Basildon Area Guide

Basildon Local Area Guide

Basildon offers a unique blend of urban amenities and green spaces, making it the perfect place for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Situated in south Essex, this bustling town is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, good schools, and strong transport links. Our team of experienced estate agents in Basildon has put together this in-depth area guide to provide you with everything you need to know about living here.

Where is Basildon?

Basildon is situated in the south of Essex, around 30 miles east of central London. A key town in the Thames Gateway, it offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle whilst maintaining strong transport links to the capital and surrounding areas. Basildon is well-connected by rail and road, with frequent train services to London Fenchurch Street taking as little as 35 minutes. The A127 and A13 roads also provide easy access to the M25 and nearby towns. Brentwood, Billericay, and Southend-on-Sea are all within easy reach, offering residents access to even more fantastic amenities.

Is Basildon a Nice Area to Live?

Basildon is a great place to live for many people, with its combination of tranquil green spaces, bustling town centre, and affordable housing options attracting a wide range of people. The town’s safe, welcoming atmosphere, variety of parks, and growing local economy make it ideal for both families and professionals. Whether you’re looking for a quiet area to raise a family or a well-connected location for work, Basildon offers the best of both worlds. Our experienced estate agents are here to help you find suitable properties for sale in Basildon, providing expert advice throughout your search for your next home.

Is Basildon Safe?

Basildon is generally considered a safe town with a relatively low crime rate compared to other areas of Essex. The town has a strong police presence, and there are several community-focused initiatives that help keep the area secure. Many of Basildon’s neighbourhoods are peaceful and family-oriented, with a focus on creating a safe and friendly environment. As with any town, it’s always advisable to research specific areas when buying or renting a home, but overall, Basildon offers a secure place for people of all ages to live.

Primary and Secondary Schools in Basildon

Basildon offers an excellent selection of primary and secondary schools, making it an attractive location for families. For younger children, Lee Chapel Primary School and The Phoenix Primary School are good options, with both rated ‘Outstanding’ by OFSTED. For secondary education, Basildon Upper Academy and Woodlands School are popular choices, offering a range of academic and vocational courses. These schools are known for their strong academic performance and extracurricular activities. Basildon also benefits from access to a number of well-regarded private schools in nearby Billericay and Brentwood.

Public Transport Links in Basildon

Basildon is well-served by public transport, making it easy for commuters to travel into London or other surrounding areas. The town's main train station offers fast services to London Fenchurch Street, with journey times of around 35-40 minutes, making it an ideal location for those working in the city. Basildon also has a good bus network, with routes connecting the town to neighbouring areas such as Brentwood, Southend, and Chelmsford.

History of Basildon

Basildon’s history dates back to medieval times, although it has evolved significantly over the years. The town grew rapidly during the post-war period, particularly after the establishment of the Basildon Development Corporation in the 1940s, which saw new homes, schools, and infrastructure being built. This transformation led to the creation of a new town, with its modern design and amenities.

Things to Do in Basildon

Basildon is a lively town with plenty of things to do, from outdoor activities to shopping and entertainment. The town offers a mix of green spaces, local attractions, and community events, ensuring there’s always something to keep you occupied. Whether you enjoy relaxing in nature, indulging in retail therapy, or exploring the town's great range of restaurants, you’ll find something to suit your interests here.

Best Parks and Green Spaces

Basildon has several parks and green spaces, making it easy for residents to enjoy spending time outdoors. Basildon Park is one of the largest and most popular parks in the town. Spread over 400 acres, it offers a tranquil space to enjoy relaxing walks, picnics, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Other great options include Wat Tyler Country Park, which is known for its nature trails, and Northland’s Park, which has recently been refurbished to a high standard.

Shopping

Basildon offers a broad range of shops, making it ideal whether you’re looking for everyday essentials or weekend retail therapy. The Eastgate Centre is a popular shopping destination, offering high street brands as well as a great selection of restaurants and cafes. Nearby, you’ll also find the Westgate Retail Park and Pipps Hill Retail Park, both of which are good options if you’re looking for larger stores and eateries. For smaller, independent shops, the town centre offers a variety of boutiques as well as local markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to unique handmade goods.

Restaurants, Bars, and Pubs

Basildon’s food and drink scene is diverse, with options to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite to eat, a leisurely sit-down meal, or a refreshing drink at a local pub, the town offers something for everyone. Local favourites include the Beehive, which serves up classic pub food, and the Glass House, which offers an upscale dining experience ideal for those special occasions. Festival Leisure Park also offers a wealth of restaurants, providing a convenient and varied dining destination for families, couples, and groups alike.

Entertainment

Basildon offers a wide range of entertainment options for residents of all ages. Families can enjoy a fun-filled day at Adventure Island, located in nearby Southend, or go ice skating at the Basildon Sporting Village. For a more cultural experience, the Towngate Theatre is a popular venue, showcasing a variety of performances from drama and comedy to live music. Movie buffs can catch the latest films at Cineworld in the Eastgate Centre. Whether you’re seeking an outdoor adventure, a night at the theatre, or the latest blockbuster, Basildon has something for everyone.

What is Property in Basildon Like?

You’ll find a broad range of properties for sale and rent in Basildon. From spacious family homes in quiet residential areas to modern flats close to the town centre, there are options to suit all needs and budgets. First-time buyers will find a variety of affordable starter homes, whilst those looking to upsize can choose from larger detached or semi-detached properties with sizeable gardens. The town also has a number of bungalows, which are particularly popular with downsizers and retirees. Our local estate agents are waiting to help you find the right home to buy or identify suitable properties to rent in Basildon.

Buying or Renting in Basildon

Basildon’s property market offers a great variety of homes, whether you’re looking to buy your first home or find your next rental property. The town is an attractive option for first-time buyers thanks to its relatively affordable property prices compared to London and other areas in Essex. Renting in Basildon is also a popular choice for those who work in London but prefer to live in a more suburban area with easy access to the capital. With strong public transport links and local amenities, Basildon is an excellent location for both buyers and renters.

Should I Move to Basildon?

Moving to Basildon is a great choice, especially if you’re looking for a well-connected town with excellent local amenities, affordable housing, and a strong sense of community. With its combination of green spaces, good schools, a broad range of shopping options, and easy access to London, Basildon ticks all the boxes for families, commuters, and retirees alike. Whether you're looking for your first home or planning your next move, Basildon is well worth considering as a place to live.