Nestled in the heart of the county are two popular destinations that have estate agents buzzing with praise. Both Rayleigh and the nearby village of Hullbridge offer something unique to families on the move, striking what estate agents have called the “perfect balance” between convenience and community.
Rayleigh, celebrated for its vibrant high street and handy transport links, has long been a hotspot for people of all ages. According to Charli Day of Haart's Rayleigh branch, the town's charm is in its diversity.
“Rayleigh strikes a perfect balance because it attracts a large variety of people," she told EssexLive. “Lots of people are drawn to the high street, which is always lively and full of things to do."
READ MORE: Popular Rayleigh shop sells site to LIDL after nearly 50 years in business
READ MORE: The exact date Essex's 'secret' beach at popular farm is set to reopen
Young families in particular are flocking to the area, thanks to its reputable schools like Grove Wood Primary School. “We get a lot of young families here who want to send their kids to nearby schools. Grove Wood has long been a big pull factor to Rayleigh,” Charli adds.
According to Rightmove, buyers are snapping up houses in Rayleigh for an average of £438,623. The market town, which is a popular destination for commuters, is building a reputation for former residents moving back into the area.
“We see lots of people who lived here previously wanting to move back, primarily because other members of their family are here too,” Charli says. For commuters, she adds, being only a 30-minute train ride into London, Rayleigh offers “seamless” transport links, making it “the perfect commuter town."
But what about those in search of a quieter escape? Charli has just the answer: “We do, however, get families looking for more peaceful places to go, and I’ll always point them towards Hullbridge.”
Situated alongside the River Crouch, Hullbridge is becoming renowned as a relaxing retreat for older families. Deborah Sparrow, from Williams and Donovan estates in Hockley, believes the river is Hullbridge's greatest asset.
“The biggest pull factor to Hullbridge is the beautiful River Crouch," Deborah says. "People love going on walks along there. You’ve also got the popular Anchor pub nearby, which offers great food and always draws visitors in and around the area.”
Despite lacking a train station, Deborah says the village’s peaceful atmosphere more than makes up for it. “The area is very popular with buyers looking for somewhere quiet. Having no train station can sometimes be a problem, particularly for commuters, but for older families, you have everything you need there. Shops, doctors, library, and nice restaurants, Hullbridge has the lot. It really is a beautiful village!”
