With tree-lined streets and access to Central London just a short Tube ride away, Buckhurst Hill has something for everyone. The town has the locally renowned Queen’s Road, with lots of independent retailers making it a destination not only frequented by locals, but also by shoppers of nearby areas too.

Open spaces are plentiful in and around IG9, so there’s lots of opportunity to get out in amongst nature with the little ones. Epping Forest is just minutes away and there are several ponds and lakes within the boundary lines that make for perfect dog walking spots if you want to stay closer to home.

Despite its growing demand this picturesque part of West Essex has kept its village feel, and there’s a real sense of community here. All of which makes living in Buckhurst Hill ideal for anyone who appreciates modern living, but who also has a soft spot for quieter days gone by.

Buckhurst Hill schools

The schools in Buckhurst Hill make the area somewhat of a magnet for parents who want the best education for their children. Many of them are extremely highly regarded and are longstanding parts of the local community.

Most of the schools in Buckhurst Hill are for 3 to 11 year olds, but there is a senior school too (Braeside).

Cafés and restaurants in Buckhurst Hill

For a small town, Buckhurst Hill has its fair share of good quality eateries. A range of cuisines and styles are catered for here and the locals make good use of what’s on offer, so don’t be surprised if you have to book a table.

With such a wide range of options available it doesn’t matter whether you want to grab a quick fry up on a Saturday morning or a sumptuous sit down with family and friends, Buckhurst Hill’s restaurants have got you covered.

Pubs in Buckhurst Hill

There are several local pubs in Buckhurst Hill if you fancy a swift half (or two). Some serve really good food as well as stocking a wide array of beers and spirits that will keep both your hunger and first satiated.

Buckhurst Hill’s pubs are pretty traditional (which is a good thing) and all are friendly and welcoming. Deciding on which one suits you best will naturally be a matter of personal taste, so you’ll have to try them all to find out!

Shops in Buckhurst Hill

While there are several parades of shops in Buckhurst Hill, anyone you ask will tell you that Queen’s Road is the main drag when it comes to retail therapy here.

Those of you looking to buy property in the area will be pleased to hear that there’s an all important Waitrose in IG9, but it’s the independent boutiques and stores that really make shopping in Buckhurst Hill unique.

Oh, and by the way, we’re on Queen’s Road too. Pop in and say hi!

Buckhurst Hill’s transport links

As we alluded to above, Buckhurst Hill is on the Central line which gives residents easy access to both the City and West End. The town actually has two stations, Buckhurst Hill (Zone 5) and Roding Valley (Zone 4), so even local access to both sides of the Central line ‘loop’ is easy from here.

For those who need to travel further afield, the M25 and M11 are only minutes away. This makes IG9 one of the finest locations around, so it’s little wonder this tiny little town packs a big punch in the property market.

Things to do in Buckhurst Hill

Buckhurst Hill’s location means that you’ll never be short of things to do. With Central London just 30 minutes away, and the rest of the country so easily reachable by car, your options are pretty much unlimited.

There are, however, one or two things you can do without leaving the town itself. As well as the great restaurants and pubs we’ve already mentioned, there are also other things to occupy the residents of this lovely little town.

You can learn something new at Bedford House, home of the Buckhurst Hill Community Association, or catch a match at Buckhurst Hill Football Club. Get in amongst nature after a hard week in the City by strolling through Linder’s Field, or exercise those green fingers at the Forest Edge Allotments. You can even learn Tai Chi at the Woolard Centre!

Local government

Buckhurst Hill is administered by Epping Forest District Council, with Buckhurst Hill Parish Council looking after things locally.

Social groups and community projects in Buckhurst Hill

Considering it’s quite a small community, Buckhurst Hill is surprisingly vibrant. The Buckhurst Hill Residents’ Society does amazing work keeping the area's unique feel alive and well as so many other towns change and lose their character.

Buckhurst Hill residents are also active on social media too. Why not join up and get involved yourself? It’s a great way to find out exactly what’s going on locally.