has created a diverse housing market, from charming Victorian terraces in sought-after areas like Moulsham, to modern family homes in Beaulieu Park. For those seeking peace and character, nearby villages such as Writtle and Danbury offer beautiful detached properties and a more rural lifestyle.

SCHOOLING

Chelmsford’s post-pandemic popularity, particularly over the last 12-18 months, has been driven in part by its excellent schools. Independent options include New Hall School – which is expanding with the acquisition of Boreham House for a new prep school – and St Cedd’s, another highly sought-after private school in the city centre.

The area is also home to top-performing grammar schools such as Chelmsford County High School for Girls and King Edward VI Grammar School (KEGS), which was recently named as one of the two best state secondary schools in the UK by The Daily Telegraph.

Other notable state schools include Moulsham High, Great Baddow High, The Boswells School, and Beaulieu Park School which opened in 2018.

CULTURE, LEISURE & THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Chelmsford offers plenty to see and do. Catch the latest films at the stylish Everyman Cinema, enjoy live performances at the upgraded Chelmsford Theatre, or explore green spaces like Hylands Park, Central Park and Oaklands Park.

For fitness enthusiasts, Riverside Leisure Centre boasts a gym, an eight-lane swimming pool, a children’s pool, indoor sports courts, and an ice rink – home to the Chelmsford Chieftains ice hockey team.

FOOD & DRINK

Since gaining city status in 2012, Chelmsford has undergone significant regeneration, transforming its shopping and dining scene. High-end retailers like John Lewis sit alongside popular restaurants such as Giggling Squid and Mowgli. Independent gems like Fête, The New London, and Pinchos wine and tapas bar add a unique flavour to the city’s culinary offering.

TRANSPORT IN CHELMSFORD

Chelmsford is exceptionally well-connected. The main train station offers fast services to London Liverpool Street in around 30 minutes, and the newly opened Beaulieu Park Station provides additional convenience for residents in the north of the city. A comprehensive bus network also links Chelmsford to surrounding towns and villages, and its proximity to Stansted Airport – just under 20 miles – makes international travel easily accessible.

AVERGAGE PROPERTY PRICES IN CHLEMSFORD

According to Savills Research, using data from the Land Registry, the average price paid for an apartment in Chelmsford now sits at £220,389, while for a terraced property it’s £368,917, for a semi-detached £446,563 and for a detached house £668,968.

Despite a challenging year for the wider market, Chelmsford has remained remarkably resilient. Prices have held firm, and in some cases, properties have exceeded guide prices thanks to strong demand. The majority of buyers are relocating from North and East London, Greater London, and South Essex. Where once Brentwood or Shenfield were the limit, Chelmsford’s attractive pricing and lifestyle have made it the new hotspot in Essex.