What’s it like living in Brentwood, Essex?
With a diverse range of properties available and the countryside at its doorstep, it’s no wonder that families and buy-to-let investors are showing keen interest in homes in this location. City professionals are choosing Brentwood as their home base due to its convenient commute to Liverpool Street.
The town boasts two notable institutions – Brentwood School, established in 1557 and the Catholic cathedral, originally a parish church dating back to 1861. Both are situated on Ingrave Road, opposite each other. In 2011, Brentwood School expanded with a new assembly hall and sixth form centre featuring distinctive red-brick buildings and sharply gabled roofs, designed by architects Cottrell & Vermeulen.
The cathedral, redesigned by Quinlan Terry, incorporates a new church in the Italian Renaissance style alongside the original Victorian Gothic structure. Funded by an anonymous donor, it was constructed between 1989 and 1991.
Brentwood gained recent fame through the activities of The Only Way Is Essex (Towie) reality TV show stars. Launched in 2010, the show is filmed in the town where cast members have established nightclubs and boutiques, contributing to the area’s exciting range of independent shops.
Where is the best place to live in Brentwood, Essex?
Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree seeking a peaceful retreat, Brentwood offers numerous outstanding areas to call home, catering to various lifestyles. In this guide, we will explore the best places to live in Brentwood, taking into account factors such as community spirit, amenities, affordability and overall quality of life.
- Shenfield: Situated in the eastern part of Brentwood, Shenfield is widely considered one of the best places to live in the area. With excellent transport links, including a mainline train station with direct access to London Liverpool Street, Shenfield attracts commuters looking for a balance between city convenience and suburban tranquillity. The area offers a variety of housing options, from modern apartments to spacious family homes. Shenfield High Street features a range of shops, restaurants and amenities, contributing to its vibrant community atmosphere.
- Hutton: Located to the south of Brentwood, Hutton is a highly desirable area known for its leafy surroundings and strong community spirit. The area benefits from excellent schools, including the outstanding-rated St. Martin’s School, making it a popular choice for families. Hutton also enjoys easy access to the A127 and A12, providing convenient transport links for commuters. With its picturesque parks and green spaces, Hutton offers a peaceful and idyllic living environment.
- Warley: Found to the west of Brentwood, the Warley area offers a mix of traditional and modern properties, making it an appealing choice for homebuyers with varying preferences. Residents of Warley have easy access to the M25 and A12, making it convenient for both commuting and exploring the surrounding areas. The area has several well-regarded primary and secondary schools, such as Holly Trees Primary School and Brentwood County High School, ensuring excellent educational opportunities for families. With its attractive open spaces and proximity to the popular Thorndon Country Park, Warley provides residents with ample opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Ingrave: If you are seeking a peaceful and picturesque living environment, Ingrave is worth considering. Located in the southwest of Brentwood, Ingrave is a quaint village that offers a tranquil countryside feel while still being within easy reach of nearby amenities. The area is home to the renowned Ingrave Johnstone C of E Primary School, making it particularly appealing for families. With its pretty cottages, scenic views and proximity to the Essex countryside, Ingrave exudes a sense of idyllic rural living.
- Doddinghurst: Situated to the northeast of Brentwood, Doddinghurst is a charming village that offers a close-knit community atmosphere. The area features a range of properties, including period cottages and newly built homes, catering to various preferences. Doddinghurst benefits from its proximity to the A12, providing easy access to nearby towns and cities. With an active village hall and several local clubs and societies, Doddinghurst offers residents a strong sense of community. The Doddinghurst Infant School and Doddinghurst Junior School are well-regarded educational institutions in the area.